EP0394593A1 - Luminous buoy - Google Patents

Luminous buoy Download PDF

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Publication number
EP0394593A1
EP0394593A1 EP89401195A EP89401195A EP0394593A1 EP 0394593 A1 EP0394593 A1 EP 0394593A1 EP 89401195 A EP89401195 A EP 89401195A EP 89401195 A EP89401195 A EP 89401195A EP 0394593 A1 EP0394593 A1 EP 0394593A1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
housing
battery
diode
light
intended
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EP89401195A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP0394593B1 (en
Inventor
René Nicolas
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PAREMER
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PAREMER
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    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B63—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; RELATED EQUIPMENT
    • B63C—LAUNCHING, HAULING-OUT, OR DRY-DOCKING OF VESSELS; LIFE-SAVING IN WATER; EQUIPMENT FOR DWELLING OR WORKING UNDER WATER; MEANS FOR SALVAGING OR SEARCHING FOR UNDERWATER OBJECTS
    • B63C9/00—Life-saving in water
    • B63C9/21—Boats, rafts, buoys or the like, characterised by signalling means, e.g. lights, reflectors

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to safety devices in the maritime field, it relates more particularly to a light float or buoy intended for tracking at night, at sea, lake or river.
  • Document US-A-2,825,803 presents a light device consisting of a floating body which is surmounted by a bulb powered by means of several batteries housed inside said floating body. The activation of the circuit and the activation of the bulb are carried out by sea water.
  • Such a device is bulky and has a limited operating time; in addition, the bulb is very vulnerable and has no protection.
  • Such a light device is also described in US-A-2,803,838.
  • This device includes an electronic bulb supply circuit to obtain flashes; this device is particularly complex and expensive.
  • the present invention aims to achieve a safety device of the light float type, very simple, combining speed of assembly, reliability and long operating time.
  • It also aims to provide a very light system, compact and having an attractive appearance capable of lifting the psychological barrier of the port of such a safety device by potential users.
  • This floating light buoy is of the type consisting of a housing in the form of a removable shell, inside which is housed a supply battery for an illuminating member located in the center of a reflecting mirror, under a transparent dome which covers the upper part of said shell.
  • the supply circuit of the lighting device is automatically closed by the aquatic environment.
  • this buoy comprises an illuminating member consisting of a light emitting diode LED and, interposed between said illuminating member and the supply battery, a resistance adapted to the circuit, making it possible to increase the operating autonomy of the buoy. A light, reliable and resistant system is thus obtained, capable of operating relatively long.
  • the supply circuit of the lighting member has a discontinuity closed automatically by the aquatic environment.
  • This discontinuous circuit consists of a first electrode connected to one of the poles of the battery and, starting from the other pole, of an electrical resistance, of the lighting member and of a second electrode.
  • This buoy has the important characteristic of becoming luminous as soon as it is immersed in water, and this without intervention of any kind.
  • this buoy consists of a sealed enclosure consisting of a hemispherical housing provided with a cylindrical housing in its lower part and a threaded part on its upper edge. This threaded part allows the adaptation of the complementary transparent dome.
  • the lower cylindrical housing is intended to receive and partition, at least in part, the various elements of the discontinuous electrical circuit.
  • this lower housing is provided with means for fixing the electrodes, which are intended to pass through the bottom of said housing, in a sealed manner, to present, on the one hand, an internal part intended for contact with the corresponding elements of the circuit and, on the other hand, an external part intended for contact with the surrounding liquid for closing the circuit.
  • each electrode is in the form of a cylindrical metal rod provided with a head. These electrodes are intended to be forced into holes in the bottom of the cylindrical housing so that only the head remains outside.
  • the lower cylindrical housing comprises means allowing the positioning and the longitudinal and lateral setting of the battery on the bottom.
  • the lateral wedging means of this battery consist of a set of tongues integral with the vertical wall and the bottom of the housing.
  • the means for the longitudinal setting of the battery are constituted, on one side, by one of the electrodes housed in an open reinforcement so as to release a generator of contact with the corresponding stud of the battery and, on the other side, by a spiral spring held in place in a notch made in the vertical wall of the housing and intended to make contact with the other stud of the battery.
  • the supply battery which rests on the bottom of the cylindrical housing serves as a support for the support of the light-emitting diode;
  • this diode support consists of a molded part forming a jumper.
  • This part comprises a base from which extends the diode which optionally covers a cylindrical extension, which extension receives the metal conductors leaving said diode and emerging under the base.
  • Two support legs on the battery extend downwards from the base, which legs preserve a passage for the conductive wires, between said battery and said base.
  • the reflective mirror has a parabolic shape open upwards. It is provided, in its center, with an orifice for the passage and centering of the diode and its lower part comes to rest on the base of the diode support jumper. This reflective mirror presses on this jumper and the supply battery to block the various elements in position; it is itself blocked by the upper transparent dome which screws onto the shell-forming case.
  • this transparent dome is of hemispherical shape, complementary to that of the lower housing; it is preferably provided with a set of lenses forming magnifying glasses intended to increase the brightness emitted by the diode.
  • the light buoy represented in FIG. 1, consists of a hollow body 1 forming a housing, which housing has a substantially hemispherical shape, open upwards and extended, in its lower part, by a cylindrical housing 2.
  • This box 1 is intended to enclose the various elements of an electrical circuit for the supply of an illuminating member 3 in the form of a light-emitting diode LED disposed in the center of a reflective mirror 4.
  • a transparent upper dome 5 covers the part upper part of the housing 1.
  • This dome 5, in the form of a translucent dome, serves as a magnifying optic; it has a substantially hemispherical shape open downward, complementary to that of said housing 2 and the two parts: housing 1 and dome 5, are secured to each other by screwing.
  • the combination of these two elements substantially gives the shape of a ball to the buoy bright.
  • this ball can have a diameter close to 50 to 55 mm for the smallest achievements, that is to say a size and an appearance close to those of a tennis ball; however, the size can be larger as required.
  • the power supply circuit of the light-emitting diode 3 consists of a supply battery in the form of an accumulator or battery 6, the negative pole of which is connected to an electrode 7.
  • a second electrode 8 is connected to the diode 3 and a resistor 9 is interposed on the circuit, between said diode 3 and the positive pole of the battery 6.
  • All the elements of the electrical circuit are partitioned into the sealed enclosure produced by the housing 1 and the transparent dome 5; only the two electrodes 7 and 8 have a part inside the buoy, in the sealed enclosure, and a part outside, so as to come into contact with the surrounding medium.
  • These two electrodes 7 and 8 in fact pass through the bottom 10 of the lower cylindrical housing 2, in a sealed manner; they allow the automatic closing of the supply circuit of the lighting member 3 when said electrodes 7 and 8 are in contact with an aqueous medium such as sea or river water.
  • the various constituent elements of the light buoy according to the invention have structural characteristics intended to present said buoy in an attractive form, to simplify assembly as much as possible, to be light and space-saving.
  • the shell-shaped housing 1 is shown in isolation in FIGS. 2 and 3. It comprises a substantially hemispherical upper part 11 which extends downwards through the lower cylindrical housing 2. These two parts 2 and 11 are in the form of a shell consisting of a one-piece plastic part, conventionally produced by molding a material such as polypropylene.
  • the bottom 10 of the housing 2 is extended downwards by a hooking ring 12 intended for securing the buoy, for example on a life jacket.
  • the cylindrical housing 2 which extends the part upper 11 substantially hemispherical, is intended to receive and partition, at least in part, the various elements of the discontinuous electrical circuit.
  • this housing 2 comprises means for fixing the electrodes 7 and 8 as well as means for receiving and longitudinal and lateral setting of the supply battery 6.
  • This battery 6 consists for example of a 6 volt cylindrical battery or a mercury battery, 5.4 volts; it is a small conventional battery which can be 2.5 cm long and 1.3 cm in diameter; the two positive and negative poles are arranged at each end of the cylinder.
  • the two electrodes 7 and 8 are identical; one of them is shown in Figure 10. These metal electrodes have a cylindrical foot 13 having for example a length of 1.5 cm and a diameter of 0.3 cm. This foot 13 has a hollow part 14 over about half of its height, it is provided with a head 15 of greater diameter.
  • These electrodes 7 and 8 are made of brass; they may consist of brake lining rivets, which have identical structural characteristics; they are well calibrated and offer a large mass of material at the level of the head 15, thus increasing their longevity in connection with the phenomena of electrolysis and corrosion during immersion in the aquatic environment.
  • the bottom 10 of the cylindrical housing 2 of the housing 1 has two holes 16 and 17 whose diameter is slightly less than that of the base 13 of the electrodes 7 and 8, so as to allow the engagement of the latter, by force.
  • This forced insertion is carried out from the outside so that only the head 15 protrudes under the bottom 10 of the housing 2.
  • the heads 15 of the electrodes 7 and 8 are intended for contact with the surrounding liquid and the rods or feet 13, which extend inside the sealed enclosure, in contact with the corresponding elements of the electrical circuit.
  • the forced insertion of the metal feet 13 into the orifices 16 and 17 is carried out in a sealed manner.
  • Port 16 is intended for receiving and blocking the electrode 8 and the orifice 17 upon receiving and blocking the electrode 7; these two orifices are arranged on the bottom 10 of the housing 2, outside the space requirement of the supply battery 6 and in a judicious manner to simplify the mounting of the electrical circuit as much as possible.
  • the battery 6 is intended to be placed on the bottom 10 of the housing 2, in its central part. It is wedged laterally by means of a set of substantially parallelepipedal tongues 18, integral with the vertical wall 19 and the bottom 10 of the housing 2.
  • These tongues 18 are produced in a single piece with the housing 1; in the embodiment shown, there are three of them: two of them are intended to block one of the sides of the stack 6 and the third, arranged opposite, is intended to block the other side of said stack.
  • the free space a between the ends of the tongues 18 opposite is slightly less than the diameter of the cylindrical stack 6 so as to ensure perfect wedging and centering of said stack, during tightening, by a slight spacing of said tongues 18 The latter extend over the entire height of the housing 2.
  • the longitudinal setting of the supply battery 6 on the bottom 10 of the housing 2 is carried out, on one side, by the electrode 7 and in particular its rod 13 forming a foot, said electrode being intended to make direct contact with the pole negative of said battery 6.
  • this electrode 7 is housed in a reinforcement 20 produced from the vertical wall 19 of the housing 2. This reinforcement 20 is open on the side of the location of the supply battery 6 so as to release a longitudinal generator of the electrode 7 for its contact with the corresponding pole of said battery.
  • the vertical wall 19 of the housing 2 has a substantially trapezoidal notch 21 associated with a central groove 22.
  • These notches 21 and grooves 22 extend over the entire height of the housing 2; they are intended, for the notch 21, to maintain a spiral spring 23 of generally trapezoidal shape, visible in FIG. 1, and for the groove 22 upon insertion of a metal wire from the electrical circuit.
  • the spring 23, blocked in its notch 21, is intended to bear, on one side on the vertical wall 19 and on the other on the positive stud of the battery 6 so as, on the one hand, to achieve the blocking longitudinal of said battery by maintaining a constant pressure and, on the other hand, making contact between said positive stud and the metal wire housed in the end groove 22.
  • the orifice 17 associated with the reinforcement 20 as well as the notch 21 and the groove 22 are arranged in the axis 23 a of the longitudinal space produced by the tongues 18. It may also be noted that the orifice 16 intended for receiving and blocking the electrode 8 is disposed near the trapezoidal notch 21.
  • the upper edge 24 of the hemispherical part 11 of the housing 1 is shown in detail in FIG. 4.
  • This edge 24 is intended to cooperate on the one hand, with the reflective mirror 4 for positioning the latter, and, on the other hand, with the upper transparent dome 5 for the production of a sealed enclosure.
  • the upper part 24 a of this edge 24 is flat or may be provided, as has been shown in the various figures, an extension 25, of substantially triangular shape, which protrudes upwardly.
  • This circular projection 25 is intended to cooperate with a corresponding recess provided in the dome 5 to produce a seal intended for sealing the buoy.
  • the upper edge 24 is also provided with an internal thread 26 produced during the molding of the housing 1 and intended to cooperate with a corresponding external thread produced at the edge of the upper dome 5 in order to secure the two elements and easy disassembly for the change of the stack for example.
  • An internal circular wall 27 extends upwards from the bottom of the thread 26. This simple wall delimits a space 28 from the thread 26 in which the lower edge of the transparent dome 5 will engage. This wall 27 is not 'not extend to the upper part 24 a of the housing 1; its upper edge 29 provides a bearing surface for the reflective mirror 4 partially shown in thin dashed lines, Figure 4.
  • This reflective mirror 4 is intended, during assembly, to be completely incorporated in the hemispherical part 11 of the housing 1.
  • the reflective mirror 4 is shown in isolation in FIGS. 8 and 9; it is made of galvanized silver or aluminum ABS material, and comes in a parabolic form open upwards.
  • Its central lower part is provided with an orifice 30 intended, as will be seen below, for the passage and centering of the light-emitting diode 3.
  • Its circular upper edge has two opposite bearing surfaces 31 and 32.
  • the lower surface 31 is intended to come to bear on the edge 29 of the internal wall 27 of the housing 1; once the buoy is mounted, the upper surface 32 is intended to make contact, for blocking the assembly, with an internal rim 33 of the upper dome 5.
  • This dome 5 is shown in isolation in Figure 5a. It has a substantially hemispherical shape complementary to the part 11 of the housing 1.
  • This dome 5 is produced by molding a material such as transparent polycarbonate; it is provided with a set of lenses 34 forming magnifying glasses.
  • Its lower edge 35 is provided with an external thread 36 intended to cooperate with the thread 26 of the upper edge 24 of the housing 1.
  • This lower edge 35 also has an external bearing surface 37 provided with a circular recess 38 intended to cooperate with the projection 25 of the housing 1 for sealing the connection.
  • the internal bearing surface 33 visible in FIG. 5a, is intended, as we have seen previously, for clamping the lower surface 31 of the reflective mirror 4 against the internal edge 29 of the housing 1 and by pressing on the upper surface 32 .
  • the number and characteristics of the magnifying lenses 34 which form magnifying glasses are adapted to obtain a correct light intensity and in all directions.
  • an upper lens 34 ' is surrounded by six peripheral 34 ⁇ loupes.
  • FIG. 5b Another embodiment of the optics is shown in the external press, FIG. 5b.
  • nineteen magnifying glasses 34 are juxtaposed and each have characteristics such that their magnifying power p is equal to 13.5.
  • their external radius corresponding to the curvature is of the order of 20 mm and the internal dish of each lens corresponds to a diameter of the order of 15 mm for a buoy whose diameter is 50 to 55 mm.
  • the light-emitting diode LED 3 is placed on a support 40 which, wedged between the battery 6 and the reflective mirror 4, positions it in the hemispherical part 11 of the housing 1, in the center of the parabolic reflective mirror 4.
  • This diode support is shown enlarged in Figures 6 and 7. It consists of a molded plastic part, for example polypropylene whose shape is adapted to its function.
  • the support 40 comprises a substantially horizontal base 41 from which extends, upwards, a cylindrical extension 42 whose upper surface 43 is intended to serve as a bearing surface for the diode 3.
  • the cylindrical extension 42 is crossed by two orifices 44 opening out on the one hand, at the level of the upper surface 43 and, on the other hand, under the base 41. These two orifices 44 are intended for the passage of the metallic wires supplying the diode.
  • the cylindrical extension 42 has a diameter substantially equivalent to that of the diode 3, which diameter is slightly less than that of the orifice 30 of the reflective mirror 4.
  • the height of the cylinder 42 is adapted to arrive at the best positioning of the diode 3 in the housing 1 and this in order to arrive at the best possible focusing of the light.
  • the cylindrical extension 42 may not be essential and thus, the diode can rest directly on the base 41.
  • Two lateral support legs 45 extend downward from the base 41. These two legs 45 extend over the entire length of the base 41 and on either side of the orifices 44 in order to reserve a passage 46 for the supply wires of the diode.
  • the lower part of each leg 45 is intended to come to rest on the battery 6 cylindrical supply, which is shown in thin broken lines, Figure 7. For this purpose, these two legs 45 have a bevelled lower part to ensure a correct bearing surface on said battery.
  • the assembly of the various constituent elements of the light buoy according to the invention is carried out firstly by assembly of the light-emitting diode 3 on its support 40. This assembly is carried out by engagement of the two supply wires of said diode in their respective holes 44 for the lighting member to bear on the upper surface 43 of said support 40.
  • the two supply wires of the diode 3 extend under the base 41 of the support 40 in the form of a jumper, and are folded substantially at right angles so that they are positioned in the axis of the lower passage 46.
  • One of these wires is then secured by welding, or any other conventional means, to the electrical resistance 9. Once this preparation has been carried out, the feet 13 of the electrodes 7 and 8 are force-fitted into their respective orifices 17 and 16.
  • the support 40 of the diode 3 is placed on the supply battery 6 by pressing the inclined planes of the legs 45 on the cylinder.
  • the reflective mirror 4 covers the assembly by fitting its orifice 30 on the diode 3 and possibly its cylindrical support 42.
  • the lower part of the mirror 4 comes to rest on the base 41 of the support 40 and its bearing surface 31 comes to rest on the seat edge 29 of the internal wall 27 of the housing 1. This operation realizes the centering of the diode 3 in the hemispherical part 11 of the box 1 and its setting by wedging the support 40 between the mirror 4 and the battery 6.
  • the last mounting operation consists of screwing the upper transparent dome 4 onto the housing 1.
  • the external thread 36 of the lower edge 35 of the dome 5 cooperates with the internal thread 26 of the upper edge 24 of the housing 1 and this until the circular edge 37 comes to rest on the upper bearing portion 24 a of the 24 and the inner flange edge 33 comes to rest on the upper circular surface 32 of the mirror 4, so as to sandwich the of the elements of the buoy.
  • the threads 26 and 36 can receive a joint paste retaining a certain softness over time.
  • the light buoy thus produced has a substantially round shape. It can be connected to a lifejacket or any other device by a simple nylon cord; it floats naturally and its buoyancy level is located below the level of attachment of the housing 1 with the upper dome 5, so as to preserve, in operation, a maximum luminous surface.
  • the stack 6 is placed in the center of the housing 2 and as low as possible to serve as ballast. Its weight places the center of gravity of the buoy low enough to position the buoy in the liquid element so that the two electrodes 7 and 8 are permanently in contact with the liquid to ensure the passage of current.
  • the discontinuous electrical circuit previously described is intended to be closed automatically by the aquatic environment and its various constituent elements have characteristics which, in combination, allow an intensity of illumination and an autonomy meeting the standards IMO (International Maritime Organization) for this type. of security device.
  • IMO International Maritime Organization
  • the light-emitting diode 3 is an LED of maximum intensity equal to 320 milli candelas (m cds), this LED 3 is insensitive to shocks and supports a maximum intensity of 20 milli amperes. Its maximum illumination intensity is obtained from 12 milli amps.
  • This LED 3 operates with a 1.5 see, but the resistivity of the aquatic medium between the two electrodes 7 and 8 means that an accumulator or battery 6 of 5.4 volts or 6 volts must be provided for proper operation.
  • the 6 volt battery used is a conventional alkaline battery delivering 100 milli amperes. For a longer operating time, a 5.4-volt mercury battery can be used, delivering 240 milliamps.
  • resistors 9 can be used depending on the operating time and the desired light intensity.
  • a resistance 9 of R 200 Ohms, associated with the resistivity of the aquatic environment of the order of 50 to 80 ohms, ensures a consumption of 12 milli amperes per hour by the diode 3. This consumption allows, in association with the battery 6 used, operation of the diode 3 for approximately 8 hours, by delivering a significant light intensity of at least two candelas at the center and outside of the buoy. With the 5.4-volt mercury battery, operating autonomy can be reached for 24 hours.
  • the consumption of the diode is eight milli amperes / hour, which ensures with a 6 volt battery, operation for twelve hours with a light intensity d '' approximately 1.7 candelas in the center and outside of the buoy. (As an indication, one can obtain in this case a luminous intensity of 750 milli candelas on the periphery).
  • the magnifying glasses or lenses 34 have, in this context, a power allowing an amplification of 13.5 times the intensity delivered by the diode. This maximum intensity depends on the type of diode used, in our case it is 320 milli candelas for an emission angle of 20 °.

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  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Ocean & Marine Engineering (AREA)

Abstract

The invention relates to safety devices in the maritime field, and more particularly to a luminous buoy for marking in the dark, at sea, in a lake or in a river. This buoy is of the type formed by a casing (1) in the form of a shell, inside which is housed a supply battery (6) for a lighting element (3). This element (3) is situated at the centre of a reflective mirror (4), beneath a transparent dome (5) which covers the top part of the said shell (1). The supply circuit of the lighting element (3) is closed automatically by the aquatic medium by means of two electrodes (7, 8). According to the invention, the buoy comprises a lighting element consisting of a LED light-emitting diode (3) and, placed in between the said lighting element (3) and the supply battery (6), an electrical resistor (9) adapted to the circuit and making it possible to increase the operational independence of the buoy. <IMAGE>

Description

La présente invention concerne les dispositifs de sécurité dans le domaine maritime, elle concerne plus particulièrement un flotteur ou bouée lumineuse destinée au repérage de nuit, en mer, lac ou rivière.The present invention relates to safety devices in the maritime field, it relates more particularly to a light float or buoy intended for tracking at night, at sea, lake or river.

On connaît déjà des balises automatiques destinées à libérer un dispositif de signalisation qui se met automati­quement en marche au contact de l'eau.Automatic beacons are already known which are intended to release a signaling device which automatically switches on in contact with water.

Le document US-A-2.825.803 présente un dispositif lumineux constitué d'un corps flottant qui est surmonté d'une ampoule alimentée au moyen de plusieurs batteries logées à l'intérieur dudit corps flottant. L'activation du circuit et la mise en fonctionnement de l'ampoule s'effectuent par l'eau de mer.Document US-A-2,825,803 presents a light device consisting of a floating body which is surmounted by a bulb powered by means of several batteries housed inside said floating body. The activation of the circuit and the activation of the bulb are carried out by sea water.

Un tel dispositif est encombrant et a une durée de fonctionnement limitée ; de plus, l'ampoule est très vulnérable et ne comporte aucune protection.Such a device is bulky and has a limited operating time; in addition, the bulb is very vulnerable and has no protection.

Un tel dispositif lumineux est également décrit dans le brevet US-A-2.803.838. Ce dispositif comporte un circuit électronique d'alimentation de l'ampoule pour obtenir des flashes ; ce dispositif est particulièrement complexe et onéreux.Such a light device is also described in US-A-2,803,838. This device includes an electronic bulb supply circuit to obtain flashes; this device is particularly complex and expensive.

La présente invention vise à réaliser un dispositif de sécurité du type flotteur lumineux, très simple, associant rapidité de montage, fiabilité et grande durée de fonctionnement.The present invention aims to achieve a safety device of the light float type, very simple, combining speed of assembly, reliability and long operating time.

Elle a également pour but de proposer un système très léger, peu encombrant et ayant un aspect attractif propre à lever la barrière psychologique du port d'un tel dispositif de sécurité par les utilisateurs potentiels.It also aims to provide a very light system, compact and having an attractive appearance capable of lifting the psychological barrier of the port of such a safety device by potential users.

Cette bouée lumineuse flottante est du type constituée d'un boîtier en forme de coquille démontable, à l'intérieur de laquelle est logée une batterie d'alimentation pour un organe éclairant situé au centre d'un miroir réflecteur, sous un dôme transparent qui recouvre la partie haute de ladite coquille. Le circuit d'alimentation de l'organe éclairant est fermé automatiquement par le milieu aquatique.
Selon l'invention, cette bouée comporte un organe éclairant constitué d'une diode électroluminescente LED et, interposée entre ledit organe éclairant et la batterie d'alimentation, une resistance adaptée au circuit, permettant d'accroître l'autonomie de fonctionnement de la bouée. On obtient ainsi un système léger, fiable et résistant, susceptible de fonctionner relativement longtemps.This floating light buoy is of the type consisting of a housing in the form of a removable shell, inside which is housed a supply battery for an illuminating member located in the center of a reflecting mirror, under a transparent dome which covers the upper part of said shell. The supply circuit of the lighting device is automatically closed by the aquatic environment.
According to the invention, this buoy comprises an illuminating member consisting of a light emitting diode LED and, interposed between said illuminating member and the supply battery, a resistance adapted to the circuit, making it possible to increase the operating autonomy of the buoy. A light, reliable and resistant system is thus obtained, capable of operating relatively long.

Afin d'assurer pleinement sa fonction, le circuit d'alimentation de l'organe éclairant présente une discontinuité fermée automatiquement par le milieu aquatique. Ce circuit discontinu se compose d'une première électrode reliée à l'un des pôles de la batterie et, partant de l'autre pôle, d'une résistance électrique, de l'organe éclairant et d'une seconde électrode. Cette bouée a la particularité importante de devenir lumineuse dès son immersion dans l'eau, et cela sans intervention d'aucune sorte.In order to fully ensure its function, the supply circuit of the lighting member has a discontinuity closed automatically by the aquatic environment. This discontinuous circuit consists of a first electrode connected to one of the poles of the battery and, starting from the other pole, of an electrical resistance, of the lighting member and of a second electrode. This buoy has the important characteristic of becoming luminous as soon as it is immersed in water, and this without intervention of any kind.

Toujours selon l'invention, cette bouée consiste en une enceinte étanche constituée d'un boîtier hémisphérique muni d'un logement cylindrique dans sa partie inférieure et d'une partie filetée sur sa bordure supérieure. Cette partie filetée permet l'adaptation du dôme transparent complémen­taire. Le logement cylindrique inférieur est destiné à recevoir et cloisonner, au moins en partie, les différents éléments du circuit électrique discontinu.Still according to the invention, this buoy consists of a sealed enclosure consisting of a hemispherical housing provided with a cylindrical housing in its lower part and a threaded part on its upper edge. This threaded part allows the adaptation of the complementary transparent dome. The lower cylindrical housing is intended to receive and partition, at least in part, the various elements of the discontinuous electrical circuit.

Selon une autre caractéristique de l'invention, ce logement inférieur est muni de moyens de fixation des électrodes, lesquelles sont destinées à traverser le fond dudit logement, de façon étanche, pour présenter, d'une part une partie interne destinée aux contacts avec les éléments correspondants du circuit et, d'autre part, une partie externe destinée au contact avec le liquide environnant pour la fermeture du circuit.According to another characteristic of the invention, this lower housing is provided with means for fixing the electrodes, which are intended to pass through the bottom of said housing, in a sealed manner, to present, on the one hand, an internal part intended for contact with the corresponding elements of the circuit and, on the other hand, an external part intended for contact with the surrounding liquid for closing the circuit.

Selon un mode de réalisation particulier, chaque électrode est en forme de tige métallique cylindrique munie d'une tête. Ces électrodes sont destinées à être enfoncées à force dans des orifices prévus dans le fond du logement cylindrique pour que seule la tête reste à l'extérieur.According to a particular embodiment, each electrode is in the form of a cylindrical metal rod provided with a head. These electrodes are intended to be forced into holes in the bottom of the cylindrical housing so that only the head remains outside.

Toujours selon l'invention, le logement cylindrique inférieur comporte des moyens permettant le positionnement et le calage longitudinal et latéral de la batterie sur le fond. Les moyens de calage latéral de cette batterie consistent en un ensemble de languettes solidaires de la paroi verticale et du fond du logement. Les moyens de calage longitudinal de la batterie sont constitués, d'un côté, par l'une des électrodes logée dans un renfort ouvert de façon à libérer une génératrice de contact avec le plot correspondant de la batterie et, de l'autre côté, par un ressort spirale maintenu en place dans une encoche réalisée dans la paroi verticale du logement et destiné à réaliser le contact avec l'autre plot de la batterie.Still according to the invention, the lower cylindrical housing comprises means allowing the positioning and the longitudinal and lateral setting of the battery on the bottom. The lateral wedging means of this battery consist of a set of tongues integral with the vertical wall and the bottom of the housing. The means for the longitudinal setting of the battery are constituted, on one side, by one of the electrodes housed in an open reinforcement so as to release a generator of contact with the corresponding stud of the battery and, on the other side, by a spiral spring held in place in a notch made in the vertical wall of the housing and intended to make contact with the other stud of the battery.

Toujours selon l'invention, la batterie d'alimentation qui repose sur le fond du logement cylindrique, sert d'appui au support de la diode électroluminescente ; ce support de diode consiste en une pièce moulée formant cavalier. Cette pièce comporte une embase à partir de laquelle s'étend la diode qui vient éventuellement coiffer une extension cylindrique, laquelle extension reçoit les conducteurs métalliques partant de ladite diode et ressortant sous l'embase. Deux jambes d'appui sur la batterie s'étendent vers le bas à partir de l'embase, lesquelles jambes préservent un passage pour les fils conducteurs, entre ladite batterie et ladite embase.Still according to the invention, the supply battery which rests on the bottom of the cylindrical housing serves as a support for the support of the light-emitting diode; this diode support consists of a molded part forming a jumper. This part comprises a base from which extends the diode which optionally covers a cylindrical extension, which extension receives the metal conductors leaving said diode and emerging under the base. Two support legs on the battery extend downwards from the base, which legs preserve a passage for the conductive wires, between said battery and said base.

Toujours selon l'invention, le miroir réflecteur présente une forme parabolique ouverte vers le haut. Il est muni, en son centre, d'un orifice pour le passage et le centrage de la diode et sa partie inférieure vient reposer sur l'embase du cavalier support de diode. Ce miroir réflecteur vient appuyer sur ce cavalier et la batterie d'alimentation, pour bloquer les différents éléments en position ; il est lui-même bloqué par le dôme transparent supérieur qui se visse sur le boîtier formant coquille.Still according to the invention, the reflective mirror has a parabolic shape open upwards. It is provided, in its center, with an orifice for the passage and centering of the diode and its lower part comes to rest on the base of the diode support jumper. This reflective mirror presses on this jumper and the supply battery to block the various elements in position; it is itself blocked by the upper transparent dome which screws onto the shell-forming case.

Toujours selon l'invention, ce dôme transparent est de forme hémisphérique, complémentaire à celle du boîtier inférieur ; il est de préférence muni d'un ensemble de lentilles formant loupes destinées à augmenter la luminosité émise par la diode.Still according to the invention, this transparent dome is of hemispherical shape, complementary to that of the lower housing; it is preferably provided with a set of lenses forming magnifying glasses intended to increase the brightness emitted by the diode.

Mais l'invention sera encore illustrée, sans être aucunement limitée, par la description suivante d'un mode de réalisation particulier, donné à titre d'exemple et représenté sur les dessins annexés dans lesquels :

  • - la figure 1 est une vue en coupe de la bouée lumineuse selon l'invention ;
  • - la figure 2 est une vue en coupe selon 2-2 du boîtier en forme de coquille destiné à cloisonner l'ensemble des éléments du circuit électrique ;
  • - la figure 3 représente ce boîtier inférieur, vu de dessus ;
  • - la figure 4 est une vue agrandie de la partie cerclée, figure 2, montrant le détail de la partie supérieure du boîtier ;
  • - la figure 5a représente le dôme supérieur transparent en coupe ;
  • - la figure 5b est une vue en développé extérieur d'un autre mode de réalisation du dôme transparent supérieur ;
  • - la figure 6 est une vue en coupe selon 6-6 du cavalier support de diode ;
  • - la figure 7 représente ce cavalier, vu de face ;
  • - la figure 8 est une vue en coupe du miroir réflecteur ;
  • - la figure 9 est une vue de dessus de ce même miroir ;
  • - la figure 10 est une vue de côté d'une des électrodes.
But the invention will be further illustrated, without being in no way limited by the following description of a particular embodiment, given by way of example and shown in the appended drawings in which:
  • - Figure 1 is a sectional view of the light buoy according to the invention;
  • - Figure 2 is a sectional view along 2-2 of the shell-shaped housing intended to partition all the elements of the electrical circuit;
  • - Figure 3 shows this lower housing, seen from above;
  • - Figure 4 is an enlarged view of the circled part, Figure 2, showing the detail of the upper part of the housing;
  • - Figure 5a represents the upper transparent dome in section;
  • - Figure 5b is an external developed view of another embodiment of the upper transparent dome;
  • - Figure 6 is a sectional view along 6-6 of the diode support jumper;
  • - Figure 7 shows this jumper, seen from the front;
  • - Figure 8 is a sectional view of the reflective mirror;
  • - Figure 9 is a top view of the same mirror;
  • - Figure 10 is a side view of one of the electrodes.

La bouée lumineuse, représentée figure 1, est constituée d'un corps creux 1 formant boîtier, lequel boîtier présente une forme sensiblement hémisphérique, ouverte vers le haut et prolongée, dans sa partie inférieure, par un logement cylindrique 2.The light buoy, represented in FIG. 1, consists of a hollow body 1 forming a housing, which housing has a substantially hemispherical shape, open upwards and extended, in its lower part, by a cylindrical housing 2.

Ce boîtier 1 est destiné à renfermer les différents éléments d'un circuit électrique pour l'alimentation d'un organe éclairant 3 en forme de diode électroluminescente LED disposée au centre d'un miroir réflecteur 4. Un dôme supérieur 5 transparent vient coiffer la partie supérieure du boîtier 1. Ce dôme 5, en forme de coupole translucide, sert d'optique grossissant ; il a une forme sensiblement hémisphérique ouverte vers le bas, complémentaire à celle dudit boîtier 2 et les deux parties : boîtier 1 et dôme 5, sont solidarisées entre elles par vissage. L'association de ces deux éléments confère sensiblement la forme d'une boule à la bouée lumineuse. A titre indicatif, cette boule peut avoir un diamètre voisin de 50 à 55 mm pour les plus petites réalisations, c'est-à-dire une taille et une apparence voisines de celles d'une balle de tennis ; cependant la taille peut être plus importante selon les besoins.This box 1 is intended to enclose the various elements of an electrical circuit for the supply of an illuminating member 3 in the form of a light-emitting diode LED disposed in the center of a reflective mirror 4. A transparent upper dome 5 covers the part upper part of the housing 1. This dome 5, in the form of a translucent dome, serves as a magnifying optic; it has a substantially hemispherical shape open downward, complementary to that of said housing 2 and the two parts: housing 1 and dome 5, are secured to each other by screwing. The combination of these two elements substantially gives the shape of a ball to the buoy bright. As an indication, this ball can have a diameter close to 50 to 55 mm for the smallest achievements, that is to say a size and an appearance close to those of a tennis ball; however, the size can be larger as required.

Le circuit d'alimentation de la diode électroluminescente 3 consiste en une batterie d'alimentation en forme d'accumulateur ou de pile 6 dont le pôle négatif est relié à une électrode 7. Une seconde électrode 8 est reliée à la diode 3 et une résistance 9 est intercalée sur le circuit, entre ladite diode 3 et le pôle positif de la pile 6.The power supply circuit of the light-emitting diode 3 consists of a supply battery in the form of an accumulator or battery 6, the negative pole of which is connected to an electrode 7. A second electrode 8 is connected to the diode 3 and a resistor 9 is interposed on the circuit, between said diode 3 and the positive pole of the battery 6.

L'ensemble des éléments du circuit électrique est cloisonné dans l'enceinte étanche réalisée par le boîtier 1 et le dôme transparent 5 ; seules les deux électrodes 7 et 8 comportent une partie à l'intérieur de la bouée, dans l'enceinte étanche, et une partie à l'extérieur, de façon à entrer en contact avec le milieu environnant. Ces deux électrodes 7 et 8 traversent en effet le fond 10 du logement cylindrique inférieur 2, de façon étanche ; elles permettent la fermeture automatique du circuit d'alimentation de l'organe éclairant 3 lorsque lesdites électrodes 7 et 8 sont en contact avec un milieu aqueux tel que l'eau de mer ou de rivière.All the elements of the electrical circuit are partitioned into the sealed enclosure produced by the housing 1 and the transparent dome 5; only the two electrodes 7 and 8 have a part inside the buoy, in the sealed enclosure, and a part outside, so as to come into contact with the surrounding medium. These two electrodes 7 and 8 in fact pass through the bottom 10 of the lower cylindrical housing 2, in a sealed manner; they allow the automatic closing of the supply circuit of the lighting member 3 when said electrodes 7 and 8 are in contact with an aqueous medium such as sea or river water.

Les différents éléments constitutifs de la bouée lumineuse selon l'invention ont des caractéristiques structurelles destinées à présenter ladite bouée sous une forme attractive, simplifier au maximum le montage, être légère et peu encombrante.The various constituent elements of the light buoy according to the invention have structural characteristics intended to present said buoy in an attractive form, to simplify assembly as much as possible, to be light and space-saving.

Le boîtier 1 en forme de coquille est représenté isolément figures 2 et 3. Il comporte une partie supérieure 11 sensiblement hémisphérique qui se prolonge vers le bas par le logement cylindrique inférieur 2. Ces deux parties 2 et 11 sont en forme de coquille consistant en une pièce monobloc plastique, réalisée de façon classique par moulage d'un matériau tel que du polypropylène. Le fond 10 du logement 2 se prolonge vers le bas par un anneau d'accrochage 12 destiné à la solidarisation de la bouée par exemple sur un gilet de sauvetage.The shell-shaped housing 1 is shown in isolation in FIGS. 2 and 3. It comprises a substantially hemispherical upper part 11 which extends downwards through the lower cylindrical housing 2. These two parts 2 and 11 are in the form of a shell consisting of a one-piece plastic part, conventionally produced by molding a material such as polypropylene. The bottom 10 of the housing 2 is extended downwards by a hooking ring 12 intended for securing the buoy, for example on a life jacket.

Le logement cylindrique 2 qui prolonge la partie supérieure 11 sensiblement hémisphérique, est destiné a recevoir et cloisonner, au moins en partie, les différents éléments du circuit électrique discontinu.The cylindrical housing 2 which extends the part upper 11 substantially hemispherical, is intended to receive and partition, at least in part, the various elements of the discontinuous electrical circuit.

A cet effet, ce logement 2 comporte des moyens de fixation des électrodes 7 et 8 ainsi que des moyens de réception et de calage longitudinal et latéral de la batterie d'alimentation 6.To this end, this housing 2 comprises means for fixing the electrodes 7 and 8 as well as means for receiving and longitudinal and lateral setting of the supply battery 6.

Cette batterie 6 consiste par exemple en une pile 6 volts cylindrique ou une pile au mercure, 5,4 volts ; il s'agit d'une petite pile classique qui peut avoir 2,5 cm de long et 1,3 cm de diamètre ; les deux pôles positif et négatif sont disposés à chaque extrémité du cylindre.This battery 6 consists for example of a 6 volt cylindrical battery or a mercury battery, 5.4 volts; it is a small conventional battery which can be 2.5 cm long and 1.3 cm in diameter; the two positive and negative poles are arranged at each end of the cylinder.

Les deux électrodes 7 et 8 sont identiques ; l'une d'elles est représentée figure 10. Ces électrodes métalliques comportent un pied cylindrique 13 ayant par exemple une longueur de 1,5 cm et un diamètre de 0,3 cm. Ce pied 13 présente une partie creuse 14 sur environ la moitié de sa hauteur il est muni d'une tête 15 de diamètre supérieur. Ces électrodes 7 et 8 sont réalisées en laiton ; elles peuvent consister en des rivets de garniture de frein, lesquels présentent des caractéristiques structurelles identiques ; ils sont bien calibrés et offrent une masse de matériau importante au niveau de la tête 15, augmentant ainsi leur longévité en liaison avec les phénomènes d'électrolyse et de corrosion lors de l'immersion dans le milieu aquatique.The two electrodes 7 and 8 are identical; one of them is shown in Figure 10. These metal electrodes have a cylindrical foot 13 having for example a length of 1.5 cm and a diameter of 0.3 cm. This foot 13 has a hollow part 14 over about half of its height, it is provided with a head 15 of greater diameter. These electrodes 7 and 8 are made of brass; they may consist of brake lining rivets, which have identical structural characteristics; they are well calibrated and offer a large mass of material at the level of the head 15, thus increasing their longevity in connection with the phenomena of electrolysis and corrosion during immersion in the aquatic environment.

Le fond 10 du logement cylindrique 2 du boîtier 1 comporte deux orifices 16 et 17 dont le diamètre est légèrement inférieur à celui du pied 13 des électrodes 7 et 8, de façon à permettre l'engagement de ces dernières, à force. Cet enfoncement à force est réalisé par l'exterieur de façon à ce que seule la tête 15 fasse saillie sous le fond 10 du logement 2. Les têtes 15 des électrodes 7 et 8 sont destinées au contact avec le liquide environnant et les tiges ou pieds 13, qui s'étendent à l'intérieur de l'enceinte étanche, aux contacts avec les éléments correspondants du circuit électrique. L'enfoncement à force des pieds métalliques 13 dans les orifices 16 et 17 est réalisé de façon étanche. L'orifice 16 est destiné à la réception et au blocage de l'électrode 8 et l'orifice 17 à la réception et au blocage de l'électrode 7 ; ces deux orifices sont disposés sur le fond 10 du logement 2, en-dehors de l'encombrement de la batterie d'alimentation 6 et de façon judicieuse pour simplifier au maximum le montage du circuit électrique.The bottom 10 of the cylindrical housing 2 of the housing 1 has two holes 16 and 17 whose diameter is slightly less than that of the base 13 of the electrodes 7 and 8, so as to allow the engagement of the latter, by force. This forced insertion is carried out from the outside so that only the head 15 protrudes under the bottom 10 of the housing 2. The heads 15 of the electrodes 7 and 8 are intended for contact with the surrounding liquid and the rods or feet 13, which extend inside the sealed enclosure, in contact with the corresponding elements of the electrical circuit. The forced insertion of the metal feet 13 into the orifices 16 and 17 is carried out in a sealed manner. Port 16 is intended for receiving and blocking the electrode 8 and the orifice 17 upon receiving and blocking the electrode 7; these two orifices are arranged on the bottom 10 of the housing 2, outside the space requirement of the supply battery 6 and in a judicious manner to simplify the mounting of the electrical circuit as much as possible.

La pile 6 est destinée à être placée sur le fond 10 du logement 2, dans sa partie centrale. Elle est calée latéralement au moyen d'un ensemble de languettes 18 sensible­ment parallélépipédiques, solidaires de la paroi verticale 19 et du fond 10 du logement 2. Ces languettes 18 sont réalisées de façon monobloc avec le boitier 1 ; dans le mode de réalisation représenté, elles sont au nombre de trois : deux d'entre elles sont destinées à bloquer l'un des côtés de la pile 6 et la troisième, disposée en vis à vis, est destinée à bloquer l'autre côté de ladite pile. L'espace libre a entre les extrémités des languettes 18 en vis à vis est légèrement inférieur au diamètre de la pile cylindrique 6 de façon à assurer un calage et un centrage parfaits de ladite pile, lors du serrage, par un léger écartement desdites languettes 18. Ces dernières s'étendent sur toute la hauteur du logement 2.The battery 6 is intended to be placed on the bottom 10 of the housing 2, in its central part. It is wedged laterally by means of a set of substantially parallelepipedal tongues 18, integral with the vertical wall 19 and the bottom 10 of the housing 2. These tongues 18 are produced in a single piece with the housing 1; in the embodiment shown, there are three of them: two of them are intended to block one of the sides of the stack 6 and the third, arranged opposite, is intended to block the other side of said stack. The free space a between the ends of the tongues 18 opposite is slightly less than the diameter of the cylindrical stack 6 so as to ensure perfect wedging and centering of said stack, during tightening, by a slight spacing of said tongues 18 The latter extend over the entire height of the housing 2.

Le calage longitudinal de la batterie d'alimentation 6 sur le fond 10 du logement 2 est réalisé, d'un côté, par l'électrode 7 et en particulier sa tige 13 formant pied, ladite électrode étant destinée à prendre contact directement avec le pôle négatif de la dite batterie 6. Afin d'assurer un positionnement correct du pied de l'électrode 7 qui fait saillie à partir du fond 10 du logement 2, cette électrode 7 est logée dans un renfort 20 réalisé à partir de la paroi verticale 19 du logement 2. Ce renfort 20 est ouvert du côté de l'emplacement de la batterie d'alimentation 6 de façon à libérer une génératrice longitudinale de l'électrode 7 pour son contact avec le pôle correspondant de ladite batterie.The longitudinal setting of the supply battery 6 on the bottom 10 of the housing 2 is carried out, on one side, by the electrode 7 and in particular its rod 13 forming a foot, said electrode being intended to make direct contact with the pole negative of said battery 6. In order to ensure correct positioning of the base of the electrode 7 which projects from the bottom 10 of the housing 2, this electrode 7 is housed in a reinforcement 20 produced from the vertical wall 19 of the housing 2. This reinforcement 20 is open on the side of the location of the supply battery 6 so as to release a longitudinal generator of the electrode 7 for its contact with the corresponding pole of said battery.

De l'autre côté, la paroi verticale 19 du logement 2 comporte une encoche 21 sensiblement trapézoïdale associée à une rainure centrale 22. Ces encoche 21 et rainure 22 s'étendent sur toute la hauteur du logement 2 ; elles sont destinées, pour l'encoche 21, au maintien d'un ressort spirale 23 de forme générale trapézoïdale, visible figure 1, et pour la rainure 22 à l'insertion d'un fil métallique du circuit électrique. Le ressort 23, bloqué dans son encoche 21, est destiné à prendre appui, d'un côté sur la paroi verticale 19 et de l'autre sur le plot positif de la batterie 6 de façon, d'une part, à réaliser le blocage longitudinal de ladite batterie par maintien d'une pression constante et, d'autre part, à réaliser le contact entre ledit plot positif et le fil métallique logé dans la rainure d'extrémité 22.On the other side, the vertical wall 19 of the housing 2 has a substantially trapezoidal notch 21 associated with a central groove 22. These notches 21 and grooves 22 extend over the entire height of the housing 2; they are intended, for the notch 21, to maintain a spiral spring 23 of generally trapezoidal shape, visible in FIG. 1, and for the groove 22 upon insertion of a metal wire from the electrical circuit. The spring 23, blocked in its notch 21, is intended to bear, on one side on the vertical wall 19 and on the other on the positive stud of the battery 6 so as, on the one hand, to achieve the blocking longitudinal of said battery by maintaining a constant pressure and, on the other hand, making contact between said positive stud and the metal wire housed in the end groove 22.

Comme on peut le voir figure 3, l'orifice 17 associé au renfort 20 ainsi que l'encoche 21 et la rainure 22 sont disposés dans l'axe 23a de l'espace longitudinal réalisé par les languettes 18. On peut également noter que l'orifice 16 destiné à la réception et au blocage de l'électrode 8 est disposé à proximité de l'encoche trapézoïdale 21.As can be seen in FIG. 3, the orifice 17 associated with the reinforcement 20 as well as the notch 21 and the groove 22 are arranged in the axis 23 a of the longitudinal space produced by the tongues 18. It may also be noted that the orifice 16 intended for receiving and blocking the electrode 8 is disposed near the trapezoidal notch 21.

La bordure supérieure 24 de la partie hémisphérique 11 du boîtier 1 est représentée en détail figure 4. Cette bordure 24 est destinée à coopérer d'une part, avec le miroir réflecteur 4 pour le positionnement de ce dernier, et, d'autre part, avec le dôme transparent 5 supérieur pour la réalisation d'une enceinte étanche. La partie supérieure 24a de cette bordure 24 est plate ou peut être munie, comme on l'a représenté sur les différentes figures, d'une extension 25, de forme sensiblement triangulaire, qui fait saillie vers le haut. Cette saillie circulaire 25 est destinée à coopérer avec un retrait correspondant prévu dans le dôme 5 pour réaliser un joint destiné à l'étanchéité de la bouée.The upper edge 24 of the hemispherical part 11 of the housing 1 is shown in detail in FIG. 4. This edge 24 is intended to cooperate on the one hand, with the reflective mirror 4 for positioning the latter, and, on the other hand, with the upper transparent dome 5 for the production of a sealed enclosure. The upper part 24 a of this edge 24 is flat or may be provided, as has been shown in the various figures, an extension 25, of substantially triangular shape, which protrudes upwardly. This circular projection 25 is intended to cooperate with a corresponding recess provided in the dome 5 to produce a seal intended for sealing the buoy.

La bordure supérieure 24 est également munie d'un filetage interne 26 réalisé lors du moulage du boîtier 1 et destiné à coopérer avec un filetage externe correspondant réalisé en bordure du dôme 5 supérieur pour réaliser la solidarisation des deux éléments et un démontage facile pour le changement de la pile par exemple.The upper edge 24 is also provided with an internal thread 26 produced during the molding of the housing 1 and intended to cooperate with a corresponding external thread produced at the edge of the upper dome 5 in order to secure the two elements and easy disassembly for the change of the stack for example.

Une paroi circulaire interne 27 s'étend vers le haut à partir du fond du filetage 26. Cette simple paroi délimite un espace 28 à partir du filetage 26 dans lequel va s'engager la bordure inférieure du dôme transparent 5. Cette paroi 27 ne s'étend pas jusqu'à la partie supérieure 24a du boîtier 1 ; son arête supérieure 29 réalise une surface d'appui pour le miroir réflecteur 4 représenté partiellement en traits mixtes fins, figure 4.An internal circular wall 27 extends upwards from the bottom of the thread 26. This simple wall delimits a space 28 from the thread 26 in which the lower edge of the transparent dome 5 will engage. This wall 27 is not 'not extend to the upper part 24 a of the housing 1; its upper edge 29 provides a bearing surface for the reflective mirror 4 partially shown in thin dashed lines, Figure 4.

Ce miroir réflecteur 4 est destiné, lors du montage, à être complètement incorporé dans la partie hémisphérique 11 du boitier 1. Le miroir réflecteur 4 est représenté isolément figures 8 et 9 ; il est réalisé en un matériau ABS galvanisé argent ou alu, et se présente sous une forme parabolique ouverte vers le haut. Sa partie inférieure centrale est munie d'un orifice 30 destiné, comme on le verra plus loin, au passage et au centrage de la diode électroluminescente 3. Sa bordure supérieure circulaire présente deux surfaces d'appui 31 et 32 opposées. La surface inférieure 31 est destinée à venir prendre appui sur l'arête 29 de la paroi interne 27 du boîtier 1 ; la surface supérieure 32 est destinée, une fois la bouée montée, à prendre contact, pour le blocage de l'ensemble, avec un rebord interne 33 du dôme supérieur 5.This reflective mirror 4 is intended, during assembly, to be completely incorporated in the hemispherical part 11 of the housing 1. The reflective mirror 4 is shown in isolation in FIGS. 8 and 9; it is made of galvanized silver or aluminum ABS material, and comes in a parabolic form open upwards. Its central lower part is provided with an orifice 30 intended, as will be seen below, for the passage and centering of the light-emitting diode 3. Its circular upper edge has two opposite bearing surfaces 31 and 32. The lower surface 31 is intended to come to bear on the edge 29 of the internal wall 27 of the housing 1; once the buoy is mounted, the upper surface 32 is intended to make contact, for blocking the assembly, with an internal rim 33 of the upper dome 5.

Ce dernier est représenté isolément figure 5a. Il présente une forme sensiblement hémisphérique complémentaire à la partie 11 du boîtier 1. Ce dôme 5 est réalisé par moulage d'un matériau tel que du polycarbonate transparent ; il est muni d'un ensemble de lentilles 34 formant loupes.The latter is shown in isolation in Figure 5a. It has a substantially hemispherical shape complementary to the part 11 of the housing 1. This dome 5 is produced by molding a material such as transparent polycarbonate; it is provided with a set of lenses 34 forming magnifying glasses.

Sa bordure inférieure 35 est munie d'un filetage externe 36 destiné à coopérer avec le filetage 26 de la bordure supérieure 24 du boîtier 1. Cette bordure inférieure 35 présente egalement une surface d'appui externe 37 munie d'un retrait circulaire 38 destiné à coopérer avec la saillie 25 du boîtier 1 pour l'étanchéité de la solidarisation. La surface d'appui interne 33, visible figure 5a, est destinée comme on l'a vu précédemment, au serrage de la surface infé­rieure 31 du miroir réflecteur 4 contre l'arête interne 29 du boîtier 1 et par appui sur la surface supérieure 32.Its lower edge 35 is provided with an external thread 36 intended to cooperate with the thread 26 of the upper edge 24 of the housing 1. This lower edge 35 also has an external bearing surface 37 provided with a circular recess 38 intended to cooperate with the projection 25 of the housing 1 for sealing the connection. The internal bearing surface 33, visible in FIG. 5a, is intended, as we have seen previously, for clamping the lower surface 31 of the reflective mirror 4 against the internal edge 29 of the housing 1 and by pressing on the upper surface 32 .

Le nombre et les caractéristiques des lentilles grossissantes 34 qui forment loupes, sont adaptés pour obtenir une intensité lumineuse correcte et dans tous les sens.The number and characteristics of the magnifying lenses 34 which form magnifying glasses are adapted to obtain a correct light intensity and in all directions.

Dans l'exemple de réalisation représenté figures 1 et 5a, une loupe supérieure 34′ est entourée de six loupes périphériques 34˝. Chaque loupe a un pouvoir grossissant p = 13,5.In the embodiment shown in Figures 1 and 5a, an upper lens 34 'is surrounded by six peripheral 34˝ loupes. Each magnifying glass has a magnifying power p = 13.5.

Un autre mode de réalisation de l'optique est représenté en développé extérieur, figure 5b. Dans ce cas, dix neuf loupes 34 sont juxtaposées et ont chacune des caractéristiques telles que leur pouvoir grossissant p soit égal à 13,5. A cet effet, leur rayon externe correspondant à la courbure, est de lordre de 20 mm et le plat intérieur de chaque lentille correspond à un diamètre de l'ordre de 15 mm pour une bouée dont le diamètre est 50 à 55 mm.Another embodiment of the optics is shown in the external press, FIG. 5b. In this case, nineteen magnifying glasses 34 are juxtaposed and each have characteristics such that their magnifying power p is equal to 13.5. For this purpose, their external radius corresponding to the curvature, is of the order of 20 mm and the internal dish of each lens corresponds to a diameter of the order of 15 mm for a buoy whose diameter is 50 to 55 mm.

La diode électroluminescente LED 3 est disposée sur un support 40 qui, coincé entre la pile 6 et le miroir réflecteur 4, la positionne dans la partie hémisphérique 11 du boîtier 1, au centre du miroir réflecteur parabolique 4.The light-emitting diode LED 3 is placed on a support 40 which, wedged between the battery 6 and the reflective mirror 4, positions it in the hemispherical part 11 of the housing 1, in the center of the parabolic reflective mirror 4.

Ce support de diode est représenté agrandi figures 6 et 7. Il consiste en une pièce plastique moulée, par exemple du polypropylène dont la forme est adaptée à sa fonction.This diode support is shown enlarged in Figures 6 and 7. It consists of a molded plastic part, for example polypropylene whose shape is adapted to its function.

Le support 40 comporte une embase 41 sensiblement horizontale à partir de laquelle s'étend, vers le haut, une extension cylindrique 42 dont la surface supérieure 43 est destinée à servir de surface d'appui à la diode 3. L'extension cylindrique 42 est traversée par deux orifices 44 débouchant d'une part, au niveau de la surface supérieure 43 et, d'autre part, sous l'embase 41. Ces deux orifices 44 sont destinés au passage des fils métalliques d'alimentation de la diode. L'extension cylindrique 42 a un diamètre sensiblement équiva­lent à celui de la diode 3, lequel diamètre est légèrement inférieur à celui de l'orifice 30 du miroir réflecteur 4. La hauteur du cylindre 42 est adaptée pour arriver au meilleur positionnement de la diode 3 dans le boîtier 1 et ceci afin d'arriver à la meilleure focalisation possible de la lumière. Selon les caractéristiques structurelles des autres éléments, l'extension cylindrique 42 peut ne pas être indispensable et ainsi, la diode peut reposer directement sur l'embase 41.The support 40 comprises a substantially horizontal base 41 from which extends, upwards, a cylindrical extension 42 whose upper surface 43 is intended to serve as a bearing surface for the diode 3. The cylindrical extension 42 is crossed by two orifices 44 opening out on the one hand, at the level of the upper surface 43 and, on the other hand, under the base 41. These two orifices 44 are intended for the passage of the metallic wires supplying the diode. The cylindrical extension 42 has a diameter substantially equivalent to that of the diode 3, which diameter is slightly less than that of the orifice 30 of the reflective mirror 4. The height of the cylinder 42 is adapted to arrive at the best positioning of the diode 3 in the housing 1 and this in order to arrive at the best possible focusing of the light. Depending on the structural characteristics of the other elements, the cylindrical extension 42 may not be essential and thus, the diode can rest directly on the base 41.

Deux jambes d'appui latérales 45 s'étendent vers le bas à partir de l'embase 41. Ces deux jambes 45 s'étendent sur toute la longueur de l'embase 41 et de part et d'autre des orifices 44 afin de réserver un passage 46 pour les fils d'alimentation de la diode. La partie inférieure de chaque jambe 45 est destinée à venir reposer sur la batterie d'alimentation 6 cylindrique, laquelle est représentée en traits mixtes fins, figure 7. A cet effet, ces deux jambes 45 présentent une partie inférieure biseautée pour assurer une surface d'appui correcte sur ladite batterie.Two lateral support legs 45 extend downward from the base 41. These two legs 45 extend over the entire length of the base 41 and on either side of the orifices 44 in order to reserve a passage 46 for the supply wires of the diode. The lower part of each leg 45 is intended to come to rest on the battery 6 cylindrical supply, which is shown in thin broken lines, Figure 7. For this purpose, these two legs 45 have a bevelled lower part to ensure a correct bearing surface on said battery.

Le montage des différents éléments constitutifs de la bouée lumineuse selon l'invention s'effectue tout d'abord par montage de la diode électroluminescente 3 sur son support 40. Ce montage est réalisé par engagement des deux fils d'alimentation de ladite diode dans leurs orifices respectifs 44 pour que l'organe éclairant prenne appui sur la surface supérieure 43 dudit support 40. Les deux fils d'alimentation de la diode 3 s'étendent sous l'embase 41 du support 40 en forme de cavalier, et sont repliés sensiblement à angle droit de façon à ce qu'ils se positionnent dans l'axe du passage inférieur 46. L'un de ces fils est ensuite solidarisé par soudage, ou tout autre moyen classique, à la résistance électrique 9.
Une fois cette préparation réalisée, les pieds 13 des électrodes 7 et 8 sont enfoncés à force dans leurs orifices respectifs 17 et 16. Cet enfoncement est réalisé jusqu 'à ce que leur tête 15 prenne appui sur la partie inférieure du fond 10 du logement 2 du boîtier 1. Dans cette position, les pieds 13 des deux électrodes 7 et 8 sont totalement intégrés dans le logement 2. Le conducteur libre de la diode 3 est solidarisé par soudage au pied 13 de l'électrode 8 et le conducteur libre de la résistance 9 est disposé dans la rainure 22 du logement 2. Le ressort spirale 23 peut alors être disposé dans son encoche 21 et la batterie d'alimentation entre ledit ressort 23, l'électrode 8 et les languettes latérales 18. Le ressort 23 assure le calage longitudinal de la batterie 6 et le contact entre le conducteur disposé dans la rainure 22 et le pôle positif de ladite batterie. Son pôle négatif est en contact direct avec l'électrode 7. Le calage latéral de la batterie 6 est réalisé par les languettes 18.The assembly of the various constituent elements of the light buoy according to the invention is carried out firstly by assembly of the light-emitting diode 3 on its support 40. This assembly is carried out by engagement of the two supply wires of said diode in their respective holes 44 for the lighting member to bear on the upper surface 43 of said support 40. The two supply wires of the diode 3 extend under the base 41 of the support 40 in the form of a jumper, and are folded substantially at right angles so that they are positioned in the axis of the lower passage 46. One of these wires is then secured by welding, or any other conventional means, to the electrical resistance 9.
Once this preparation has been carried out, the feet 13 of the electrodes 7 and 8 are force-fitted into their respective orifices 17 and 16. This insertion is carried out until their head 15 is supported on the lower part of the bottom 10 of the housing 2 of the housing 1. In this position, the feet 13 of the two electrodes 7 and 8 are completely integrated in the housing 2. The free conductor of the diode 3 is secured by welding to the foot 13 of the electrode 8 and the free conductor of the resistance 9 is disposed in the groove 22 of the housing 2. The spiral spring 23 can then be disposed in its notch 21 and the supply battery between said spring 23, the electrode 8 and the lateral tabs 18. The spring 23 ensures the longitudinal setting of the battery 6 and the contact between the conductor disposed in the groove 22 and the positive pole of said battery. Its negative pole is in direct contact with the electrode 7. The lateral setting of the battery 6 is carried out by the tongues 18.

Le support 40 de la diode 3, est placé sur la batterie d'alimentation 6 par appui des plans inclinés des jambes 45 sur le cylindre. Le miroir réflecteur 4 vient couvrir l'ensemble par emmanchement de son orifice 30 sur la diode 3 et éventuellement son support cylindrique 42. La partie inférieure du miroir 4 vient reposer sur l'embase 41 du support 40 et sa surface d'appui 31 vient reposer sur la bordure d'assise 29 de la paroi interne 27 du boîtier 1. Cette opération realise le centrage de la diode 3 dans la partie hémisphérique 11 du boîtier 1 et son calage par coincement du support 40 entre le miroir 4 et la pile 6.The support 40 of the diode 3 is placed on the supply battery 6 by pressing the inclined planes of the legs 45 on the cylinder. The reflective mirror 4 covers the assembly by fitting its orifice 30 on the diode 3 and possibly its cylindrical support 42. The lower part of the mirror 4 comes to rest on the base 41 of the support 40 and its bearing surface 31 comes to rest on the seat edge 29 of the internal wall 27 of the housing 1. This operation realizes the centering of the diode 3 in the hemispherical part 11 of the box 1 and its setting by wedging the support 40 between the mirror 4 and the battery 6.

La dernière opération de montage consiste à visser le dôme transparent supérieur 4 sur le boîtier 1. Au cours de cette opération ultime, le filetage externe 36 de la bordure inférieure 35 du dôme 5 coopère avec le filetage interne 26 de la bordure supérieure 24 du boîtier 1 et ceci jusqu'à ce que la bordure circulaire 37 vienne reposer sur la partie supérieure d'appui 24a de la bordure 24 et que le rebord interne 33 vienne reposer sur la surface circulaire supérieure 32 du miroir 4, de façon à coincer l'ensemble des éléments de la bouée. Afin d'améliorer l'étanchéité de cette solidarisa­tion, les filetages 26 et 36 peuvent recevoir une pâte à joint conservant une certaine mollesse dans le temps.The last mounting operation consists of screwing the upper transparent dome 4 onto the housing 1. During this ultimate operation, the external thread 36 of the lower edge 35 of the dome 5 cooperates with the internal thread 26 of the upper edge 24 of the housing 1 and this until the circular edge 37 comes to rest on the upper bearing portion 24 a of the 24 and the inner flange edge 33 comes to rest on the upper circular surface 32 of the mirror 4, so as to sandwich the of the elements of the buoy. In order to improve the tightness of this connection, the threads 26 and 36 can receive a joint paste retaining a certain softness over time.

La bouée lumineuse ainsi réalisée présente sensiblement une forme ronde. Elle peut être reliée à une brassière de sauvetage ou tout autre engin par une simple cordelette de nylon ; elle flotte naturellement et son niveau de flottaison est situé sous le niveau de solidarisation du boitier 1 avec le dôme supérieur 5, de façon à préserver, en fonctionnement, une surface lumineuse maximale. La pile 6 est placée au centre du logement 2 et le plus bas possible pour servir de lest. Son poids situe le centre de gravité de la bouée suffisamment bas pour positionner la bouée dans l'élément liquide de façon à ce que les deux électrodes 7 et 8 soient en permanence au contact du liquide pour assurer le passage du courant.The light buoy thus produced has a substantially round shape. It can be connected to a lifejacket or any other device by a simple nylon cord; it floats naturally and its buoyancy level is located below the level of attachment of the housing 1 with the upper dome 5, so as to preserve, in operation, a maximum luminous surface. The stack 6 is placed in the center of the housing 2 and as low as possible to serve as ballast. Its weight places the center of gravity of the buoy low enough to position the buoy in the liquid element so that the two electrodes 7 and 8 are permanently in contact with the liquid to ensure the passage of current.

Le circuit électrique discontinu précédemment décrit est destiné à être fermé automatiquement par le milieu aquatique et ses différents éléments constitutifs présentent des caractéristiques qui, en association, permettent une intensité d'éclairement et une autonomie répondant aux normes OMI (Organisation Maritime Internationale) pour ce type de dispositif de sécurité.The discontinuous electrical circuit previously described is intended to be closed automatically by the aquatic environment and its various constituent elements have characteristics which, in combination, allow an intensity of illumination and an autonomy meeting the standards IMO (International Maritime Organization) for this type. of security device.

La diode électroluminescente 3 est une LED d'intensité maximale égale à 320 milli candelas (m cds), cette LED 3 est insensible aux chocs et supporte une intensité maximale de 20 milli ampères. Son intensité d'éclairement maximum est obtenue à partir de 12 milli ampères. Cette LED 3 fonctionne avec un 1,5 voit mais la résistivité du milieu aquatique entre les deux électrodes 7 et 8 oblige à prévoir un accumulateur ou pile 6 de 5,4 volts ou de 6 volts pour un bon fonctionnement. La pile 6 volts, utilisée est une pile alcaline classique délivrant 100 milli ampères. Pour une durée de fonctionnement plus longue, on peut utiliser une pile au mercure de 5,4 volts délivrant 240 milli ampères.The light-emitting diode 3 is an LED of maximum intensity equal to 320 milli candelas (m cds), this LED 3 is insensitive to shocks and supports a maximum intensity of 20 milli amperes. Its maximum illumination intensity is obtained from 12 milli amps. This LED 3 operates with a 1.5 see, but the resistivity of the aquatic medium between the two electrodes 7 and 8 means that an accumulator or battery 6 of 5.4 volts or 6 volts must be provided for proper operation. The 6 volt battery used is a conventional alkaline battery delivering 100 milli amperes. For a longer operating time, a 5.4-volt mercury battery can be used, delivering 240 milliamps.

Différentes résistances 9 peuvent être utilisées selon la durée de fonctionnement et l'intensité lumineuse désirée.Different resistors 9 can be used depending on the operating time and the desired light intensity.

A titre d'exemple une résistantce 9 de R = 200 Ohms, associée à la résistivité du milieu aquatique de l'ordre de 50 à 80 ohms, assure une consommation de 12 milli ampères par heure par la diode 3. Cette consommation permet, en associa­tion avec la pile 6 utilisée, un fonctionnement de la diode 3 pendant 8 heures environ, en délivrant une intensité lumineuse importante d'au moins deux candelas au centre et à l'extérieur de la bouée. Avec la pile au mercure 5,4 volts, on peut atteindre une autonomie de fonctionnement pendant 24 heures.For example, a resistance 9 of R = 200 Ohms, associated with the resistivity of the aquatic environment of the order of 50 to 80 ohms, ensures a consumption of 12 milli amperes per hour by the diode 3. This consumption allows, in association with the battery 6 used, operation of the diode 3 for approximately 8 hours, by delivering a significant light intensity of at least two candelas at the center and outside of the buoy. With the 5.4-volt mercury battery, operating autonomy can be reached for 24 hours.

Avec une résistance électrique R = 270 Ohms, en association avec la résistivité du milieu aquatique, la consommation de la diode est de huit milli ampères/heure, ce qui assure avec une pile 6 volts, un fonctionnement pendant douze heures avec une intensité lumineuse d'environ 1,7 candelas au centre et à l'extérieur de la bouée. (A titre indicatif, on peut obtenir dans ce cas une intensité lumineuse de 750 milli candelas sur le pourtour).With an electrical resistance R = 270 Ohms, in combination with the resistivity of the aquatic environment, the consumption of the diode is eight milli amperes / hour, which ensures with a 6 volt battery, operation for twelve hours with a light intensity d '' approximately 1.7 candelas in the center and outside of the buoy. (As an indication, one can obtain in this case a luminous intensity of 750 milli candelas on the periphery).

Ces intensités lumineuses obtenues sont bien entendu fonction du système optique du dôme grossissant 5. Les loupes ou lentilles 34 ont, dans ce cadre, une puissance permettant une amplification de 13,5 fois l'intensité délivrée par la diode. Cette intensité maximale est fonction du type de diode utilisée, dans notre cas elle est de 320 milli candelas pour un angle d'émission de 20°.These light intensities obtained are of course a function of the optical system of the magnifying dome 5. The magnifying glasses or lenses 34 have, in this context, a power allowing an amplification of 13.5 times the intensity delivered by the diode. This maximum intensity depends on the type of diode used, in our case it is 320 milli candelas for an emission angle of 20 °.

Les signes de référence insérés après les caracté­ristiques techniques mentionnées dans les revendications ont pour seul but de faciliter la compréhension de ces dernières et n'en limitent aucunement la portée.The reference signs inserted after the technical characteristics mentioned in the claims are intended only to facilitate the understanding of the latter and in no way limit their scope.

Claims (11)

1.- Bouée lumineuse flottante constituée d'un boîtier (1) en forme de coquille à l'intérieur de laquelle est logée une batterie d'alimentation (6) pour un organe éclairant (3) situé au centre d'un miroir réflecteur (4), sous un dôme transparent (5) qui recouvre la partie haute de ladite coquille (1), le circuit d'alimentation de l'organe éclairant (3) étant fermé automatiquement par le milieu aquatique, caractérisée en ce qu'elle comporte un organe éclairant (3) constitué d'une diode électroluminescente et, interposée entre ledit organe éclairant (3) et la batterie d'alimentation (6), une résistance (9) adaptée au circuit, permettant d'accroître l'autonomie de fonctionnement de la bouée.1.- Floating light buoy consisting of a shell-shaped housing (1) inside which is housed a supply battery (6) for an illuminating member (3) located in the center of a reflective mirror ( 4), under a transparent dome (5) which covers the upper part of said shell (1), the supply circuit of the lighting member (3) being closed automatically by the aquatic environment, characterized in that it comprises an illuminating member (3) consisting of a light-emitting diode and, interposed between said illuminating member (3) and the supply battery (6), a resistor (9) adapted to the circuit, making it possible to increase operating autonomy buoy. 2.- Bouée lumineuse selon la revendication 1, caractérisée en ce que le circuit d'alimentation de l'organe éclairant (3) présente une discontinuité fermée automatique­ment par le milieu aquatique, lequel circuit discontinu se compose d'une première électrode (7) reliée à l'un des pôles de la batterie (6) et, partant de l'autre pôle, d'une résistance électrique (9), de l'organe éclairant (3) et d'une seconde électrode (8).2.- light buoy according to claim 1, characterized in that the supply circuit of the illuminating member (3) has a discontinuity closed automatically by the aquatic medium, which discontinuous circuit consists of a first electrode (7) connected to one of the poles of the battery (6) and, starting from the other pole, an electrical resistance (9), the lighting member (3) and a second electrode (8). 3.- Bouée lumineuse selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 ou 2, caractérisée en ce qu'elle consiste en une enceinte étanche constituée d'un boîtier (1) sensiblement hémisphérique, muni d'un logement cylindrique (2) dans sa partie inférieure et d'une partie filetée (26) sur sa bordure supérieure (24) permettant l'adaptation du dôme transparent (5) complémentaire.3.- Light buoy according to any one of claims 1 or 2, characterized in that it consists of a sealed enclosure consisting of a housing (1) substantially hemispherical, provided with a cylindrical housing (2) in its part lower and a threaded part (26) on its upper edge (24) allowing the adaptation of the complementary transparent dome (5). 4.- Bouée lumineuse selon la revendication 3, caractérisée en ce que le logement (2) est muni de moyens de fixation des électrodes (7, 8), lesquelles sont destinées à traverser le fond (10) dudit logement (2), de façon étanche, pour présenter une partie interne destinée aux contacts avec les éléments correspondants du circuit et une partie externe destinée au contact avec le liquide environnant, pour la fermeture du circuit.4.- Light buoy according to claim 3, characterized in that the housing (2) is provided with means for fixing the electrodes (7, 8), which are intended to pass through the bottom (10) of said housing (2), sealingly, to present an internal part intended for contact with the corresponding elements of the circuit and an external part intended for contact with the surrounding liquid, for closing the circuit. 5.- Bouée lumineuse selon la revendication 4, caractérisée en ce que les électrodes (7, 8) sont en forme de tiges métalliques cylindriques formant pieds (13) et munies d'une tête (15), lesquelles électrodes (7, 8) sont destinées à être enfoncées à force dans des orifices (16, 17), prévus dans le fond (10) du logement (2) pour que seule la tête (15) reste à l'extérieur.5.- Light buoy according to claim 4, characterized in that the electrodes (7, 8) are in the form of cylindrical metal rods forming feet (13) and provided with a head (15), which electrodes (7, 8) are intended to be forced into holes (16, 17), provided in the bottom (10) of the housing (2) so that only the head (15) remains outside. 6.- Bouée lumineuse selon l'une quelconque des revendications 3 à 5, caractérisée en ce que le logement inférieur (2) comporte des moyens permettant le calage latéral de la batterie (6) sur le fond (10), lesdits moyens de calage latéral consistant en un ensemble de languettes (18) solidaires de la paroi verticale (19) et du fond (10) du logement (2).6.- Light buoy according to any one of claims 3 to 5, characterized in that the lower housing (2) comprises means allowing the lateral setting of the battery (6) on the bottom (10), said setting means lateral consisting of a set of tongues (18) integral with the vertical wall (19) and the bottom (10) of the housing (2). 7.- Bouée lumineuse selon l'une quelconque des revendications 3 à 6, caractérisée en ce que le logement inférieur (2) comporte des moyens permettant le calage longitudinal de la batterie (6) sur le fond (10), lesdits moyens de calage longitudinal étant constitués, d'un côté par l'une des électrodes (7) logée dans un renfort (20) ouvert de façon à libérer une génératrice de contact avec le plot correspondant de la batterie (6) et, de l'autre côté, par un ressort spirale (23) maintenu dans une encoche (21) réalisée dans la paroi verticale (19) du logement (2) et destiné à réaliser le contact avec l'autre plot de ladite batterie (6).7.- Light buoy according to any one of claims 3 to 6, characterized in that the lower housing (2) comprises means allowing the longitudinal setting of the battery (6) on the bottom (10), said setting means longitudinal being constituted, on one side by one of the electrodes (7) housed in a reinforcement (20) open so as to release a generator of contact with the corresponding stud of the battery (6) and, on the other side , by a spiral spring (23) held in a notch (21) formed in the vertical wall (19) of the housing (2) and intended to make contact with the other pad of said battery (6). 8.- Bouée lumineuse selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 7, caractérisée en ce que la batterie d'alimentation (6) qui repose sur le fond (10) du logement (2), sert d'appui au support (40) de la diode électrolumi­nescente (3).8.- Light buoy according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the supply battery (6) which rests on the bottom (10) of the housing (2), serves as a support for the support (40 ) of the light-emitting diode (3). 9.- Bouée lumineuse selon la revendication 8, caracterisée en ce que le support (40) de diode (3) consiste en une pièce moulée formant cavalier, lequel cavalier comporte une embase (41) à partir de laquelle s'étend, d'une part, vers le haut, une extension cylindrique (42) que la diode (3) vient coiffer, laquelle extension (42) reçoit les conducteurs métalliques partant de ladite diode (3) et ressortant sous l'embase (41), et, d'autre part, vers le bas, deux jambes (45) d'appui sur la batterie (6), préservant un passage (46) pour les fils conducteurs, entre ladite batterie (6) et la dite embase (41).9.- Light buoy according to claim 8, characterized in that the support (40) of the diode (3) consists of a molded part forming a jumper, which jumper comprises a base (41) from which extends, from on the one hand, upwards, a cylindrical extension (42) which the diode (3) covers, which extension (42) receives the metal conductors starting from said diode (3) and emerging under the base (41), and, on the other hand, downwards, two legs (45) bearing on the battery (6), preserving a passage (46) for the conductive wires, between said battery (6) and said base (41). 10.- Bouée lumineuse selon la revendication 9, caractérisée en ce que le miroir réflecteur (4) présente une forme parabolique ouverte vers le haut, ledit miroir (4) étant muni, en son centre, d'un orifice (30) pour le passage et le centrage de la diode (3) et sa partie inférieure venant reposer sur l'embase (41) du cavalier (40) support de ladite diode (3), ledit miroir (4), lui-même bloqué par le dôme transparent (5) supérieur, venant appuyer sur le cavalier (40) et la batterie (6), pour bloquer les différents éléments en position.10.- Light buoy according to claim 9, characterized in that the reflecting mirror (4) has a parabolic shape open upwards, said mirror (4) being provided, in its center, with an orifice (30) for the passage and centering of the diode (3) and its lower part coming to rest on the base (41) of the jumper (40) support of said diode (3), said mirror (4), itself blocked by the transparent dome (5) upper, pressing on the jumper (40) and the battery (6), to lock the various elements in position. 11.- Bouée lumineuse selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 10, caracterisée en ce que le dôme transparent (5) est de forme sensiblement hémisphérique et comporte un ensemble de lentilles (34) formant loupes.11.- Light buoy according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the transparent dome (5) is of substantially hemispherical shape and comprises a set of lenses (34) forming magnifying glasses.
EP19890401195 1987-11-09 1989-04-26 Luminous buoy Expired - Lifetime EP0394593B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR8715743A FR2622864B1 (en) 1987-11-09 1987-11-09 LIGHT BUOY

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EP0394593A1 true EP0394593A1 (en) 1990-10-31
EP0394593B1 EP0394593B1 (en) 1992-09-23

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EP19890401195 Expired - Lifetime EP0394593B1 (en) 1987-11-09 1989-04-26 Luminous buoy

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EP (1) EP0394593B1 (en)
DE (1) DE68902991T2 (en)
ES (1) ES2034673T3 (en)
FR (1) FR2622864B1 (en)

Cited By (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
FR2687503A1 (en) * 1992-02-17 1993-08-20 Nicolas Rene Improvement to the system for lighting a marker beacon
WO2004028896A1 (en) * 2002-09-30 2004-04-08 Thanner Development A/S Marking light device for life preservers and survival crafts

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* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE10204509B4 (en) * 2002-02-05 2006-08-31 Walz, Friedrich, Dr. Guidance in the fog and in running water for people in the mud
DE102011015405A1 (en) 2011-03-29 2012-10-04 Osram Opto Semiconductors Gmbh Optical element and radiation-emitting device with such an optical element
ES1103956Y (en) * 2014-02-20 2014-06-11 Lopez Andres Lledo MARINE SENALIZATION FLOATING DEVICE

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US2803838A (en) * 1954-08-26 1957-08-27 Jr Nathaniel B Wales Aircraft crash marking device
US2825803A (en) * 1955-06-03 1958-03-04 Louis H Newbrough Crash position signalling indicator
FR2066624A5 (en) * 1970-10-27 1971-08-06 Drogo Pierre
FR2188220A1 (en) * 1972-06-06 1974-01-18 Drogo Pierre

Patent Citations (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US2803838A (en) * 1954-08-26 1957-08-27 Jr Nathaniel B Wales Aircraft crash marking device
US2825803A (en) * 1955-06-03 1958-03-04 Louis H Newbrough Crash position signalling indicator
FR2066624A5 (en) * 1970-10-27 1971-08-06 Drogo Pierre
FR2188220A1 (en) * 1972-06-06 1974-01-18 Drogo Pierre

Cited By (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
FR2687503A1 (en) * 1992-02-17 1993-08-20 Nicolas Rene Improvement to the system for lighting a marker beacon
WO2004028896A1 (en) * 2002-09-30 2004-04-08 Thanner Development A/S Marking light device for life preservers and survival crafts

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
FR2622864A1 (en) 1989-05-12
ES2034673T3 (en) 1993-04-01
DE68902991D1 (en) 1992-10-29
EP0394593B1 (en) 1992-09-23
DE68902991T2 (en) 1993-04-01
FR2622864B1 (en) 1992-03-13

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