GB2407546A - Inflatable escape chute - Google Patents

Abstract

An inflatable escape chute 1 for a building 2 is housed within a weather proof container mounted to the side of the building, or incorporated into the external skin of the building. The chute 1 is inflated by a gas cylinder that is activated when a cover 7 for the chute is expelled by an explosive bolt detonated either manually, e.g. by a panic button 4, or automatically, e.g. by smoke 5 or fire. A further explosive device may be used to open an adjacent window 8. The gas cylinder and explosive bolts may be replaced after used.

Description

- 2407546 1) The escape chute will allow a person or persons to escape

from an upper poor af a house, school, hospital, factory, hotel, public buildings etc. in the event of their exit being blocked by smoke, fire, or another life threatening occurance. 2)

The emergency escape chute is incorporated into the external skin of a first floor wall or it could be manufactured to be axed to the external elevation within a weather proof housing, 3) The escape chute would be manufactured in a half hour fire retardent material. 4)

A panic bolt or button, when pushed,or automatically activated smoke or fire, would set off an explosive bolt expelling the outer cover concealing the uninflated chute. 5)

This event in turn would activate a gas cylinder Inflating the chute a allowing it to drop to the ground, 6) Simultaneously, a further explosive device would open the top or side hung window through degrees, thus allowing free access out A person could jump from the open mudow Aid sl tide down the chute to safety below 8) The whole mechanism could be reused after a fire drill for example or aRer it has been used in an emergency The explosive bolts and gas cylinder would be replaceable after use provided the mechanism and fire have not damaged the unit and chute fabric. 9)

The escape chute could be linked together enabling escape from multiple storey buildings.

Claims (2)

1. Claims 1. An inflatable chute fixed to the window cill.
2. 2. The chute supports are fixed in the cill housing.

   3 The chute mechanism will be housed in the cill or in the external brickwork.

   Just below the cill.

   4 An explosive device will operate via a panic button internally. This will both operate opening the window and expell and inflate the chute. Rather hke in an aeroplane.

   The Chute will be primarily used for the emergency exit from an upstairs floor where the stair exit is blocked by fire and or smoke.

   6 The entire mechanism x Chute, will have to be made from fire retardant materials, as in an airoplane. It will be made by a combination of plastic.metal materials.

   7 The chute will be taylor made to each location, and the position of the exit chute will be modified accordingly.