NZ564312A - Multifunctional carrying device for firemen - Google Patents

Abstract

A fire-fighterÆs carry pack has a carry frame 2 to be worn on the torso and having two shoulder straps 5a, 5b, to rest on the shoulders and at least one cross strap 4 that serves as a belt. A water reservoir 22 and hands-free hydration system 6 pouch 5 is fixed or fixable to the frame, and at least one other pouch 11 of quick opening type for storage of such things as protective garments or masks is also attached to the frame, and can be accessed by the fire-fighter without having to remove the pack. The whole kit is of course made of materials, such as "kevlar" that are heat-resistant and fireproof.

Description

1 564312 MULTIFUNCTIONAL CARRY PACK ASSEMBLY FOR FIREFIGHTERS The present invention concerns the area of fire fighting. It more specifically concerns a multifunctional carry pack 5 assembly intended to equip firefighters, particularly when fighting fires in wildland areas and any other activity requiring substantial self-sufficiency with no possibility of relying on nearby logistic support.

Firefighters called to fight such emergencies need to 10 ensure their personal protection by means of specific equipment. This equipment differs in relation to the mission, the site and the time of action. A firefighter called to act must be able to choose to take a given item of protective equipment in relation to these parameters. Therefore in order 15 to work in safety without being unnecessarily encumbered, fire fighters need modular, individual equipment. Also, the equipment chosen for a given task must be near at hand and immediately available in case of need.

Additionally, when fighting fires, firefighters furnish 20 intense physical effort under extreme conditions: heat, wind, smoke, stress. These working conditions require constant hydration of fire fighting persons to maintain their physical and mental performance levels during their combat.

Finally, firefighters facing fires in wildland areas 25 must, for safety reasons, be identifiable both on the ground and from the air, and both during daytime and at night.

So that firefighters have the ability to move whilst having at hand any necessary specific equipment, document CA 2 424 77 8 has already proposed a harness enabling firefighters 30 to wear a pack containing necessary safety accessories and equipment, this pack being more particularly the pack referenced M 1983 widely used on the North-American continent. » 4 ...

RECEIVED at IPONZ on 22 December 2009 56*1312 This harness comprises a yoke assembly and a belt band assembly provided with adjustment means to take into account the morphology of the individual person, and fastening means of the M 1983 pack in the form of a set of Y—straps starting at the rear of the belt assembly 5 and fastening onto the rear of the yoke assembly on the firefighter's back.

The harness described in this document CA 2 424 778 certainly brings progress but nonetheless has the major disadvantage of compelling a firefighter to remove the harness in order to open the 10 pack and access determined equipment or a determined accessory.

The purpose of at least preferred embodiments of the present invention is to propose a multifunctional carry pack assembly for firefighters which particularly meets the requirements for fighting fires in wildland areas, and which additionally overcomes the above-15 mentioned disadvantage, and/or which at least provides the public with a useful choice.

In a first aspect, the invention as claimed broadly consists in a multi-functional carry pack assembly for firefighters, comprising: a) a carry frame intended to be carried on the torso and formed 20 of at least two straps of shoulder strap type intended to rest on the shoulders, and at least one cross-strap joined to said shoulder type straps and acting as belt, b) a first element of pouch type, fixed or fixable to the carry frame and able to contain at least one water reservoir, and a "hands free" hydration system connected or connectable to said water reservoir, and c) at least one second element of pouch type, fixed or fixable onto the carry frame and able to contain a protective, action or survival garment, a protective mask and at least one other accessory, wherein the constituent materials of the frame and elements of pouch type are heat—resistant and fireproof, and wherein each second element of pouch type is provided with a quick-opening system, giving a firefighter direct access to its contents, without requiring removal of the carry frame.

Since the materials forming the frame and the elements of pouch type are provided for a fire-fighting application, they 2 2305564_1.doc 564312 J are heat-resistant and fireproof and must not represent any danger for the wearer. Preferably, these materials are in aramid fibres.

Additionally, each second element of pouch type is 5 provided with a quick-opening system, giving a firefighter direct access to its content, without requiring removal of the carry frame.

Therefore, when firefighters depart for action of determined type, with the carry pack assembly of the present 10 invention they are able to take with them a water reservoir for self-hydration and all the equipment they need using as support means the outer surface of the carry straps, the water reservoir and said equipment being arranged in different elements of pouch type which are fixed, depending on necessary 15 volume, either transversally on the frame e.g. simultaneously on the shoulder type straps, or longitudinally e.g. on a single strap of shoulder strap type or on a cross-strap.

Preferably, the first and/or second elements of pouch type are fixable by easily detachable fastening means on the 20 carry frame, so that they can be easily unfastened from said frame, either to be simply removed or to change their position on this same frame. This is the case for example when all or part of the elements of pouch type carried on the rear of the torso have to be transferred to the front, in particular to 25 enable a firefighter to carry a heavy load on the back such as a portable reel for long-length hose.

In one embodiment, the carry frame comprises two side straps arranged in a U-shape and acting as shoulder straps. In another embodiment, the shoulder type straps are arranged in a 30 Y-shape.

According to one variant of embodiment, the first element of pouch type is carried and fixed transversely on the outer surface of the frame, e.g. on two side straps, in the upper 4 564312 ^ part of the torso and preferably on the back. Said first element containing the water reservoir is connected to a so-called "hands-free" hydration system since the firefighter can access its content without having to perform any manual 5 operation. This system may consist of a fixed or fixable drinking tube on the outer surface of the frame, e.g. on a side strap so that its end tip is accessible and can be reached by the mouth. For hydration, all that is needed is to bite the end tip of the drinking tube and to draw water from 10 the reservoir.

According to one variant of embodiment, the carry pack assembly comprises respiratory protection gear placed at least in part of the first or a second element of pouch type. Said respiratory protection assembly may comprise a filtering 15 system, e.g. a filtering cartridge placed in a second element of pouch type, and a connecting tube connecting the filtering system to an end connector. The end connector may be a mouth piece or a mask which can be applied over the face, either a "half mask" or "quarter mask" depending on its configuration. 20 The connecting tube is preferably fixed or fixable to a strap of shoulder strap type, e.g. passing over the shoulder or across the side under the firefighter's arm. Said respiratory protection gear may solely comprise a mask, a so-called exhalation mask, associated with a filtering cartridge; in 25 this case the assembly is entirely placed in a second element of pouch type, preferably having a quick-opening system.

It is to be noted that in the above embodiment, in which the filtering gas cartridge is connected to a connecting tube, said cartridge can be housed in the same first element of 30 pouch type containing a water reservoir. In this case, the drinking tube of the water reservoir and the connecting tube of the filtering gas cartridge are respectively fixed or 564312 ^ fixable on each of the side straps of shoulder strap type, on the shoulders.

If the filtering gas cartridge remains fixed in the first or second element of pouch type, it is important to take care 5 that the air intake cannot be blocked by a poncho or other protective clothing put on over the device. In one variant of the invention, the filtering cartridge is placed sideways in the pouch, the air intake being directed sideways. In a second variant, a grating is arranged over the air intake of the 10 cartridge, to prevent sealed contact between a fabric and the cartridge, e.g. a convex-shaped grating.

In one variant of embodiment, in a second element of pouch type the carry pack assembly comprises an item of protective clothing e.g. fire apparel comprising jacket and 15 over-trousers and/or a survival garment e.g. an aluminised poncho.

The jacket and over-trousers form an additional item of clothing which a firefighter may need to don over usual gear, should fire fighting conditions require a higher level of 2 0 protection.

Whether intended to contain an aluminised poncho or an additional fire suit, said second element of pouch type comprises a quick-opening system.

This quick-opening system advantageously consists of a 25 side access provided with a grasp tab. The firefighter needs only to grasp the tab and pull on it to open the side access.

Preferably, the poncho, action jacket or over-trousers and/or survival garment are themselves provided with a grasp tab, and are arranged inside the second element of pouch type 30 so that said grasp tab can be reached from the side access. Therefore once said access has been opened, the firefighter needs only to grasp this tab to take the aluminised poncho and/or action jacket and/or over-trousers out of the said 564312 ^ element and put them on. This can be done quickly and automatically. In particular, regarding the aluminised poncho, the presence of the grasp tab facilitates the proper positioning of the poncho when it is being donned.

Advantageously the inner surface of the second elements of pouch type, which are part of the carry pack assembly according to the invention, has a protective coating with low friction coefficient e.g. a polytetrafluorethlyene coating (PTFE). This particular provision facilitates the removal of 10 the content from said second elements, and ensures protection against anything which might fall inside said second elements, in particular fire-fighting agents and water.

Concerning the additional item of clothing to be put over the usual outfit or uniform, in a first embodiment the 15 additional jacket and over-trousers comprise assembly means able to cooperate together so that they can be fastened to each other once they have been put on over the usual outfit. In a second embodiment, only the over-trousers comprise fastening means so that they can be fastened to the outer 20 surface of the straps of the carry pack assembly. Since action over-trousers generally have shoulder straps, direct fastening onto the jacket or fastening onto the straps of the carry pack assembly avoids the superimposition of shoulder straps.

In one variant of embodiment, the carry pack assembly 25 comprises at least one second element of pouch type able to contain an accessory e.g. radio communication apparatus, topographic map, compass, food rations, small tooling, said second element being fixed or fixable to the outer surface of the frame e.g. to a shoulder type strap, for example on the 30 front of the carry pack assembly, or on the outer surface of a cross-strap.

Preferably, two second elements are fixed to the frame, on the torso, and contain the components of a portable radio 7 564312 transceiver, one of said second elements comprising an opening through which the antenna of said transceiver can be passed.

According to one variant of embodiment, the first or second element of pouch type comprises a visual and/or sound 5 signalling device. The presence of this device provides improved location of a firefighter who has momentarily moved away from his colleagues.

In one embodiment, this device is connected to the quick-opening system of one or all of the second elements of pouch 10 type containing safety items, and/or of the system releasing the end connector of the breathing apparatus, so that this signalling device is automatically triggered as soon as the quick-opening system is actuated, thereby signalling to colleagues or the person in charge that the firefighter is in 15 danger. In another embodiment, this signalling device is associated with a multiple-function trigger, and can be remotely and non-selectively triggered by any wearer of the same type of equipment. Therefore, a wearer who presses shortly on a first trigger button of the equipment can, for 20 example, cause all nearby visual signalling devices to function for fast location of firefighters working in the vicinity. This same wearer who presses for a longer time on the same first trigger button can, for example, activate the visual and sound signalling systems of nearby signalling 25 devices. This visual and sound message, once coded by the users, can be used to signal an urgent action to be performed such as immediate return to the fire engines e.g. to allow an aircraft to drop water. The sound message may consist of a modulated ring, even a synthesis message clearly expressing 30 the expected action. A second button can be used to quit the message and replace the trigger in standby mode. A third button can be used only to switch on one's own visual signalling device, to indicate one's position. 8 564312 In one variant of embodiment the visual and/or sound signalling device has three different transmitting/receiving channels. Therefore in a sector comprising three teams working side by side, a different channel can be allocated to each 5 team. When used, this device allows for non-interference between the teams.

The proposed visual and/or sound signalling device therefore provides for simple, efficient communication between each firefighter, which brings considerable progress since 10 teams generally only have one portable radio set per engine.

In one variant of embodiment, on the front of the carry pack assembly, at least one of the straps e.g. a shoulder strap type or a cross-strap is provided with at least one hook or ring to hang small equipment items, themselves fitted with 15 a snap hook or ring. This may be used for example to hang a torch, gloves. Advantageously the ring or hook arranged on the outer surface of the strap is protected by a protective flap so that it is covered when not in use, and which can easily be lifted when needed. 2 0 Preferably the straps are also provided with loops to hold any small items of equipment tight against the strap so that they do not sway around when the wearer is in movement.

In one variant of embodiment, spacers e.g. fire-resistant foam pads are arranged on the inner surface of the straps, the 25 shoulder straps in particular, preferably substantially at the same level as the pouch elements. The primary function of these spacers is allow air to circulate in the space between the carry pack assembly and the wearer's back for improved comfort.

In one variant of embodiment, the carry pack assembly comprises an evacuation handle which is fixed to a cross-member extending between two side straps of shoulder strap type, in the upper part of the rear of said pack assembly. 9 564312 This handle facilitates the transport of an injured fire fighter equipped with the carry pack assembly.

Preferably the carry pack assembly comprises netting on the rear which extends between the straps, the shoulder type 5 straps in particular, which starts at the cross-member if such is provided.

Preferably, the carry pack assembly and optionally the over-trousers and action jacket are in a colour which offers major contrast with the wildland, so that firefighters are 10 strongly visible in the midst of vegetation, this colour being red, orange-red or yellow.

The present invention will be better understood on reading the description of a preferred example of embodiment of a multifunctional carry pack assembly for firefighter, more 15 particularly intended for fighting fires propagating in wildland, illustrated by the appended drawings in which: Figure 1 is a very schematic, perspective illustration of a pack assembly comprising a first element and two second elements of pouch type mounted on the rear of the actual carry 2 0 frame, and having a second element of pouch type mounted on the front of the frame, Figure 2 is a schematic front view of a permanent uniform jacket over which the carry pack assembly of figure 1 has been fitted.

Figure 3 is a schematic, plan, overhead view of a first element of pouch type comprising a water reservoir and its drinking tube, a filtering cartridge, its connecting tube and its breathing mask, and finally a visual signalling device and its actuating commands.

Figure 4 is a schematic, plan, overhead view of a variant of embodiment of the first element of pouch type as shown figure 3, with the breathing mask and the entire connecting 564312 tube which are housed inside said first element, being accessible via an access shown in closed position.

Figure 5 is a partial view of the first element of pouch type as shown figure 4, illustrating the opening of the access 5 orifice.

Figure 6 is a schematic, perspective view of an additional protective jacket (action jacket) comprising an integrated shoulder strap system, and partly showing over-trousers fitted with assembly means.

The carry pack assembly 1 shown figure 1 comprises a carry frame comprising two side straps 2 and 3, arranged in a U-shape and acting as shoulder straps, two cross-straps 4, 4' joined to the side straps 2 and 3, of which one 4 joined to the ends of the side straps 2, 3 acts as belt. The straps 2, 15 3, 4, 4' are made in fire-resistant yarn e.g. aramid; they are sufficiently heat-stable to remain intact at relatively high temperatures. Also, said straps are sized not only to withstand the weight of the accessories, e.g. in the order of 5 kg, but also to withstand the transport of an injured fire 20 fighter who wears the assembly 1 and who has lost conscientiousness.

This carry pack assembly 1 is intended to be worn on the torso, as shown figure 2, in particular over a permanent jacket 16 that is part of service uniform, or a jacket 25 specifically adapted for forest fires.

The carry pack assembly 1 comprises a first element of pouch type hereinafter called a first pouch 5, able to contain a reservoir of drinking water 22 intended for hydration of the firefighter when in action. This first pouch 5 is fixed to the 30 outer surface of the two side straps 2, 3 in the upper part of the back, so that the water bladerq 22 lies constantly at an angle. 11 564312 The reservoir of drinking water 22 preferably has a capacity of between one and two litres. Also, its shape is such that all the liquid contained therein can be accessed via a drinking tube 6. In one preferred embodiment, said water 5 reservoir 22 is of triangular shape, the tube 6 dipping into the downward facing tip of the reservoir 22.

In the illustrated example, the first pouch 5 comprises two side extensions 5a, 5b extending towards and fastened to the outer surface of two side straps 2, 3 over the shoulders. 10 The drinking tube 6, whose distal end is dipped into the bottom of the water reservoir 22, has a proximal end 6a projecting from a side extension 5a, and which is angled for example so that it faces towards the wearer's face and can be directly accessed by the firefighter for hydration. It is 15 desirable for the length of this proximal end 6a, either in its part outside the side extension 5a or in its part that is not fixed to the strap 2, to be as short as possible to reduce the risk that it might get caught in branches for example when moving in a difficult environment.

The inner sealed part of the water reservoir 22 is made a food-safe material, e.g. PTFE, so that heat does not cause any toxic release into the liquid.

For practical reasons, it is important that firefighters should be able to remove the pouch 5 containing the water 25 reservoir 22 unassisted, should it need refilling, even if it is carried on the back. This is made possible for example by means of a fastening system added to the front of the frame, such as two "retainers" passing either side of the neck on the shoulders. In this case, by unfastening one of the two 30 retainers and passing it behind the head, the pouch 5 comes to lie in the front and still remains supported.

The water reservoir 22 contains a filling orifice closed by a stopper 23. Filling can be performed either by removing 564312 ^ the reservoir 22 from the first pouch 5 then putting it back in place once filled, or by using an outside supply source from which water can be injected into the water reservoir 22 via the filling orifice, without having to remove it from the 5 first pouch 5. In this latter case, to access the stopper, an access opening is provided in the pouch. Water can be injected by siphoning from a water reservoir using suitable tubing. The opening giving access to the filling stopper, or the opening formed in the pouch to remove the reservoir for filling and 10 replacement, is preferably positioned on the inner side of the pouch i.e. the surface facing the user. When the user wishes to refill the reservoir, one of the two side extensions 5a 5b is released from the corresponding side strap 2, 3, then the pouch 5 is caused to pivot by passing it towards the front 15 making said opening, which then faces outwardly, directly accessible.

According to one variant of embodiment, housed in all of part of the first pouch 5 or in a second element of pouch type hereinafter called second pouch, the carry pack assembly 20 comprises a respiratory protection device intended to supply emergency breathing protection.

In one first embodiment, the respiratory protection device consists of a filtering system 7 e.g. a filtering cartridge housed in a first 5 or second 11 pouch and a 25 connecting tube 9 ending in a breathing end piece 8, said connecting tube 9 being arranged such that the end piece 8 is easily accessible to the firefighter who is able to apply it to the mouth or face. In the illustrated example, the filtering cartridge 7 is carried on the back in the first 30 pouch 5, and the connecting tube 9 is arranged on the shoulder over a side strap 2, even in the case shown over the side extension 5b of the first pouch 5. It is sufficiently long so that it can reach the firefighter's mouth. It can also be 564312 13 placed on the side under the firefighter's arm. With this arrangement it is possible to save precious seconds in the event of danger. In the case when the filtering cartridge 7 is housed in the first pouch 5 containing the water reservoir 22, 5 the drinking tube 6 for the water reservoir 22 and the connecting tube 9 of the filtering gas cartridge 7 are respectively fixed or fixable either directly on either of the side straps 2, 3 on the shoulders, or indirectly via side extensions 5a, 5b which themselves are fastened to the side 10 straps 2, 3 on the shoulders.

As shown figure 5 the end piece 8 of the connecting tube 9 can be protected by a protective flap 24. The flap 24 is fitted with a quick-opening system e.g. provided with self-clinging hook and loop elements or pressure studs. 15 Preferably the flap 24 is joined via a cord 10 to a percussion system of the filtering cartridge 10. When the fire fighter pulls the flap 24 forwards, this pulls on the cord 10 which causes percussion of the filtering cartridge 7.

Among the different types of existing end pieces 8: mask, 2 0 half mask, quarter mask or mouth piece, it is the mouth piece which is the most practical and the fastest applied since the wearing of a mask or half mask requires firefighters to remove their helmets, if their helmets do not comprise a compatible integrated system. However, with a mouth piece it is 25 preferable to complete the respiratory protection device with a nose clip e.g. attached by a line towards the end of the connecting tube 9, to be placed on the nose to avoid any accidental breathing via the nose.

In addition, the respiratory protection device comprises 30 a valve system allowing air from the air intake of the filtering system, the filtering cartridge in particular, to be inhaled and allowing exhaled air to escape. 14 564312 In a second embodiment, the respiratory device 8 is an independent system, for example an exhalation mask which comprises a mask connected directly to a filtering cartridge. This is placed in the carry pack assembly in a second pouch 5 11, 12 with quick-opening system, so that it can be easily grasped and quickly applied by the firefighter in the event of danger.

In all cases, firstly the first or second pouch must preferably comprise an air passage facing the air inlet of the 10 filtering cartridge, and secondly the arrangement of the filtering cartridge 7 must be compatible with the wearing of a poncho or other protective clothing which may be put on over the carry pack assembly 1. To prevent a poncho or other garment from coming to lie up against the air intake of the 15 cartridge 7, this cartridge is arranged with its air intake directed sideward as illustrated figure 1. Another option consists of providing a grating, in particular a curved grating, over the opening of the air passage which allows air to access even if the first or second pouch is covered by a 20 material.

When fighting wildland fires, it may be necessary to have a higher level of protection, in particular a fire-fighting jacket 17 and over-trousers 18 and/or a poncho, which fire fighters may have to put on over their permanent outfit. 25 Recent developments in new materials have brought very light and very flexible action clothing. With the carry pack assembly of the invention, it can therefore be envisaged to carry this additional clothing in a second pouch, for use when needed. If additional action clothing is to be worn, 30 firefighters can then don this clothing over the carry pack assembly 1 without any assistance and without any lengthy manual operation. 564312 15 For this purpose the carry pack assembly 1 comprises a protective item of clothing carried in a second pouch 11, 12, comprising a jacket 17 and over-trousers 18 and/or a survival garment such as an aluminised poncho. Preferably this second 5 pouch is fastened onto the dorsal part of the carry frame, at a height between the lower part and middle part of the back so that it is easy to remove the equipment from this pouch. Each of the second pouches 11, 12 comprises a quick-opening system consisting of a side access 13, 14 provided with a grasp tab 10 15, 15'. Preferably the poncho, additional action jacket 17 or over-trousers 18 are themselves provided with a grasp tab and are arranged inside the second pouch such that said grasp tab is accessible from the side access 13, 14. Therefore once said access is opened, the firefighter need only take hold of this 15 grasp tab to remove the aluminised poncho and/or additional jacket 17 and/or over-trousers 18 from the said element and put it on.

The inner surface of each first and/or second pouch 5, 11, 12 has a coating with low friction coefficient e.g. a 20 polytetrafluorethylene coating (PTFE). This special provision makes it easier to remove the contents from the pouches, and ensures protection against possible ingression of water or other agents used for fire fighting in particular.

In one variant of embodiment not shown, the breathing 25 device is placed in the same second pouch as the aluminised poncho and/or additional jacket 17 and/or over-trousers 18.

The additional action jacket 17 is light, its weight preferably not exceeding 1.4 kg. It is made in a flexible fabric and has no protective foam. Its colour contrasts with 30 the environment, e.g. red for better visibility in particular to be seen from the sky. It is to be noted that a fairly bright colour also has the advantage of being less absorbent to sun rays than a dark colour, such as navy blue for example 564312 ^ which is traditionally used in numerous countries for fire fighters' uniforms. Therefore the use of a bright colour is advisable for fighting wildland fires which generally occur during the Summer season. Since the action jacket 17 is 5 intended to be worn over the carry pack assembly 1, it is provided with a gusset in the back. Preferably it does not have any pockets since the carry pack assembly 1 provides a sufficient number of storage possibilities.

The space provided for stowing the jacket 17 can be as 10 small as approximately 30 cm wide for a height of 15 cm and depth of 15 cm. The fabric used to manufacture the jacket 17 may be a grade 2 material according to standard EN 469. This standard allows approval of a given item of clothing giving consideration to the garments worn underneath. In the specific 15 case of forest fire fighting, draft standard ISO 15384 already requires the wearing of an item of clothing made in fire-resistant material. It is then preferable, in this case, to use an approved action jacket which takes into account the outfit worn underneath, since it will therefore by thinner, 20 less cumbersome when folded away, lighter and more comfortable.

The space provided for stowing the over-trousers 18 is also very reduced e.g. a width of around 30 cm for a height and depth of around 10 cm respectively. Over-trousers 18 25 consisting of a single layer of fabric having an approximate gram weight of 200 to 240 g/m2 which, depending on the fabric used, meets the grade 1 requirements of standard EN 469 standard when worn over trousers approved under standard ISO 15384, weighs approximately 400 to 500g.

In a first embodiment, the additional jacket 17 and the over-trousers 18 comprise assembly means 19, 19', for example in figure 6 three sections of shoulder straps sewn on the inner surfaces of the jacket and over-trousers, whose free 564312 17 ends are provided with respective male 19a and female 19' a fastening parts, able to cooperate by press-fitting to allow assembly of one to the other once they have been donned over the uniform jacket 16.

In a second embodiment, only the over-trousers 18 comprise assembly means 19' so that they can be joined onto the outer surface of the side straps 2, 3 of the carry pack assembly 1, at the height of fastening means 19" which, in figure 1, are sections of shoulder straps provided with male 10 assembly parts 19''a similar to those described in the first embodiment. This solution has the advantage, with respect to the shoulder straps 19 integrated in the jacket 17, that it does not create the risk of crushing the equipment carried on the carry pack assembly 1.

Concerning the poncho which can be stowed away in a second pouch 11, 12, this equipment is made in a fire-resistant aluminised fabric of much the same volume as the over-trousers 18. The weight of the aluminised poncho is around 800 g. As explained above, the arrangement of the 20 poncho allows for quick, reliable grasping by means of a tab or hand grasp integrated in the bottom part of the poncho, and quick donning; once removed, the poncho continues to be held by the hand grasp for donning.

The carry pack assembly 1 illustrated figure 1 comprises 25 other second pouches 20, 25 able to contain an accessory, for example radio communication apparatus or topographical map, the pouches being fixed or fixable on the outer surface of a single side strap 2, 3 for example on the front part of the carry pack assembly, or on the outer surface of a cross-strap 30 4, 4'. Provision may be made for other second pouches 26 hung on the front of one of the side straps 2, 3 and intended to contain small items of equipment: compass, first aid kit, food rations, small tooling. 18 564312 A special pouch for the topographical map is particularly practical if said map can be consulted without having to open it up. For example, a pouch will be preferred in which a map can be arranged, opened out on two flaps having a window 5 allowing the reading of almost the entirety of these two flaps. This pouch may be folded in two when not in use, for its protection. This pouch, fixed in its upper part to the cross strap acting as belt, allows easy consultation of the map using one hand only.

In one variant of embodiment not shown, the side straps 2, 3 positioned on the wearer's torso comprise two second pouches offering a stowage volume able to contain a portable radio transceiver whose antenna can project outside the pocket via an opening provided for this purpose without hampering the 15 wearer.

Concerning the different second pouches 20, 25, 26 hanging from a single strap, these are made fire-resistant fabric e.g. aramid of gram weight between 200 and 250 g/m2, These pouches may also be in laminated or PTFE-coated fabric 20 to protect the equipment contained therein against the weather and also to facilitate removal of this equipment.

In the example illustrated figure 1, the first pouch 5 comprises a visual and/or sound signalling device 21. The presence of this device 21 improves the locating of a fire 25 fighter who may have momentarily moved away from colleagues.

Preferably this device 21 is connected to the quick-opening system of one or more pouches containing safety elements and/or to the system releasing the end piece of the protective respiratory apparatus, so that it is automatically 30 triggered thereby signalling to colleagues that the fire fighter is in danger, needing either to put on a protective element or to grasp the end piece of the breathing apparatus. This signalling device 21 could also be fitted with a trigger 19 564312 which could be remotely actuated, and non-selectively, by any wearer of the same type of equipment. Therefore a wearer who presses shortly on a first button of the multifunction trigger of the equipment would set in operation all nearby visual 5 signalling devices, for rapid location of firefighters working in the vicinity. This same wearer, when pressing for a longer time on the same first button, could activate visual and sound signals of nearby signalling devices. This visual and sound message, once coded by users, could signify an urgent action 10 to be performed e.g. immediate return to the engines. A second button on the trigger could quit the information and reset the device in standby mode. A third button of the trigger would only light up one's own visual signalling device so as to signal one's position.

Concerning the visual signalling device, this may be an xenon flasher or "flash lamp" which can be activated in several manners.

Evidently, in one simplified embodiment the signalling device 21 may only be triggered manually by the wearer of the 20 carry pack assembly, so that the wearer can signal a difficulty or merely signal position if moving in an ill-lit location or separated from the others e.g. to monitor a portable motor pump supplying a long length hose. In this case, it comprises a simple manual command of on/off type. 25 The side of the carry pack assembly 1 illustrated figure 1 also comprises a hook system 31 integrated in the cross-strap 4 acting as belt e.g. to carry fire fighting gloves.

On the front of the carry pack assembly 1 at least one of the side straps 2, 3 or cross straps 4, 4' is provided with at 30 least one ring or hook 28 e.g. to hang small items of equipment, themselves fitted with a snap hook or ring. These may be used for example to hang a torch or gloves. Advantageously the ring or hook 28 arranged on the outer 564312 surface of the strap 2, 3 is protected by a protective flap which covers it when not in use, and can easily be folded back when required.

The side straps also have loops so that any equipment 5 hung thereupon can be held flat against the strap so that they do not sway around when the wearer is in movement.

Preferably the carry pack assembly, the over-trousers and the fire-fighting jacket are in a colour which greatly contrasts with the natural environment, so that firefighters 10 are largely visible in the midst of vegetation, e.g. a red, orange-red or yellow colour.

Spaces 29, 29', for example fire-resistant foam pads, are arranged on the inner surface of the side straps 2, 3 preferably substantially at the same level as the first 15 element or elements of pouch type.

The carry pack assembly 1 in figure 1 comprises an evacuation handle 30 which is fixed to a cross-member 31 extending between the two side straps 2, 3 in the upper part of the rear of said pack assembly. This handle 30 could 20 facilitate the transport of an injured firefighter wearing this pack assembly.

The carry pack assembly 1 in figure 1 comprises netting 27 on the rear part which extends between the two side straps 2, 3 in particular from the cross-member if said pack assembly 25 comprises the same. This netting 27 is preferably in open mesh fabric in fire-resistant material e.g. aramid.

The use of the carry pack assembly 1 provides a firefighter with numerous advantages. First it ensure basic functions when fighting wildland fires, namely: 3 0 - hydration, by means of the water reservoir and its drinking tube; - emergency respiratory protection by means of the breathing apparatus; RECEIVED at IPONZ on 22 December 2009 56*1312 - fire-approach heat protection comprising the additional jacket and over-trousers and/or aluminised poncho; - signalling and/or communication by means of the signalling device.

Additionally, it is particularly modular since fire fighters are able to take the elements needed in relation to the mission at hand, its location and time of action, and also since the positioning of said elements can be modified, notably at the front or rear in relation to mission-related constraints.

The term Comprising' as used in this specification means 'consisting at least in part of. When interpreting each statement in this specification that includes the term 'comprising', features other than that or those prefaced by the term may also be present. Related terms such as 'comprise' and 'comprises' are to be interpreted in the same manner. 2*05564__1 doc 21 RECEIVED at IPONZ on 22 December 2009 56*1312

Claims (41)

WHAT WE CLAIM IS:

1. Multi-functional carry pack assembly for firefighters, comprising: a) a carry frame intended to be worn on the torso, and formed of at least two straps of shoulder strap type intended to rest on the shoulders, and at least one cross-strap joined to said shoulder type straps and acting as belt, b) a first element of pouch type fixed or fixable to the carry frame and able to contain at least one water reservoir and a "hands—free" hydration system connected or connectable to said water reservoir, and c) at least one second element of pouch type fixed or fixable onto the carry frame and able to contain a protective, action or survival garment, a protective mask or at least one other accessory, wherein the constituent materials of the frame and elements of pouch type are heat—resistant and fireproof, and wherein each second element of pouch type is provided with a quick-opening system, giving a firefighter direct access to its contents, without requiring removal of the carry frame. 25

2. Pack assembly according to claim 1 wherein the elements of pouch type are fixed onto the frame according to necessary volume, either cross—wise or longitudinally. 22 23055<>4_1 .doc 10 15 RECEIVED at IPONZ on 22 December 2009 56^312

3. Pack assembly according to claim 2, wherein, when fixed cross-wise, the elements of pouch type are fixed simultaneously on the two straps of shoulder strap type. 5

4. Pack assembly according to claim 7, wherein, when fixed longitudinally, the elements of pouch type are fixed on one of said at least two straps of shoulder strap type or on a cross-strap . 10

5. Pack assembly according to any one of claims 2 to A, wherein the first element of pouch type comprises two side extensions and the first element of pouch type is fixed crosswise on the frame, the two side extensions lying in the upper part of the shoulders. 15

6. Pack assembly according to claim 5, wherein the first element of pouch type is fixed on the outer surface of the at least two straps of shoulder strap type, intended to be worn on the upper part of the torso. 20

7. Pack assembly according to claim 5 or 6, wherein said first element is fixed by two fastenings onto the frame intended to rest on the upper part of the back, and wherein one of the fastenings is accessible to the user and is detachable so that 25 said first element can be pivoted towards the front, for filling of the water reservoir.

8. Pack assembly according to any one of claims 5 to 7 wherein the "hands—free" hydration system consist of a drinking 30 tube fixed or fixable directly or via a side extension onto the frame so that its end tip is accessible to the firefighter's mouth. 2305564_l.doc 23 RECEIVED at IPONZ on 22 December 2009 1 564312

9. Pack assembly according to claim 8, wherein the drinking tube is fixed or fixable onto the outer surface of one of said at least two straps of shoulder strap types. 5

10. Pack assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 9 wherein as an accessory the pack assembly further comprises respiratory protection gear comprising a filtering system placed in the first or one of the at least one second element of pouch type, and a connecting tube connecting the filtering system to a 10 connecting end piece.

11. Pack assembly according to claim 10, wherein the filtering system comprises a filtering cartridge. 15

12. Pack assembly according to claim 10 or 11, wherein the end piece comprises a mouth piece or a mask to be applied to the face, either a 'half-mask' or ^quarter-mask' .

13. Pack assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 9, 20 wherein, as an accessory, the pack assembly further comprises respiratory protection gear solely comprising a mask, called an exhalation mask, associated with a filtering cartridge and placed in one of the at least one second element of pouch type. 25

14. Pack assembly according to any one of claims 10 to 13, wherein the filtering system particularly the filtering cartridge is placed sideways in the second element of pouch type.

15. Pack assembly according to claim 14, wherein the air 30 intake is protected by a grating being directed sidewardly. 2305564_l.doc 24 RECEIVED at IPONZ on 22 December 2009 • v 56*312

16. Pack assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the second element of pouch type it contains an item of protective clothing of action gear type consisting of a jacket and over—trousers and/or a survival garment. 5

17. Pack assembly according to claim 16, wherein the survival garment comprises an aluminised poncho.

18. Pack assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 17, 10 wherein the quick—opening system of each second element of pouch type consists of a side access provided with a grasp tab.

19. Pack assembly according to any one of claims 16 to 18, wherein the jacket, the over- trousers and/or survival garment 15 are provided with a grasp tab and are arranged inside the second element of pouch type such that said grasp tab is accessible from the side access and facilitates the removal and even the donning of the jacket, over—trousers and/or survival garment. 20

20. Pack assembly according to claim 19, wherein the survival garment comprises a poncho.

21. Pack assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 20, wherein the inner surface of each of the second elements of pouch 25 type has a protective coating with low friction coefficient.

22. Pack assembly according to claim 21, wherein the protective coating comprises polytetrafluroethylene (PTFE) coating. 2305564_l.doc 25 RECEIVED at IPONZ on 22 December 2009 * " 56®I312

23. Pack assembly according to claim 16 or 17, wherein the over—trousers comprise fastening means so that the over-trousers can be fastened to the frame. 5

24. Pack assembly according to claim 23, wherein the over- trousers can be fastened to the outer surface of the straps.

25. Pack assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 24 further comprising at least one second element of pouch type able 10 to contain, as an accessory, a radio communication apparatus, a topographical map, a compass, rations, or small tooling, said second element of pouch type being fixed or fixable to the frame.

26. Pack assembly according to claim 25, wherein said 15 second element is fixed or fixable to the outer surface of a strap of shoulder strap type or on the outer surface of a cross-strap.

27. Pack assembly according to claim 26, wherein the 20 second element is fixed or fixable to the front of the carry pack assembly.

28. Pack assembly according to any of claims 1 to 27, wherein the first or second element of pouch type, as an 25 accessory, contains a visual and/or sound signalling device.

29. Pack assembly according to claim 28, wherein the visual and/or sound signalling device is connected to the quick-opening system of one or all the second 23U3564_l.doc 26 RECEIVED at IPONZ on 22 December 2009 « c 5ef4312 elements of pouch type containing safety gear and/or to a system releasing the end piece of a respiratory protection device so that the this signalling device is triggered automatically as soon as the quick-opening system is actuated. 5

30. Pack assembly according to claim 28, wherein the visual and/or sound signalling device is associated with a multiple-function trigger and is able to be remotely triggered non—selectively. 10

31. Pack assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 30, wherein the carry frame is provided with at least one ring or hook to hang small equipment items, themselves fitted with a snap hook or ring. 15

32. Pack assembly according to claim 31, wherein at least one of the straps of shoulder strap type or a cross-strap is provided with the at least one ring or hook to hang small equipment items. 20

33. Pack assembly according to claim 31 or 32 wherein, the ring or hook is protected by a protective flap to cover it when not in use and which can be easily lifted when required. 25

34. Pack assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 33, further comprising spacers arranged on the inner surface of the frame.

35. Pack assembly according to claim 34, wherein the 30 spacers comprise fire-resistant foam pads. 2305564_l.doc 27 RECEIVED at IPONZ on 22 December 2009 ** * 58*4312

36. Pack assembly according to claim 34 or claim 35, wherein the spacers are substantially at the same level as the elements of pouch type. 5

37. Pack assembly according to any of claims 1 to 36, wherein the carry frame comprises two side straps of shoulder strap type, and an evacuation handle fixed to a cross-member extending between the two said side straps in the upper part of the rear of said pack assembly. 10

38. Pack assembly according to any of claims 1 to 37, wherein on the rear of the frame, the pack comprises netting which extends between the two straps of shoulder strap type. 15

39. Pack assembly according to claim 38, wherein the netting extends from the cross-member, if said pack assembly is equipped therewith.

40. Pack assembly according to claim 1 and substantially 20 as herein described with reference to any embodiment disclosed.

41. Multi-functional carry pack assembly for firefighters substantially as herein described with reference to any embodiment shown in the accompanying drawings. 2305564_l.doc 28