EP0163793B1 - Individual scuba-diving apparatus - Google Patents

Individual scuba-diving apparatus Download PDF

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Publication number
EP0163793B1
EP0163793B1 EP19840401191 EP84401191A EP0163793B1 EP 0163793 B1 EP0163793 B1 EP 0163793B1 EP 19840401191 EP19840401191 EP 19840401191 EP 84401191 A EP84401191 A EP 84401191A EP 0163793 B1 EP0163793 B1 EP 0163793B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
container
module
streamlining
cradle
bottles
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Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Expired - Lifetime
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EP19840401191
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP0163793A1 (en
Inventor
Patrice Galimand
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GROUPE DESIGN MBD
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GROUPE DESIGN MBD
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Priority to FR8220725A priority Critical patent/FR2537538B1/en
Application filed by GROUPE DESIGN MBD filed Critical GROUPE DESIGN MBD
Priority to EP19840401191 priority patent/EP0163793B1/en
Priority to PCT/FR1984/000147 priority patent/WO1986000056A1/en
Priority to DE8484401191T priority patent/DE3481584D1/en
Publication of EP0163793A1 publication Critical patent/EP0163793A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP0163793B1 publication Critical patent/EP0163793B1/en
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    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B35/00—Swimming framework with driving mechanisms operated by the swimmer or by a motor
    • A63B35/08—Swimming framework with driving mechanisms operated by the swimmer or by a motor with propeller propulsion
    • A63B35/12—Swimming framework with driving mechanisms operated by the swimmer or by a motor with propeller propulsion operated by a motor

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to an individual scuba diving device.
  • Torpedo-shaped propellants are known to tow divers.
  • Document DE-A-2 445 324 describes an apparatus for moving a person in water, comprising an electric propeller motor, a fairing in which this electric propeller motor is housed, two batteries for powering the motor, one or two container for housing the respective batteries against the lateral surface of the fairing opposite one another, and fixing means which are made either so that the apparatus is fixed on the back of the person, or on a part of the thorax, either on one or more air bottles, it (s) itself (s) fixed (s) on the body of the person.
  • Document US-A-3,034,467 describes an underwater propulsion device comprising means for holding on the back of a diver; an air bottle; an electric propeller motor; a battery to power the engine; a container in which the battery and a part of the engine are respectively housed at the front and at the rear, the latter passing through the rear wall of the container so that its propeller is behind the container; and a protective device surrounding the propeller.
  • the present invention overcomes the drawbacks of torpedo-shaped propellants and aims to solve the technical problem of reconciling on the same individual scuba diving device the existence of propulsion means and breathing means, so that It is an autonomous propulsion and breathing device.
  • the invention provides an individual scuba diving device comprising means for holding on the back of a diver, at least one air bottle, an electric propeller motor, a fairing in which this electric propeller motor is housed. arranged along the air bottle opposite the holding means on the back of a plunger, an autonomous source of electrical energy to power the engine, and a container in which is housed this autonomous source of energy electric, arranged in the rear extension of the air bottle.
  • This technique makes it possible to obtain a very resistant air storage container (the operating pressure can be for example 300 bars instead of the 200 bars currently used with steel bottles) and a significant saving in weight.
  • the invention further develops the application of the technique of composite materials to compressed gas cylinders by aiming, in addition to saving weight, saving external volume of bottles to help reconcile, on the same scuba diving device. marine, the existence of means of breathing and means of propulsion.
  • the invention relates more particularly but not exclusively, to bottles made from a metallic core, preferably made of aluminum alloy, this core being hooped by means of a stratification by filament winding, fiberglass or carbon fiber , depending on the level of performance sought.
  • the apparatus according to the invention comprises a respiratory module and a propellant module that can be separated at will, the propellant module being able to be released without modifying the weight / volume balance.
  • the organization of all of the two modules is provided so that its overall dimensions are reconcilable with satisfactory diving performance, their weight remaining at most equal to the weight of a standard diving suit known as "bi-steel" while by maintaining a respiratory autonomy at least equal to that of this spacesuit.
  • the container (6) is double and advantageously comes in the extension of the sockets (1A). Such an arrangement makes your hands free and does not change your diving habits.
  • the propellant module (MP) being able to be released at will, without modifying the weight / volume balance, by a release command with rods (8) of which spouts (8A) can come to bear on ears (8B) located on the periphery of the double container (6).
  • the propellant module is tared in positive flotation so as to be recoverable.
  • the cradle (1) made, preferably, of a material of low density and of high mechanical resistance following for example the technique of lightened thermoplastics, comprises elements allowing it to ensure several functions.
  • Sleeves (9) of this cradle in which the necks of the bottles are slid allow them to be kept in their center distance.
  • a tenon (10) of the cradle is intended to fit into a mortise (11) formed in a connecting bridge (12) connecting the two sockets (1A) for receiving the bottles and is immobilized there by a screw (13 ).
  • the cradles also carry a latch (14) articulated against a spring (15) and on which a hook (16) of the fairing (5) of the propulsion module is locked which finds its place between the two sockets (1A) and against the cradle (1).
  • the cradle shows a depression (17) allowing the hooking or release of the hook (16) from the fairing by sliding in this depression.
  • the release of the hook (16) means the release of the propulsion module (MP) the latch (14) actuated in this in against its spring (15) also producing a thrust of the rods (8) on the ears (8B ) from the container (6).
  • the diver can therefore, if necessary, drop the propellant module without changing its buoyancy balance.
  • the use of the respiratory module (MR) alone is thus possible in diving.
  • the cradle (1) On its face opposite to the engine fairing, the cradle (1) shows a ballast compartment (1B) allowing the buoyancy of the apparatus to be adjusted so as to be very slightly negative at full load (for example lowering of additional bottles on a given location).
  • the cradle further comprises a carrying handle (18) and elements for connection with the backrest-support (2) which is in two parts.
  • the two parts of the backrest support support the device by means of five adjustable straps so as to be adjusted and limit its movement on the back of the diver.
  • Two shoulder straps (height adjustment on the bust), two crotch straps ensuring the pull down and a belt strap ensuring the connection of the previous four and the transverse stability of the device.
  • the volume of the two-body battery container (6) is calculated so that the battery assembly is in positive flotation. It is also preferably produced according to the technique of light thermoplastics.
  • the loguet (14) ensures the unlocking of the two modules, by means of the release linkages (8).
  • Electronic regulation is associated with it, in order to optimize consumption (clipping of peaks of power absorbed at start-up, regulation of the distributed voltage, safety in the event of propeller blockage).
  • the fairing (5) of the propeller motor (4) (4A) is preferably produced using the same technology as the cradle (1). It includes a protective grid (5A) for the propeller, a flotation reserve (equal to the weight of the engine) and two stabilizing fins (24). The purpose of these is to make the pulling force and the center of gravity of the plunger concur, and to combat the torque created by the direction of rotation of the propeller.
  • the fins also participate in maintaining the engine-propeller assembly inside the fairing which is preferably circular.
  • the securing of the engine fairing (5) -container double of batteries (6) is done by the quarter-turn blocking of a lock (26) on a span (27) trapped in the container (6).
  • the latch (26) rotates around an intermediate tube (28) with a segment which provides sealing and passage of the electrical connection between batteries, motor and control. This connection also serves as an electrical connection for recharging the batteries.
  • a well (31) connects the channel (30) to the motor and this well is formed in a spacer (32) for main maintenance of the motor.
  • the batteries (33) held between two boxes (34) are contained in the two bodies of the container (6).
  • the dry accumulators constituting the batteries are preferably of the nickel-cadmium type, with extra thin plates.
  • the choice of this type of accumulator is made in particular due to their sealing characteristics, total absence of maintenance, stability of the discharge voltage, even at high speed, insensitivity to significant overloads, their excellent performance from -40 ° C to + 50 ° C, their resistance to shocks and vibrations, the modularity of their elements for the constitution of power supplies and their lifespan.
  • the overall capacity is calculated for a duration of 1 hour 30 minutes, corresponding to the use of a 2.4 m 3 bottle, the most commonly used by divers.
  • the overall capacity of the batteries is designed to continuously provide respiratory autonomy, including decompression stops, and without the use of the safety reserve.
  • the control (7), the connecting wire (35) of which ends at (36) at the end of the channel (30) of the fairing (5) is produced by an overmolding of elastomer (37) of a contactor of the type deformable thin layer (38). It supplies a coil to a monostable power relay (not shown) energizing the motor.
  • the overmolding (37) has the general shape of a loop portion which is completed by a strip (39) preferably by means of pressure fastening (40).
  • the entire loop can be arranged around the hand of the diver so that the thumb can act on the contactor, not according to the natural gripping movement, but according to a movement lying in the plane of the profile of the hand, this in particular in order to avoid any untimely command of an involuntary tightening hand.
  • This command by pressing the thumb in the plane of the profile of the hand, allows voluntary gripping by the other fingers closing towards the palm.
  • the control is preferably used by the other hand than the usual hand (left hand for right-handed; right hand for left-handed) so as to leave free the most skillful hand.
  • the number of bottles can be variable depending on the use, either one, two or more.

Description

La présente invention a pour objet un appareil individuel de plongée sous-marine.The present invention relates to an individual scuba diving device.

On connaît les engins propulseurs en forme de torpille tractant les plongeurs.Torpedo-shaped propellants are known to tow divers.

Bien qu'ils soient de conception et de réalisation simples et fiables, ces engins sont manoeuvrés "à bout de bras" ce qui a pour conséquences des inconvénients non négligeables: une indisponibilité des bras; une gêne de la visibilité (position de l'engin dans le champ, flux de l'hélice); un déplacement non instinctif du plongeur; l'engin étant tenu à bout de bras, c'est l'orientation du propulseur qui entraîne le plongeur. De plus, l'engin propulseur étant en flottaison positive, dès que le plongeur l'abandonne il est obligé de la maintenir au fond par un moyen quelconque, afin de pouvoir le récupérer ultérieurement.Although they are simple and reliable in design and construction, these machines are maneuvered "at arm's length" which has the consequences of non-negligible drawbacks: unavailability of the arms; impaired visibility (position of the craft in the field, flow of the propeller); non-instinctive movement of the diver; the machine being held at arm's length, it is the orientation of the propellant which drives the plunger. In addition, the propellant being in positive flotation, as soon as the diver abandons it it is obliged to maintain it at the bottom by any means, in order to be able to recover it later.

On connaît également d'autres appareils individuels de plongée sous-marine par les documents US-A-3 034 467, DE-A-2 445 324, US-A-3 995 578, US-A-3 329 118, US-A- 3 916 814 et US-A-3 014 448.Other individual scuba diving devices are also known from documents US-A-3,034,467, DE-A-2,445,324, US-A-3,995,578, US-A-3,329,118, US- A- 3,916,814 and US-A-3,014,448.

Le document DE-A-2 445 324 déccit un appareil pour déplacer une personne dans l'eau, comportant un moteur électrique à hélice, un carénage dans lequel est logé ce moteur électrique à hélice, deux batteries pour alimenter le moteur, un ou deux container pour loger les batteries respectives contre la surface latérale du carénage à l'opposé l'une de l'autre, et des moyens de fixation qui sont faits soit pour que l'appareil se fixe sur le dos de la personne, soit sur une partie du thorax, soit sur une ou plusieurs bouteille(s) d'air, elle(s)-même(s) fixée(s) sur le corps de la personne.Document DE-A-2 445 324 describes an apparatus for moving a person in water, comprising an electric propeller motor, a fairing in which this electric propeller motor is housed, two batteries for powering the motor, one or two container for housing the respective batteries against the lateral surface of the fairing opposite one another, and fixing means which are made either so that the apparatus is fixed on the back of the person, or on a part of the thorax, either on one or more air bottles, it (s) itself (s) fixed (s) on the body of the person.

Le document US-A-3 034 467 déccit un appareil de propulsion sous-marine comportant des moyens de maintien sur le dos d'un plongeur; une bouteille d'air; un moteur électrique à hélice; une batterie pour alimenter le moteur; un container dans lequel sont logés respectivement à l'avant et à l'arrière la batterie et une partie du moteur, celui-ci traversant la paroi arrière du container de telle sorte que son hélice se trouve derrière le container; et un dispositif protecteur entourant l'hélice.Document US-A-3,034,467 describes an underwater propulsion device comprising means for holding on the back of a diver; an air bottle; an electric propeller motor; a battery to power the engine; a container in which the battery and a part of the engine are respectively housed at the front and at the rear, the latter passing through the rear wall of the container so that its propeller is behind the container; and a protective device surrounding the propeller.

La présente invention remédie aux inconvénients des engins propulseurs en forme de torpille et vise à résoudre le problème technique de concilier sur un même appareil individuel de plongée sous-marine l'existence de moyens de propulsion et de moyens de respiration, de telle sorte qu'ile constitue un appareil autonome de propulsion et de respiration.The present invention overcomes the drawbacks of torpedo-shaped propellants and aims to solve the technical problem of reconciling on the same individual scuba diving device the existence of propulsion means and breathing means, so that It is an autonomous propulsion and breathing device.

L'invention propose un appareil individuel de plongée sous-marine comportant des moyens de maintien sur le dos d'un plongeur, au moins une bouteille d'air, un moteur électrique à hélice, un carénage dans lequel est logé ce moteur électrique à hélice disposé le long de la bouteille d'air à l'opposé des moyens de maintien sur le dos d'un plongeur, une source autonome d'énergie électrique pour alimenter le moteur, et un container dans lequel est logée cette source autonome d'énergie électrique, disposé dans le prolongement arrière de la bouteille d'air.The invention provides an individual scuba diving device comprising means for holding on the back of a diver, at least one air bottle, an electric propeller motor, a fairing in which this electric propeller motor is housed. arranged along the air bottle opposite the holding means on the back of a plunger, an autonomous source of electrical energy to power the engine, and a container in which is housed this autonomous source of energy electric, arranged in the rear extension of the air bottle.

La technique des matériaux composites à servi à l'évolution de nombreux domaines et entre autres celui des bouteilles de gaz comprimé constituées d'une coque interne en alliage léger renforcée par un bobinage externe en fibre de verre par exemple.The technique of composite materials has been used in the development of many fields and, among others, that of compressed gas cylinders made up of an internal shell made of light alloy reinforced by an external winding made of fiberglass for example.

Cette technique permet d'obtenir un récipient de stockage de l'air très résistant (la pression d'utilisation pouvant être par exemple de 300 bars au lieu des 200 bars en usage actuellement avec les bouteilles acier) et une économie de poids importante.This technique makes it possible to obtain a very resistant air storage container (the operating pressure can be for example 300 bars instead of the 200 bars currently used with steel bottles) and a significant saving in weight.

L'invention développe plus avant l'application de la technique des matériaux composites aux bouteilles de gaz comprimé en visant, outre l'économie de poids, une économie de volume extérieur de bouteilles pour contribuer à concilier, sur un même appareil de plongée sous-marine, l'existence de moyens de respiration et de moyens de propulsion.The invention further develops the application of the technique of composite materials to compressed gas cylinders by aiming, in addition to saving weight, saving external volume of bottles to help reconcile, on the same scuba diving device. marine, the existence of means of breathing and means of propulsion.

L'invention vise plus particulièrement mais non exclusivement, des bouteilles réalisées à partir d'une âme métallique, de préférence en alliage d'aluminium, cette âme étant frettée au moyen d'une stratification par enroulement filamentaire, fibre de verre ou fibre de carbone, suivant le niveau de performance recherché.The invention relates more particularly but not exclusively, to bottles made from a metallic core, preferably made of aluminum alloy, this core being hooped by means of a stratification by filament winding, fiberglass or carbon fiber , depending on the level of performance sought.

L'appareil selon l'invention comprend un module respiratoire et un module propulseur séparables à volonté, le module propulseur pouvant être largué sans modification de l'équilibre poids/volume.The apparatus according to the invention comprises a respiratory module and a propellant module that can be separated at will, the propellant module being able to be released without modifying the weight / volume balance.

De plus, certains éléments de ces modules peuvent être avantageusement prévus dans le prolongement les uns des autres sans nuire à la longueur hors tout de l'appareil.In addition, certain elements of these modules can advantageously be provided in the extension of each other without affecting the overall length of the device.

De toute manière, l'organisation de l'ensemble des deux modules est prévue pour que son encombrement général soit conciliable avec des performances de plongée satisfaisantes, sont poids restant au plus égal au poids d'un scaphandre usuel dit "bi-acier" tout en gardant une autonomie respiratoire au moins égale à celle de ce scaphandre.In any case, the organization of all of the two modules is provided so that its overall dimensions are reconcilable with satisfactory diving performance, their weight remaining at most equal to the weight of a standard diving suit known as "bi-steel" while by maintaining a respiratory autonomy at least equal to that of this spacesuit.

D'autres caractéristiques et avantages de la présente invention ressortiront de la description qui va suivre. faite en regard des dessins annexés, sur lesquels:

  • la figure 1 est une vue en élévation latérale d'un appareil selon l'invention;
  • la figure 2 est une vue en plan, par le dessus, de ce même appareil;
  • la figure 3 en est une vue en coupe longitudinale;
  • la figure 4 représente deux demi-coupes suivant les lignes A-A et B-B de la figure 3;
  • la figure 5 est une vue partielle et en coupe de l'appareil selon l'invention, suivant la ligne C-C de la figure 3;
  • la figure 6 est une vue en perspective d'une commande manuelle du moteur du module de propulsion, des éléments intérieurs à cette commande étant également représentés;
  • les figures 7, 8 et 9 montrent la commande disposée sur la main du plongeur, de manière à permettre une action par le pouce de la main, suivant un mouvement se situant dans le plan du profil de la main; et
  • les figures 10, 11 et 12 montrent le déplacement sous l'eau d'un plongeur équipé d'un appareil individuel de plongée sous-marine selon l'invention.
Other characteristics and advantages of the present invention will emerge from the description which follows. made with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
  • Figure 1 is a side elevational view of an apparatus according to the invention;
  • Figure 2 is a plan view, from above, of the same apparatus;
  • Figure 3 is a longitudinal sectional view;
  • Figure 4 shows two half-sections along lines AA and BB of Figure 3;
  • Figure 5 is a partial sectional view of the apparatus according to the invention, along the line CC of Figure 3;
  • Figure 6 is a perspective view of a manual control of the module motor propulsion, elements inside this control being also shown;
  • Figures 7, 8 and 9 show the control arranged on the hand of the plunger, so as to allow action by the thumb of the hand, following a movement lying in the plane of the profile of the hand; and
  • Figures 10, 11 and 12 show the movement underwater of a diver equipped with an individual scuba diving device according to the invention.

Dans la forme de réalisation représentée, un appareil selon l'invention comprend deux modules pouvant être séparés à volonté:

  • Un module respiratoire (MR) comprenant un berceau (1), un dosseret (2) et deux bouteilles à air (3) reçues dans deux douilles (1A) fixées au berceau.
  • Un module propulseur (MP), comprenant un moteur (4) à hélice (4A) et son carénage (5), un container (6) pour une source autonome d'énergie électrique (batteries d'accumulateurs secs) et une commande autonome (7) (figures 6 à 9).
In the embodiment shown, an apparatus according to the invention comprises two modules which can be separated at will:
  • A respiratory module (MR) comprising a cradle (1), a backrest (2) and two air bottles (3) received in two sockets (1A) fixed to the cradle.
  • A propellant module (MP), comprising a propeller motor (4) and its fairing (5), a container (6) for an autonomous source of electrical energy (dry storage batteries) and an autonomous control ( 7) (Figures 6 to 9).

Le container (6) est double et vient avantageusement dans le prolongement des douilles (1A). Une telle disposition rend les mains libres et ne change pas les habitudes de plongée.The container (6) is double and advantageously comes in the extension of the sockets (1A). Such an arrangement makes your hands free and does not change your diving habits.

Elle préserve la sécurité du plongeur, le module propulseur (MP) pouvant être largué à volonté, sans modification de l'équilibre poids/volume, par une commande de largage à tringles (8) dont des becs (8A) peuvent venir porter sur des oreilles (8B) situées sur la périphérie du container double (6).It preserves the safety of the diver, the propellant module (MP) being able to be released at will, without modifying the weight / volume balance, by a release command with rods (8) of which spouts (8A) can come to bear on ears (8B) located on the periphery of the double container (6).

Le module propulseur est taré en flottaison positive de façon à être récupérable.The propellant module is tared in positive flotation so as to be recoverable.

Le berceau (1) réalisé, de préférence, en un matériau de faible densité et de résistance mécanique élevée suivant par exemple la technique des thermoplastiques allégés, comprend des éléments lui permettant d'assurer plusieurs fonctions.The cradle (1) made, preferably, of a material of low density and of high mechanical resistance following for example the technique of lightened thermoplastics, comprises elements allowing it to ensure several functions.

Des fourreaux (9) de ce berceau dans lesquels sont glissés les cols des bouteilles permettent de maintenir celles-ci dans leur entraxe.Sleeves (9) of this cradle in which the necks of the bottles are slid allow them to be kept in their center distance.

Un tenon (10) du berceau est destiné à s'emboîter dans une mortaise (11) pratiquée dans un pontet de liaison (12) reliant les deux douilles (1A) de réception des bouteilles et s'y trouve immobilisé par une vis (13).A tenon (10) of the cradle is intended to fit into a mortise (11) formed in a connecting bridge (12) connecting the two sockets (1A) for receiving the bottles and is immobilized there by a screw (13 ).

Le berceaux porte, de plus, un loquet (14) articulé à l'encontre d'un ressort (15) et sur lequel vient se verrouiller un crochet (16) du carénage (5) du module de propulsion qui trouve sa place entre les deux douilles (1A) et contre le berceau (1). Le berceau montre une dépression (17) permettant l'enclenchement ou la libération du crochet (16) du carénage par glissement dans cette dépression.The cradles also carry a latch (14) articulated against a spring (15) and on which a hook (16) of the fairing (5) of the propulsion module is locked which finds its place between the two sockets (1A) and against the cradle (1). The cradle shows a depression (17) allowing the hooking or release of the hook (16) from the fairing by sliding in this depression.

La libération du crochet (16) signifie le largage du module de propulsion (MP) le loquet (14) actionné dans ce dans à l'encontre de son ressort (15) produisant également une poussée des tringles (8) sur les oreilles (8B) du container (6).The release of the hook (16) means the release of the propulsion module (MP) the latch (14) actuated in this in against its spring (15) also producing a thrust of the rods (8) on the ears (8B ) from the container (6).

Le plongeur peut donc, si nécessaire, larguer le module propulseur sans pour autant changer son équilibre de flottaison. L'utilisation du module respiratoire (MR) seul est ainsi possible en plongée.The diver can therefore, if necessary, drop the propellant module without changing its buoyancy balance. The use of the respiratory module (MR) alone is thus possible in diving.

Sur sa face opposée au carénage moteur, le berceau (1) montre un compartiment à lest (1B) permettant d'ajuster la flottaison de l'appareil de façon à être très légèrement négative à pleine charge (par exemple descente de bouteilles supplémentaires sur un lieu donné).On its face opposite to the engine fairing, the cradle (1) shows a ballast compartment (1B) allowing the buoyancy of the apparatus to be adjusted so as to be very slightly negative at full load (for example lowering of additional bottles on a given location).

Le berceau comprend, par ailleurs, une poignée de portage (18) et des éléments de liaison avec le dosseret-support (2) qui est en deux parties.The cradle further comprises a carrying handle (18) and elements for connection with the backrest-support (2) which is in two parts.

Les deux parties de dosseret-support assurent le maintien de l'appareil au moyen de cinq sangles réglables de manière à être ajustées et à limiter son déplacement sur le dos du plongeur. Deux sangles d'épaules (réglage en hauteur sur le buste), deux sangles d'entrejambe assurant le tirage vers le bas et une sangle de ceinture assurant la liaison des quatre précédentes et la stabilité transversale de l'appareil.The two parts of the backrest support support the device by means of five adjustable straps so as to be adjusted and limit its movement on the back of the diver. Two shoulder straps (height adjustment on the bust), two crotch straps ensuring the pull down and a belt strap ensuring the connection of the previous four and the transverse stability of the device.

Le volume du container de batterie (6) à deux corps, est calculé de façon à ce que l'ensemble de batteries se trouve en flottaison positive. Il est également de préférence réalisé suivant la technique des thermoplastiques allégés.The volume of the two-body battery container (6) is calculated so that the battery assembly is in positive flotation. It is also preferably produced according to the technique of light thermoplastics.

Un couvercle (19) en alliage d'aluminium et un joint (20) torique assurent l'étanchéité sur une portée métallique (21) surmoulée dans chaque corps du container. Un jonc (22) en acier inoxydable assure le verrouillage.An aluminum alloy cover (19) and an O-ring (20) seal on a metal surface (21) molded into each body of the container. A stainless steel ring (22) ensures locking.

Une double pénétration des portées (21) des corps du container de batteries (6) dans des gorges circulaires (23) pratiquées dans les culots des douilles (1A) de réception des bouteilles, assure le centrage et le guidage des modules.Double penetration of the bearing surfaces (21) of the bodies of the battery container (6) in circular grooves (23) formed in the bases of the sockets (1A) for receiving the bottles, ensures the centering and guiding of the modules.

Comme décrit plus haut, le loguet (14) assure le déverrouillage des deux modulés, au moyen des tringleries de largage (8).As described above, the loguet (14) ensures the unlocking of the two modules, by means of the release linkages (8).

Le moteur électrique basse tension (4) accouplé à un réducteur, assure une rotation lente de l'hélice. Une régulation électronique lui est associée, afin d'optimiser la consommation (écrêtage des pointes de puissance absorbée au démarrage, régulation de la tension distribuée, sécurité en cas de blocage de l'hélice).The low voltage electric motor (4) coupled to a reduction gear, ensures a slow rotation of the propeller. Electronic regulation is associated with it, in order to optimize consumption (clipping of peaks of power absorbed at start-up, regulation of the distributed voltage, safety in the event of propeller blockage).

Le carénage (5) du moteur (4) à hélice (4A) est de préférence réalisé suivant la même technologie que le berceau (1). Il comprend une grille de protection (5A) de l'hélice, une réserve de flottaison (égale au poids du moteur) et deux ailerons de stabilisation (24). Ces derniers ont pour but de rendre concourant l'effort de traction et le centre de gravité du plongeur, et de combattre le couple créé par le sens de rotation de l'hélice.The fairing (5) of the propeller motor (4) (4A) is preferably produced using the same technology as the cradle (1). It includes a protective grid (5A) for the propeller, a flotation reserve (equal to the weight of the engine) and two stabilizing fins (24). The purpose of these is to make the pulling force and the center of gravity of the plunger concur, and to combat the torque created by the direction of rotation of the propeller.

Les ailerons participent, de plus, au maintien de l'ensemble moteur-hélice à l'intérieur du carénage qui est de préférence circulaire.The fins also participate in maintaining the engine-propeller assembly inside the fairing which is preferably circular.

La solidarisation carénage moteur (5)-container double de batteries (6) se fait par le blocage quart de tour d'un verrou (26) sur une portée (27) prisonnière du container (6).The securing of the engine fairing (5) -container double of batteries (6) is done by the quarter-turn blocking of a lock (26) on a span (27) trapped in the container (6).

Le verrou (26) tourne autour d'un tube intermédiaire (28) à segment qui assure l'étanchéité et le passage de la connexion électrique entre batteries, moteur et commande. Cette connexion sert aussi de liaison électrique pour opérer la recharge des batteries.The latch (26) rotates around an intermediate tube (28) with a segment which provides sealing and passage of the electrical connection between batteries, motor and control. This connection also serves as an electrical connection for recharging the batteries.

Le passage de la connexion électrique est également assuré par un canal (29) du container double (6) et un canal (30) du carénage (5). Un puits (31) relie le canal (30) au moteur et ce puits est pratiqué dans une entretoise (32) de maintien principal du moteur.The passage of the electrical connection is also ensured by a channel (29) of the double container (6) and a channel (30) of the fairing (5). A well (31) connects the channel (30) to the motor and this well is formed in a spacer (32) for main maintenance of the motor.

Les batteries (33) maintenues entre deux boîtiers (34) sont contenues dans les deux corps du container (6). Les accumulateurs secs constituant les batteries sont de préférence du type nickel-cadmium, à plaques extra minces. Le choix de ce type d'accumulateurs est fait en raison, notamment, de leurs caractéristiques d'étanchéité, d'absence totale de maintenance, de stabilité de la tension en décharge, même à fort régime, d'insensibilité aux surcharges importantes, de leurs excellentes performances de -40°C à +50°C, de leur résistance aux chocs et vibrations, de la modularité de leurs éléments pour la constitution de blocs d'alimentation et de leur durée de vie.The batteries (33) held between two boxes (34) are contained in the two bodies of the container (6). The dry accumulators constituting the batteries are preferably of the nickel-cadmium type, with extra thin plates. The choice of this type of accumulator is made in particular due to their sealing characteristics, total absence of maintenance, stability of the discharge voltage, even at high speed, insensitivity to significant overloads, their excellent performance from -40 ° C to + 50 ° C, their resistance to shocks and vibrations, the modularity of their elements for the constitution of power supplies and their lifespan.

La capacité d'ensemble est calculée pour une durée de 1 h 30, correspondant à l'emploi d'une bouteille de 2,4 m3, la plus couramment utilisée par les plongeurs.The overall capacity is calculated for a duration of 1 hour 30 minutes, corresponding to the use of a 2.4 m 3 bottle, the most commonly used by divers.

Compte tenu de la puissance absorbée par le moteur, la capacité d'ensemble des batteries est prévue pour convrir en continu l'autonomie respiratoire, y compris les paliers de décompression, et sans l'utilisation de la réserve de sécurité.Taking into account the power absorbed by the engine, the overall capacity of the batteries is designed to continuously provide respiratory autonomy, including decompression stops, and without the use of the safety reserve.

La commande (7), dont le fil de liaison (35) aboutit en (36) à l'extrémité du canal (30) du carénage (5) est réalisée par un surmoulage d'élastomère (37) d'un contacteur du type couche mince déformable (38). Elle assure l'alimentation d'une bobine d'un relais monostable de puissance (non représentée) mettant le moteur sous tension.The control (7), the connecting wire (35) of which ends at (36) at the end of the channel (30) of the fairing (5) is produced by an overmolding of elastomer (37) of a contactor of the type deformable thin layer (38). It supplies a coil to a monostable power relay (not shown) energizing the motor.

Le surmoulage (37) a la forme générale d'une portion de boucle laquelle est complétée par une bande (39) de préférence à moyen d'attache par pression (40). L'ensemble de la boucle peut être disposée autour de la main du plongeur de manière que le pouce puisse agir sur le contacteur, non pas suivant le mouvement naturel de préhension, mais suivant un mouvement se situant dans le plan du profil de la main, ceci notamment afin d'éviter toute commande intempestive d'une main se crispant involontairement.The overmolding (37) has the general shape of a loop portion which is completed by a strip (39) preferably by means of pressure fastening (40). The entire loop can be arranged around the hand of the diver so that the thumb can act on the contactor, not according to the natural gripping movement, but according to a movement lying in the plane of the profile of the hand, this in particular in order to avoid any untimely command of an involuntary tightening hand.

Cette commande, par appui du pouce dans le plan du profil de la main, autorise une préhension volontaire par les autres doigts se refermant vers la paume.This command, by pressing the thumb in the plane of the profile of the hand, allows voluntary gripping by the other fingers closing towards the palm.

La commande est de préférence utilisée par l'autre main que la main habituelle (main gauche pour le droitier; main droite pour le gaucher) de manière à laisser libre la main la plus habile.The control is preferably used by the other hand than the usual hand (left hand for right-handed; right hand for left-handed) so as to leave free the most skillful hand.

L'appareil individuel de plongée sous-marine selon l'invention présente donc les avantages suivants:

  • disponibilité def mains;
  • simplification du déplacement sous l'eau;
  • même habitude de plongée; déplacement instinctif (figures 10, 11 et 12);
  • autonomie respiratoire comparable aux bouteilles existantes;
  • sécurité du plongeur dans toutes les phases de plongée.
  • encombrement et poids aussi rébuits que possible comparables à un scaphandre automome du type "bi-acier";
  • commande autonome;
  • stockage et renouvellement de l'énergie et de l'air par l'utilisateur;
  • construction adaptée au milieu marin.
The individual scuba diving device according to the invention therefore has the following advantages:
  • availability of hands;
  • simplification of movement underwater;
  • same diving habit; instinctive movement (Figures 10, 11 and 12);
  • respiratory autonomy comparable to existing bottles;
  • diver safety during all dive phases.
  • space and weight as reduced as possible comparable to an automated diving suit of the "bi-steel"type;
  • autonomous control;
  • storage and renewal of energy and air by the user;
  • construction adapted to the marine environment.

Il est bien entendu enfin que la présente invention n'a été décrite et représentée qu'à titre d'exemple préférentiel et que l'on pourra apporter des équivalences dans ses éléments constitutifs sans, pour autant, sortir du cadre de l'invention.Finally, it is clearly understood that the present invention has only been described and shown as a preferred example and that it is possible to provide equivalences in its constituent elements without, however, departing from the scope of the invention.

Ces ainsi que toute chose égale par ailleurs, le nombre de bouteilles peut être variable suivant l'utilisation, soit une, deux ou plusieurs.These as well as all other things being equal, the number of bottles can be variable depending on the use, either one, two or more.

Claims (18)

1. Individual apparatus for submarine diving comprising means (2) for holding it on the back of the diver, at least one air bottle (3), an electric motor (4) with a propeller (4A), streamlining (5), in which the electric motor with a propeller is housed, located along the air bottle opposite the means (2) for holding the device on the back of the diver, an autonomous source of electrical energy (33) to supply the motor, and a container (6) in which the autonomous source of electrical energy is housed; the apparatus being characterized in thatthe said container (6) extends rearwardlyfrom the air bottle (3).
2. Apparatus according to Claim 1, characterized in that the said air bottle (3) is made from a metallic core with a stratification of filamentary winding.
3. Apparatus according to either one of Claims 1 or 2, charactzrized in that the said streamlining (5) and container (6) are connected and, together with the elements which they house, form a propulsive module (MP), this module being removably mounted on the remainder of the device known as the breathing module (MR).
4. Apparatus according to Claim 1, characterized in that it comprises two air bottles, a cradle (1) and two lodgings (1A) which hold these air bottles in their interaxis, means (2) for holding the device on the back of the diver which are connected to the cradle, and in that the said container (6) is double and is disposed in the extension of the lodgings (1A), that is in the rearward extension of each of the air bottles (3); whereas the said streamlining (5) is located between the two lodgings and between the two bottles, against the cradle.
5. Apparatus according to Claim 1, characterized in that the said air bottles (3) are each made from a metallic core with a stratification of filamentary winding.
6. Apparatus according to either one of Claims 4 or 5, characterized in that the said streamlining (5) and container (6) are connected and, together with the elements which they house, form a propulsive module (MP), this module being removably mounted on the remainder of the device known as the breathing module (MR).
7. Apparatus according to Claim 6, characterized in that a groove (23) is formed in the sockets of the said lodgings (1A) whilst each container body is equipped with a bearing (21), each bearing being adapted to penetrate into the corresponding groove, the penetration of the bearings in the grooves providing the guidance for the two modules and thus their centering; and in that the cradle carries a hinged latch (14) which serves to lock a hook (16) of the streamlining (5), release of the hook initiating release of the propulsive module (MP), complementary release means (8) which push on the container (6) also being activated by release of the hook (16).
8. Apparatus according to Claim 7, characterized in that the said complementary release means comprise linkages (8) having beaks (8A) which can bear on the periphery of the double-bodied container (6).
9. Apparatus according to either one of Claims 7 or 8, characterized in that the cradle comprises a recess (17) which permits lock-in or release of the hook (16) of the streamlining by sliding in this recess.
10. Apparatus according to any one of Claims 3 or 6 to 9, characterized in that a central segmented tube (28) provides for the passage of electric connections, in a water-tight manner, between the said autonomous source of electrical energy and the said electric motor and its control, and a lock (26) which turns around the central tube ensures the fixing of the streamlining to the container.
11. Apparatus according to Claim 10, characterized in that the said passage of electric connections which the central tube (28) provides is adapted to be used as the electric connection to perform recharging of the autonomous sources of electrical energy.
12. Apparatus according to any one of Claims 3 or 6 to 11, characterized in that it is adapted so that the propulsive module (MP) is releasable without a alteration of the weight/volume balance.
13. Apparatus according to any one of Claims 3 or 6 to 12, characterized in that the volume of the container (6) is adapted so that, with its contents, it is in positive flotation, and a flotation reserve equal to the weight of the motor is also provided, the propulsive module (MP) thus being weighted in positive flotation so as to be recoverable.
14. Apparatus according to any one of Claims 6 to 12, characterized in that the volume of the container (6) is adapted so that, with its contents, it is in positive flotation, and a flotation reserve equal to the weight of the motor is also provided, the propulsive module (MP) thus being weighted in positive flotation so as to be recoverable, and in that the cradle comprises a ballasting compartment (1 B) permitting the flotation of the device to be adjusted so that it is very slightly negative at full load.
15. Apparatus according to any one of Claims 4 to 14, characterized in that the cradle comprises a carrying handle (18), sleeves (9) for receiving necks of bottles and a tenon (10) which is insertable in a mortise (11) formed in a connecting bridge (12) which connects the two lodgings (1A), and elements for connecting to a backing support (2) which provide for the device to be held by five adjustable straps, namely two shoulder straps for height adjustment on the torso, two crotch straps providing for downward pulling, and a belt strap providing the connection for the four above-mentioned straps and transverse stability of the device.
16. Apparatus according to any one of Claims 1 to 15, characterized in that stabilization fins (24) are provided on the streamlining (5).
17. Apparatus according to any one of Claims 1 to 16, characterized in that the control for the motor is formed by a moulded element (37) with a contactor (38) moulded-on, the said moulded element having the general form of a portion of a buckle which is completed by a strip (39) having pressure fastening means (40), the buckle assembly is intended to be placed around the diver's hand so that histhumb can actuate the contactor in a movement lying in the plane of a profile of his hand.
18. Apparatus according to any one of Claims 1 to 17, characterized in that the container (6) contains, in a water-tight manner, batteries (33) which are dry cell accumulators of the nickel-cadmium type.
EP19840401191 1982-12-10 1984-06-08 Individual scuba-diving apparatus Expired - Lifetime EP0163793B1 (en)

Priority Applications (4)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR8220725A FR2537538B1 (en) 1982-12-10 1982-12-10 INDIVIDUAL UNDERWATER DIVING APPARATUS
EP19840401191 EP0163793B1 (en) 1982-12-10 1984-06-08 Individual scuba-diving apparatus
PCT/FR1984/000147 WO1986000056A1 (en) 1982-12-10 1984-06-08 Individual submarine diving equipment
DE8484401191T DE3481584D1 (en) 1984-06-08 1984-06-08 INDEPENDENT DIVING DEVICE.

Applications Claiming Priority (3)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR8220725A FR2537538B1 (en) 1982-12-10 1982-12-10 INDIVIDUAL UNDERWATER DIVING APPARATUS
EP19840401191 EP0163793B1 (en) 1982-12-10 1984-06-08 Individual scuba-diving apparatus
PCT/FR1984/000147 WO1986000056A1 (en) 1982-12-10 1984-06-08 Individual submarine diving equipment

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP0163793A1 EP0163793A1 (en) 1985-12-11
EP0163793B1 true EP0163793B1 (en) 1990-03-14

Family

ID=27227370

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP19840401191 Expired - Lifetime EP0163793B1 (en) 1982-12-10 1984-06-08 Individual scuba-diving apparatus

Country Status (3)

Country Link
EP (1) EP0163793B1 (en)
FR (1) FR2537538B1 (en)
WO (1) WO1986000056A1 (en)

Families Citing this family (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
AU574079B2 (en) * 1984-06-08 1988-06-30 Groupe Design M B D Individual submarine diving equipment
AU8626991A (en) * 1990-09-25 1992-04-15 Allergan, Inc. Apparatus and method for disinfecting a contact lens and detecting the presence of an oxidative disinfectant
PT1977968E (en) * 2007-04-05 2010-11-29 Joy Ride Technology Co Ltd Propeller driven surfing device
DE102008049857A1 (en) * 2008-10-01 2010-04-08 Bonetsmüller, Christiane, Dipl.-Wirt.-Ing. (FH) Mechanism for tensioning two housing units of watercraft for transporting diver, has housing with two housing units and electric power supply for operating watercraft, where housing units define center axis, particularly axis of rotation

Family Cites Families (6)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3034467A (en) * 1958-10-13 1962-05-15 Seamless Rubber Co Underwater propulsion apparatus
US3014448A (en) * 1959-04-21 1961-12-26 Wilfred J Fogarty Underwater propulsion device for swimmers
US3329118A (en) * 1966-03-23 1967-07-04 Gary Aqua Peller Corp Battery operated propulsion unit for swimmers
US3916814A (en) * 1972-06-29 1975-11-04 Thomas J Bardoni Underwater propulsion devices
CH582598A5 (en) * 1974-07-04 1976-12-15 Egra Anstalt
US3995578A (en) * 1975-10-03 1976-12-07 Mccullough Keith R Scuba divers propulsion unit

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
FR2537538A1 (en) 1984-06-15
WO1986000056A1 (en) 1986-01-03
EP0163793A1 (en) 1985-12-11
FR2537538B1 (en) 1988-12-09

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