WO1993014971A1 - Balise de survie strategique - Google Patents

Balise de survie strategique Download PDF

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Publication number
WO1993014971A1
WO1993014971A1 PCT/AU1992/000152 AU9200152W WO9314971A1 WO 1993014971 A1 WO1993014971 A1 WO 1993014971A1 AU 9200152 W AU9200152 W AU 9200152W WO 9314971 A1 WO9314971 A1 WO 9314971A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
power supply
beacon
emitter
hght
light
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/AU1992/000152
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Russell Leslie Mitchell
Original Assignee
Bettaco Pty. Limited
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Bettaco Pty. Limited filed Critical Bettaco Pty. Limited
Publication of WO1993014971A1 publication Critical patent/WO1993014971A1/fr

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Classifications

    • 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
    • B63C9/0005—Life-saving in water by means of alarm devices for persons falling into the water, e.g. by signalling, by controlling the propulsion or manoeuvring means of the boat

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a tactical survival beacon for individual use by
  • the present invention combines a number of features, namely, it is solar-powered, can selectively emit either a flashing visible light or an infrared light signal, and features a novel switching device.
  • beacons used for rescue purposes emit a flashing white light alone or a radio message.
  • a light flashing at a fixed frequency is typically adequate to locate a source from ground level, it creates difficulties in aerial searches. Intermittent fixed light oscillations are not easy to locate from the air and have a tendency to
  • an infrared light beacon is preferred to a white light beacon.
  • Infrared light is invisible to the naked eye. This aids in avoiding detection by persons who are not equipped with night-vision infrared goggles.
  • 25 rescue beacons for military use are adapted to change from white light to infrared light emission. This is typically accomplished by the attachment of an accessory filter.
  • the filter is typically mounted over the light source and converts the frequency of the emitted light to the infrared range. Filters, however, are vulnerable to loss, damage, and accidental detachment. If these events occur, the user's location may be disclosed
  • Radio signals also offer the advantage that they cannot be detected, without special equipment. Radio signals, however, can also be difficult to locate in certain circumstances. Radio signals are particularly vulnerable to degradation at sea, in difficult terrain, or in dense vegetation. Specifically, radio signals may not be effective in any environment where there are numerous obstacles which either reflect or absorb the signal.
  • beacons are powered by replaceable batteries. Batteries must be periodically replaced after use or other loss of charge. If the batteries lose their charge, the beacon is rendered inoperable until fresh batteries can be found and installed. In view of the emergency nature of the use of a beacon, the user would preferably install fresh batteries before each mission or excursion. The batteries must, therefore, be replaced continually, at substantial ongoing cost. Since rescue and tactical operations are commonly carried out in marine environments, there is also a need to ensure that rescue beacons are water resistent. Most beacons achieve limited water resistance through the use of close fitting cases. Certain of the known beacons use gaskets of flexible materials. These attempts to resist water penetration rely upon the casing of the beacon remaining undamaged and leave the beacons vulnerable when dropped below the immediate surface of the water.
  • beacons typically must be opened in order to replace the batteries, thereby, exposing the mechanism to water intrusion and consequent corrosion.
  • beacons are operated by the use of an exposed switch that extends from the surface of the casing of the beacon, for ease of use. In this position, however, the switch is susceptible to damage. The switch also maybe bumped, accidentally engaging the beacon. This results in unnecessary power drain and, in military uses, risks inadvertent disclosure of the subject's position. In addition, most rescue beacons that operate using intermittent flashing lights do not provide an auxiliary light source for reading or signalling.
  • Pagnol, et al. U.S. Patent No.4,759,735 discloses a solar powered marine beacon.
  • Pagnol's beacon has a water-tight caisson with a truncated conical shape.
  • a light beacon is situated on its top portion, and solar cells line the upper portion of the caisson.
  • Pagnol's beacon emits one frequency of radiation, visible light, and is designed for permanent placement at a particular location.
  • Pagnol discloses that the beacon could be used to mark a runway, and that the beacon's shape may help prevent debris from settling on the solar cells.
  • Linehan et al. (U.S. Patent 4,772,990), discloses a warning light blinker for road hazards which may be powered by either a conventional chemical battery or by solar rechargeable batteries. Linehan also discloses that its shape allows for rapid drainage of rainwater to enhance its solar collection efficiency.
  • None of the known references teach or suggest a portable, rechargeable battery- operated beacon system that is able to accept a charge from an alternate power source, and includes the other unique features of the present invention. These include the unique switching element of the present invention, the technique of sealing the electrical components of the device to improve resilience and reliability, and the ability to emit a beacon signal at infrared wavelengths as well as using visible light as a signal means. Finally, different rescue situations call for varying rescue methods. A rescue beacon with a single or limited range of rescue signals may prove inadequate for other applications.. It is therefore desirable to develop a beacon that overcomes the disadvantages of the known beacons and provides a reliable, flexible tactical survival beacon, for various uses. In particular, such a beacon should be light weight, portable, easy to use, reliable, and durable.
  • Another object of the present invention is to provide a light weight, portable tactical survival beacon. Another object of the present invention is to provide a tactical survival beacon that is reliable and durable and is adapted for rugged use, particularly in military and' rescue conditions, in remote and inaccessible locations.
  • a further object of the present invention is to provide a tactical survival beacon that is adapted to emit a signal at more than one frequency, namely at infrared wavelengths as well as in visible light frequencies, without the use of filters.
  • An additional object of the present invention is to provide a tactical survival beacon that is adapted so that the power source is rechargeable in field conditions, namely through the use of solar cells or other appropriate technology.
  • Another object of the present invention is to provide a tactical survival beacon that is adapted so that the power source is rechargeable by conventional recharging methods, namely connection to a power grid or to a vehicle adaptor.
  • Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a tactical survival beacon having the capacity to produce electromagnetic emissions of various types and flashing frequencies, and, in certain embodiments, the emission of radio signals inter alia for satellite communication.
  • a further object of the present invention is to provide a tactical survival beacon containing a light for reading, and in certain embodiments for signalling purposes.
  • Another object of the present invention is to provide a tactical survival beacon that is adapted for use in harsh environments, including, underwater use, and exposure to salt water, grit, sand, and other environmental insults.
  • An additional object of the invention to provide a beacon which is durable and water resistent.
  • the invention is a portable device, for emitting a beacon of electromagnetic radiation, comprising: emitter means for emitting electromagnetic radiation at first and second frequency ranges; wherein said second frequency range is substantially different than said first frequency range; emitter selection means, for switching said emitter means between said first and second frequency ranges; power supply means, electrically connected to said emitter means, for supplying electrical power to said emitter means; switch means, electrically connected with said emitter means and said power supply means, for controlling the flow of electric power from said power supply means to said emitter means; recharging means, for recharging said power supply means; casing means for protecting said emitter, power supply, modulation and switching means; and wherein said casing means further comprises a first surface.
  • the present invention is a beacon means for emitting electromagnetic radiation, comprising a rechargeable power supply means; a solar collecting means for recharging said rechargeable power means by collecting light and converting the light energy into electricity; an infrared light means powered by the rechargeable power means; a visible light means powered by the rechargeable power means; and a light changeover means for controlling the type of light to be emitted from the beacon means by directing the path of the electrical current from the rechargeable power means between the visible light means and the infrared light means.
  • This beacon provides variable light signals from a re-chargeable power source, whereby the reliability of the beacon in the field is increased.
  • the user is able to select between a high intensity white light, or an invisible infrared light to avoid unintentional detection.
  • the present invention provides improved safety and reliability without sacrificing a compact size or light weight.
  • This invention contains a recessed solar radiation light collection panel which is internally linked to rechargeable batteries located wholly within the beacon.
  • the invention will not run out of power while a suitable re-charging light source is accessible, thereby reducing the likelihood that the user will be without a working beacon. It is no longer necessary for the user to constantly replace expensive batteries.
  • the present invention improves safety while reducing operating costs.
  • the base of the beacon contains a direct current charging port which is internally linked to re-chargeable batteries located wholly within the invention.
  • This feature permits the invention's batteries to be re-charged in situations where there is insufficient light to permit re-charging of the internal batteries through the solar radiation panel.
  • This port also serves to permit the invention to utilize power directly from a secondary direct current source to permit the beacon to function even when its internal power source is uncharged. The invention will continue operating while an external power source is connected via this port.
  • the invention can operate when connected via an adaptor to alternating current mains.
  • the invention can also operate when connected to the electrical output of generators, motors, vehicle, planes and other vessels.
  • the base of the invention contains a recessed switch that, when can select between the visible white light and an alternative infrared light.
  • the variability of electromagnetic emissions is a marked advantage over the existing technology by providing all the benefits of each type of emission. The user no longer has to rely solely upon a single type of signal emission to come to the notice of a prospective rescuer.
  • the infrared light emission option is particularly advantageous in military uses, as well as in situations where there are competing white light sources.
  • the fact that the alternate Hght emission can be selected without the need to add attachment lenses to the invention guards against the risk of accidental loss, damage or detachment of such attachment lenses, thereby overcoming a major deficiency in the prior technology.
  • an option of emitting radio signals could be included to permit the subject to be located at a far greater range than would otherwise be possible through the emission of the various forms of light.
  • the base of the invention also includes a switch for activating the emission of light for reading purposes.
  • This reading light is of a low intensity. In certain embodiments it may also be used for signalling purposes.
  • the reading light is of sufficient illumination to permit reading, but it is colored and muted so as to not disclose the subject's position in military situations.
  • this button is activated while the beacon is emitting the flashing white light signal, the frequency of the light is altered to an accelerated "strobe" type frequency.
  • This fast strobe facilitates improved visibility of the signal, especially from an elevated or aerial view. Without this option searchers from planes, helicopters or other elevated platforms may be disorientated by the other emissions and rendered less able to accurately locate the subject.
  • the reading light is automatically illuminated to signal that the invention is operation. This helps prevent the user from accidentally draining the batteries by leaving the beacon operating with these invisible infrared emissions being released.
  • the invention is protected against water intrusion and consequent corrosion by several safety design features.
  • the external casing, fittings, switches and lenses are constructed of materials which are resistent to accidental damage, excessive wear in ordinary use and against environmental factors including solar radiation and water damage.
  • the general operations switch which activates the beacon is located in a recess in the bacon's body to prevent accidental activation.
  • the interior of the invention is filled in with a hardened encapsulating medium so as to prevent any water which may enter the invention from coming into contact with vulnerable components.
  • This improves the strength and ruggedness of the invention, as well as providing improved water resistance and vibration resistance. It permits the invention to operate even when immersed beneath the surface of water and ensures that the risk of failure of the invention through the effects of corrosion is minimized.
  • Fig. 1 is an oblique, perspective view of a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • Fig. 2 is a plan view of the top of the beacon shown in Fig. 1.
  • Fig. 3 is a front elevation view of the beacon shown in Fig. 1.
  • Fig. 4 is a side view of the beacon shown in Fig. 1.
  • Fig. 5 is a plan view of the bottom end of the beacon shown in Fig. 1.
  • Fig. 6 is a rear elevation view of the beacon shown in Fig 4.
  • Fig. 7 is a side view of the opposite side of the beacon shown in Fig. 4.
  • Fig. 8 is a simplified schematic diagram showing the circuit of the preferred embodiment of the invention.
  • Fig.9 is a circuit diagram of a preferred embodiment of the circuit of the present invention.
  • FIG. 1 A preferred embodiment of the personal survival beacon of the present invention is shown in Fig. 1 as 10.
  • the beacon of the present invention comprises casing means 130, emitter means 20, emitter frequency control means 50, switch means 70, and power supply means 80, and recharging means 90.
  • emitter means 20 can be any source capable of emitting electromagnetic radiation at two substantially different, discrete frequencies.
  • emitter means 20 further comprises discrete first and second emitter means, 30 and 40, respectively.
  • first and second emitter means, 30 and 40 respectively.
  • beacon 10 comprises two discrete emitters, first and second emitter means 30 and 40, respectively.
  • first and second emitter means 30 and 40 are preferably adapted to emit electromagnetic radiation at a preset frequency or in a preset range of frequencies. Preferably, these first and second frequencies are substantially different.
  • one of first or second emitters is adapted to emit visible light, the other infrared.
  • the visible light emitter is preferably a Xenon flash tube 30.
  • the Xenon light should preferably have a hght output of 20,000 Candellas. This emitter should have a visible range of approximately 3 kilometers, in clear weather.
  • the infra-red light emissions are preferably transmitted from a pair of light emitting diodes 40.
  • the range of the infrared light signal is optimally 1,000 meters in clear weather.
  • the beacon 10 of the present invention further comprises lens 180.
  • Lens 180 is preferably disposed over emitter means 20 or, alternatively, first and second emitter means 30 and 40, as shown in Figs. 1 and 2. Both the infrared light emitting diode and the Xenon tube are sealed beneath lens 180 to prevent the intrusion of water, dust, grit, or other environmental insult.
  • the emitter 20 of the present invention can be tunable to different frequencies.
  • it can be adapted to emit radiation only at present ranges of frequencies.
  • these preset ranges can constitute or include portions of the electromagnetic spectrum other than visible or infrared light.
  • emitter 20 of the present invention can be adapted to emit radiation at radio frequency ranges or at microwave frequencies, or at any other useful range of the electromagnetic spectrum.
  • the modifications to the preferred frequencies of emitter are limited only by the availability and effectiveness of detection equipment capable of locating the beacon.
  • the present invention cover the modifications and variations of the invention provided they come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.
  • power supply means 80 is preferably rechargeable batteries.
  • the batteries are nickel- cadmium (Ni-Cad) batteries, of the known type.
  • power supply 80 is rechargeable.
  • beacon 10 further comprises recharging means 90.
  • beacon 10 is adapted by recharging means 90 to accept power from a variety of alternative sources, extending the useful life of power supply means 80, and beacon 10, in difficult service condition. For example, recharging means 90 increases the useful life of beacon 10 under circumstances where replacement batteries are unavailable or resources to recharge the power supply means are limited.
  • recharging means 90 comprises solar cells 100.
  • solar cell 100 enables the operator to recharge the beacon 10 during daylight, in order to restore the operation of the beacon for additional charging cycles, if the beacon is needed for extended periods of time or under service conditions where power supply means 80 has lost charge.
  • solar panel 100 collects and converts various forms of ambient light energy into electricity.
  • Solar cell 100 is connected electrically to the electrical circuit board contained within the invention by positive and negative leads which deliver current through a diode, through the circuit board, and to rechargeable batteries 80.
  • Solar panel 100 collects light and converts it into electric power without need for external sources of power, for priming, switching or ignition, and will operate automatically wherever sufficient light falls upon panel 100.
  • beacon 10 further comprises charging port 110, and power converter 120 connected to external power source 240.
  • charging port 110 is preferably adapted to accept power from various sources, through power converter 120.
  • Power converter 120 is a typical power converter of known type and can include converters adapted to connect with standard electrical grid circuits, vehicle electrical systems, or any other appropriate source of external power supply sufficient to supply levels of power adequate to recharge power supply means 80.
  • charging port 110 is preferably disposed in base 170 of casing 130 of the beacon of the present invention.
  • charging port 110 is a standard female electrical fitting of known type, adapted to receive a male lead from a power converter of known construction.
  • charging port 110 is mounted on circuit board 85 and is connected electrically to power supply means 80 via a diode.
  • the other end of charging port 110 is disposed in an aperture formed in base 170 of casing 130 and extends until it is flush with other outer surface 170 of casing 130.
  • beacon 10 can continue operating while power supply means 80 is being recharged by recharging means 90.
  • the beacon can continue to operate normally as long as power supply 80 has sufficient power.
  • the outside power source is a 12 volt DC power supply, such as an electrical adapter of the type used to connect to an automobile electrical system.
  • casing 130 contains power supply means 80, as well as the electronic control circuitry for the beacon.
  • Casing 130 is preferably formed from a durable polymer, such as a ABS plastic or polypropylene, which is resistent to ultra-violet (UV) light.
  • casing 130 further comprises: first and second surfaces 140 and 150, respectively; substantially transparent solar cell shield 145; top and bottom surfaces 160 and 170, respectively; and first and second side surfaces 190 and 200, respectively.
  • Beacon 10 preferably further comprises filter or lens 180 adapted to fit securely over top surface 160 of casing 130 in order to protect emitter 20 from environmental insult.
  • both the white light and infrared emitters 30 and 40 are disposed behind lens 180.
  • casing 130 has a substantially rectangular apertures formed therein for mounting solar cell 100.
  • Solar panel 100 is disposed into first face 140 of casing 130. In this position, solar cell 100 is substantially flat, so that it can present a maximum surface area to incident solar radiation when recharging.
  • Solar panel 100 is protected by a clear fixed shield 145 constructed of durable materials which are not vulnerable to shattering or undue weathering.
  • shield 145 is UV- resistant plastic.
  • Filter or lens 180, and shield 145 preferably allow the electromagnetic emissions from emitter 20 to pass through relatively unobstructed, while protecting emitter 20 against mechanical damage and environmental insult.
  • Lens 180 is preferably is constructed of materials which will not substantially impair the transmission of electromagnetic radiation at the frequencies at which emitter 20 is adapted to emit signals.
  • Lens 180 is constructed of materials which are sufficiently rugged to protect the top of the invention and light emitting sources located in this section from accidental damage.
  • lens 180 comprises UV-resistent acrylic.
  • lens 180 and shield 145 are preferably fixed to casing 130 in a manner sufficient to resist being dislodged in use.
  • the joints where filter 180 and casing 130, and shield 145 and casing 130 abut are sealed with an appropriate sealant 230.
  • sealant 230 can be any appropriate sealant that possesses sufficient durability and resiliency to withstand rugged use and resist the pressures encountered by beacon 10 in use.
  • beacon 10 further comprises encapsulant 250.
  • the internal components of the beacon such as the electronic components and power supply 80 are preferably coated and sealed in resin.
  • Encapsulant 250 can be any suitable material, that provides a rugged shock resistant covering in order to protect the internal components of beacon 10 from water, sand, grit, dust, and other forms of environmental insult. It is also preferred that the electronic control circuitry be contained on a single circuit board.
  • beacon 10 further comprises switch means 70, as shown in Fig. 4.
  • switch 70 comprises a molded control lever 70 mounted on side 190 of casing 130 by means of an internally mounted retaining screw 72 fitted with an accompanying gasket 240, to retain the environmental integrity of beacon 10.
  • switch 70 is recessed in side 190 in order to prevent accidental ignition of beacon 10.
  • casing 130 further comprises an irregular-shaped indented region formed in side 190 thereof, adapted to receive switch 70 and to facilitate the rotational motion of switch 70 about its axis.
  • switch 70 further comprises control lever 71, retainer 72, first surface 73, second surface 74, third surface 75, cam 76, and micro-switch 78.
  • side 190 of casing 130 further comprises recess 192 formed therein for cooperating with control lever 71, and stop 194 comprising one wall of recess 192 for cooperating with third surface 175 of control lever 71 to limit the rotational movement of control lever 71.
  • First surface 73 of control lever 71 is preferably disposed toward the beacon 10, abutting the interior of recess 192.
  • first and second surfaces 73 and 74 of control lever 71 are substantially flat and are disposed on opposite sides of control lever 71.
  • third surface 75 comprises the leading edge of control lever 71 as control lever 71 is rotated about its retainer 72 when actuated.
  • cam 76 is disposed from first surface 73 of control lever 71, distally from the plane of first surface 73 and extending into casing 130.
  • cam 76 cooperates with internal micro switch 78 disposed on circuit board 85, which, in turn, actuates power supply means 80.
  • switch 70 is actuated by rotating control lever 71 about retainer 72 in an anti-clockwise direction until third surface 75 contacts stop 194 preventing further travel of control lever 71. This motion brings cam 76 into contact with micro switch 78 and allows electrical power to flow from power supply 80 to emitter selection means 50.
  • beacon 10 comprises emitter control means 50.
  • emitter control means is a tunable control circuit means modifying the frequency of emitted radiation from emitter 20 or switches beacon 10 from supplying power to one or the other of first end second emitter means 30 and 40.
  • emitted control means is a bistable switch of the type known in the art.
  • switch 70 when switch 70 is actuated, depending on the setting of emitter control switch 50, power is supplied to one or the other of the emitters resulting in either white light or infrared light being emitted from beacon 10.
  • emitter control means 50 is switched to the second position, power is diverted to the other emitter, changing the output of the beacon from white light to infrared, or visa versa.
  • emitter control means 50 is disposed in bottom 170 of casing 130.
  • bottom 170 of casing 130 has an aperture formed therein for receiving emitter control means 50.
  • Emitter control means 50 is disposed in the aperture formed in bottom 170 and sealed with sealant means 240.
  • emitter control means 50 is preferably disposed located in a recess formed in base 170, as shown in Fig. 5, so that the distal end of emitter control switch 50 does not protrude beyond the surface 170 of bottom of casing 130, yet, is readily accessible to the user.
  • emitter control switch 50 is disposed on circuit board 85, with the distal end of switch 50 protruding through the corresponding aperture in base 170 as described above.
  • beacon 10 further comprises modulation means 60, reading light 210, and reading light selector means 220.
  • casing 130 preferably has a plurality of recess and apertures formed therein, adapted to receive solar panel 100, emitter 20, switch 70, emitter selection means 50, modulation means 60, reading light 210, and reading light selector means 220.
  • map reading light 210 is disposed in a recess formed in base 170 of casing 130.
  • Map reading light 210 is preferably in the form of a small, relatively low-power, globe lamp.
  • map hght 210 is activated by switch 220 located in a recess formed in base 170 of casing 130 adjoining map light 210, as shown in Fig. 5.
  • map light 210 is a green light emitting diode.
  • Electrical micro switch 220 which controls map reading light 210 is disposed on circuit board 85 and is accessible through the recess formed in base 170 of beacon 10, .as described above.
  • map light switch 220 is preferably covered by a flexible rubber cover, of the type known in the field.
  • map light switch 220 is adapted to function as a modulation control means 60.
  • map reading light switch 220 is adapted to divert electrical power to modulation control means 60.
  • the operation of modulation control means is dependent on the setting of emitter selection means 50.
  • xenon strobe 30 preferably is adapted to operate at two discrete patterns of emission.
  • xenon strobe is adapted to operate at a relatively low frequency pattern sufficient for locating the source generally at long distances, and at a relatively high frequency pattern, which is helpful in locating the source more precisely at shorter distances.
  • the faster xenon strobe pattern is typically appropriate when the beacon is being used at short range in order to reduce parallax error in locating the beacon.
  • map light 210 would typically not be needed when using the fast flash mode. This allows the map light 220 to double as the modulator switch 60 of the present invention, simplifying the operation of the beacon and increasing its reliability by reducing the number of moving parts.
  • map light switch 220 when emitter selection means 50 is set to emit radiation at infrared frequencies, map light switch 220 continues to function to deliver current to map light 210, while map light switch 220 is depressed.
  • emitter selection means 50 when emitter selection means 50 is set to supply power to the xenon flash tube 30, however, emitter selection means 60 alters the current flow as shown in Figs. 8 and 9 to alter the function of map light switch 220. In this xenon flash setting, if map light switch 220 is depressed and held while xenon beacon 30 is engaged, map switch 220 is adapted to divert current to modulator means 60.
  • beacon 10 comprises two timing circuits.
  • a first timing circuit controls the timing of the xenon strobe providing a relatively low frequency strobe, for long-distance location.
  • modulator means 60 When modulator means 60 is engaged, however, control of the timing of xenon strobe 30 is diverted to a second timing circuit ⁇ as shown in Figs. 8 and 9, providing a relatively higher frequency strobe timing, for short distance location.
  • beacon 10 also comprises a signalling circuit to provide feed back to the operator that the unit is engaged and operating at infrared, or any other non-visible light, wavelength.
  • Map light 210 is preferably engaged, as shown in Figs. 8 arid 9, to signal that beacon 10 is engaged at a non-visible frequency.
  • map reading light 210 will automatically light to signal that the circuit is engaged.
  • the reading light 210 preferably serves multiple functions, as an operational indicator.
  • a preferred embodiment of a beacon of the present invention is illustrated schematically, through a simplified block diagram, in Fig. 8.
  • Power is supplied, either by battery supply 80, solar panel 100, or an alternate exterior power source 120.
  • Switch 70 delivers power to either the visible light source 30 or the infrared light source 40, depending on the position the emitter selection means 50.
  • Map reading light switch is connected in parallel to switch 70, so that map light 210 can operate independently of switch 70.
  • Map light 210 can be activated by either engaging switch 220, by setting emitter selection means 50 to infrared mode, or by recharging the power supply 80.
  • map light switch 220 will cause the light to flash at an accelerated frequency while switch 220 is engaged.
  • beacon 10 of the present invention is adapted to emit radio signals.
  • infrared light source 40 can be replaced by a radio signal source. Both are suitable to help avoid detection by unauthorized personnel, since neither is visible to the naked eye, and both require special equipment to detect them.
  • the operation of the beacon is unchanged except that a radio signal is emitted instead of a infrared signal.
  • Additional embodiments of the beacon of the present invention may include additional switches and an antennae to enhance the transmission of radio signals.
  • beacon 10 further comprises a lanyard.
  • casing 130 has a recess formed therein, and a clip of known type mounted in the recess.
  • Alanyard of the type commonly used forvarious types of personal equipment can be attached to clip to enhance the ease of use, and secure beacon 10 in adverse environmental conditions.
  • a clip is attached to these indentations to facilitate the attachment of a safety cord.

Abstract

Balise de sauvetage stratégique et compact (10) comprenant une source de puissance rechargeable (80), une source de lumière infrarouge (40), une source de lumière blanche (30) à fréquences de clignotement variables, ainsi qu'un interrupteur de puissance sûr (70) incorporé dans le corps durable, et résistant à l'eau (130), de la balise afin de lui conférer une sécurité et une fiabilité améliorées. La balise (10) peut émettre sélectivement soit une lumière blanche clignotante soit une lumière infrarouge pulsante. La fréquence de la lumière blanche peut varier entre une lumière à impulsions clignotant rapidement ou lentement. La source de puissance de la balise est un ensemble de batteries rechargeables (80). Celles-ci peuvent être rechargées par un panneau solaire (100) incorporé dans le corps de la balise. Les batteries peuvent également être chargées à partir d'une source directe de courant, telle qu'une prise murale ou une batterie de voiture, par l'intermédiaire d'un orifice de recharge incorporé (110) dans la base du dispositif. Celui-ci comprend également une lampe (210) de lecture ou destinée à une carte. L'interrupteur (70) de la balise est situé dans un évidement pratiqué dans le corps (130) de cette dernière afin d'éviter tout actionnement accidentel. Des sources d'hyperfréquence et de radiofréquence facultatives sont également décrites.
PCT/AU1992/000152 1992-01-23 1992-04-08 Balise de survie strategique WO1993014971A1 (fr)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
AUPL0538 1992-01-23
AUPL053892 1992-01-23

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WO1993014971A1 true WO1993014971A1 (fr) 1993-08-05

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Cited By (13)

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US5536191A (en) * 1995-05-31 1996-07-16 Lin; Pi-Hsiang Life-saving assistance drive
WO2000023813A1 (fr) * 1998-10-19 2000-04-27 Sea Marshall Rescue Systems, Ltd. (Usa) Perfectionnements apportes et ayant trait a des emetteurs
US6183328B1 (en) 1999-01-05 2001-02-06 Sea Marshall Rescue Systems, Ltd. (Usa) Radio beacon that uses a light emitter as an antenna
GB2358240A (en) * 2000-01-17 2001-07-18 Lap Electrical Ltd Beacon lamp with plural flashing rates
WO2001062587A1 (fr) * 2000-02-25 2001-08-30 David Marshall Rescue Concepts Llc Perfectionnements portant sur des emetteurs specifiquement destines a des applications sous-marines
FR2832489A1 (fr) * 2001-11-16 2003-05-23 Daniel Christian Chanselme Lampe/balise de detresse miniature etanche et flottante
USRE38475E1 (en) * 1998-01-06 2004-03-23 David Marshall Rescue Concepts, LLC Radio beacon that uses a light emitter as an antenna
WO2008048768A1 (fr) * 2006-10-17 2008-04-24 The Coleman Company, Inc. Dispositif de flottaison individuel avec lumière activée par l'eau
GB2457313A (en) * 2008-02-11 2009-08-12 Combat Lighting Ltd Processor controlled identifying light
EP2172703A1 (fr) * 2008-10-03 2010-04-07 J & H ApS Dispositif d'éclairage d'urgence pour environnements marins
US7997753B2 (en) * 2009-03-19 2011-08-16 Phillip Walesa Dual mode portable lighting system
CN104176210A (zh) * 2014-06-10 2014-12-03 集美大学 一种海上多功能移动救援装置
CN112706905A (zh) * 2020-12-29 2021-04-27 浙江天衡五维电子科技有限公司 紫外立体光源信标

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GB567334A (en) * 1942-07-10 1945-02-08 Bendix Aviat Corp Improvements in or relating to emergency transmitters
GB1114089A (en) * 1966-11-09 1968-05-15 Isaburo Takeyasu Improvements relating to radio buoys
FR2583371A1 (fr) * 1985-06-14 1986-12-19 Ratti Claude Balise de detresse
WO1987002848A1 (fr) * 1985-10-24 1987-05-07 General Electric Company Module d'accumulateur pour radio portative avec commutateur marche-arret

Cited By (18)

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US5536191A (en) * 1995-05-31 1996-07-16 Lin; Pi-Hsiang Life-saving assistance drive
USRE38475E1 (en) * 1998-01-06 2004-03-23 David Marshall Rescue Concepts, LLC Radio beacon that uses a light emitter as an antenna
WO2000023813A1 (fr) * 1998-10-19 2000-04-27 Sea Marshall Rescue Systems, Ltd. (Usa) Perfectionnements apportes et ayant trait a des emetteurs
US6183328B1 (en) 1999-01-05 2001-02-06 Sea Marshall Rescue Systems, Ltd. (Usa) Radio beacon that uses a light emitter as an antenna
GB2358240B (en) * 2000-01-17 2003-09-10 Lap Electrical Ltd Beacon lamps
GB2358240A (en) * 2000-01-17 2001-07-18 Lap Electrical Ltd Beacon lamp with plural flashing rates
GB2376210B (en) * 2000-02-25 2003-10-15 David Marshall Rescue Concepts Improvements in and relating to emitters specifically for sub-sea applications
GB2376210A (en) * 2000-02-25 2002-12-11 David Marshall Rescue Concepts Improvements in and relating to emitters specifically for sub-sea applications
WO2001062587A1 (fr) * 2000-02-25 2001-08-30 David Marshall Rescue Concepts Llc Perfectionnements portant sur des emetteurs specifiquement destines a des applications sous-marines
FR2832489A1 (fr) * 2001-11-16 2003-05-23 Daniel Christian Chanselme Lampe/balise de detresse miniature etanche et flottante
WO2008048768A1 (fr) * 2006-10-17 2008-04-24 The Coleman Company, Inc. Dispositif de flottaison individuel avec lumière activée par l'eau
GB2457313A (en) * 2008-02-11 2009-08-12 Combat Lighting Ltd Processor controlled identifying light
EP2172703A1 (fr) * 2008-10-03 2010-04-07 J & H ApS Dispositif d'éclairage d'urgence pour environnements marins
WO2010037842A1 (fr) * 2008-10-03 2010-04-08 J & H Aps Dispositif d’éclairage d’urgence pour environnements marins
US8702256B2 (en) 2008-10-03 2014-04-22 Alcares Aps Emergency light device for marine environments
US7997753B2 (en) * 2009-03-19 2011-08-16 Phillip Walesa Dual mode portable lighting system
CN104176210A (zh) * 2014-06-10 2014-12-03 集美大学 一种海上多功能移动救援装置
CN112706905A (zh) * 2020-12-29 2021-04-27 浙江天衡五维电子科技有限公司 紫外立体光源信标

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