Device for preventing loss of and retrieving objects sunk in water

Abstract

The present invention relates to a device for preventing loss of and / or retrieving (1) at least one object (100) in water. The device includes a box body (2) defining an internal volume and comprising a first and second portions (3, 4) and configured to operate between a closing configuration in which the first and second portions (3, 4) define the internal volume and an opening configuration in which the first and second portions (3, 4) are spaced apart. The device also comprises: − a constraining element (8) capable of constraining an object to be recovered, − at least one flotation organ (9) configured to operate in at least: • a rest configuration, in which it is housed in the housing, and • an operational configuration, in which it is deployed and is configured to float in the water so as to act as a reference for the recovery of the object, the flotation organ (9) being configured to determine the transition of the box body from the closing configuration to the open configuration, − a trigger element (10) housed within the box body, associated with the flotation organ and configured to trigger, preferably after contact with water, the transition of the flotation organ from the rest configuration to the operational configuration, − a retrieval element (6) configured to operate in at least: • a rest configuration in which it presents a gathered condition • an operational configuration in which it presents a relaxed condition. The retrieval element is connected to both the first portion (3) and the second portion (4) of the box body (2) so as to allow recovery of both.

Description

[0001] Device for preventing loss of and retrieving objects sunk in water'.

[0002] Technical Field of the Invention

[0003] The present invention relates to a device for preventing the loss of an object sunk in water and enabling its retrieval. The object may be, but is not limited to, a drone or a mobile phone or goods transported by ship (e.g., a container) or nautical or fishing equipment, or other larger objects.

[0004] The invention further relates to the use of the device to retrieve at least one object, a method of operating a retrieval device and a method for retrieving an object.

[0005] Prior art

[0006] Devices for recovering objects in water are known.

[0007] One such known device is provided with a buoy that sinks with the object that has ended up in the water, only to rise again; however, the Applicant has noted that such a device is not effective as such a buoy is often not able to rise to the free surface of the water, but stops beforehand.

[0008] Aims of the invention

[0009] The main purpose of the present invention is therefore to overcome the drawbacks described above in relation to the prior art.

[0010] The purpose of the present invention is therefore to provide an effective device for enabling the recovery of objects in water.

[0011] It is also an object of the invention to provide a substantially autonomous device, that is able to actuate and locate an object sunken or submerged in water without human intervention other than for its recovery.

[0012] The invention also provides an alternative technical solution, of considerable effectiveness, to the solutions of the prior art.

[0013] These and other purposes are achieved by a retrieval device, a use thereof, a method of implementing a retrieval device and a method of retrieving an object in accordance with the following description, the appended claims and the following aspects.

[0014] Summary of the Invention

[0015] Aspects of the invention, which form an integral part of the technical content of this patent text, are described herein. Said aspects may be used to limit the claims and / or define further claims during the life of the present patent specification.

[0016] In one aspect, the invention provides a device for retrieving at least one object in water comprising: - a box body defining an internal volume and comprising at least a first and a second portion and configured to operate between: o a closing configuration in which the box body is closed and the first and second portions are close and / or engaged with each other, in the closing configuration the first and second portions defining the internal volume, o an opening configuration in which the box body is open and the first and second portions are spaced apart,

[0017] - preferably, a constraining element or a provision to allow engagement of a constraining element, the constraining element being capable of constraining an object to be retrieved, preferably the constraining element being arranged at least partially outside the box body,

[0018] - at least one flotation organ configured to operate at least in: o a rest configuration, wherein it is housed in the box body, and o an operational configuration, in which it is deployed and is configured to float in water to serve as a reference for retrieving the object, the flotation organ being configured to determine the transition of the box body from the closing configuration to the opening configuration,

[0019] - preferably, a trigger organ housed within the box body, associated with the flotation organ and configured to trigger, preferably upon contact with water, the transition of the flotation organ from the rest configuration to the operational configuration,

[0020] - a retrieval element configured to operate at least in: o a rest configuration in which it presents a gathered condition, in particular folded or wound, o an operational configuration in which it presents a stretched condition, in particular deployed or unwound, preferably in the stretched condition the retrieval element presenting a length of the order of several metres, preferably the retrieval element being connected to both the first portion and the second portion of the box body so as to allow recovery of both.

[0021] In one aspect, the invention further relates to a use of the retrieval device, in accordance with the aspect above and / or any one of the device claims, to retrieve at least one object in water or other fluid or other liquid.

[0022] In one aspect, the invention further relates to a method of operating / setting up a retrieval device comprising the following steps:

[0023] - engaging a retrieval device, in accordance with the above device aspect and / or any of the device claims, to an object, preferably said step comprising constraining the retrieval device to the object by means of the constraining element, - connecting the retrieval element to both the first portion and the second portion of the box body.

[0024] In one aspect, the invention also relates to a method of recovering an object comprising the following steps:

[0025] - arranging an object which a retrieval device in accordance with the above device aspect and / or any of the device claims is engaged to,

[0026] - triggering, preferably upon contact with water, the transition of the flotation organ from the rest configuration to the operational configuration or verifying that such a trigger has taken place,

[0027] - preferably, locating the position of the flotation organ in water, e.g. in a lake or in the sea or in a river or similar bodies of water,

[0028] - recovering the object by means of the retrieval element,

[0029] - optionally, retrieving at least one of the first portion or first half-shell and the second portion or second half-shell of the retrieval device, in particular both.

[0030] In one aspect, the invention relates to a kit comprising a device, in accordance with the above device aspect and / or any one of the device claims, and at least one of:

[0031] - a plurality of pressurised fluid reservoirs, in particular differing from each other in the volume of pressurised fluid contained therein, and / or

[0032] - a plurality of wire spools, in particular differing from each other in length and / or type of wire.

[0033] Numbered aspects of the invention follow.

[0034] 1 . Device for preventing loss of and / or retrieving (1 ) at least one object (100) in water, for example a drone or mobile phone or goods transported by ship or nautical or fishing equipment, comprising:

[0035] - a box body (2) defining an internal volume and comprising at least a first and second portion (3, 4) and configured to operate between: o a closing configuration in which the box body (2) is closed and the first and second portions (3, 4) are close and / or engaged with each other, in the closing configuration the first and second portions (3, 4) defining the internal volume, o an opening configuration in which the box body (2) is open and the first and second portions (3, 4) are spaced apart,

[0036] - a constraining element (8) or a provision (7) to allow engagement of a constraining element (8), the constraining element (8) being capable of constraining an object (100) to be retrieved, preferably the constraining element (8) being arranged at least partially outside the box body (2),

[0037] - at least one flotation organ (9) configured to operate at least in: o a rest configuration, in which it is housed in the box body (2), and o an operational configuration, in which it is deployed and configured to float in water to serve as a reference for retrieving the object (100), the flotation organ (9) being configured to determine the transition of the box body (2) from the closing configuration to the opening configuration,

[0038] - a trigger organ (10) housed within the box body (2), associated with the flotation organ (9) and configured to trigger, preferably after contact with water, the transition of the flotation organ (9) from the rest configuration to the operational configuration,

[0039] - a retrieval element (6) configured to operate at least in: o a rest configuration in which it has a gathered condition, in particular wound, o an operational configuration in which it presents a stretched condition, in particular deployed or unwound, preferably in the stretched condition the retrieval element (6) presenting a length of the order of several metres, the retrieval element (6) being connected to both the first portion (3) and the second portion (4) of the box body (2) so that it allows retrieval of both.

[0040] 2. Device according to aspect 1 , wherein the constraining element (8) is associated with the first portion (3) and the flotation organ (9) is associated with the second portion (4).

[0041] 3. Device according to aspect 1 or 2, wherein the device (1 ) for preventing loss of and / or retrieving, in particular the box body (2), is substantially pocket-sized.

[0042] 4. Device according to aspect 1 or 2 or 3, wherein the retrieval element (6) comprises or is a wire, in particular a floating wire.

[0043] 5. Device according to any one of the preceding aspects, wherein the retrieval element (6) is configured to present, in particular in the stretched condition, a length of the order of a plurality of metres.

[0044] 6. Device according to any one of the preceding aspects, wherein the retrieval element (6) is arranged outside the box body (2), in particular completely outside the box body (2), either in the rest configuration or in the operational configuration.

[0045] 7. Device according to any one of the preceding aspects, wherein the retrieval element (6) is connected to the first portion (3) and to the second portion (4) of the box body (2) at its respective opposite ends.

[0046] 8. Device according to any one of the preceding aspects, wherein the trigger organ (10) is configured to trigger, substantially instantaneously with respect to water contact, the transition of the flotation organ (9) from the rest configuration to the operational configuration.

[0047] 9. Device according to any one of the preceding aspects, further comprising a support (5) for the retrieval element (6), the retrieval element (6) being engaged, in particular being wound around, the support at least in its gathered condition, preferably the support (5) for the retrieval element (6) being engaged outside the internal volume of the box body (2).

[0048] 10. Device according to any one of the preceding aspects, wherein the box body (2) comprises a first half-shell and a second half-shell, the first half-shell constituting the first portion (3) and the second half-shell constituting the second portion (4), preferably the first half-shell (3) and the second half-shell (4) having a similar or comparable footprint and substantially flat and parallel opposing surfaces, preferably the box body (2) being shaped like a parallelepiped.

[0049] 1 1 . Device according to any one of the preceding aspects, further comprising a reservoir (11 ) of fluid under pressure at least partially housed within the box body (2) and associated with the trigger organ, wherein:

[0050] - the flotation organ (9) is inflatable,

[0051] - the trigger organ (10) is configured to cause, upon contact with water, the flotation organ (9) to inflate due to the passage of pressurized fluid from the reservoir (11 ) to the flotation organ (9).

[0052] 12. Device according to any one of the preceding aspects, wherein the box body (2) is configured to prevent accidental triggering of the trigger organ (10), preferably the box body (2) or at least a portion of it (3, 4) being configured to prevent water ingress below a certain amount, optionally the box body (2) or at least a portion of it (3, 4) being substantially rainproof.

[0053] 13. Use of a device (1 ) according to any one of the preceding aspects, to retrieve at least one object (100) in water or other fluid or other liquid.

[0054] 14. Method of operating a device for preventing loss of and / or retrieving (1 ) at least one object (100) in water, the method comprising the following steps:

[0055] - constraining to an object (100) a device for preventing loss of and / or retrieving (1 ) according to any of aspects from 1 to 12, preferably by means of the constraining element (8),

[0056] - connecting the retrieval element (6) to both the first portion (3) and the second portion (4) of the box body (2).

[0057] 15. Method for retrieving an object (100) comprising the following steps:

[0058] - arranging an object (100) which a device for preventing loss of and / or retrieving (1 ) according to any one of aspects 1 to 12 to an object (100) is engaged to,

[0059] - triggering, upon contact with water, the transition of the flotation organ (9) from the rest configuration to the operational configuration or verify that such a trigger has occurred,

[0060] - locating the position of the flotation organ (9) in water, e.g. in a lake or in the sea or in a river or similar bodies of water,

[0061] - retrieving the object by means of the retrieval element (6), - optionally, retrieving at least one of the first portion or first half-shell (3) and the second portion or second half-shell (4) of the device for preventing loss of and / or retrieving (1 ), in particular both.

[0062] 16. Method according to aspect 15, further comprising the steps of:

[0063] - inflating the flotation organ (9),

[0064] - due to inflation of the flotation organ (9), determining the opening of the box body (2),

[0065] - following the opening of the box body (2), the first portion or first half-shell (3) moving integrally with the object (100) to be retrieved and the second portion or second halfshell (4) moving integrally with the flotation organ (9).

[0066] Conventions and definitions

[0067] Note that in the following detailed description corresponding parts / components / elements are indicated with the same numerical references. The figures may illustrate the subject matter of the invention by means of non-scaled representations; therefore, parts / components / elements illustrated in the accompanying figures and relating to the subject matter of the invention may relate only to schematic representations. The use of " / " herein means "and / or" unless expressly indicated otherwise.

[0068] In the context of the present subject matter, the use of terms such as "above", "upper", "above", "below", "inferiorly", "sideways", "laterally", "inside", "internally", "outside", "externally", "horizontally", "horizontally", "vertical", "vertically", "frontally", "frontally", "rearwards", "backwards", "right", "left", similar terms and variations thereof refer, unless otherwise specifically indicated, to at least one spatial orientation that the object of the invention may assume under conditions of use; they refer to what is shown in the drawings, illustrating the orientation associated with normal use of the invention. These terms are used for the convenience of the reader only and are not generally limiting.

[0069] Unless otherwise specifically indicated, the terms "condition" or "configuration" may be used interchangeably in the context of the present disclosure. The expression "said at least one" is interchangeable with "each". The expression "each" and the like does not necessarily imply that it refers to a plurality of elements; for example, "each element" may refer to a single element or to a plurality of elements, depending on the context in which it is used and / or the embodiment referred to. An example of an element is a component (e.g. of a device, assembly, system or any other physical entity) or a phase (e.g. of a method or any other activity).

[0070] Brief description of the drawings

[0071] In order to better understand the invention and to appreciate its advantages, certain embodiments of the invention are described below, by way of example and not limitation, by reference to the appended figures. A brief description of the attached figures follows:

[0072] Figure 1 illustrates a front view of a device for retrieving objects according to one embodiment of the invention;

[0073] Figure 2 illustrates a rear view of the device of figure 1 ;

[0074] Figure 3 illustrates an exploded view of the device of figures 1 and 2;

[0075] Figure 4 illustrates an exploded view of the two half-shells of the box body and the support for a retrieval element of the device of the preceding figures;

[0076] Figure 5 shows a half-shell (second half-shell) of the box body of the device of the previous figures, with the flotation organ in the rest configuration and the trigger organ positioned therein. Fig. 5 also shows, at the bottom, the retrieval element in the gathered condition;

[0077] Figure 6 shows the other half-shell (first half-shell) of the box body of the device of figures 1 -4, to which a constraining element, capable of constraining an object to be recovered, has been engaged to an external surface of the half-shell;

[0078] Figure 7 shows the object retrieval device in an assembled condition; it was assembled from the two half-shells of Figures 5 and 6. Figure 7 also shows the small size of the retrieval device in accordance with the invention, which is substantially pocket-sized;

[0079] Figure 8 shows a drone (object to be recovered) to which a retrieval device in accordance with the invention is engaged;

[0080] Figure 9 shows the final condition after the drone has fallen into the water, wherein the flotation organ is in the operational configuration, acts substantially as a buoy and the retrieval element maintains engagement between the flotation organ and the drone, so as to enable its retrieval. Note how the first half-shell is engaged at the object to be recovered, while the second half-shell is engaged to the flotation organ;

[0081] Figure 10 shows the box body in the opening configuration and the step of retrieving the object by means of the retrieval element. Also visible are the connection between one end of the retrieval element and the drone and an external surface of the first half-shell;

[0082] Figure 11 shows the inner surface of the first half-shell, where the trigger organ is housed and the flotation organ is engaged, which is in the operative configuration.

[0083] Detailed description of embodiments of the invention

[0084] A device for retrieval of an object

[0085] A device in accordance with the invention is overall indicated in the figures by the numerical reference 1 .

[0086] The device 1 is designed to facilitate the tracing and recovery of objects 100 sunk in water, regardless of their weight or shape. In particular, the device 1 ensures that the submerged object 100 can be recovered quickly and efficiently. Preferably, the device 1 does not prevent the object 100 from sinking (it prevents its loss), but enables its recovery.

[0087] The device 1 comprises a box body 2 defining an internal volume suitable for housing a plurality of organs or components, as described below. The box body 2 comprises at least a first portion 3 and a second portion 4 and is configured to operate between: o a closing configuration in which the box body 2 is closed and the first and second portions 3, 4 are close together and engaged with each other, in the closing configuration the first and second portions 3, 4 defining the internal volume (see Figures 1 , 2, 7 and 8), o an opening configuration in which the box body 2 is open and the first and second portions 3, 4 are spaced apart (see Figures 10 and 11 ).

[0088] Due to the size of the box body 2, the retrieval device 1 is substantially pocket-sized; see Figures 7, 10 and 11 , where the order of magnitude of the size of the device 1 is provided by the hands of a user.

[0089] One between the first and second portions 3, 4 of the box body 2, in particular the first portion 3, may have a window 3a (e.g., "C" shaped) which allows to view a condition of an organ, such as a trigger organ, housed posteriorly with respect to said portion 3, 4 of the box body 2; in this regard, see Figure 1. The trigger organ is described below, with reference 10; in this case the visualisation, allows to verify whether the trigger organ 10 is in a condition prior or subsequent to the trigger.

[0090] Preferably, the box body 2 or at least a portion thereof 3, 4 is substantially rainproof, so as to prevent accidental triggering of the opening of the box body 2, as described in more detail below. Thus, the box body 2 may have a certain IP Ingress Protection) protection, suitable for the function of the device 1 .

[0091] The box body 2 preferably has a parallelepiped shape and opposed surfaces are substantially parallel to each other; in particular pairs of side surfaces are opposed and parallel to each other and the front surface and the rear surface are opposed and parallel to each other (see Figures 1 and 2). By providing flat opposing surfaces, the footprint of the box body 2 in the closing configuration and thus of the device 1 is minimised, so that it is slim and compact.

[0092] The retrieval device 1 comprises a support 5, which is engaged to at least one of the first and second portions 3, 4 of the box body 2, for example by means of engagement elements 5'. The support 5 is capable of supporting a retrieval element 6, which is described below and which enables recovery of the object. The support may be a spool 5 (see Figures 1 , 2 and 4) or similar elongated element capable of supporting a retrieval element 6 (e.g., a wire). Preferably, as illustrated in particular in Figures 1 and 2, the support 5 is engaged outside the inner volume of the box body 2.

[0093] As illustrated in the attached figures, the first portion of the box body 2 is formed by a first half-shell 3 and the second portion of the box body 2 is formed by a second half-shell 4. In the assembled condition, i.e. in the closing configuration, the first and second half-shells 3, 4 form the box body 2, i.e. a shell housing the organs and components described below. As can be seen from the attached figures, the first half-shell 3 and the second half-shell 4 have a similar or comparable footprint, so that they can be coupled together along their respective perimeter portions to form a compact device 1 (see Figures 1 , 2, 7 and 8).

[0094] The device 1 preferably comprises a provision 7 for allowing engagement of a constraining element 8, which is described below. Such a provision 7 is preferably defined on the first half-shell 3. Said arrangement may comprise one or more through openings 7, as illustrated in Figure 1.

[0095] The arrangement 1 preferably comprises a constraining element 8 capable of constraining an object 100 to be recovered. In the annexed figures 6, 7 and 10, the constraining element comprises a strap 8 (in particular, a Kevlar strap) engaged at through openings 7 of the first half-shell 3; in other embodiments, the constraining element 8 may take other forms (strap, various connections, etc.) suitable for the purpose of firmly constraining the object 100 to at least a portion 3, 4 of the box body 2.

[0096] The constraint element 8 is associated with the first half-shell 3 and allows the object 100 to remain constrained and substantially integral with the first half-shell 3 also in both the closing configuration and the opening configuration of the box body 2, so that the object 100 is recoverable together with the first half-shell 3. Preferably, the constraining element 8 is arranged at least partially outside the box body 2, so that the object 100 can be constrained outside the box body 2.

[0097] The device 1 further comprises a flotation member 9 configured to operate in at least: o a rest configuration, wherein it is housed in the box body 2, and o an operational configuration (see Figures 9, 10 and 1 1 ), in which it is deployed and is configured to float in water so as to act as a reference for the recovery of the object 100.

[0098] By deploying in the transition from the rest configuration to the operational configuration, the flotation organ 9 is configured to determine the transition of the box body 2 from the closing configuration to the opening configuration following a trigger. Preferably, the flotation organ 9 is inflatable and its deployment occurs by inflation.

[0099] As illustrated in Figure 9, in the operational configuration the flotation organ 9 acts as a buoyant reference near the free surface of the water (it essentially acts as a buoy) in such a way that it is possible to locate where to recover the object 100 and the device 1 itself. Figure 9 further illustrates that the flotation organ 9 may have a text 9'; this, schematised as "ABC", may bear the indication "Underwater object'. In addition, the flotation organ 9 may bear a symbol 9" indicating a danger (see the indication '!') and / or an arrow 9" indicating the direction of sinking and / or in which to recover the object 100. The flotation organ 9 is associated with the second half-shell 4 (see figure 5, where the first half-shell 3 has been removed from the box body 2) and therefore, after the opening of the box body 2, the second half-shell 4 follows the flotation organ 9; see figures 9, 10 and 11 .

[0100] The device 1 further comprises a trigger organ 10 configured to determine said trigger of the flotation organ 9. The trigger organ 10 is housed within the box body 2 (see Figure 5, wherein the first half-shell 3 has been removed from the box body 2) and is associated with the flotation organ 9 so as to be able to trigger the transition of the flotation organ from the rest configuration to the operational configuration. The triggering of the trigger organ 10 occurs upon contact with water; in essence, preferably as soon as it comes into contact with water (substantially instantaneously), the trigger organ 10 is triggered resulting in an immediate transition of the flotation organ 9 from the rest configuration to the operational configuration. In particular, the trigger organ 10 is configured to trigger upon contact with a specified minimum amount of water and / or for a specified minimum time of contact with water, so that the trigger organ 10 is not accidentally triggered by undesirable events, such as rain.

[0101] The device 1 further comprising a reservoir 11 of pressurised fluid associated with the trigger organ and containing pressurised fluid (for example, carbon dioxide or CO2) . The pressurised fluid contained in the reservoir 1 1 is preferably in a liquid state. The reservoir 1 1 of pressurised fluid is at least partially housed within the box body 2; in the attached figures, the fluid reservoir 1 1 is partially housed within the box body 2 and partially protrudes therefrom (see Figures 1 and 2). In the embodiment illustrated in the attached Figures in which the flotation organ 9 is inflatable, the trigger organ 10 is configured to cause, upon contact with water, the inflation of the flotation organ 9 due to the passage of fluid under pressure from the fluid reservoir 11 to the flotation organ 9 through a conduit 12 and an attachment 12' of the flotation organ 9.

[0102] With regard to the triggering technology of the trigger organ 10, it should be noted that the trigger organ 10 may comprise: a water-sensitive element 13, in particular water-soluble (preferably, based on gypsum and salt), a perforation element 14 and an elastic element 15 associated with both the water-sensitive element 13 and the perforation element 14. The water-sensitive element 13 is preferably interposed between the elastic element 15 and the perforation element 14 (see the exploded view of figure 3). In order to operatively connect the reservoir 11 , the hydrosensitive element 13 and the perforation element 14, a hollow body may be provided, which may be formed by a first and a second part 16, 16', engaged by constraints 17. In essence, when in contact with water, the hydrosensitive element 13 actuates the elastic element 15, which pushes the perforation element 14 to perforate the reservoir 1 1 of fluid under pressure, thus causing the release of fluid under pressure which inflates the flotation organ 9. In the embodiment of the appended figures, the water-sensitive element is a "salt tablet" 13 (a term by which it is itself known), the elastic element is a spring 15 and the perforating element is a punch 14. The salt tablet 13 comprises a solid retainer comprising gypsum powder compacted and amalgamated with salt (hence the organ is known as a "salt tablet"), which dissolves almost instantaneously, within one second. This dissolution unlocks a punch 14 which, under the action of the spring 15, pierces a reservoir 1 1 (capsule) of CO2, available in different sizes (e.g. 12, 8 or 4 grams of CO2). The CO2 capsule 1 1 , once perforated, rapidly inflates the flotation organ 9 (buoy). As an alternative to the salt tablet 13, a pressure sensor can be provided which, when a certain pressure is reached, triggers the trigger organ, in particular by causing fluid under pressure to escape from the pressure vessel. It should be noted that, irrespective of the triggering technology used, the release of pressurised fluid preferably consists of pressurised CO2 escaping from the capsule 11 , which passes from 33 bar to atmospheric pressure (about 1 bar), with transition from the liquid to the gaseous state, inflating the buoy 9.

[0103] The device 1 further comprises a retrieval element 6. The retrieval element 6 has the function of allowing the recovery of the object 100 to which the device 1 is connected after the object 100 has ended up in water. The retrieval element 6 is configured to operate in at least: o a rest configuration in which it presents a gathered condition (see for example Figures 5 and 8), in particular folded or wound, and o an operational configuration in which it presents a stretched condition, in particular unfolded or unwound.

[0104] Preferably, in the stretched condition the retrieval element 6 has a length of the order of a plurality of metres.

[0105] The retrieval element 6 is connected to both the first portion 3 and the second portion 4 of the box body 2 so as to allow retrieval of both; in this regard, see Figures 9, 10 and 1 1. Optionally and preferably, the retrieval element 6 is connected to the first portion 3 and to the second portion 4 of the box body 2 at their respective opposite ends (see figure 9).

[0106] As illustrated in the appended figures, the retrieval element may comprise a wire 6; in the gathered condition it is wound around a support 5 (Figures 5, 7 and 8), while in the stretched condition it is at least partially unwound or unrolled from the support 5 (Figures 10 and 1 1 ). Preferably, the wire 6 is a floating wire, so that it can float if necessary. Preferably, the wire 6 may be of a bright and / or easily detectable colour, for example it may be orange or in any other colour that improves its visibility. It should be noted that the wire may be similar to a floating braid used in sport fishing. The wire 6 has a length such that, when necessary and in the stretched condition, it may have a length of the order of several metres. The wire 6 may also bear a certain load, although this need not be the case; consider the case of a wire 6 longer than the distance between the free surface and the bottom of the basin or body of water in which the object sinks. In such a case, the object 100 can reach the bottom and the wire 6 does not support its weight. In a preferred embodiment, the wire 6 may have a length of between 10 and 150 metres and may support a load of up to 40 kg. It is understood that in other embodiments, the wire 6 may have a different length and / or may support a greater or lighter load.

[0107] As illustrated in the attached figures, the retrieval element 6 is preferably arranged outside the box body 2, in particular completely outside the box body 2, both in the rest configuration and in the operational configuration. Providing that the retrieval element 6, and preferably also its support 5, are arranged outside the box body 2 allows for easy intervention on the retrieval element(s) without having to open the box body 2; for example, they allow for easy replacement thereof. It is understood that, in alternative embodiments, the retrieval element 6 may be provided inside the box body 2; this further contributes to the compactness of the device 1 .

[0108] Functioning of the retrieval device

[0109] The operation of the retrieval device 1 takes place when an object 100, to which the device 1 is engaged, ends up in water. As mentioned above, the contact of the water-sensitive or water-soluble element 13 of the trigger organ 10 with a given amount of water causes the perforation of the reservoir 1 1 by the perforation element 14, resulting in the inflation of the flotation organ 9.

[0110] The flotation organ 9 (hereinafter, also "buoy"), by inflating, exerts pressure on the box body 2, causing it to open and separate the first and second half-shells 3, 4, which move away in opposite directions. This allows the buoy 9 to be released and rise to the surface of the water, dragging the wire 6 with it. The wire 6 unwinds from the gathered condition in which it is wound on the spool 5 connected to the box body 2 (in particular to the outside of it), which in turn is firmly attached to the object to be retrieved by means of the constraining element 8. The wire 6 unwinds until it reaches the configuration shown in figure 9.

[0111] For example, in the case of a drone 100 that has sunk or submerged in water, once the buoy 9 reaches the surface (figure 9), the operator can simply retrieve the wire 6 until the drone 100 is returned to the surface. This process not only prevents pollution caused by the battery of the drone 100, but also allows for the recovery of otherwise lost equipment and data. Furthermore, the operator, by recovering the drone, can send it back to the parent company, for example to request a replacement.

[0112] The device 1 described here provides an effective solution for recovering sunken objects, reducing the risk of pollution and facilitating the management of expensive and sensitive equipment.

[0113] Kit

[0114] The invention may further relate to a kit comprising a device 1 of the type described above, and at least one of:

[0115] - a plurality of pressurised fluid reservoirs 1 1 , differing from each other in the volume of pressurised fluid contained therein, and / or

[0116] - a plurality of spools 5 of wire 6, differing from each other in length and / or type of wire 6.

[0117] Use

[0118] The invention further relates to a use of the previously described retrieval device 1 . The use of the retrieval device 1 is aimed at retrieving at least one object 100 in water or other fluid or other liquid.

[0119] Preferably, in addition to recovering the object, the use further comprises retrieving the device 1 itself, in particular at least the first and second portions 3, 4 of the box body 2.

[0120] Method of operating a retrieval device

[0121] The present invention also relates to a method of setting up a previously described retrieval device 1 . The method comprises the following steps:

[0122] - constraining the retrieval device 1 to an object 100, preferably by means of the constraining element 8,

[0123] - connecting the retrieval element to both the first portion and the second portion of the box body.

[0124] The method of engaging a retrieval device 1 is substantially a method of engaging the retrieval device 1 to an object 100, with respect to which there is interest in retrieval, in particular in retrieval should said object 100 end up in water.

[0125] Method for retrieving an object

[0126] The invention further relates to a method for retrieving an object 100 comprising the following steps:

[0127] - arranging an object 100 to which a retrieval device 1 of the type described above is engaged,

[0128] - triggering, upon contact with water, the transition of the flotation organ 9 from the rest configuration to the operational configuration or verifying that such a trigger has occurred,

[0129] - locating the position of the flotation organ 9 in water, for example in a lake or in the sea or in a river or similar basin or body of water,

[0130] - retrieving the object 100 by means of the retrieval element 6.

[0131] In addition to retrieving the object 100, the method preferably further comprises retrieving at least one of the first portion or first half-shell 3 and the second portion or second half-shell 4 of the retrieval device 1 , in particular both.

[0132] The method may further comprise the following steps:

[0133] - inflating the flotation organ 9,

[0134] - due to the inflation of the flotation organ 9, determining the opening of the box body 2. Following the opening of the box body 2, the first portion or first half-shell 3 moves integral with the object to be recovered 100 and the second portion or second half-shell 4 moves integral with the flotation organ 9 as described above.

[0135] The integral movement of the object 100 to be recovered with the first portion or first half-shell 3 is realised by the passage of the retrieval element 6 from the gathered condition to the stretched condition, which in the embodiment of the appended figures occurs by unwinding the wire.

[0136] Further advantages and concluding remarks

[0137] The invention provides a retrieval device 1 of an object 100 which is definitely effective and advantageous for at least the following reasons.

[0138] The retrieval device 1 according to the invention is:

[0139] - autonomous, in that it works and is autonomously triggered; human intervention is only due to the step of retrieving the object 100,

[0140] - effective, in that it allows an object 100 to be recovered easily,

[0141] - light, due to the low weight of its organs / components,

[0142] - slender, due to the provision of a parallelepiped box body 2 with parallel opposing surfaces, and

[0143] - compact, due to a box-shaped body 2 that incorporates, in a closing configuration, almost all the organs / components of device 1 ,

[0144] - fully recoverable and reusable, due to the fact that all components of device 1 (in particular the first and second half-shells) are recovered and can be reused; essentially, no parts of device 1 remain in the environment. Before re-use, the triggering technology (salt tablet 13) and the tank 11 (containing CO2) must be replaced, in particular by an authorised operator; in addition, the retrieval element 6 (wire) must be rewound and the flotation organ 9 (the buoy) deflated and then rewound to its rest position,

[0145] - environmentally friendly, as no parts of the device 1 are dispersed into the environment, but are recovered.

[0146] The use and methods involving the aforementioned retrieval device 1 share at least the same advantages, and even more. It is pointed out that, despite the small and substantially pocket-size dimensions of the device 1 , it could be further miniaturised, so as to further limit its footprint and enable it to be engaged even in objects of very small dimensions.

[0147] The protection conferred by the claims extends to each element, component and / or step of the invention equivalent to the one(s) claimed. It is understood that each element, component and / or step of the product / method according to the invention may be substituted with an equivalent element, component and / or step (hereinafter, "equivalent(s)"); such equivalent(s) may already exist on the filing or priority date of this patent text or may be of subsequent conception / development.

Claims

Claims1 . Device for preventing loss of and / or retrieving (1) at least one object (100) in water, for example a drone or mobile phone or goods transported by ship or nautical or fishing equipment, comprising:- a box body (2) defining an internal volume and comprising at least a first and second portion (3, 4) and configured to operate between: o a closing configuration in which the box body (2) is closed and the first and second portions (3, 4) are close and / or engaged with each other, in the closing configuration the first and second portions (3, 4) defining the internal volume, o an opening configuration in which the box body (2) is open and the first and second portions (3, 4) are spaced apart,- a constraining element (8) or a provision (7) to allow engagement of a constraining element (8), the constraining element (8) being capable of constraining an object (100) to be retrieved, preferably the constraining element (8) being arranged at least partially outside the box body (2),- at least one flotation organ (9) configured to operate at least in: o a rest configuration, in which it is housed in the box body (2), and o an operational configuration, in which it is deployed and configured to float in water to serve as a reference for retrieving the object (100), the flotation organ (9) being configured to determine the transition of the box body (2) from the closing configuration to the opening configuration,- a trigger organ (10) housed within the box body (2), associated with the flotation organ (9) and configured to trigger, after contact with water, the transition of the flotation organ (9) from the rest configuration to the operational configuration,- a retrieval element (6) configured to operate at least in: o a rest configuration in which it has a gathered condition, in particular wound, o an operational configuration in which it presents a stretched condition, in particular deployed or unwound, preferably in the stretched condition the retrieval element (6) presenting a length of the order of several metres, the retrieval element (6) being connected to both the first portion (3) and the second portion (4) of the box body (2) so that it allows retrieval of both, wherein the device for preventing loss of and / or retrieving (1 ) is substantially pocket-sized, and wherein the box body (2) is configured to prevent accidental triggering of the trigger organ (10), the box body (2) or at least a portion (3, 4) of it being configured to prevent water ingress below a certain amount.

2. Device according to claim 1 , wherein the constraining element (8) is associated with the first portion (3) and the flotation organ (9) is associated with the second portion (4).

3. Device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the box body (2) is substantially pocket-sized.

4. Device according to claim 1 or 2 or 3, wherein the retrieval element (6) comprises or is a wire, in particular a floating wire.

5. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the retrieval element (6) is configured to present, in particular in the stretched condition, a length of the order of a plurality of metres.

6. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the retrieval element (6) is arranged outside the box body (2), in particular completely outside the box body (2), either in the rest configuration or in the operational configuration.

7. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the retrieval element (6) is connected to the first portion (3) and to the second portion (4) of the box body (2) at its respective opposite ends.

8. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the trigger organ (10) is configured to trigger, substantially instantaneously with respect to water contact, the transition of the flotation organ (9) from the rest configuration to the operational configuration.

9. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a support (5) for the retrieval element (6), the retrieval element (6) being engaged, in particular being wound around, the support at least in its gathered condition, the support (5) for the retrieval element (6) being engaged outside the internal volume of the box body (2).

10. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the box body (2) comprises a first half-shell and a second half-shell, the first half-shell constituting the first portion (3) and the second half-shell constituting the second portion (4), the first half-shell (3) and the second half-shell (4) having a similar or comparable footprint and substantially flat and parallel opposing surfaces, preferably the box body (2) being shaped like a parallelepiped.11 . Device according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a reservoir (11 ) of fluid under pressure at least partially housed within the box body (2) and associated with the trigger organ, wherein:- the flotation organ (9) is inflatable,- the trigger organ (10) is configured to cause, upon contact with water, the flotation organ (9) to inflate due to the passage of pressurized fluid from the reservoir (11 ) to the flotation organ (9).

12. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, the box body (2) or at least a portion (3, 4) of it being substantially rainproof.

13. Use of a device for preventing loss of and / or retrieving (1 ) at least one object (100) in water according to any one of the preceding claims, to retrieve at least one object (100) inwater or other fluid or other liquid.

14. Method of operating a device for preventing loss of and / or retrieving (1 ) at least one object (100) in water, the method comprising the following steps:- constraining to an object (100) a device (1 ) for preventing loss of and / or retrieving according to any of claims 1 to 12, preferably by means of the constraining element (8),- connecting the retrieval element (6) to both the first portion (3) and the second portion (4) of the box body (2).

15. Method for retrieving an object (100) comprising the following steps:- arranging an object (100) which a device for preventing loss of and / or retrieving (1 ) according to any one of claims 1 to 12 is engaged to,- triggering, upon contact with water, the transition of the flotation organ (9) from the rest configuration to the operational configuration or verify that such a trigger has occurred,- locating the position of the flotation organ (9) in water, e.g. in a lake or in the sea or in a river or similar basins or bodies of water,- retrieving the object by means of the retrieval element (6),- optionally, retrieving at least one of the first portion or first half-shell (3) and the second portion or second half-shell (4) of the device for preventing loss of and / or retrieving (1 ), in particular both.

16. Method according to claim 15, further comprising:- inflating the flotation organ (9),- due to inflation of the flotation organ (9), determining the opening of the box body (2),- following the opening of the box body (2), the first portion or first half-shell (3) moving integrally with the object (100) to be retrieved and the second portion or second halfshell (4) moving integrally with the flotation organ (9).

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