Vehicle water rescue system, has electronically controlled external airbags and many sensors which can also measure water pressure

摘要

The rescue system comprises at least one airbag (13), which is inflatable on the outside of the vehicle (8) and positioned within the vehicle so that it is unobtrusive. The airbag is so big when inflated that it acts against vehicle buoyancy and causes it to float. An activating mechanism is provided which includes at least one water pressure sensor (4) and a control/evaluation unit (1,2). There is also an airbag ignition or inflation system and an independent power supply (7). By igniting several airbags in a time controlled manner the vehicle stabilizes its position upright so that its roof surfaces first. The system is activated not straight away after the crash but when one of the water pressure sensors sends an appropriate signal. The controller activates a light or sonic signal to alert any drivers or passers-by.