Distress signalling device using inflatable balloon - uses compressed gas to release balloon valve from inflation block and is packed to be worn on belt

摘要

The distress signalling device comprises a balloon (4) which is inflated by a gas which is lighter than air supplied from a gas bottle (1). This fits into an inflation control block (3) to which an inlet valve (31) attached to the balloon (4) can be fitted. The compressed gas acts on a piston and spring loaded fingers (25,28) for releasing the connection (32) between the block (3) and the inlet valve (31) upon inflation of the balloon (4). The inlet valve (31) also has a fixing eye (46) for one end of a line (45) for anchoring the released balloon (4). Pref. the packed balloon (4) and the gas bottle (1) with the associated inflation block (3) is worn as a pack via a belt fitted around the waist. The signalling device is for use by climber or sailor to signal his position.