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A PROTECTIVE COVER FOR VEHICLES DURING FLOODS

[Category : - Automotive Accessories ]
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A PROTECTIVE COVER FOR VEHICLES DURING FLOODS AND A
METHOD THEREOF
EARLIEST PRIORITY DATE:
This Application claims priority from a Complete patent application filed in India
5 having Patent Application No. 202441078679, filed on October 16, 2024, and titled
“A PROTECTIVE COVER FOR VEHICLES DURING FLOODS AND A METHOD
THEREOF”
WIPO PCT application number: PCT/IB2024/062077

FIELD OF INVENTION
Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to the field of flood protection devices
10 and more particularly to a protective cover for vehicles during floods and a method
thereof.
BACKGROUND
Car covers designed for flood protection serve to shield vehicles from water damage
during flooding events. These covers are usually made from waterproof or water15 resistant materials and are designed to completely enclose the vehicle, preventing
water from penetrating the interior or damaging sensitive components like the engine,
electrical systems, and upholstery.
However, existing waterproof covers faces an issue when submerged in water. The
problem arises from "air lock," where air trapped inside the cover causes buoyancy,
20 making the car float. This buoyancy can lead to the car being pushed or moved away
by water, which could damage both the car and the cover. Additionally, such
movement might cause the cover to tear or become compromised, allowing water to
enter and defeat its waterproofing function. Further, most existing covers lack a system
to balance internal and external pressure, especially when water levels rise. This can
25 lead to damage from pressure buildup inside the cover.
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Further, even though many covers are marketed as waterproof, some may not provide
complete water resistance. Poor-quality seals or zippers can allow water to leak inside,
causing damage to the vehicle.
Additionally, some covers can be cumbersome and time-consuming to set up,
5 especially in emergency situations like impending floods. Their size and weight make
installation a challenge for one person.
Hence, there is a need for an improved protective cover for vehicles during floods and
a method thereof which addresses the aforementioned issue(s).
OBJECTIVE OF THE INVENTION
10 An objective of the present invention is to provide a protective cover that could be
installed in automobile vehicle that allows the trapped air to escape, preventing the
buildup of buoyancy in the event of the automobile vehicle being submerged in water
(such as floods, hurricanes and tsunami).
Yet another objective of the present invention is to ensure that water does not enter
15 through the same pores used for the air outlet, maintaining the waterproof nature of
the cover. In other words, it balances the release of air while blocking water from
getting inside.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION
In accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure, a protective cover for
20 vehicles during floods is provided. The protective cover includes an air outlet unit.
The air outlet unit includes a rolling tube wherein a first end of the rolling tube is
connected to an interior of a vehicle cover wherein the rolling tube acts as an outlet
for trapped air in the event of the flood and a second end of the rolling tube is sealed
due to inherent tension. The rolling tube is adapted to unroll due to increasing internal
25 pressure in the event of the flood thereby allowing the trapped air to escape to the
external space to balance an internal and external pressure. The rolling tube is also
adapted to automatically roll back to an original tightly sealed state once the internal
and external pressure stabilizes. Further, the rolling tube in the original tightly sealed
3
state occurs under normal conditions. The air outlet unit includes an inner tube and an
outer tube. The inner tube includes a plurality of pores to expel air present within the
protective cover to an external space and a hydrophilic hydrogel adapted to expand
and seal the inner tube in an event of a flood thereby preventing backflow of water
5 and air. The inner tube comprises a handle with a twist cap mechanism for removal
and maintenance of the hydrogel. Further, the outer tube is adapted to prevent water
from entering the inner tube through gravity and due to a vertical orientation of the
outer tube. The air outlet unit also includes a cork with a truncated cone structure
adapted to fit into the air outlet unit to create a watertight seal. The cork includes a
10 magnetic rim positioned around a circumference of the said cork wherein the magnetic
rim is connected to a magnetic plate positioned at an opening of the air outlet unit to
enable a secured seal. The cork also includes a spring mechanism positioned around
the cord to hold the cork in an upward direction against a trigger. The trigger is
attached to a helium-filled float wherein the helium-filled float is adapted to rise in
15 position in an event of the water entering the air outlet unit thereby causing the trigger
to be pulled out of its notch and consequently releasing the cork. The air outlet unit
also includes a rope attached to a top section of the cork to provide manual operation
and maintenance.
In accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure, a method for using
20 a protective cover for vehicles during floods is provided. The method includes
allowing, by a vehicle, to run over the protective cover in any direction wherein the
protective cover is laid flat on a ground, pulled up and zipped along the sides to ensure
effective enveloping of the protective cover on the vehicle. The method includes
incorporating a rolling tube with a first end connected to the interior of the vehicle
25 cover and a second end inherently sealed by tension, wherein the rolling tube unrolls
in response to increasing internal pressure, thereby allowing trapped air to escape and
balance internal and external pressure during a flood event. Moreover, the method
includes automatically rolling the tube back into its tightly sealed state once the
internal and external pressures stabilize. The method includes providing an air outlet
30 system comprising an inner tube and an outer tube, wherein the inner tube comprises
a plurality of pores for expelling air from within the protective cover into an external
4
environment. The method includes expanding, by a hydrophilic hydrogel, to seal the
inner tube in an event of a flood thereby preventing backflow of water and air. The
method includes removing and maintaining, by a handle of the inner tube, the
hydrogel. The method includes preventing, an outer tube of the air outlet unit, water
5 from entering the inner tube through gravity and due to a vertical orientation of the
outer tube. The method includes creating, by a cork with a truncated cone structure
adapted to fit into the air outlet unit, a watertight seal. The method includes enabling,
by a magnetic rim positioned around a circumference of the said cork wherein the
magnetic rim is connected to a magnetic plate positioned at an opening of the air outlet
10 unit, a secured seal. The method includes positioning a spring mechanism around the
cork to hold it in an upward direction against a trigger, wherein the trigger is attached
to a helium-filled float that rises when water enters the air outlet unit, thereby releasing
the trigger and allowing the cork to seal the outlet unit. Further, the method includes
providing, by a rope attached to a top section of the cork, manual operation and
15 maintenance.
To further clarify the advantages and features of the present disclosure, a more
particular description of the disclosure will follow by reference to specific
embodiments thereof, which are illustrated in the appended figures. It is to be
appreciated that these figures depict only typical embodiments of the disclosure and
20 are therefore not to be considered limiting in scope. The disclosure will be described
and explained with additional specificity and detail with the appended figures.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The disclosure will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail
with the accompanying figures in which:
25 FIG. 1 is a block diagram representation of a protective cover for vehicles during
floods, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
FIG. 2a and FIG. 2b are schematic representations of a rolling tube in a rolled up state
and expanded state respectively of FIG. 1, in accordance with an embodiment of the
present disclosure;
5
FIG. 3a illustrates a flow chart representing the steps involved in a method for using a
protective cover for vehicles during floods, in accordance with an embodiment of the
present disclosure; and
FIG. 3b illustrates a flow chart illustrating continued steps of the method of FIG. 3a
5 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
Further, those skilled in the art will appreciate that elements in the figures are
illustrated for simplicity and may not have necessarily been drawn to scale.
Furthermore, in terms of the construction of the device, one or more components of
the device may have been represented in the figures by conventional symbols, and the
10 figures may show only those specific details that are pertinent to understanding the
embodiments of the present disclosure so as not to obscure the figures with details that
will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art having the benefit of the description
herein.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
15 For the purpose of promoting an understanding of the principles of the disclosure,
reference will now be made to the embodiment illustrated in the figures and specific
language will be used to describe them. It will nevertheless be understood that no
limitation of the scope of the disclosure is thereby intended. Such alterations and
further modifications in the illustrated system, and such further applications of the
20 principles of the disclosure as would normally occur to those skilled in the art are to
be construed as being within the scope of the present disclosure.
The terms “comprises”, “comprising”, or any other variations thereof, are intended to
cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process or method that comprises a list of
steps does not include only those steps but may include other steps not expressly listed
25 or inherent to such a process or method. Similarly, one or more devices or subsystems
or elements or structures or components preceded by "comprises... a" does not, without
more constraints, preclude the existence of other devices, sub-systems, elements,
structures, components, additional devices, additional sub-systems, additional
elements, additional structures or additional components. Appearances of the phrase
6
"in an embodiment", "in another embodiment" and similar language throughout this
specification may, but not necessarily do, all refer to the same embodiment.
Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same
meaning as commonly understood by those skilled in the art to which this disclosure
5 belongs. The system, methods, and examples provided herein are only illustrative and
not intended to be limiting.
In the following specification and the claims, reference will be made to a number of
terms, which shall be defined to have the following meanings. The singular forms “a”,
“an”, and “the” include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.
10 In accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure, a protective cover for
vehicles during floods is provided. The protective cover includes an air outlet unit.
The air outlet unit includes an inner tube and an outer tube. The inner tube includes a
plurality of pores to expel air present within the protective cover to an external space
and a hydrophilic hydrogel adapted to expand and seal the inner tube in an event of a
15 flood thereby preventing backflow of water and air. The inner tube comprises a handle
with a twist cap mechanism for removal and maintenance of the hydrogel. Further, the
outer tube is adapted to prevent water from entering the inner tube through gravity and
due to a vertical orientation of the outer tube. The air outlet unit also includes a cork
with a truncated cone structure adapted to fit into the air outlet unit to create a
20 watertight seal. The cork includes a magnetic rim positioned around a circumference
of the said cork wherein the magnetic rim is connected to a magnetic plate positioned
at an opening of the air outlet unit to enable a secured seal. The cork also includes a
spring mechanism positioned around the cord to hold the cork in an upward direction
against a trigger. The trigger is attached to a helium-filled float wherein the helium25 filled float is adapted to rise in position in an event of the water entering the air outlet
unit thereby causing the trigger to be pulled out of its notch and consequently releasing
the cork. The air outlet unit also includes a rope attached to a top section of the cork
to provide manual operation and maintenance. The air outlet unit also includes a
rolling tube wherein a first end of the rolling tube is connected to an interior of a
30 vehicle cover wherein the rolling tube acts as an outlet for trapped air in the event of
7
the flood and a second end of the rolling tube is sealed due to inherent tension. The
rolling tube is adapted to unroll due to increasing internal pressure in the event of the
flood thereby allowing the trapped air to escape to the external space to balance an
internal and external pressure. The rolling tube is also adapted to automatically roll
5 back to an original tightly sealed state once the internal and external pressure
stabilizes. Further, the rolling tube in the original tightly sealed state occurs under
normal conditions.
FIG. 1 is a block diagram representation of a protective cover (100) for vehicles during
floods, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Examples of the
10 vehicles (102) include, but is not limited to, cars, buses, trucks and trains. It will be
appreciated to those skilled in the art that, the examples of the vehicles (102) should
not be limited in use to only one specific brand or model of the vehicles (102). In a
specific embodiment, the following discussion describes the protective cover (100) for
cars. The floods may also refer to conditions such as urban waterlogging, road water
15 accumulation, garage water inflow, mountain floods, dike resolution and the like in
addition to floods, hurricanes and tsunami. In another embodiment, the protective
cover (100) is flexible to be deployed from any direction relative to the vehicle’s (102)
position thereby allowing quick setup in event of the flood.
The protective cover (100) is fabricated from tarpaulin material to provide durability,
20 resistance and flexibility. It must be noted that the protective cover (100) is a singleunit that can be deployed from any direction relative to the vehicle’s (102) position.
The base of the protective cover (100) dynamically expands and conforms closely to
the vehicle’s (102) undercarriage and tires, creating a tight seal that prevents water
ingress and minimizes air pockets. Further, in such an embodiment, the protective
25 cover (100) is supported with a memory wire framework adapted to maintain the
protective cover’s structural integrity and ensures return to its designated shape after
use.
In one embodiment, the protective cover (100) is fabricated from tarpaulin material to
provide durability, resistance and flexibility.
8
The car cover features a wrap-around design that effectively envelops the vehicle
(102). The process begins with the cover laid flat on the ground, next the car is driven
over the cover, allowing the top material to drape around it. As the cover is pulled up,
it conforms to the contours of the vehicle (102), ensuring a snug fit. In one corner, the
5 bottom edge of the cover is attached to the top edge making it as a single unit with
simplicity. As a single person able to place the cover on the floor, drive the car over
the bottom of the cover, then drape the top of the cover over the car and start zipping
it throughout the sides. The wrap-around feature allows for easy access to the car while
providing comprehensive coverage, safeguarding it from flood, dust, and dirt.
10 It must be noted that the protective cover (100) is a single-unit that can be deployed
from any direction relative to the vehicle’s (102) position. The base of the protective
cover (100) dynamically expands and conforms closely to the vehicle’s (102)
undercarriage and tires, creating a tight seal that prevents water ingress and minimizes
air pockets. Further, in such an embodiment, the protective cover (100) is supported
15 with a memory wire framework adapted to maintain the protective cover’s structural
integrity and ensures return to its designated shape after use.
In one embodiment, the protective cover (100) includes a primary zipper, and a
secondary zipper adapted to form a dual-zipper sealing mechanism wherein the
primary zipper comprises a teethless rubber zipper and the secondary zipper comprises
20 a teethed zipper. The primary zipper is adapted to provide a smooth and continuous
closure that effectively blocks water entry into the vehicle (102). Further, the primary
zipper is made from a hydrophobic silicone rubber with UV resistance, ensuring longterm durability and performance under various environmental conditions. Likewise,
the secondary zipper is fabricated with stainless steel to provide an additional layer of
25 security against water pressure during the event of the flood. Typically, the secondary
zipper is like a traditional teethed zipper.
The air outlet unit (102) includes a rolling tube (130, FIG. 2(a) and FIG. 2(b)) wherein
a first end of the rolling tube (130, FIG. 2(a) and FIG. 2(b)) is connected to an interior
of a vehicle (102) cover wherein the rolling tube acts as an outlet for trapped air in the
30 event of the flood and a second end of the rolling tube is sealed due to inherent tension.
9
The rolling tube (130, FIG. 2(a) and FIG. 2(b)) is adapted to unroll due to increasing
internal pressure in the event of the flood thereby allowing the trapped air to escape to
the external space to balance an internal and external pressure. Further, the rolling tube
(130, FIG. 2(a) and FIG. 2(b)) automatically roll back to an original tightly sealed state
5 once the internal and external pressure stabilizes wherein the rolling tube (130, FIG.
2(a) and FIG. 2(b)) in the original tightly sealed state occurs under normal conditions.
In the event of rising water levels, increasing internal pressure causes the rolling tube
(130, FIG. 2(a) and FIG. 2(b)) to unroll, allowing the trapped air to escape and thereby
balancing the internal and external pressures. Once the pressure stabilizes, the rolling
10 tube’s material properties enable it to automatically roll back into its original tightly
sealed state.
The protective cover (100) includes an air outlet unit (102). The air outlet unit includes
an inner tube (105) and an outer tube (110). The inner tube (105) is crucial for
floodwater management. It is used only when the floodwater levels rise significantly
15 higher than rainwater (in other words, when the water surpasses the height of the car).
The inner tube (105) includes a plurality of pores to expel air present within the
protective cover (100) to an external space (environment). The inner tube (105)
includes a hydrophilic hydrogel adapted to expand and seal the inner tube (105) in an
event of a flood thereby preventing backflow of water and air. The hydrophilic
20 hydrogel is a type of a polymer material that can absorb and retain large amounts of
water while maintaining its structure. The term "hydrophilic" means "waterattracting," which explains why this material has a strong affinity for water. Hydrogels
are used due to their ability to swell and expand upon contact with water thereby
blocking water flow.
25 Further, the inner tube (105) includes a handle with a twist cap mechanism for removal
and maintenance of the hydrogel. The handle is user-friendly. The hydrogel is easily
removed, dried and reused efficiently after activation.
Further, the outer tube (110) is adapted to prevent water from entering the inner tube
(105) through gravity and due to a vertical orientation of the outer tube. Typically, the
30 outer tube (110) acts as the first line of defence against rainwater. The outer tube (110)
10
is designed to prevent rainwater from directly entering the inner tube (105) where the
hydrogel is housed. The top of the outer tube (110)is exposed to the environment,
allowing rainwater to fall onto it and flow off to the sides, utilizing gravity to divert
water away. Additionally, if rainwater enters through the small pores of the outer tube,
5 it is prevented from rising and reaching the top of the inner tube (105) due to the tube's
vertical orientation and the effects of gravity.
The air outlet unit (102) includes a cork (115) with a truncated cone structure adapted
to fit into the air outlet unit to create a watertight seal. In one embodiment, the cork
(115) is fabricated with rubber or silicon to ensure flexibility. The cork (115) includes
10 a magnetic rim positioned around a circumference wherein the magnetic rim is
connected to a magnetic plate positioned at an opening of the air outlet unit to enable
a secured seal. In other words, the interaction between the cork (115) and the magnetic
plate ensures a secure and enhanced seal.
Further, the cork (115) includes a spring (120) mechanism positioned around the cord
15 to hold the cork (115) in an upward direction against a trigger. Typically, the spring
(120) mechanism is used to enable controlled movement of the cork (115) . In one
embodiment, the spring (120) mechanism is made of stainless steel or any other
corrosion-resistant material. Further, in another embodiment, the spring (120)
mechanism is positioned alongside the cork (115) . Typically, the trigger is a small
20 metal, a thin rod or a strip of lightweight, sturdy metal like aluminium or a corrosionresistant alloy. The trigger is attached to a helium-filled float wherein the helium-filled
float is adapted to rise in position in an event of the water entering the air outlet unit.
The trigger latches into a notch within the air outlet unit (102). This causes the trigger
to be pulled out of its notch and consequently releasing the cork (115) , when the water
25 enters the air outlet unit (102). Contrary, as the trigger is dislodged, the spring (120)
pulls the cork (115) downwards, where the magnetic attraction between the cork (115)
and the plate swiftly pulls it into a precise, secure sealing position. This magnetic
feature not only aids in pulling the cork (115) into place but also enhances the seal,
ensuring no further entry of water or air.
11
Furthermore, the air outlet unit (102) includes a rope attached to a top section of the
cork (115) to provide manual operation and maintenance. In one embodiment, the
rope is fabricated from a durable, flexible nylon or coated metal cable. In another
embodiment, the rope is equipped with a handle for ease of use and is brightly coloured
5 for visibility. Typically, an operator can pull the cork (115) upwards against the spring
tension for resetting or maintenance purposes. This engages the trigger into the notch
to hold the cork (115) open. This way of manual operation is vital for testing the
protective cover’s (100) functionality and ensuring readiness for activation.
It must be noted that regular maintenance of the spring (120) , the condition of the
10 cord, and the functionality of the magnetic connections is essential. Such maintenance
ensures that all components operate seamlessly, maintaining the protective cover’s
effectiveness in blocking water while allowing air flow when appropriate.
Consider a non-limiting example, wherein a car owner ‘X’ covers his vehicle (102)
with the protective cover (100). The protective cover (100) is laid flat on a ground,
15 next the vehicle (102) is driven over the protective cover (100), allowing the top
material to drape around it. As the protective cover (100) is pulled up, it conforms to
the contours of the vehicle (102), ensuring a snug fit. In one corner, the bottom edge
of the cover is attached to the top edge making it as a single unit with simplicity. As a
single person able to place the cover on the floor, drive the vehicle (102) over the
20 bottom of the cover, then drape the top of the cover over the vehicle (102) and start
zipping it throughout the sides. The protective cover (100) is securely fastened, and
the cork (115) is in place, creating a watertight seal. The rolling tube is in its tightly
sealed state, preventing any water from entering the cover. As the storm progresses,
rainwater accumulates, and the floodwaters begin to rise. The increase in external
25 water pressure starts to affect the air pressure inside the cover. As floodwaters surround
the vehicle (102), the trapped air inside the protective cover causes an increase in
internal pressure. This pressure rise is detected by the rolling tube mechanism.
Responding to the increased internal pressure, the rolling tube begins to unroll. This
action allows the trapped air to escape from the cover into the external environment,
30 preventing the cover from inflating or lifting off the vehicle (102). As air continues to
escape through the rolling tube, the internal and external pressures begin to equalize.
12
This stabilization keeps the protective cover securely in place, even as floodwaters
continue to rise. Once the pressure stabilizes (for instance, when floodwaters reach
their peak and stop rising), the rolling tube automatically rolls back into its tightly
sealed state, ensuring that no water can enter the protective cover. After the flood, the
5 car owner can easily access the cork (115) via the rope for maintenance. They can
check the hydrogel and other components to ensure everything is functioning correctly
and replace any materials if needed.
FIG. 2a and FIG. 2b are schematic representations of a rolling tube in a rolled up state
and expanded state respectively of FIG. 1, in accordance with an embodiment of the
10 present disclosure.
FIG. 3a illustrates a flow chart representing the steps involved in a method for using a
protective cover for vehicles during floods, in accordance with an embodiment of the
present disclosure. FIG. 3b illustrates a flow chart illustrating continued steps of the
method of FIG. 3a in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
15 The method (200) includes allowing, by a vehicle, to run over the protective cover in
any direction wherein the protective cover is laid flat on a ground, pulled up and zipped
along the sides to ensure effective enveloping of the protective cover on the vehicle at
step 205.
The vehicle cover features a wrap-around design that effectively envelops the vehicle.
20 The process begins with the cover laid flat on the ground, next the vehicle is driven
over the cover, allowing the top material to drape around it. As the cover is pulled up,
it conforms to the contours of the vehicle, ensuring a snug fit. In one corner, the bottom
edge of the cover is attached to the top edge making it as a single unit with simplicity.
As a single person able to place the cover on the floor, drive the vehicle over the
25 bottom of the cover, then drape the top of the cover over the vehicle and start zipping
it throughout the sides. The wrap-around feature allows for easy access to the vehicle
while providing comprehensive coverage, safeguarding it from flood, dust, and dirt.
The method (200) includes incorporating a rolling tube with a first end connected to
the interior of the vehicle cover and a second end inherently sealed by tension, wherein
13
the rolling tube unrolls in response to increasing internal pressure, thereby allowing
trapped air to escape and balance internal and external pressure during a flood event
in step 210. During a flood, as water levels rise around the vehicle, air trapped inside
the protective cover can cause an increase in internal pressure. This air needs to be
5 released to prevent the cover from inflating or lifting due to buoyancy. The rolling tube
unrolls in response to this increase in internal air pressure. As the internal pressure
builds up, the tube gradually unrolls, allowing the trapped air to escape from the cover
into the external environment. By releasing air, the rolling tube helps balance the
pressure inside and outside the cover. This is critical for preventing the cover from
10 ballooning or floating away, which could damage the cover and the vehicle. Once the
pressure is equalized, the air inside the cover matches the external pressure from the
floodwaters, ensuring the cover remains secure around the vehicle without being lifted
or damaged.
The method (200) includes automatically rolling the tube back into its tightly sealed
15 state once the internal and external pressures stabilize in step 215. Typically, the tube
unrolls when the internal pressure (inside the cover) becomes higher than the external
pressure (outside), allowing the trapped air to escape and balance the pressures. Once
the internal air pressure and the external pressure become equal, meaning no more
excess air needs to be released, the rolling tube automatically rolls back into its original
20 position. This rolling back occurs because of the inherent tension in the tube's design,
which naturally pulls it into a tightly sealed state when no pressure is forcing it to stay
open. When the tube rolls back, it returns to a sealed state, ensuring that the protective
cover is once again completely closed and airtight. As a result, external water is
prevented from entering the system after the air pressure has been balanced. It keeps
25 the cover watertight, protecting the vehicle.
The method (200) includes providing an air outlet system comprising an inner tube
and an outer tube, wherein the inner tube comprises a plurality of pores for expelling
air from within the protective cover into an external environment in step 220.
The inner tube is designed with a plurality of pores (small holes) that allow air trapped
30 within the protective cover to be expelled into the external environment. These pores
14
help in releasing any excess air trapped inside the cover, which could otherwise create
buoyancy, making the vehicle float and potentially cause damage.
The outer tube surrounds the inner tube and provides an additional layer of protection
to ensure water does not enter through the pores while still allowing air to escape.
5 Typically, in step 220, the air is expelled from within the protective cover in a
controlled manner to avoid the buildup of air pressure that could cause the vehicle to
become buoyant and float during a flood. Consequently, the protective cover maintains
its waterproof integrity while ensuring that air can exit without allowing water to enter.
The method (200) includes expanding, by a hydrophilic hydrogel, to seal the inner
10 tube in an event of a flood thereby preventing backflow of water and air in step 225.
In the event of a flood, water comes into contact with the hydrophilic hydrogel that is
integrated into the inner tube of the air outlet system. The hydrophilic hydrogel is a
water-absorbing material that swells or expands when exposed to water. The hydrogel
reacts to floodwaters by absorbing the water, causing it to expand significantly.
15 As the hydrogel expands, it seals the inner tube, blocking the pores or openings
through which air was previously being expelled. This expansion creates a tight seal,
preventing water and air from flowing back into the protective cover. By sealing the
inner tube, the hydrogel ensures that floodwaters cannot enter the vehicle through the
air outlet system, protecting the vehicle from water damage.
20 The method (200) includes removing and maintaining, by a handle of the inner tube,
the hydrogel in step 230. The hydrophilic hydrogel inside the inner tube needs periodic
maintenance or replacement after it has expanded and sealed the tube during a flood
event. This is important because, once used, the hydrogel may not revert to its original
state or may degrade over time. For this reason, the handle can be used to easily
25 remove the hydrogel after it has expanded or if it needs to be replaced for regular
maintenance. Specifically, the handle, along with a twist cap mechanism, enables the
user to open the inner tube, take out the used hydrogel, and either clean or replace it
with new hydrogel material. This step ensures that the air outlet system remains
functional for future use, especially in environments prone to frequent flooding.
15
Maintaining the hydrogel ensures that it will be ready to function properly in the event
of the next flood. Regular maintenance helps prevent failures in the air outlet system,
such as the inability to seal the inner tube when needed.
The method (200) includes preventing, an outer tube of the air outlet unit, water from
5 entering the inner tube through gravity and due to a vertical orientation of the outer
tube in step 235. The outer tube acts as a protective barrier that helps prevent water
from reaching the inner tube. The outer tube is positioned in a vertical orientation. This
design helps prevent water from flowing directly into the air outlet system. Further,
the method (200) utilizes gravity to its advantage. Because the outer tube is vertically
10 oriented, water from outside (such as from rising floodwaters) would have to
overcome the vertical height of the outer tube to reach the inner tube. This is unlikely
unless water levels become extremely high. The vertical positioning helps guide water
away from the sensitive parts of the air outlet unit, especially the pores in the inner
tube, which are responsible for expelling air.
15 The outer tube creates a protective shield around the inner tube, preventing water from
directly entering and compromising the air outlet system. This design ensures that,
even if the floodwaters rise, the water is less likely to find its way into the air outlet
system, thereby maintaining the system’s ability to release air and block water.
The method (200) includes creating, by a cork with a truncated cone structure adapted
20 to fit into the air outlet unit, a watertight seal in step 240. The cork is designed with a
truncated cone structure, meaning it is shaped like a cone but with its tip cut off,
making the cork wider at one end and narrower at the other. This shape is ideal for
forming a snug, secure seal in the opening of the air outlet unit. This tight fit creates a
watertight seal, which is crucial for preventing floodwater from entering through the
25 air outlet unit. The cork ensures that the air outlet, which allows air to escape under
normal conditions, is fully sealed off during a flood, preventing any water from getting
inside the vehicle cover.
The cork’s ability to create a watertight seal is a critical aspect of the protective cover’s
functionality during floods. This ensures that once the air outlet system has released
30 excess air, the system can be sealed off to prevent water intrusion. Without this cork,
16
the air outlet system would be vulnerable to backflow, allowing floodwater to enter
the protective cover and damage the vehicle.
The method (200) includes enabling, by a magnetic rim positioned around a
circumference of the said cork wherein the magnetic rim is connected to a magnetic
5 plate positioned at an opening of the air outlet unit, a secured seal in step 245. When
the cork is inserted into the air outlet unit, the magnetic rim on the cork aligns with the
magnetic plate at the outlet's opening. The magnetic force between the rim and the
plate helps pull the cork more tightly into place, ensuring that it is firmly seated and
securely sealed. This magnetic connection provides additional force to the mechanical
10 seal (from the truncated cone shape), making it more reliable, especially under the
pressure of rising floodwaters.
The magnetic force helps ensure that the cork remains tightly secured in the air outlet
unit, even if external conditions (like water pressure) push against it. The magnetic
seal reduces the risk of the cork loosening or dislodging during a flood, which could
15 compromise the protective cover's effectiveness. It also makes the cork easier to use,
as the magnetic rim helps guide and hold the cork in place, reducing manual effort
when sealing the system.
The method (200) includes positioning a spring mechanism around the cork to hold it
in an upward direction against a trigger, wherein the trigger is attached to a helium20 filled float that rises when water enters the air outlet unit, thereby releasing the trigger
and allowing the cork to seal the outlet unit in step 250. A spring is positioned around
the cork, keeping it in an upward direction and ready to be deployed into the air outlet
unit. The spring applies pressure on the cork, but the cork is initially held in place by
a trigger, preventing it from closing the outlet prematurely.
25 The cork is restrained by a trigger that prevents the spring from pushing the cork into
the outlet to seal it. This trigger keeps the cork in a "ready" state until it is necessary
to seal the air outlet unit. The trigger is attached to a helium-filled float that is
positioned within the air outlet system. The purpose of the helium-filled float is to
respond to the presence of water. When floodwater begins to enter the air outlet unit,
30 the helium-filled float rises due to its buoyancy. As water fills the air outlet, the float
17
rises, and this movement releases the trigger from its notch. Once the trigger is
released, the spring mechanism is activated, pushing the cork downward and into the
air outlet unit. With the trigger disengaged, the spring forces the cork into the air outlet
unit, creating a watertight seal. This automatic action ensures that as soon as
5 floodwater is detected, the cork is deployed to seal the outlet, preventing any water
from entering the protective cover.
The method (200) includes providing, by a rope attached to a top section of the cork,
manual operation and maintenance in step 255. In situations where automatic
activation of the cork (via the spring and float mechanism) is not necessary or fails,
10 the user can manually operate the cork by pulling the rope. The manual operation is
useful if the cork needs to be adjusted or deployed before the automatic system
engages or after it has been activated, providing a backup mechanism.
The rope also allows for easy maintenance of the cork. By pulling the rope, the user
can remove the cork from the air outlet unit without disassembling the system. This
15 feature is particularly useful for regular inspections or to replace or clean the cork after
it has been used in a flood event. It provides convenient access for ensuring that the
cork remains functional and effective.
It must be noted that the protective cover is a single-unit that can be deployed easily
from any direction relative to the vehicle’s position. This flexibility is crucial for quick
20 setup in emergency situations, such as sudden flooding. The base of the protective
cover is designed to dynamically expand and conform closely to the vehicle’s
undercarriage and tires, creating a tight seal that prevents water ingress and minimizes
air pockets. This adaptability is supported by an embedded memory wire framework
that maintains the cover's structural integrity and ensures it returns to its designated
25 shape after use.
Various embodiments of the present disclosure provides a protective cover for vehicles
during floods with several benefits. The protective cover is easy to be deployed as it
is a single-unit. This flexibility helps for a quick setup in emergency situations, such
30 as sudden flooding. The provision of a dual-zipper sealing (primary zipper and
18
secondary zipper) enhances waterproof capabilities. Additionally, the dual-zipper
sealing aids to maintain a dry internal environment for the vehicle even during
prolonged exposure to flooding. Another advantage of the protective cover is the
provision of a sophisticated feature of the air outlet to manage both air pressure and
5 water ingress during flood conditions effectively. Further, by adding magnetic strength
to the seal, the system ensures a reliable closure of the air outlet, preventing any
leakage that might allow water to enter the protective cover and damage the vehicle.
The combination of the spring, trigger, and helium-filled float allows for an automatic
response to rising water levels. The cork doesn't rely on manual intervention but
10 instead uses the buoyancy of the float to automatically detect water and close the
outlet. This setup provides a fail-safe mechanism to protect the vehicle by ensuring
the air outlet is sealed off immediately once floodwater begins to rise inside the
system. Further, while the cork is primarily controlled by the automatic spring and
float mechanism, having a rope for manual operation ensures that the system remains
15 flexible and user-friendly. The automatic nature of this rolling mechanism ensures that
the system is self-regulating. It doesn’t require manual intervention to close the tube
once the pressures stabilize, making it efficient and reliable. This feature helps
maintain the integrity of the protective cover, ensuring it returns to a secure and
waterproof condition after it has finished venting air.
20 Overall, the protective cover not only provides an effective flood prevention cover but
also incorporates features that enhance safety, usability and reliability. Further, the
self-regulating design of the rolling tube negates the need for electronic controls or
manual interventions, relying solely on material flexibility and pressure dynamics for
operation.
25 It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the foregoing general description
and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory of the disclosure
and are not intended to be restrictive thereof.
While specific language has been used to describe the disclosure, any limitations
arising on account of the same are not intended. As would be apparent to a person
19
skilled in the art, various working modifications may be made to the method in order
to implement the inventive concept as taught herein.
The figures and the foregoing description give examples of embodiments. Those
skilled in the art will appreciate that one or more of the described elements may well
5 be combined into a single functional element. Alternatively, certain elements may be
split into multiple functional elements. Elements from one embodiment may be added
to another embodiment. For example, the order of processes described herein may be
changed and are not limited to the manner described herein. Moreover, the actions of
any flow diagram need not be implemented in the order shown; nor do all of the acts
10 need to be necessarily performed. Also, those acts that are not dependent on other acts
may be performed in parallel with the other acts. The scope of embodiments is by no
means limited by these specific examples.
20
I CLAIM:
1. A protective cover (100) for vehicles during floods comprising:
characterized in that,
an air outlet unit comprising:
5 a rolling tube (130) wherein a first end of the rolling tube (130) is
connected to an interior of a vehicle (102) cover wherein the rolling
tube (130) acts as an outlet for trapped air in the event of the flood
and a second end of the rolling tube is sealed due to inherent tension
wherein the rolling tube is adapted to:
10 unroll due to increasing internal pressure in the event of the
flood thereby allowing the trapped air to escape to the external space
to balance an internal and external pressure; and
automatically roll back to an original tightly sealed state once
the internal and external pressure stabilizes,
15 wherein the rolling tube (130) in the original tightly sealed state
occurs under normal conditions;
an inner tube (105) and an outer tube (110) wherein,
the inner tube (105) comprises a plurality of pores to expel air
present within the protective cover to an external space and a hydrophilic
20 hydrogel adapted to expand and seal the inner tube (105) in an event of a
flood thereby preventing backflow of water and air and wherein,
the inner tube (105) comprises a handle with a twist cap mechanism
for removal and maintenance of the hydrogel and wherein,
the outer tube (110) is adapted to prevent water from entering the
25 inner tube (105) through gravity and due to a vertical orientation of the outer
tube (110);
21
a cork (115) with a truncated cone structure adapted to fit into the
air outlet unit to create a watertight seal wherein the cork (115) comprises:
a magnetic rim positioned around a circumference of the
said cork wherein the magnetic rim is connected to a magnetic
5 plate positioned at an opening of the air outlet unit to enable a
secured seal wherein,
a spring mechanism (120) positioned around the cord to
hold the cork (115) in an upward direction against a trigger
wherein,
10 the trigger is attached to a helium-filled float wherein the heliumfilled float is adapted to rise in position in an event of the water
entering the air outlet unit thereby causing the trigger to be pulled
out of its notch and consequently releasing the cork (115) ;
a rope attached to a top section of the cork (115) to provide manual
15 operation and maintenance; and
2. The protective cover (100) as claimed in claim 1, comprising:
a primary zipper and a secondary zipper adapted to form a dual-zipper sealing
mechanism wherein the primary zipper comprises a teethless rubber zipper and the
secondary zipper comprises a teethed zipper.
20 3. The protective cover (100) as claimed in claim 2, wherein the primary zipper
is adapted to provide a smooth and continuous closure that effectively blocks water
entry into the vehicle (102) and wherein the secondary zipper is fabricated with
stainless steel to provide an additional layer of security against water pressure during
the event of the flood.
25 4. The protective cover (100) as claimed in claim 1, comprising:
a memory wire framework adapted to maintain the protective cover’s structural
integrity and ensures return to its designated shape after use.
22
5. The protective cover (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the protective
cover is fabricated from tarpaulin material to provide durability, resistance and
flexibility.
6. The protective cover (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the rubber cork
5 (115) is adapted with a spring (120) cylinder mechanism wherein the spring (120)
cylinder mechanism is positioned around or alongside of the rubber cork (115) .
7. The protective cover (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the vehicle (102)
is driven over the protective cover (100) from any direction wherein the protective
cover (100) is placed flat on a ground surface thereby allowing quick setup in event
10 of the flood.
8. The protective cover (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the protective
cover (100) is fabricated as a single-unit with a wrap-around design to effectively
envelop the vehicle (102).
9. A method (200) for using a protective cover for vehicles during floods
15 comprising:
characteristic in that,
allowing, by a vehicle, to run over the protective cover in any direction
wherein the protective cover is laid flat on a ground, pulled up and zipped along the
sides to ensure effective enveloping of the protective cover on the vehicle; (205)
20 incorporating a rolling tube with a first end connected to the interior of the
vehicle cover and a second end inherently sealed by tension, wherein the rolling tube
unrolls in response to increasing internal pressure, thereby allowing trapped air to
escape and balance internal and external pressure during a flood event; (210)
automatically rolling the tube back into its tightly sealed state once the
25 internal and external pressures stabilize; (215)
23
providing an air outlet system comprising an inner tube and an outer tube,
wherein the inner tube comprises a plurality of pores for expelling air from within the
protective cover into an external environment; (220)
expanding, by a hydrophilic hydrogel, to seal the inner tube in an event of a
5 flood thereby preventing backflow of water and air; (225)
removing and maintaining, by a handle of the inner tube, the hydrogel; (230)
preventing, an outer tube of the air outlet unit, water from entering the inner
tube through gravity and due to a vertical orientation of the outer tube; (235)
creating, by a cork with a truncated cone structure adapted to fit into the air
10 outlet unit, a watertight seal; (240)
enabling, by a magnetic rim positioned around a circumference of the said
cork wherein the magnetic rim is connected to a magnetic plate positioned at an
opening of the air outlet unit, a secured seal; (245)
positioning a spring mechanism around the cork to hold it in an upward
15 direction against a trigger, wherein the trigger is attached to a helium-filled float that
rises when water enters the air outlet unit, thereby releasing the trigger and allowing
the cork to seal the outlet unit; and (250)
providing, by a rope attached to a top section of the cork, manual operation
and maintenance. (255)
20
25
30
24
ABSTRACT
A protective cover for vehicles during floods is disclosed. A vehicle (102) is driven
over the protective cover in any direction The protective cover is laid flat on a ground,
pulled up and zipped along the sides. The rolling tube unrolls due to increasing internal
5 pressure allowing the trapped air to escape. The rolling tube automatically rolls back
once the pressure stabilizes. An inner tube (105) includes pores to expel air and a
hydrophilic hydrogel to expand and seal the inner tube preventing backflow of water
and air. An outer tube (110) to prevent water from entering the inner tube. A cork (115)
forms a watertight seal, enhanced by a magnetic rim and spring to secure closure when
10 triggered by a helium-filled float that rises with floodwaters. A trigger attached is
adapted to rise with water thereby causing the trigger to be pulled out of its notch and
releases the cork.

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