GB974679A - Automatic signalling apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

974,679. Radio signalling; aerials. DOUGLAS AIRCRAFT CO. Inc. Nov. 28, 1962, No. 45016/62. Headings H4A and H4L. A radio beacon, e.g. for air-sea rescue work, is provided with a flexible aerial attached to an inflatable float which is automatically inflated upon the initial operation of the apparatus to eject and extend the aerial automatically. The apparatus is carried in a textile vest 10, Fig. 1, a parachute being fitted over the vest, and is provided with a pocket 9 carrying a battery 11, a pocket 13 housing a radio transmitter 18 which is switched on when the parachute opens by a cord 15a attached to a hook 14 on the parachute riser, and a pocket 16 carrying the collapsed aerial and float also controlled by a cord. The flaps of the pocket 16 are held closed by a cord which passes through a conventional reefing-cutter including a delay mechanism which is actuated by a cord attached to a parachute riser. An inflator switch for triggering the inflator of the float is normally held open by a cord also passing through the reefing cutter. When the parachute is opened both cords are cut, the pocket 16 is opened and the switch is actuated to supply current to an explosive charge which forces a pin into the puncturable wall of a capsule containing compressed carbon dioxide whereby the float is inflated. The expansion of the top and bottom surfaces of the float, Fig. 3, erects the flexible whip aerial 26 which was coiled inside it, a lead 24 connecting the aerial to the transmitter and a portion 26a projecting through the top of the float. The float will remain substantially upright on land or water due to its shape and the weight of the inflator unit 38. A conventional hand-lever firing arrangement may be provided for inflating the float if the switch mechanism should be inoperative.