WO1998013255A1

WO1998013255A1 - Safety device

Info

Publication number: WO1998013255A1
Application number: PCT/EP1997/005275
Authority: WO
Inventors: Bernd Redmer
Original assignee: S. Redmer Consulting
Priority date: 1996-09-25
Filing date: 1997-09-25
Publication date: 1998-04-02
Also published as: AU4557597A; DE19639394C2; DE19639394A1

Abstract

A safety device, preferably for divers dwelling under water, has at least one buoyancy body (2) that can be filled with a fluid for generating an ascending force, and at least one inlet valve (3) that allows a fluid to flow into the buoyancy body (2) when it is open and prevents the fluid from flowing into the buoyancy body (2) when it is closed. A controller (17) controls the opening and closing of the inlet valve (3) and at least one state parameter signal generator (27) generates at least one state parameter signal depending on at least one state parameter and supplies it to the controller. At least one outlet valve (6) allows a fluid to flow out of the buoyancy body when it is open and prevents the fluid from flowing out of the buoyancy body when it is closed. In order to improve such safety device, the controller (17) can control the opening and closing of the outlet valve (6) and a predetermined ascending force of the buoyancy body can be generated by alternatively opening and closing the inlet valve (3) and outlet valve (6) by means of the controller (17) depending on at least one state parameter signal.

Description

Safety device

The invention relates to a safety device, preferably for divers staying below the water surface, with at least one Auftπebskorper which can be filled with a fluid and with which buoyancy can be generated by filling with the fluid, and with at least one inlet valve through which fluid is in an open state flows into the buoyancy body and which, in the closed state, prevents the fluid from flowing into the buoyancy body, and with a control device for controlling the opening and closing of the relief valve, and with at least one state quantity signal generator, with which at least one state quantity signal can be generated as a function of at least one state quantity, which can be supplied to the control device, and at least one outlet valve, through which fluid flows out of the buoyancy body in an open state and which prevents the fluid from flowing out of the buoyancy body in the closed state changes, wherein the opening and closing of the exhaust valve is controllable by the control device and by mutually opening and closing the intake and exhaust valve by the control device in dependence on at least one state variable signal, a predetermined buoyancy of the opening body can be generated

Such a device is already known from DE 41 25 407. The device described there can monitor a diving process and initiate a surfacing process if the diving time exceeds a limit, the pressure exceeds a maximum permissible value, falls below the minimum cylinder pressure value and the amount of the Sιnkrate exceeds / falls below the limit values

The decisive disadvantage of DE 41 25407 then is that only this diving data is intended and the device cannot initiate a rescue operation if the diver's health problems suddenly appear

US Pat. No. 5,496,136 also describes a device according to the preamble of claim 1, which is used exclusively for the control of buoyancy of divers and also Carrying out an automatic ascent taking decompression stops into account. A disadvantage of the device as described in US Pat. No. 5,496,136 is that it is fundamentally not intended to carry out emergency ascents

A device according to the preamble of claim 1 is also known from DE 42 00 090. It is also provided here that a predetermined buoyancy is generated in order to tare the diver. In addition, if the permissible diving time is exceeded, the air volume is insufficient and health problems are to be announced a rescue operation is automatically initiated by the diver. However, it is not apparent from DE 42 00 090 how and with the aid of which condition-sized criteria for triggering the rescue operation can be monitored

Finally, EP 0 193 546 also describes a device according to the preamble mentioned at the outset. The device shown there serves mainly to determine the amount of gas and gas composition dissolved in the tissue during a diving process. The device can initiate an automatic ascent, taking decompression stops into account, if according to the previously specified one Instructions an anomaly is determined or a corresponding instruction is given on-site in intentional manner. A sensor is provided in EP 0 193 546 as an ambient temperature sensor, an ambient pressure meter and a measuring device for recording physical activity. Physical activity is determined from the consumption of breathing air , which in turn results from the speed of the pressure drop of the diving bottle

A disadvantage of the teaching of EP 0 193 546 is that the consumption of breathing air results only indirectly via a pressure and a temperature measurement. In order to be able to differentiate between hyperventilation and shallow breathing with sufficient accuracy in the case of rapid breathing, pressure transducers must be used which have small pressure differences how they occur when emptying the bottle by one breath, and still have a pressure measurement range from the pressure of an almost empty bottle to that of a full bottle.In addition, the pressure transducers in question must be able to temporally resolve individual breaths. Such pressure transducers are expensive In addition, the inhaled volume from the pressure drop to be calculated via temperature This is a very complex and imprecise process

In view of the prior art, it is an object of the invention to provide an integrated buoyancy and safety device for divers, which, in contrast to known devices, is capable of recognizing the diver's health problems and then triggering an automatic and controlled surfacing process the physiological characteristic value, which serves as a trigger, can be determined as directly and error-free as possible and with a minimum of measurement and calculation effort

According to the invention, this object is achieved in that the safety device mentioned at the outset is characterized in that

the state variable signal generator has at least one flow quantity measuring device on the hose for breathing air and at least one state variable signal can be generated by the state variable signal generator which is representative of the flow quantity of a breathing fluid of the diver

This solution is simple and allows the implementation of an effective safety device, through which the buoyancy function and rescue function based on physiological parameters and dive data can be integrated into a single diving system. The direct monitoring of the diver's breathing flow contributes significantly to an increase in the safety of the system, as no more indirect bottle pressure measurements have to be taken back in order to monitor the breathing activity of the diver. In addition, the invention is less prone to errors than the known safety devices, since the measurement of the breathing activity or the respiratory flow makes it possible to detect leaks in the breathing system

According to an advantageous development of the invention, a rescue operation can be carried out with the control device, in which a predetermined, preferably maximum, ascent rate can be maintained by the buoyancy. This allows the ascent rate to be optimized. In contrast to conventional safety devices, the safety device according to the invention allows the rate of ascent to be equal to or almost the maximum permissible rate of ascent, so that the emergency ascent can take place as quickly as possible without risk of damage to health In a further embodiment of the invention, the buoyancy can be controlled with the control device in such a way that an essentially constant diving depth of the diver can be maintained. This prevents the diver from diving below a predetermined maximum diving depth. It is also possible to effectively prevent the diver from being accidentally penetrates into dangerous depths

According to an advantageous further development of the invention, the state variable signal generator can have at least one ambient pressure sensor and can be generated by the state variable signal generator at least one state variable signal that is representative of the ambient pressure of the diver's environment as a state variable. This allows control of an inlet and an outlet valve, for example depending on the Diving depth is carried out. State-of-the-art signals can always be generated, or only if, for example, a predetermined depth has been reached

It can also prove to be advantageous if the

State variable signal generator, which has an ambient pressure sensor, at least two temporally spaced state variable signals can be generated in order to determine an ascent rate. Then the ambient pressure sensor can be used to determine the respective lift rate and to control the inlet and outlet valve accordingly, for example in order to determine the maximum Ascent rate not to be exceeded

In an advantageous development, it can prove to be advantageous if the state variable signal generator, which has an ambient pressure sensor, can perform a rescue operation if the control falls below a specified maximum diving depth, preferably 35 meters.This enables a diver to be quickly transported out of a danger zone

In addition, it can prove to be beneficial if you have one

State variable signal generator, which has an ambient pressure sensor, if a predetermined time period within which a constant ambient pressure prevails, preferably 5 minutes, by means of which the control device can perform a rescue operation if over a predetermined period of time If the ambient pressure is constant, this can be understood as the diver's immobility. A diver who is unable to move can be required by the safety device in the event of an emergency ascent to the water surface

It can also be advantageous if the state variable signal generator has at least one time measuring device, and at least one state variable signal can be generated with the state variable signal generator, that the expiry of a specified period of time is a state variable, preferably the maximum dive duration.This ensures that a diver which exceeds the maximum possible dive duration, e.g. is requested to a shallow dive depth, where the maximum dive duration specified by a breathing fluid supply carried along is extended

It can also be an advantage if a rescue procedure can be carried out after the period of time has passed.This ensures that, for example, a diver whose breathing fluid supply is no longer sufficient to emerge is brought to the surface by an emergency ascent.This also improves the safety of the Divers greatly increased

According to an advantageous further development of the invention, the condition size signal generator can generate at least one condition size signal that is representative of the pressure difference of a diver's breathing fluid after a first pressure reduction stage. This makes it possible to act on the control based on the pressure difference and to trigger either a rescue process or a taring process the state variable signal representative of the pressure difference after the first pressure reduction stage, the safety device can also react to faults in the first pressure reduction stage, such as icing

It can be an advantage if the state variable signal generator, which has a flow measurement device, is used by the control device to carry out a rescue process and / or a pressure measurement of the first pressure reduction stage if the flow rate has exceeded a predetermined value or if a continuous outflow through the flow measurement device is detected This can mean, for example, that most of the breathing fluid carried has already been used up, or that the regulator is frozen and the diver can get to it as quickly as possible The surface to be transported is also a significant increase in the safety of the diver

It can also prove to be beneficial if the

State quantity signal generator, which has a flow quantity measuring device, if there is no flow of breathing fluid through the flow quantity measuring device for a predetermined period of time by the control device, a rescue process can be carried out. This makes it possible to trigger a rescue process if, for example, the diver has not breathed for a certain period of time Such divers can be unconscious, for example. This ensures that an unconscious diver can also be carried to the surface

It can also prove to be advantageous if the state variable signal generator has at least one pressure sensor and the state variable signal generator can be used to generate at least one state variable signal that is representative of the pressure in the pressure vessel as a state variable, the pressure vessel, preferably 40 bar, being exceeded when the pressure falls below a minimum the control device is capable of carrying out a rescue operation. This also ensures that the diver is rescued if the pressure in the pressure container falls below a certain minimum

Furthermore, it can prove to be advantageous if a state variable signal can be generated with the pressure sensor, which is representative of the pressure difference in the pressure vessel and a rescue operation can be carried out if the pressure difference exceeds and / or falls below a predetermined value. Whether the diver is in an emergency situation If the pressure difference is too large, the breathing fluid may flow freely out of the pressure vessel, e.g. if the diver is unconscious and the regulator is no longer in the diver's mouth Pressure values may mean that the diver is helpless and no more breathing takes place, so that little or no fluid is inhaled, so that only a slight decrease in pressure can be detected in the pressure vessel

It can also prove to be advantageous if a state variable signal can be generated with the pressure sensor that is representative of a constant one Pressure decrease ΔP in the pressure vessel is then the triggering of a rescue operation or a tare operation can be initiated if the pressure vessel falls below or exceeds a predetermined pressure difference.It can then easily be determined whether, for example, there is a constant outflow of breathing fluid from the pressure vessel when the diver does so Mouthpiece not in the mouth Then there is a so-called blowing off

It can also prove to be advantageous if the time span is greater than 30 seconds.This prevents unwanted rescue procedures. It can prove to be advantageous if the time span can be set or predefined. Then the time span can fall short or exceed 30 seconds

In an advantageous development of the invention, a pressure sensor can be arranged in the buoyancy body. The buoyancy can then be better controlled, since it is more directly ascertainable what pressure is prevailing in the buoyancy body

In an advantageous development of the invention, the state variable signal generator can have at least one manually operated switch and at least one state variable signal can be generated by the state variable signal generator that is representative of an actuation of the switch as a state variable. For example, a foreign diver can rescue a diver in need initiate by operating the switch of the state size signal generator of the diver in need

It can prove to be advantageous if the state variable signal generator has at least two manually operated switches and, when the switch is actuated, preferably low pressure, a state variable signal can be generated that is representative of the actuation of both switches as a state variable. As a result, the foreign diver or in need experienced divers can operate both switches at the same time. In this way, incorrect operation can be effectively avoided

In an advantageous development of the invention, the state variable signal generator can have at least one speed measuring device Measuring the Auftπebsgeschwindigkeit have, with the

State quantity signal generator can generate at least one state quantity signal which is representative of the speed of ascent as state quantity. This enables precise control of the divers' ascent during the rescue process

In an advantageous development of the invention, at least one control signal can be supplied to the control device as a function of at least one status variable signal, the control device being able to generate a warning signal perceivable by the diver and at least one extinguishing device which can be actuated by the diver and with which actuation can be carried out within a predetermined range Time interval after the warning signal can be prevented that after the expiry of the time interval, the controller carries out a rescue process or the inlet and / or outlet valve is actuated. As a result, the diver is first warned and can decide whether a buoyancy and / or a rescue process is carried out If the diver does not operate the extinguishing device, a rescue and / or taring process is carried out automatically after the time interval has expired. Such control devices with one lot Devices are also referred to as so-called "dead man" devices

It can also prove to be advantageous if the time interval is up to 5 seconds. Such short tent intervals are particularly advantageous if a rescue or taring process must be initiated immediately in the event of an emergency. It can also prove to be advantageous if the time interval to is 10 seconds This gives the diver enough time to react to the warning signal

In addition, it can prove to be advantageous if the warning signal is an acoustic warning signal. This makes it easier to perceive the signal. The warning signal can be generated, for example, as a beep or as a sequence of sounds

In addition, the warning signal can be a visual warning signal. For this purpose, for example, there is a warning light that flashes or lights up when the diver is in danger

In an advantageous further development of the invention, the quenching device can be achieved by taking a small diving depth or by resuming breathing the diver can be operated. As a result of the warning signal, the diver is prompted, for example, to ascend to a lower depth or to resume breathing without the need to actuate the extinguishing device.

In an advantageous development of the invention, the control device can be designed as a diving computer. Such a dive computer makes it possible to carry out a rescue operation or buoyancy control using a plurality of state variable signal generators and a large number of state variable signals.

The dive computer can also be programmable. Then the state quantity signals of different state quantity signal generators can be combined in a desired manner so that e.g. only the coincidence of two specific state variable signals leads to a rescue operation.

It can also be advantageous if the dive computer has both the pressure gauge and the ambient pressure sensor. Then the dive computer can process multiple signals and be made more compact.

It can also prove to be advantageous if the dive computer has an input unit with which parameters for the maximum depth and / or the minimum pressure in the pressure vessel and / or the maximum ascent rate and / or the minimum or maximum flow rate of the fluid and / or the maximum Time interval after output of the warning signal and / or the minimum or maximum time period within which no flow of breathing fluid is determined at the flow rate measuring device and / or a pressure difference ΔP in the pressure vessel exceeds or falls below a predetermined value, and / or a predetermined maximum diving depth for a taring mode. With such an input unit, the dive computer can be individually adapted to the needs of the respective diver.

It can also prove to be advantageous if the dive computer is convertible and of a buoyancy mode, in which, after falling below a maximum diving depth, the control device of the buoyancy controls such that an essentially constant diving depth is maintained, in a rescue mode in which a rescue process is dependent can be carried out by at least one state variable signal. Furthermore, it can prove to be advantageous if the fluid is oxygen or air or an oxygen / noble gas / nitrogen mixture. This enables a particularly high buoyancy to be generated

It can also be advantageous if the fluid is received in the pressure vessel and is connected to the inlet valve of the floating body by at least one fluid line. The breathing fluid is equal to the fluid that flows into the floating body. In this way it is avoided that several pressure vessels are carried along The safety device can also be combined with existing pressure vessels

In addition, a manually operable inlet valve can be provided in a fluid line between the pressure vessel and the buoyancy body, through which fluid flows into the buoyancy body in an open state and which prevents inflow in a closed state.This enables the buoyancy body to be filled independently of the control unit, in particular then advantageous if the safety device has a fault

In addition, an emergency container can be provided which is filled with fluid and is connected to the buoyancy body via a fluid line and a second inlet valve which can be actuated by the control device such that fluid flows into the buoyancy body when the second inlet valve is open and inflow is prevented when the second inlet valve is closed The functional safety of the safety device can be additionally increased by this emergency pressure container

It can also be an advantage if the value for the maximum diving depth is greater than the value of the predetermined constant diving depth. The diver is always in a safe area of the diving depth during the dipping process. In an advantageous development of the invention, the rescue mode of the diving computer can be used the speed of emergence can be slowed down or reduced to zero for a predetermined period of time depending on the diving depth in predetermined diving depths, in order to maintain decompression levels. This enables a further decisive safety gain for the diver Dive computers make it possible to maintain decompression levels during an emergency ascent. This was not possible with conventional safety precautions

Furthermore, it can prove to be advantageous if the state variable signal generator and / or the control device are designed to be integral with the dive computer. This enables a compact safety device to be obtained

In addition, it can prove to be advantageous if the buoyancy body is designed as an inflatable diving vest. This type of buoyancy aid has proven itself

In an advantageous development of the invention, a signal system can be provided with which an emergency signal can be emitted. This makes it easier for the diver to be found and his chances of being rescued improve considerably

It can prove to be an advantage if the emergency signal can be activated by the control device

In an advantageous development of the invention, at least one manually operable gate valve arranged in the flow direction of the fluid in front of the inlet valve can be provided, which can be transferred from an open position, in which fluid can flow through the gate valve, to a closed position, in which flow through of fluid is prevented. This allows the safety device to be put out of operation manually by the diver. This can be particularly advantageous if the diver is, for example, in a cave

In a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, a pressure sensor can also be provided between a first pressure reduction stage and a second pressure reduction stage on the breathing tube of a breathing regulator, which can generate a state variable signal that is representative of the pressure dropping at the first pressure reduction stage. This monitors a further state variable , ie the function of the pressure reduction stages, made possible by the safety device

Furthermore, a temperature measuring device can be provided that can generate a status signal that is representative of an ambient temperature Ambient temperature, together with a pressure measurement using the ideal gas equation, enables the determination of a gas volume and can also serve as an auxiliary variable for monitoring the diver's physiological parameters

In an advantageous development of the invention, a freeze warning device can also be provided, which triggers an acoustic and / or visual alarm in the event of deviations in the course of the pressure drop for the pressure dropping at the first pressure reduction stage from a predetermined course by more than a predetermined limit value on the signal system The purpose is to warn the diver of a possible freeze in the pressure reduction stage

In this case, the Einfπerwarneinπchtung can also be integrated in the dive computer. This enables a compact structure to be achieved and all the warning functions are inexpensively integrated in one device, which makes operation easier

In addition, a method for operating a safety device is claimed according to the invention, in which the state variable generator, which has an ambient pressure sensor, generates at least one state variable signal which is representative of the ambient pressure and, when a predetermined diving depth is reached, a control device carries out a rescue process in which the inlet and outlet valves are controlled by mutual opening or closing in such a way that fluid flows into the Auftπebskorper and the control device controls the buoyancy in such a way that a predetermined rate of ascent, preferably a maximum permissible rate of ascent, is maintained, or a buoyancy process is initiated in which a predetermined immersion depth is maintained by mutual opening and closing of the inlet and outlet valves

With this method, the diver can be saved from a diving depth that is dangerous for the diver, or the diver can be prevented from penetrating into a diving depth that is dangerous for him

If a rescue operation is triggered over a predetermined period of time at constant ambient pressure, the diver can be rescued automatically, if the diver is immobile for this period of time This is particularly advantageous if the diver is already unconscious

It can also be an advantage if the minimum pressure is determined as a function of the diving depth.This way, constant adaptation to the respective diving depth can take place.As the greater the depth of the bottle, the minimum pressure is higher than at low depths, depending on the diving depth Minimum pressure can also be determined It can also prove to be advantageous if the pressure difference in the container is determined and a rescue process and / or a taring process can be triggered if a predetermined value for the pressure difference is exceeded or undershot. Then it can be determined, for example, whether either there is no breathing for a certain period of time, or whether, for example, there is an outflow or a blowout of the breathing fluid from the pressure vessel

Furthermore, a method is claimed in which the state variable signal generator, which has a flow rate measuring device, is carried out for a predetermined period of time if there is no flow of breathing fluid. This can automatically enable the diver to be rescued if the diver has stopped breathing for a certain period of time

In addition, it can prove to be advantageous if, in the case of the method, before the rescue process or taring process is initiated, the control device outputs a control signal to the control device that can be operated by the diver, which outputs a warning signal that can be perceived by the diver and by actuating the control device or by taking a small diving depth by the diver or by resuming breathing by the diver within a predetermined time interval of preferably five to ten seconds a triggering of a rescue or taring process is prevented. This can prevent the diver from being brought to the water surface unintentionally, or a taring process is carried out

In addition, it can prove to be advantageous if a rescue signal is emitted after the ascent. This makes the search for the diver easier. Furthermore, when performing a rescue operation, the ascent rate can be reduced to predetermined depths for a predetermined period or to zero can be reduced by alternately opening and closing the inlet and outlet valves to compensate for decompression steps. This means that it is also possible to use the safety device at great depths

It also proves to be advantageous if the Einfπerwarnvorπchtung can be activated when the temperature falls below a predetermined and / or adjustable limit value of the ambient temperature and / or when a predetermined and / or adjustable limit value of the ambient pressure can be set by the diver, thereby avoiding false triggering of the Einfπerwarnvorπchtung, as it is only used in ambient conditions where it is likely that the pressure reduction stage will be reduced

Furthermore, the freeze warning device for determining the course of the pressure drop for the pressure dropping at the first pressure reduction stage can suppress changes in the pressure course due to the breathing activity of the diver. This also makes the safety device safer against false alarms, since pressure fluctuations caused by a changed breathing activity, as is the case with the various physical exercise phases during a diving process can not be used to check the function of the pressure reduction level

The invention is described in more detail below using an exemplary embodiment

The single figure shows a schematic representation of the safety device according to the invention with its components

The safety device 1 has a buoyancy body 2, which can be, for example, a diving vest or a diving rescue vest. It is also inflatable and can be filled by filling with a fluid, preferably air, the volume of which can be increased by filling. The filling can be done electronically via a first one controllable and electrically or pneumatically actuable inlet valve 3 or a similar second inlet valve 4 are additionally provided. A manually actuable inlet valve 5 is provided. All inlet valves 3, 4 and 5 have in common that they allow the fluid to flow into the buoyancy body in an open state and prevent the fluid from flowing into the buoyancy body in a closed state

In addition, an outlet valve 6 is provided that, like the inlet valve 2, can be controlled electronically and actuated electrically or electro-pneumatically. Through the outlet valve 6, fluid can escape from the buoyancy body 2 in an open state. When the outlet valve 6 is closed, the fluid is released from the Buoyancy body 2 prevented

The inlet valves 3, 4 and 5, and that the outlet valve 6 are each arranged in hoses 7 to 12 designed as fluid lines. The hose 7 establishes a connection between the buoyancy body 2 and an emergency compressed air container 13. The hoses 8, 9, 10 and 11 establish a connection between the buoyancy body 2 and a pressure vessel 14 The pressure vessel 14 receives a compressed air mixture which is under pressure and also serves as a breathing fluid for the diver. Via the inlet valves 3 and / or 4, the breathing fluid can also get into the Auftπebskorper 2 Throttle, or a pressure reducer, is provided, and in addition the hose 10 is connected to a breathing regulator 15. In addition, a shut-off valve 16 is provided, which can be operated manually and with which an escape of the breathing fluid from the pressure container 14 can be prevented

The hose 12 creates a connection between the buoyancy body 2 and the environment, so that when the outlet valve 6 is open, the fluid can escape from the buoyancy body 2 into the water surrounding the diver. Instead of the hose 12, the outlet valve 6 can be attached directly to the buoyancy body and the air escapes directly from the exhaust valve

In addition, the safety device of a control device 7 This control device 17 has a programmable diving computer 18 with an input field, not shown.A control device 19 which can be controlled by the control device is also provided and which is connected via control lines 20, 21 and 22 to the inlet valve 3, the second Inlet valve 4 and the outlet valve 6 is connected via a control line 22, the dive computer 18 or the control device to the control device 19 State variable signals can be generated via a plurality of state variable signal generators 24, 25, 26 and 27, which can be supplied to the dive computer or the control unit via signal lines 28, 29 and 30. A state variable signal generator 24 is a

Flow quantity measuring device for measuring a flow of breathing fluid through the hose 10. The state variable signal generator 25 is a pressure sensor which is arranged inside the test body 2. The state variable signal generator 27 is an ambient pressure sensor. The ambient pressure sensor 27 and the pressure sensor 25 can be used to generate state variable signals which are representative of the ambient pressure or the pressure in the buoyancy body 2. The state variable signal generator 26 can also be a pressure sensor, but with which a signal is obtainable that is representative of the pressure in the pressure vessel 14. The pressure sensor is connected to the pressure vessel via the compressed air 11

In addition, the dive computer 18 has a so-called dead man's device. In this device, a warning signal, such as a whistling tone or an optical warning signal, is output on the dive computer depending on a state-of-the-art signal. The diver can activate the device within a predetermined period of time after the warning signal has been issued operate a quenching device to prevent the dive computer from detecting a dangerous situation and initiating a rescue operation

The dive computer is freely programmable and makes it possible either to initiate a rescue process in which buoyancy can be generated by the buoyancy body 2 by mutually opening and closing the exhaust valve 3 or the exhaust valve 6, so that the diver with the buoyancy body 2 is at a predetermined maximum permissible rate of ascent to the surface is required or to initiate a tare mode with which a predetermined diving depth can be set by alternately opening and closing the outlet valve 3 or 4 and the outlet valve 6, the buoyancy of the Auftπebskorpers 2 being regulated thereby

In addition, the dive computer has a mechanical actuation (not shown) that has two buttons that must be pressed simultaneously to trigger a rescue operation. The actuation can be triggered by the diver himself or by another diver Furthermore, a signal system 31 is provided, which can be activated by the dive computer and generates, for example, rescue signals.

In addition, two gate valves 32 and 33 are also provided in lines 7 and 9. These gate valves 32 and 33 can be operated manually by the diver and can each be transferred from an open state, in which fluid can pass through the gate valves, to a closed state, in which fluid does not pass through the gate valves. By closing the gate valves 32 and 33, the diver can put the safety device out of operation. For example, When diving into wrecks or caves, prevent the safety device from being triggered unintentionally. In addition, a second, not shown buoyancy body, such as a second diving vest can be provided. This second diving vest or the second buoyancy body can be constructed in the same way as the first buoyancy body and can in each case be connected by a pressure vessel or the emergency pressure vessel if e.g. If a buoyancy is carried out, an additional rescue operation can be carried out with this second buoyancy body.

A freeze warning device 34 is connected both to the state variable signal generator 24, which is preferably a flow rate measuring device for determining the breathing throughput of the diver, and to a pressure sensor 35 which is arranged between the shut-off valve 16 functioning as the first pressure reduction stage and a second pressure reduction stage 36. The pressure reduction stages 16 and 36 relax the gas under high pressure in the pressure vessel 14 to the pressure which is respectively adapted to the diving depth. The pressure sensor 35 provides a signal that is proportional to the pressure prevailing in the line 11 after the first pressure reduction stage. The state quantity signal generator 24 supplies a signal which is proportional to the breathing activity of the diver. An ambient temperature sensor 37 is also connected to the freeze warning device 34. Furthermore, the freeze warning device 34 is connected to the signal system 31 and can thus trigger acoustic and / or optical signals.

The operation and functioning of the safety device is explained in more detail below The diver carries the buoyancy body 2 designed as a buoyancy compensator, so that an ascending movement of the buoyancy compensator automatically brings about an ascending movement of the diver. In addition, the diver wears the dive computer, for example on the wrist or on the high-pressure hose. Before a dive, the diver switches on the dive computer and, if necessary, enters the desired parameters via the input field, through which a rescue process or a buoyancy process is initiated.

Some examples are shown below with the aid of a few examples, which can be carried out with the new safety device according to the invention. In the examples described, the diver is already under water.

Example 1 :

The dive computer has detected no breathing on the flow measuring device or for the breathing fluid for a period of about 30 seconds. There is therefore a fear that the diver may e.g. passed out. A warning signal is then issued on the control device of the dive computer for approx. 10 seconds. If the device is not reset by the extinguishing device or by breathing resumption by the diver by this time, the dive computer causes the control device to open the inlet valve 3 until a maximum pressure is established in the buoyancy body. Taking into account a maximum permissible rate of ascent, valves 3 and 6 open and close. A signal system is activated when the water surface is reached.

Example 2:

The dive computer has registered no movement for a period of about 5 minutes. This can be determined by a constant depth via the ambient pressure sensor 27. The dive computer issues a warning signal to the control device for 10 seconds. If the device is not reset by actuation of the extinguishing device or by movement, ie a different pressure, the dive computer causes the control device to open the inlet valve 3 until a maximum ascent rate is reached. The maximum ascent rate can are determined by the ambient pressure sensor, since the pressure changes continuously during the ascent, and as a result the computer is able to determine the ascent rate in order to take the appropriate measures to regulate the ascent rate. If the compressed air from pressure vessel 14 is not sufficient, so optionally the pressure vessel 13 can also be switched on by the dive computer.This allows more fluid to be brought into the buoyancy body 2.If the decompression stages have to be observed, the device can use a program in the computer to determine to what depth and over what period of time the Ascent rate must be reduced or reduced to zero. After completing the respective decompression stage, the ascent is continued at maximum speed. The regulation is carried out in the same way via further decompression stages. Otherwise, the ascent goes up to the surface when the water surface is reached the signal system can be activated

Example 3

The residual pressure in the pressure vessel is less than 40 bar and the diving depth has decreased constantly in the last few minutes (e.g. to 12 meters). Now the dive computer registers a constant immersion, in which the compressed air supply for a safe immersion no longer exceeds a calculated depth sufficient For example, a minute before reaching the depth, a warning signal is issued at the control device for 10 seconds.If the device is not reset by actuating the extinguishing device or by surfacing, a rescue operation takes place in the same way as in example 2. In example 3, the dive computer receives its Information by a submersible computer time measuring device, as well as the pressure sensor in the pressure vessel 14 and the ambient pressure sensor 27

Example 4

Before the dive, the diver has set a maximum depth of, for example, 35 meters on the dive computer. When attempting to dive deeper than 35 meters, the control device warns briefly (5 seconds). Afterwards, the dive computer can initiate a buoyancy process by alternately opening and Closing the outlet valve 3 and the outlet valve 6 a maximum, predetermined Depth of 35m is observed. Of course, other values for the depth are also conceivable.

The dive computer can also be programmed as follows:

Possibility Number 1 :

The dive computer registers for a time of e.g. 5 minutes no shallower depth (32 meters), a warning signal of 10 seconds is issued on the control device.If the control device is not reset by actuating the extinguishing device or by surfacing, the diving computer opens the inlet valve 3 and optionally the second inlet valve 4 via the control unit, until a maximum ascent rate has been reached. Taking this maximum ascent rate into account, the ascent rate can be regulated as in the examples mentioned above.

Possibility 2:

If the calculated residual air time for a safe immersion (plus e.g. one minute) is reached, a warning signal is issued for 10 seconds at the control device. If the control device is not reset by actuating the extinguishing device or by surfacing, a rescue process takes place as in the examples described above.

Option 3:

The depth setting is used for automatic taring at the specified depth. That is, the depth is determined on the basis of the state variable signal generator 27 and is maintained by correspondingly opening and closing the inlet valve 4 and the outlet valve 6 accordingly.

Example 4:

The diver or his partner recognizes a dangerous situation and triggers the safety device manually. For this, the manually operated Actuation switches are operated for approx. 2 seconds. A rescue procedure is initiated as in the examples above

As can be seen from the above examples, the dive computer enables a multitude of variations by entering certain parameters, such as a maximum rate of ascent, a minimum allowable pressure in the pressure vessel, the length of a time interval in which no pressure change is recognizable on the state variable signal generator 27, one Time period within which no breathing can be determined by the flow rate measuring device, a maximum diving depth, a diving depth to be complied with during a buoyancy process, or the time interval within which the quenching device of the control device is to be actuated in order to prevent a rescue or a taring process be that optionally either a buoyancy process should be carried out, or only a rescue process or both

The freeze warning device 34 serves to control the pressure reduction stages which are subject to the risk of freezing at low temperatures or high diving pressures. The gas contained in the high-pressure pressure vessel 14 is expanded to a lower pressure in two stages 16, 36, which is dependent on the ambient pressure so that the diver can breathe.This expansion causes the gas to expand and cool down.This cooling causes moisture to condense in the pressure reduction stage, which can freeze at correspondingly low ambient temperatures.This means that the pressure reduction stage can no longer function safely the cross-section of the pressure reduction stages 16 and 36 through which flow passes is reduced so much that the diver is no longer supplied with enough breathing air. The freeze warning device is intended to prevent this danger and to warn the diver of the risk of icing in good time, since the risk of icing only If certain ambient pressures and ambient temperatures occur, the Einfπerwamvorπchtung 34 is activated only when the temperature falls below a certain ambient temperature and / or a certain ambient pressure is exceeded. However, it is also provided that the freeze warning device can be switched on or off manually

The freeze warning device 34 takes the pressure sensor 35 between the first pressure reduction stage 16 and the second pressure reduction stage 36 Pressure on The pressure curve measured by the pressure sensor 35 can be used to draw conclusions about the presence or impending icing of the first pressure reduction stage. However, in order to avoid false alarms, the pressure curves during the inhalation and exhalation of the diver are hidden when the diver inhales due to the pressure line 11 The inertia of the pressure reduction stages briefly drops in pressure. To avoid false alarms, this pressure drop must be masked out. This can either be done in that the freezing alarm device 34 detects the pressure curve between the falling edge of the pressure during inhalation and the rising edge of the pressure caused by the reaction of the Valve and restoration of the medium pressure arises, including a subsequent dead time, or that the Einfπerwarnvorπchtung 34 picks up the signal of the state size signal generator 24 and offset it with the pressure signal Das Sig The state variable signal generator 24 represents the diver's breathing history, so that the short-term pressure drop due to the breathing activity, as determined by the pressure sensor 35, can be compensated for using this signal. To trigger a freeze warning on the signal system 31, only the period between the return swinging of the pressure reduction stage is used 16 plus a settling time and the next rapid pressure drop the next time the diver inhales

If the measured pressure falls during this period above a certain limit value dependent on the ambient pressure, or if this pressure rises above a certain limit value dependent on the ambient pressure, then the freeze warning device 34 triggers the acoustic and / or optical alarm, since this indicates that the first pressure reduction stage is starting to freeze

The novel safety device thus makes it possible to bring about or trigger a rescue operation due to different condition sizes. Because the dive computer enables a regulated rate of ascent, decompression levels can be maintained on the one hand and on the other hand a too rapid emergence is prevented, in particular from great diving depths B the decompression stages must be observed. Thus, the new type of safety device offers decisive advantages over the safety of the diver when diving compared to conventional safety devices

Claims

Claims:

Safety device, preferably for divers staying below the water surface, with at least one buoyancy body (2) which can be filled with a fluid and with which buoyancy can be generated by filling with the fluid, and with at least one inlet valve (3) through which fluid is in an open state flows into the buoyancy body (2) and which, in the closed state, prevents the fluid from flowing into the buoyancy body, and with a control device (17) for controlling the opening and closing of the relief valve (3), and with at least one state variable signal generator (24, 27) , with which, depending on at least one state variable, at least one state quantity signal can be generated, which can be supplied to the control device, and at least one outlet valve (6), through which fluid flows out of the buoyancy body 2 in an open state and which, in the closed state, emits an outflow of the fluid the buoyancy ver prevents, wherein the opening and closing of the exhaust valve is controllable by the control device and by mutual opening and closing of the intake and exhaust valve by the control device in Depending on at least one state variable signal, a predetermined buoyancy of the variable body can be generated, characterized in that the state variable signal generator generates at least one

Flow rate measuring device (24) on the hose for breathing air and the state variable signal generator can generate at least one state variable signal which is representative of the flow quantity of a breathing fluid of the diver

Control device according to claim 1, characterized in that a rescue operation can be carried out with the control device, in which the buoyancy can be controlled in such a way that the buoyancy can maintain a predetermined, preferably maximum, permissible buoyancy speed

Safety device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the buoyancy can be controlled by the control device in such a way that a substantially constant diving depth of the diver can be maintained

Safety device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the state variable signal generator has at least one ambient pressure sensor (26, 27), and the state variable signal generator can generate at least one state variable signal which is representative of the ambient pressure in the environment of the diver as a state variable

Safety device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that with the state variable signal generator, which has an ambient pressure sensor, at least two temporally spaced state variable signals can be generated in order to determine a rate of lift

Safety device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, in the case of the state variable signal generator which has an ambient pressure sensor, if a predetermined value is undershot maximum diving depth, preferably 35 meters, a rescue operation can be carried out by the control

Safety device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that in the state variable signal generator, which has an ambient pressure sensor, a rescue operation can be carried out by the control device if a predetermined time period within which a constant ambient pressure prevails, preferably 5 minutes

Safety device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the state variable signal generator has at least one time measuring device, and the state variable signal generator can be used to generate at least one state variable signal which is representative of the expiry of a predetermined period of time as the state variable, preferably the maximum diving duration

Safety device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that after the period of time a rescue operation can be carried out

Safety device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the state variable signal generator can generate at least one state variable signal which is representative of a pressure difference of a breathing fluid of the diver after a first pressure reduction stage

Safety device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that in the case of a state variable signal generator which has a flow quantity measuring device and / or a pressure measurement after the first pressure reduction stage, a rescue operation can be carried out by the control device if the flow quantity and / or the pressure measurement falls below a predetermined value. and / or exceeded

12. Safety device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that in the state variable signal generator, which has a flow rate measuring device, in the absence of a flow of breathing fluid through the flow rate measuring device for a predetermined period of time by the control device, a rescue operation can be carried out.

13. Safety device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the time period is greater than 30 seconds.

14. Safety device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the time period is adjustable and / or predeterminable.

15. Safety device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the state variable signal generator has at least one pressure sensor which is arranged in a pressure line (14) from the pressure vessel for storing the breathing fluid and with the state variable signal generator at least one state variable signal can be generated which is suitable for the pressure is representative in the pressure vessel as a state variable, a rescue operation being able to be carried out by the control device if the pressure in the pressure vessel falls below a minimum, preferably 40 bar.

16. Safety device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a state variable signal can be generated with the pressure sensor, which is representative of the pressure difference in the pressure vessel and a rescue process can be triggered when the pressure difference exceeds or falls below a predetermined value.

17. Safety device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a state size signal can be generated in the pressure sensor, which is representative of a constant decrease in pressure in the pressure vessel.

18. Safety device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the state variable signal generator has at least one manually operated switch, and at least one state signal can be generated by the state variable signal generator, which is representative of the actuation of the switch as a state variable.

19. Safety device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the state variable signal generator has at least two manually operated switches, and a simultaneous actuation, preferably depressing the switch, a state variable signal can be generated which is representative of the actuation of both switches as a state variable.

20. Safety device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a pressure sensor is provided in the buoyancy body.

21. Safety device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the state variable signal generator has at least one speed measuring device for measuring the rate of ascent, with the state variable signal generator being able to generate at least one state signal which is representative of the rate of ascent as a state variable.

22. Safety device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one control signal can be supplied to a control device by the control device as a function of at least one status variable signal, and the control device generates a warning signal perceptible by the diver and at least one extinguishing device which can be operated by the diver is provided, with which Operation within a predetermined time interval after the warning signal can be prevented that after the time interval has elapsed, the controller carries out a rescue operation or actuates the inlet and / or outlet valve.

23. Safety device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the extinguishing device also by taking one shallower depth or by resuming breathing by the diver.

24. Safety device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the time interval is up to 5 seconds.

25. Safety device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the time interval is up to 10 seconds.

26. Safety device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the warning signal is an acoustic warning signal.

27. Safety device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the warning signal is an optical warning signal.

28. Safety device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the control device is designed as a dive computer (18).

29. Safety device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the dive computer has both the pressure sensor and the ambient pressure sensor.

30. Sicherheitsvorrichtuπg according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the dive computer is programmable.

31. Safety device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the dive computer has an input unit with which parameters are determined for the maximum depth and / or the minimum pressure in the pressure vessel and / or the maximum ascent rate and / or the minimum or maximum flow rate of the fluid and / or the maximum time interval after output of the warning signal and / or the minimum or maximum time period within which no flow of breathing fluid is determined in the flow rate measuring device, and / or a predetermined maximum immersion depth to be maintained and / or a pressure difference ΔP in the pressure vessel exceeds and / or falls below a predetermined value

Safety device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the dive computer can be switched from a Taπerungs Modus in which, after falling below a maximum diving depth, the Steueruπgseinπchtung controls the buoyancy in such a way that a substantially constant diving depth is maintained, in a rescue mode in which a rescue operation depending on at least one state variable signal can be carried out

Safety device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the value for the maximum depth is greater than the value of the predetermined depth

Safety device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, in order to maintain decompression levels, the rescue mode of the diving computer, the speed of ascent, depending on the diving depth, can be slowed down to predetermined diving depths for a predetermined period of time or reduced to zero,

Safety device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a signal system is provided with which an emergency signal can be emitted

Safety device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the emergency signal can be activated by the control device

Safety device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a manually operable gate valve is arranged in the flow direction of the fluid in front of the inlet valve, which is from an open position in which it allows fluid to flow into the buoyancy body enables to be transferred into a closed position in which an inflow of the fluid into the buoyancy body is prevented

Safety device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a pressure sensor is provided between a first pressure reduction stage and a second pressure reduction stage on the breathing tube of a breathing regulator, the pressure sensor generating a state quantity signal which is representative of the pressure drop at the first pressure reduction stage

Safety device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a temperature measuring device is provided which generates a state quantity signal which is representative of an ambient temperature

Safety device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a freeze warning device is provided which triggers an acoustic and / or visual alarm on the alarm device in the event of deviations in the course of the pressure drop at the first pressure reduction stage from a predetermined course by more than a predetermined limit value

Safety device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the freeze warning device is integrated in the dive computer

Method for operating a safety device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the state variable signal generator, which has an ambient pressure meter, generates at least one state variable signal which is representative of the ambient pressure and which the control device carries out a rescue operation when a predetermined diving depth is reached which the outlet and outlet valve is controlled by mutual opening and closing such that fluid flows into the buoyancy body and the buoyancy one predetermined ascent rate preferably regulates a maximum permissible rate of ascent or a taring process is initiated in which a predetermined diving depth is maintained by mutual opening and closing of the inlet and outlet valves

A method according to claim 42, characterized in that a rescue operation is carried out at constant ambient pressure over a predetermined period of time after the period

Method according to one of claims 42 and 43, characterized in that the minimum pressure is determined as a function of the depth of immersion

Method according to one of claims 42 to 44, characterized in that the pressure difference in the pressure vessel is determined and a rescue process and / or buoyancy process can be triggered if the pressure difference is exceeded and / or fallen below

Method according to one of claims 42 to 45, characterized in that by the state variable signal generator, the one

Flow rate measuring device and / or a pressure meter after the first pressure reduction stage, at least one state variable signal is generated, which is representative of the flow rate of a breathing fluid of the diver, and a rescue operation is carried out by the control device if there is no flow for a predetermined period

Method according to one of claims 42 to 46, characterized in that before the initiation of the rescue operation or the buoyancy operations, the control device outputs a control signal to the control device which can be actuated by the diver and which outputs a warning signal which can be perceived by the diver, and that by actuating the control device or by taking a different diving depth by the diver or by resuming breathing by the diver within a predetermined time interval of preferably five or ten seconds a rescue or buoyancy process can be prevented by the control device

Method according to one of claims 42 to 47, characterized in that a rescue signal is emitted after the ascent

Method according to one of claims 42 to 48, characterized in that when carrying out a rescue operation, the rate of ascent is reduced to predetermined depths for a predetermined period of time or is reduced to zero by mutual opening or closing of the inlet and outlet valves to compensate for decompression stages

Method according to one of claims 42 to 49, characterized in that the freeze warning device can be activated when the temperature falls below a predetermined and / or adjustable limit value of the ambient temperature and / or when a predetermined and / or adjustable limit value of the ambient pressure is set by the diver

Method according to one of claims 42 to 50, characterized in that the freeze warning device for determining the course of the pressure drop for the pressure drop at the first pressure reduction stage suppresses changes in the pressure course due to the diver's breathing