Backpack for self contained breathing apparatus

The first backpack assembly for self-contained breathing apparatus This application claims the priority of the US patent application number 60/925,036, application date of April 18, 2007 EJ, and the entire content of the patent is hereby incorporated.

TECHNICAL FIELD The present invention mainly relates to a backpack assembly for self-contained breathing apparatus.

BACKGROUND Firefighters, for example, use self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) when extinguishing fires. SCBA usually has a backpack assembly, which supports many parts of the SCBA, because many parts themselves are modular, and these parts hang down from the backpack assembly. In the process of movement, potential obstacles will be formed in a certain structure. Although firefighters have become accustomed to this, improvements to the existing technology are possible.

In addition, the backpack component is tied to the firefighter's hip or waist with a waist pad. In order to improve comfort, the cushion can be set to be movable according to the balance of the backpack components. However, such movement will bring psychological stress to the firefighters if the firefighter does not believe that the backpack component is fastened in the proper position. disturbed.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION Therefore, an improved backpack assembly is characterized by integrating several components into a streamlined body, thereby greatly reducing potential obstacles. This integrated body produces a flat design, which greatly reduces or eliminates the relatively large protrusions that restrict movement.

In addition, a rotating, axis-rotating buttocks plate is provided, and the buttocks plate fixes the waist pad on the balance point of the backpack assembly. This structure restricts movement, improves comfort, and improves feedback from backpack components to firefighters.

Other improvements include: an improved gas cylinder strap assembly that can simplify the rapid exchange of gas cylinders, including gas cylinders with different diameters and different valve stem structures. When the backpack assembly is worn, it can Quickly identify the twisted place on the strap; the low air volume warning (sound/visible) will appear on the back of the backpack assembly. If the firefighter himself does not notice, his followers can also recognize the low air supply situation; on the backpack assembly The handle and hook-and-loop connection point can withstand a pulling force of 1,000 pounds or more; a larger gripper helps to tighten the backpack component straps when wearing gloves; an adjustable hip plate makes the backpack component adapt to For different body sizes and shapes.

Certain aspects of some embodiments of the present invention relate to a backpack assembly for a self-contained breathing apparatus. The backpack assembly includes a back frame with a front-facing surface and a rear-facing surface, and the front-facing surface has a lower portion. The hip plate is located along the lower part of the front-facing surface, and a bush is located between the hip plate and the front-facing surface of the back frame. The hip plate covers at least a part of the liner. A pin connects the hip plate to the back frame, and the pin is located between at least a part of the bushing and at least a part of the hip plate. In some embodiments, the bushing has fingers in contact with the pin; in some embodiments, the pin

200880012475. 5 The first is adapted to rotate along the radial direction of the pin, so that the hip plate can rotate about the first axis relative to the back plate, and at the same time rotate about the second axis relative to the pin. The first axis is preferably perpendicular to the second axis. In some embodiments, the bushing can be installed on the back frame in multiple places, so that the height of the hip plate can be adjusted according to the back frame.

Certain aspects of some embodiments of the invention relate to a self-contained breathing apparatus including a backpack assembly. The backpack assembly includes a back frame, which is installed on the main body of the back frame. The main body has an outer edge which is determined by the outer edge of the back frame. The main body contains one or more accessories for the backpack assembly and is placed opposite to the back frame of the user of the self-contained breathing apparatus. One of the accessories includes a low-volume visual alarm. In some embodiments, the accessory further has a first-stage regulator and a power supply; in some embodiments, the accessory also has a personal security alarm system (PASS) unit, the PASS unit includes at least one audible alarm device and at least one Depending on the device; in some embodiments, accessories even include a low-volume alarm device and a low-battery alarm device. Preferably, at least one audible alarm device is located on the first side of the backpack assembly, and at least one audible alarm device is located on the second side of the backpack assembly, wherein the first side and the second side of the backpack are opposite; more preferably, two audible alarms The device is located on the first side of the backpack assembly, and two audible alarm devices are located on the second side of the backpack assembly. The audible alarm device on the first side may be located in the upper part of the backpack assembly. The sound alarm device on the second side may be located in the upper part of the backpack assembly. Preferably, the at least one sound alarm device includes a bell, a whistle device or a bird singing device.

Certain aspects of some embodiments of the present invention relate to a backpack assembly for a self-contained breathing apparatus. The backpack assembly includes a back frame, and the back frame includes at least one opening formed in a peripheral surface of the back frame. The at least one opening may form a handle for carrying a load of approximately 1000 pounds. Preferably, the hook and loop connection point is located close to the handle, and the hook and loop connection point can bear a load of 1000 pounds. In some embodiments, the hook and loop connection point is located between the at least one opening and the surrounding surface of the back frame.

Certain aspects of some embodiments of the present invention also relate to a backpack assembly for a self-contained breathing apparatus, wherein the backpack assembly includes a back frame. The gas cylinder belt assembly is fixed at the back frame, and the gas cylinder belt assembly includes a gas cylinder belt, a first handle and a second handle. The first handle is connected with the adjusting device, and the adjusting mechanism is used to adjust the circumference of the gas bottle belt, and the second handle is connected with the gas bottle belt, so that the gas belt can be opened or closed. In some embodiments, the first grip and the second grip are located in opposite directions from the cylinder. In some embodiments, the second handle includes a spring-loaded cam lock device.

Other aspects of the invention relate to a backpack assembly for self-contained breathing apparatus. The backpack assembly includes a back frame, which includes a rear-facing surface and a front-facing surface. The rearward facing surface and the forward facing surface are connected by at least one peripheral surface. At least one opening located along the peripheral surface defines at least one handle. The waist pad is connected to the back frame with the hip plate, and the hip plate is connected to the front-facing surface of the back frame. The shoulder strap is connected to the back frame and supports the front PASS device. The front PASS device is connected to the upper housing through a pipe. The upper shell is connected to the rear facing surface of the back frame. The upper shell includes a low-gas-volume sound alarm device, a low-gas-volume visual warning device, a low-power visual warning device, and a sensor for looking up at the display. The middle shell is mounted on the rear facing surface of the back frame and is usually lower than the upper shell. The middle housing includes a rear PASS device, and the rear PASS device includes at least one audible alarm device, at least one visual alarm device, and at least one firefighter location beacon. The front and rear PASS devices preferably have two alarms on the surface of the back frame.

200880012475.5 In the report device, the gas cylinder belt assembly is usually located under the middle shell, and the gas cylinder is installed in it. The lower shell is installed on the rear-facing surface of the back frame and supports the gas cylinder. The rear housing includes a central power supply and a first-stage regulator. The CGA wheel is connected to the offset rotation assembly, the offset rotation assembly is connected to a hose, and the hose is connected to the first-stage regulator.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS The features and advantages of the present invention will be further described below in conjunction with the drawings and specific embodiments, in which: Figure 1 is a front perspective view of a backpack assembly according to the present invention; Figure 2 is a back perspective view of the backpack assembly shown in Figure 1 Figures; Figure 3 is a front view of the back frame used in the backpack assembly of Figure 1; Figure 4 is a partial perspective view of the back frame assembly of Figure 3; Figure 5 is a partially enlarged perspective view of the back frame assembly of Figure 3; Figure 6 is used Fig. 3 is a perspective sectional view of the bushing of the back frame assembly; Fig. 7 is a perspective view of the bushes and pins used in the back frame assembly of Fig. 3; Fig. 8 is a partial perspective view of the back frame assembly of Fig. 3; Figure 3 is an exploded perspective view of the back frame assembly; Figure 10 is an enlarged perspective view of a part of the back frame assembly of Figure 3, in which a coordinate system is introduced; Figures 11 and 12 show two types of hip plates in the back frame assembly of Figure 3 Different sports modes; Figure 13 shows the connection of the hip plate and hip/waist pad assembly; Figure 14 is a perspective view of the backpack assembly of Figure 1 from top to bottom; Figures 15 and 16 are the head-up display sensors used in the backpack assembly of Figure 1 Perspective view of the housing; Figure 17 is a perspective view of the lower part of the backpack assembly of Figure 1; Figures 18 and 19 are perspective views of the rotating connector and hose connected to the CGA wheel used in the backpack assembly of Figure 1; Figures 20 and 21 show Used to be the gripper of the backpack assembly of Figure 1; Figure 22 is a partial perspective view of the integrated electric and pneumatic connectors used in the backpack assembly of Figure 1; Figures 23 and 24 are used in the front PASS unit of the backpack assembly of Figure 1 perspective; Figures 25-31 show perspective views of the gas cylinder belt assembly used in the backpack assembly of Figure 1; Figure 32 is a perspective view of the housing containing the rear PASS device and the ultrasonic beacon used in the backpack assembly of Figure 1;

200880012475.5 For the first specific embodiment, referring to Figures 1 and 2, the backpack assembly 30 with self-contained breathing apparatus has a specific application, but certain features, aspects and advantages of the backpack assembly 30 can be used in other applications. In the figure, a gas cylinder 32 is supported on the backpack assembly 30. However, it is not shown in the figure. The backpack assembly 30 can be used with a face mask, which in some embodiments has a head-up display (HUD) and a communication system, and other suitable accessories can also be used.

Compared with the existing backpack assembly in which the> components are attached to the surrounding parts, the advantageous feature of the backpack assembly shown in the figure is that several components are integrated together to obtain a perfectly streamlined backpack assembly 30. The components are connected or assembled in a main body formed by several housing components. The streamlined backpack reduces obstruction points. This integral structure is also to make the backpack assembly 30 and many of its components meet the desired aesthetic requirements.

Before describing the components of the backpack assembly 30 in the drawings in detail, an overall introduction will be made. In FIG. 1, the backpack assembly 30 includes a back frame 34 which forms a bottom plate on which the remaining components are installed. In the structure shown in the figure, the upper pad 36 is fixed on the upper forward part of the back frame 34, and the waist pad 40 is connected to the back frame 34 with a rotating buttock plate 42 (see FIG. 3). The waist pad 40 is generally located below the upper pad 36 and on the front facing surface of the back frame 34. The rotating hip plate connection provides comfortable and reasonable weight distribution in any part of the human body. This connection increases flexibility by 35% when bending sideways, 30% more body flexibility when bending forward, and 20% more hip bending.

The strap 44 is also connected to the back frame 34. The back strap 44 preferably includes two shoulder straps 46, the end of the shoulder strap 46 is connected to the rear strap 50, and the rear strap 50 uses a parachute-type fastener 52. The fastener 52 can be easily opened, but other types of connections can also be used. The bottom end of the back strap 50 can be connected to the hip plate 42. The harness 44 also includes a waist belt 54, and the waist belt may have two parts connected by a fastener 56. The two parts of the waist belt 54 are preferably connected to the waist pad 40 in the manner described below. The shoulder belt 46 and the waist belt 54 can be adjusted by the part connected to the large grip 60. Preferably, the shoulder belt 46, the back belt 50, the waist belt 54, and the upper pad 36 and the waist pad 40 can be easily replaced in the art.

1, the front PASS device 62 is supported by the right shoulder strap 46 (based on the user's vision). The PASS device is a personal safety alarm system. It is a one-way communication device for firefighters who enter the building to alert others that the person wearing the PASS device is in danger and needs rescue. The illustrated PASS device 62 also includes a beacon 64 for the firefighter positioning system. The beacon 64 includes an omnidirectional ultrasonic transmitter, the details of which will be described below.

The pneumatic hose 70 and the cable 72 connect the PASS device to the upper housing 74 which is connected to the upper part of the back of the back frame 34. Referring to FIG. 2, the second pneumatic hose 76 is also connected to the upper housing 74. Referring to FIG. 1, the second pneumatic hose 76 extends along a part of the left shoulder strap 46. The second cable 80 also extends along a part of the left shoulder strap 46. The second pneumatic hose 76 and the second cable 80 are connected to the third pneumatic hose 82 and the third cable 84 respectively. In the illustrated structure, a single connector 86 is used to connect the pneumatic hoses 76 and 82 and the cables 80 and 84.

200880012475.5 The third pneumatic hose 82 extends to a second-stage regulator (not shown), and the second-stage regulator may be located along the left side of the lower part of the back frame 34. The second stage regulator (not shown) can be connected to a mask and the like.

Referring to FIG. 2, in the structure shown in the figure, the upper casing 74 includes a low-volume sound alarm device 92, and the low-volume sound alarm device 92 is located on the left side of the upper casing 74. The right side of the upper housing 74 includes a low-volume lamp 94, the low-battery lamp 96 and the HUD sensor 100. The upper housing 74 and the components installed therein will be described in detail below.

The middle shell 102 is mounted on the back frame 34 and is located just below the upper shell 74. The middle housing 102 includes one or more rear PASS devices 104. Therefore, the middle housing 102 includes two audible alarm devices 106 and two visual alarm devices 110. The middle housing 102 shown in the figure also contains two beacons 112 for the firefighter positioning system.

The gas cylinder belt assembly 114 is installed at the back frame 34 just below the middle housing 102. The gas cylinder belt assembly 114 is used to fix the gas cylinder 32 to the back frame 34. Advantageously, the air cylinder or gas cylinder 32 is fixed in a lower position (for example, the upper end of the gas cylinder is located below the upper end of the back frame). The lower position of the gas cylinder helps the gas cylinder to rotate away from the user's legs and buttocks, thus providing space with less restricted flexibility. In addition, when the torso is stretched, the lower position of the cylinder can allow the cylinder to slide across the hips. The gas cylinder belt assembly will be described in detail below.

The lower shell 116 is installed on the back frame 34, just below the cylinder belt assembly 114. The lower housing 116 preferably includes a central power source 118, and the central power source 118 includes four C-type batteries connected in series. The central power source 118 provides power to the backpack assembly 30. The lower housing 116 also houses the first-stage regulator 120. The first-stage regulator 120 is connected to a detachable common respirator (not shown) through a hose (not shown). The end of the hose may be provided with a detachable connector for connecting to the lower housing 116, so that the common respirator can be removed when needed. In some configurations, the hose (not shown) can be about 36 inches long, but other lengths can be used. A hose (not shown) may be connected to the first-stage regulator 120, and the rotating connector rotates around the hose, so that the possibility of the hose being kinked is greatly reduced. A common respirator (not shown) can be set in a pouch (not shown), and the pouch is connected to the left side of the back frame 34.

The CGA wheel 132 may be connected to the first-stage regulator 120 through a hose 134. The hose is preferably connected to the CGA wheel 132 through an eccentric rotating assembly 136, which provides flexibility in the positioning of the CGA wheel, so that the backpack assembly 30 can be adapted to various valve stems.

Through the introduction of the basic structure of the backpack assembly 30, some of the components will be discussed in detail in an embodiment of the backpack assembly 30 in conjunction with the drawings.

Back Frame As described above, the back frame 34 preferably forms a bottom plate, and the balance point of the back strap 44 and the backpack assembly 30 is constructed around the bottom plate. Fig. 3 shows the back frame 34 and the hip plate 42 connected to it by joints.

The back frame 34 in the figure can be constructed in any suitable manner. The back frame 34 includes a plate 140. The plates 140 of the back frame 34 can be made of any suitable material. In one structure, the plate 140 is made of aluminum. The aluminum back frame 34 has a high-strength and rigid lightweight structure. In some embodiments, the back frame 34 may be formed by a tubular element.

200880012475.5 In either structure, the back frame 34 forms an appropriate platform on which the balance point of the backpack assembly 30 can be installed.

Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, the plate 140 of the back frame 34 includes one or more handle openings 142. These handle openings 142 help to form a handle 144 along the periphery of the plate 140. In the illustrated configuration, the plate 140 includes three openings 142 and three handles 144. The opening 142 and the handle 144 are located at the top of the plate 140 and on each side thereof. The size and structure of the opening 142 and the handle 144 preferably allow the backpack assembly 30 to be lifted or pulled down as needed. In a preferred configuration, the size and structure of the handle 144 can withstand a load of 1000 pounds (such as a tensile load of 1000 pounds). The handle as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 preferably has a reinforcing plate 146, and the reinforcing plate 146 can be fixed on the plate 140 with fasteners or other suitable techniques.

In addition, in the illustrated structure, the handle 144 includes a hook and loop connection point 148. Preferably, each handle includes one or more connection points 148. In some configurations, the handle may include connection points 14 & the connection points 148 may be formed in any suitable form. In the illustrated configuration, each connection point 148 is a hole that extends through the handle 144 and preferably through the reinforcing plate 146 to which it is connected.

Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, the plate 140 preferably contains one or more channels 150. In the configuration shown, two channels 150 extend along the length of the plate 140. The channel 150 protrudes from the front surface of the plate 140. As shown in the figure, the lower part of the channel 150 forms a cross pattern. In some configurations, a single channel may be used to connect the two vertically extending channels 150. The channel 150 strengthens the plate 140, and can be used as a pipe for internal wires, cables, hoses, etc.

For the buttocks plate, refer to Figures 4-12. The buttocks plate 42 (Figure 3) has been removed from the back frame 34, so that the buttocks plate fixing device 152 can be better displayed. The fixing device 152 engages the hip plate with the back frame 34. This engagement allows movement between the back frame 34 fixed on the shoulder and the hip plate 42 fixed on the buttocks and shoulders when worn. In one configuration, the fixation device 152 provides a certain degree of movement between the back frame 34 and the hip plate 42 while restricting the movement, providing an appropriately rigid configuration. Preferably, the buttocks plate 42 cannot move significantly laterally relative to the back frame 34. More preferably, this lateral movement will be significantly restricted, in order to eliminate the lateral movement caused by the blocks related to the gas cylinder 32 connected to the back frame 34.

The illustrated fixing device 152 includes a bushing 154. The bushing 154 can be made of any suitable material. In a preferred embodiment, the bushing 154 forms a device for controlling and restricting rotation within a desired range. Preferably, the bushing 154 is made of a highly elastic material. More preferably, the bushing 154 is made of an elastic material that can withstand a flash point and temperature of 500 degrees Fahrenheit, an immersion temperature of 200 degrees Fahrenheit and 500 degrees Fahrenheit for 5 minutes.

The illustrated bushing 154 preferably includes a cylindrical outer surface 156 (Figure 5). The illustrated bushing 154 also preferably includes a pair of inner girth curved surfaces 158, the cross-section of one of which is shown in FIG. 6. The inner circumferential curved surface 158 in each of the illustrated structures forms two fingers 160, which will be described in detail in the following description. The inner peripheral curved surface 158 also forms two lower step areas 162. The ridge 164 may also be along a part of the step area 162

200880012475.5 is formed. The step area 162 extends along the balanced sides of the thickness of the bushing 154, and the fingers 160 preferably extend along a portion of the thickness of the bushing 154. In other words, in the illustrated embodiment, the stepped area 162 and the finger 160 together extend substantially the entire thickness of the bushing 154.

The bushing 154 preferably also includes a pair of mounting holes 166. The mounting hole 166 penetrates the entire thickness of the bushing 154 in the configuration shown. Other structures can also be used.

In FIG. 5, the pin 168 preferably extends through the groove formed by the step area 162. The pin 168 includes a centerline CL. The center line CL is preferably capable of sweeping an included angle α of approximately 30 degrees in each direction relative to the center position. In other words, the pin 168 can sweep about 60 degrees.

As shown, the finger 160 extends toward the pin 168. The pin 168 preferably contacts the finger 160 at four locations. Other configurations are also possible. In the configuration shown, the bushing 154 provides an unbiased and stable control on the pin 168. When the pin 168 sweeps through all or part of the angle, the finger 160 may bend (Figure 7). By bending, the finger 160 restrains the movement of the pin 168, thereby restraining the movement of the hip plate 42 relative to the back frame 34. The bending of the finger 160 can also help the pin 168 return to the neutral position, which is also the horizontal position shown in the figure.

The outside of the contour curved surface 158 preferably forms at least the entire scanning angle. In other words, the part of the contour curved surface 158 defines the stopper 170. The stopper 144 preferably contacts the pin 168 at the scan limit. It is also possible to use other structures to restrict the scan limit of the pin 168.

In FIGS. 4 and 5, the bushing 154 is preferably sandwiched between the plate block 140 and the bushing plate 172. The liner plate 172 is preferably made of a suitable rigid material. In one embodiment, the liner plate 172 is made of aluminum. Other materials can also be used. The liner plate 172 preferably has a diameter slightly smaller than the diameter of the liner 154.

The liner plate 172 can be fixed to the plate block 140 by suitable fasteners. In one structure, the two supports 174 are made of stainless steel. The support 174 may be formed of any suitable material. In the illustrated configuration, the support 174 is made of stainless steel. The support 174 may extend at least partially through the mounting hole 140 in the bushing 154. In one embodiment, the support 174 may extend through the entire bushing 154. The bushing plate 172 can be fixed to the support 174 by screws 176 or other suitable fasteners. Preferably, the bushing plate 172 can moderately squeeze the bushing 154 when the bushing 154 is installed on the plate block 140.

In the illustrated embodiment, one or more protrusions 175 protrude from the surface of the bushing 154. The protrusion 175 can be integrated with the bushing 154. The protrusion 175 is in force fit with the corresponding groove 1 on the bushing 172 as a positioning aid in the machining process. Other techniques can also be used.

The pin 168 is preferably pressed between the bushing 154 and the bushing plate 172. The compression of the pin 168 facilitates a certain degree of resistance to the fixing device 152 so as to reduce the possibility of the fixing device 152 making loud noises.

In FIG. 8, the hip plate 42 includes two fixing ears 178. The fixing ears 178 may be formed integrally with the buttocks plate 42 or may be formed separately from the buttocks plate 42 and fixed to the buttocks plate 42 in any suitable manner. Pin 168 extends through the solid

200880012475. 5 The fixed ear 178 allows the pin 168 to rotatably fix the ear 17 and the hip plate 42 to the fixing device 152. In one embodiment, the pin 168 is a rivet. Other kinds of pins can be used.

The fixing ear 178 extends beside a part of the bushing 154. Preferably, the fixing ear 178 does not extend too far along the side of a part of the bushing 154 so that the bushing 154 contacts the plate 140. Because the size of the liner plate 172 is slightly smaller than that of the liner 154, the slight movement of the hip plate 42 will cause the left or right ear of the fixed ear 178 to move to the plate 140 relative to the other ear, so that the fixed ear 178 is moved. One or both ears rub against the bushing 154 instead of the bushing plate 172, which will reduce premature wear of metal components (for example, the bushing plate 172, the fixed ear 178) and noise.

Referring to FIG. 3, the buttocks plate 42 has an enlarged central opening 180. The enlarged central opening 180 has two opposite curled edges 182 for reinforcing the buttocks plate 42. The fixing ears 178 can be formed integrally with the curled edges 182 in a certain configuration. The enlarged central opening 180 has a head 184 that extends laterally at the top of the opening 180. Preferably, the enlarged central opening 180 surrounds the fixing device 152.

In FIG. 10, the bushing 154 allows a limited rotation of the hip plate 42 relative to the y-axis through compression resistance. The fixed ear 178 connected to the side of the bushing 154 also greatly restricts the movement around the y-axis. By reducing and/or eliminating movement around the y-axis, it provides the user with a sense of stability.

The buttocks plate 42 can move the plate 140 (FIG. 11) around the X-axis direction. The rotation of the buttocks plate 42 around the x-axis is generally restricted by the head 184 of the buttocks plate 42. The head 184, or other upper part of the buttocks plate 42 may be in contact with the bushing 154 or the plate 140 as shown in the figure. Therefore, the buttocks plate 42 can move around the X-axis relative to the plate 140 within a limited range.

The hip plate 42 can be rotated around the z axis in the manner described above (Figure 12). The movement of the hip plate 42 is restricted by the mutual influence between the pin 168, the finger 160 and the stopper 170. As described above, the finger 160 is designed to easily contract when the pin 168 rotates off-center about the z-axis. When the finger 160 contracts, the finger 160 allows the pin 168 to make natural, minimally restricted movement. When the backpack assembly is taken off, the fingers 160 generally return the hip plate 42 to a natural position, which is helpful when the user puts on the backpack assembly 30. In addition, as described above, the stopper 70 restricts the rotation about the z axis.

Referring to FIG. 3, the plate 140 has a plurality of assembly holes 186. These multiple mounting holes 186 allow the position of the fixing device 152 to move up or down along the plate 142. In the structure shown in the figure, two of the six assembly holes 186 are used to install the fixing device 152. The arrangement of the multiple assembly holes 186 allows the use of a single plate 140, which can meet the requirements for different body structures of the user. size. For example, in the illustrated structure, there are at least three different buttocks 42 fixing positions, some structures provide small configurations, and specific settings between the standard configuration and the large configuration to adapt to the body sizes of different users.

Referring to FIG. 3, the illustrated hip plate 42 includes an inverted "T"-shaped structure. The fixing device 152 is advantageously located close to the upper portion 188 of the buttocks plate 42, and the base 190 of the buttocks plate 42 suitable for placing the users buttocks is located below the fixing device 152. In some configurations, that is, it can be increased. Or replace with a hip with an elongated upper part 188

200880012475.5 The first part of the board 142. In other words, the elongated upper portion 188 can be adapted to people with longer bodies.

In FIG. 13, the fulcrum (such as: pin 168) is preferably away from the center WB of the waist belt 54 by an appropriate DY distance. Setting the pin 168 at a position above the center WB of the waist belt 54 will produce a small pocket when the user bends, which will increase the comfort of the user. The recessed pocket will also reduce the restraint of the shoulder strap that the user bears. In addition, by lengthening the distance DY between the center WB of the waist belt and the fulcrum 168, the top of the gas cylinder 32 can lie flat against the back frame, thus providing the lowest possible position when the user is crawling.

For the harness, referring to FIG. 13, the base 190 of the hip plate 42 has a plurality of belt holes 192. The size and structure of the belt hole 192 are arranged so as to receive a suitable belt or the like. In the illustrated structure, the buttocks plate 42 also has two enlarged windows 194. The window 194 provides access to the loop 196, which is formed on the waist belt 40, and is explained in detail in the following sections. The connector strap 198 extends through the strap hole 192 at the bottom and through the ring 196 which is located in the vicinity of the window 194. The connector belt 198 can be connected to the waist belt 54 by a D-ring or the like.

The waist pad 40 also has an upper ring 200. The upper portion 188 of the hip plate 42 is inserted into the upper ring 200. As the upper portion 188 is inserted into the upper ring 200, the connector strap 198 passes through the outer strap hole 192 located on the side of the hip plate 42. The connector strap 198 then passes through the first waist belt loop 196 located in the area of the window 194. The connector strap 198 passes through the central strap hole 192 before passing through the second ring 196, which is located in the area of the other window 194. Finally, the connector strap 198 passes through the outer strap hole 192. In this way, the waist pad 40 can be fixed at the hip plate 42.

The connector strap also passes through the outer ring 202 before passing through the D-ring or other suitable connector plate 204 (FIG. 1), and then is folded back. Each side end of the connector strap extends through the connector plate 204. The connector plate 204 is used to connect the waist belt 54 to the connector belt 198. In a preferred configuration, each end of the connector strap 198 is folded back and secured with a belt buckle 206 at the folded back. The waist belt buckle 206 preferably includes two parts that can be connected together so that the connector belt can be movably fixed in its position. Such a structure can improve the service capability of the backpack assembly 30. For example, the waist protector 40 can be easily removed or replaced with a coin or a screwdriver.

The hip plate 42 preferably includes a rear strap hole 208. The back strap 50 can pass through the back strap hole 208 and be fixed to the buttocks plate 42 in any suitable manner.

The gripper preferably, the belt for the back belt 50 and the belt for the waist belt 54 are colored on one side, that is, the two sides of the belt have different appearances from each other. Coloring can quickly identify the twist of the belt. Coloring can be done by spray coating or similar methods. Preferably, the coating is fire-resistant. More preferably, the coating can be firmly held. In some constructions, coloring is done by weaving or silk screen printing. It is also possible to use other ways to make the belt have color marks on one side and different color marks on the other side.

There is a large grip 60 at the end of the back belt 50 and the waist belt 54. Correct wearing of the gripper 60 to the backpack assembly 30

200880012475.5 The article is tactile and visually certain. In addition, the large gripper can improve the grip of the gloved hand when the backpack assembly 30 is worn.

Referring to Figures 20 and 21, the grip 60 preferably includes a two-piece structure. The illustrated gripper 60 includes a sleeve body 240 and an insert 242. The sleeve body 240 preferably includes a channel through which the waistband or strap can pass. The insert 242 preferably includes a D-ring configuration with a channel 244. The channel 244 passes through the sheet 246, and the sheet 246 is preferably on each side. The protrusion 250 is included, and the serration 252 is located in the channel 244. Other gripper structures can also be used.

The end of the strap can pass through the channel 244 and be folded back onto the sheet 246. After the end of the strap is folded back onto the sheet 246, the insert 242 is pulled back into the sleeve 240, so that the strap is locked in position relative to the insert and the sleeve 240.

20 and 21, the sleeve 240 preferably includes two side grooves 254, and the insert 242 preferably includes two posts 256. When the insert 242 is inserted into the sleeve 240, the two posts 250 pass through the grooves 254 transversely. These posts 256 strengthen the grip 60 and can serve as a guide for inserting the insert 242 into the sleeve 240.

In one structure, the insert 242 can be snap-fitted into the sleeve 240. In the illustrated structure, the hole 260 of the sleeve 240 can be aligned with the hole of the insert 242, so that the threaded fastener can enter the hole of the insert 242 through the hole 260, so that the insert 242 can be fixed in the sleeve 240. Other structures can also be used.

The grip 60 may have an appropriate appearance. In one structure, a plurality of ribs 264 are provided to enhance the ability of the user's hand to grip the gripper 60 after wearing the glove.

See Figure 14 for the upper housing, which shows a rear perspective view of the backpack assembly 30 with the gas cylinders removed for clarity. As shown in FIG. 14, the upper housing 74 is arranged near the upper part of the plate 140. The upper housing 74 accommodates the head-up display sensor 100, warning lights 94 and 96, and an audible alarm 92.

14-16, the upward-looking display sensor is preferably arranged in the upward-looking display sensor housing 210. The looking up display sensor housing 210 preferably includes a manifold 212. The looking up display sensor 100 is in fluid communication with the manifold, and is electrically connected with a printed circuit board (not shown) or the like. Looking up, the sensor housing 210 also includes a low-gas LED (not shown) and a low-gas LED cover 214. The looking up display sensor 210 also includes a low battery LED (not shown) and a low battery LED cover 216. Therefore, the looking up display sensor housing 210 contains a visual alarm for low battery conditions and low gas volume conditions. For low air supply conditions (for example, less than about 1/4 cylinder), the audible alarm 92 can sound an audible alarm. For example, ringtones, siren, birdsong, and so on. In addition, the low gas volume LED provided under the low gas volume cover 214 preferably flickers at the first frequency when the low gas volume of the first stage (for example, 1/4 gas cylinder) is detected, and when the second stage is lower than the first stage Flash 9 faster (for example, 1/10 gas cylinder).

The circuit is arranged in the upper housing 74, especially the looking-up display sensor housing 210, to monitor the battery power. The battery power is supplied by the central power supply 118, through the looking up display sensor circuit, then to the rear PASS 104, and finally to the front PASS 62. The circuit in the upward-view display sensor housing 210 is also preferably monitored by the upward-view display sensor and the manifold 212.

200880012475.5 No. air supply. When air pressure is sensed, the circuit turns on the front PASS 62, the rear PASS 104, and any display related to the upward-looking display sensor. In one configuration, the circuit wakes up the head-up display and the front PASS 104 and the rear PASS 104, and the rear PASS 104 wakes up the front PASS 62.

The circuit also preferably calculates and monitors the air remaining time based on the remaining air supply in the gas cylinder 32. This information and the information from the PASS device are recorded, and the information about the remaining time in the air can be presented to the user by looking up at a display or other displays, such as a mask. In one configuration, a data record is generated every time the PASS device 62, 104 is turned on, turned off, or enters an alarm mode. In another configuration, data is recorded intermittently during the use of air. In a preferred structure, the data record captures the most recent 2,000 events. Other events can also be retrieved and saved for download. In addition, data records can be downloaded to a personal computer or similar for analysis. For this purpose, a data interface can be provided. The data interface may be accommodated in the waterproof part of the backpack assembly 30. In this preferred structure, the data interface is arranged behind the upper back support pad 36, in the waterproof compartment. Other structures are also feasible.

The circuit can be connected to the circuit in the middle housing 102 using a sheathed cable. The cable can be hard-connected to the circuit in the head-up display sensor housing 210, and can be connected to the circuit in the middle housing 102 using the spring pin 218. Other structures are also feasible.

The upper housing 74 also includes a low-volume audible alarm 92. The sound alarm 92 may include a speaker, a bell, and the like. The audible alarm 92 is preferably arranged close to the user's ear and on the side of the gas cylinder on the backpack assembly 30.

Intermediate Housing The intermediate housing 102 may contain one or more PASS devices 104. In the illustrated structure, the middle housing 102 includes a left PASS device 104 and a right PASS device 104. As described above, the PASS device 104 is a personal security alarm system, and is a one-way communication device for firefighters entering the building to alert others that the person wearing the PASS device is in danger and needs rescue. In the illustrated structure, each PASS device 104 includes a sensor or speaker 105 and a visual alarm, such as an LED 110. Advantageously, each speaker 106 faces outward, so that in use, the speaker 106 faces away from the one mounted on the back frame 34 Air cylinder 32. In this way, the sound from the speaker is less likely to be blocked by the gas cylinder. The loudspeaker preferably emits a sound pressure of at least 95 dBA and is preferably tested at a temperature of at least 900°F.

The PASS device 104 may include a sensor structure. For example, the sensor structure may include a three-axis accelerometer or the like. In the preferred structure, the signal about movement is provided to the back PASS device 104 from the sensor associated with the front PASS device 62, which is more pronounced than the rear PASS device because the front PASS device is hung on the shoulder With 46. Nevertheless, any suitable sensor structure can be used. When the sensor structure does not sense movement within a predetermined time (for example, about 20 seconds), an alarm is triggered, so that the speaker 106 emits a sound, and the LED 110 flashes. The LED 110 may also blink to indicate that the PASS device 104 is operating and/or to indicate whether the PASS device 104 is in a sensing or alarm mode. The back PASS device 104 preferably provides power to the alarm devices 106, 110.

The central power supply 118 supplies power to the back PASS device 104. Power is separately supplied to the head-up display sensor 100 and the back PASS device 104, so that they can be individually powered on. Separate power supply can also allow back PASS device

200880012475.5 No.

104 The power supply is interrupted, and the power supply of the head-up display sensor 100 and its related circuits is not interrupted. In addition, the back PASS device 104 can be used as a separate module, so that separate power supplies for the two devices allow simplified processing, regardless of whether the optional back PASS device 104 is included.

The back PASS device 104 can also provide power to the beacon 112. In the preferred configuration, the beacon 112 is not powered unless the PASS device 104 enters the alarm mode. The beacon 112 may be provided on the side of the middle housing 102. Preferably, a cage 113 is provided outside the beacon 112, so that the cage 113 protects the beacon. By placing the beacon 112 on each side, the beacon 112 is more likely to be detected in the distress mode.

Lower housing The lower housing 116 preferably includes an intermediate power supply housing portion 222, which is located on one side of the lower housing H6. The size and structure of the housing portion 222 preferably contains four C-type batteries connected in series. Other structures are also feasible. Preferably, the power supply housing portion 222 includes a lower closure 224 that seals the opening of the power supply chamber in the central power supply housing portion 222. The closure 224 preferably includes a recessed portion that allows the closure to be opened by a coin or flat-blade screwdriver. Therefore, the enclosure 224 protects the central power source while allowing the central power source in use to be replaced more quickly.

Referring to FIG. 1, the buffer 226 preferably protects the lower part of the back frame 34. In the illustrated structure, the buffer 226 covers the lower part of the back frame 34. The bumper 226 reduces the possibility of the backpack assembly 30 slipping to the floor when it is not worn, and scratching the floor.

Referring to FIG. 17, the lower housing 116 preferably includes at least one gas cylinder support 228 and a central gas cylinder recess 230. In the illustrated structure, two gas cylinder supports 228 are provided to support the gas cylinder, and the gas cylinder is partially received in the central gas cylinder recess 230. In particular, the illustrated gas cylinder support 228 is provided on each side of the gas cylinder 32 and restricts the gas cylinder 32 from moving downward relative to the gas cylinder belt assembly 114. The air support 228 preferably has a rubber-coated surface, although other structures are also possible.

As shown in FIG. 2, an emergency rapid intervention crew/company universal air connection system (RIC UAC) 232 is provided at the bottom of the housing 116 in the figure, close to the CGA wheel 32. The emergency rapid inflation system 232 allows the breathing air to be supplemented to the cylinder 32 in a manner known to those skilled in the art in an emergency.

The offset rotation assembly The offset rotation assembly 136 connects the hose 134 to the CGA wheel 132. Referring to Figures 18 and 19, the rotating assembly 136 will be described in detail below. As described in Figure 19, the illustrated rotating assembly 136 facilitates rotation about three axes: Al, A2, and B1. The first two axes A1 and A2 are substantially parallel to each other, and the third axis B1 is perpendicular to the two axes A1 and A2. The offset connection 234 connects the wheel 132 to the fitting 236 at the end of the hose. Preferably, a fluid channel is provided in the first pivot, the first pivot connection fitting 236 and the offset connection 234, and the second pivot is provided with a fluid channel, and the second pivot connects the offset connection 234 and the wheel. 132. The offset connection 234 also includes fluid channels. Therefore, when the offset connection 234 can rotate about the axes A1 and A2, the fluid channel passes through the connection between the hose 134 and the CGA wheel 132.

200880012475.5 Quick Disconnect Refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2, the connector 86 provides a simultaneous quick disconnect between two pneumatic hoses and two cables. Referring to Figure 22, the first part 266 and the second part 282 of the connector 86 are shown. As shown in the figure, the connector 86 is a single element that combines the electrical part 270 and the air part 272. The electrical part of the first part 266 may include a gasket 273. The convex wall 268 of the second part 282 may be disposed in the recess 269 formed in the first part 266. The protruding wall 268 may be received in the recess 269 or other grooves or openings formed in the second part 282 to cooperate with the first part 266. The mating wall and the groove are aligned only in one angular direction, thereby causing the pins of the electrical part to properly mate with the corresponding sockets. Therefore, only after the electrical parts are properly aligned, the connector 86 allows the air parts to be connected.

The operation of the connector is similar to a quick disconnect. In order to separate the two parts 266, 282, the push ring on the second part 282 is pressed against the first part 266. When the push ring moves, the two parts can be disconnected.

The front PASS device The front PASS device 62 is shown in FIGS. 23 and 24. In some configurations, the front PASS device 62 may not be included in the backpack assembly 30. However, when included, it is preferably provided along the right shoulder strap 46. The front PASS device 62 includes various circuits, sensors, and other components.

In one configuration, the front PASS device 62 includes a housing 290. The housing 290 is preferably rough and liquid-proof. The motion detection device may be provided in the housing 290. The motion detection device may include a three-axis accelerometer. Other types of motion detection devices can also be used, including, but not limited to, mercury switches and laser beam sighting mirrors on springs.

The motion detection device is preferably connected to a circuit, which can be used to detect that the current PASS device 62 has been stationary for a predetermined time. In one configuration, the predetermined time is approximately 20 seconds. If the front PASS device has been stationary for a predetermined time, it enters the alarm mode. During the alarm mode, the front PASS device drives the speaker 292 installed in the housing 290. The front PASS device 62 also drives the rear PASS device 104.

As shown in FIG. 3, the LED lens 294 is installed in the housing 290. The LED lens is placed on two or more status lights. Multiple LED lights are arranged under the lens 294 to improve visibility and provide backup in case of LED failure. The plurality of LED lights preferably flash periodically to indicate that the front PASS device is operating, and the plurality of LED lights preferably flash faster or show that the power supply is lowered in different patterns. Multiple LED lights are also allowed to use green lights, indicating that the front PASS 62 is in the sensing mode, while the red light indicates that the front PASS 62 is in the alarm mode, and the yellow light is to provide the user with power status information, even if the backpack assembly 30 is not in use.

The analog measuring instrument (see FIG. 24) is arranged under the measuring instrument cover 300. The analog measuring instrument is an additional feature independent of the electronic sensing system, using data from the head-up display sensor 100. The measuring instrument preferably includes a photoluminescent face to improve the visibility of the needle 304. If the analog meter requires a power source, an external power source can be set.

200880012475.5 As mentioned above, the alarm button 306 can be set. The alarm button 306 can be set in any position on the front PASS 62. Preferably, the alarm button 306 is large enough to facilitate operation by a gloved hand. The alarm button 306 allows the user to put the front PASS into the alarm mode at any time by pressing the button. Therefore, when the user encounters an emergency situation, the alarm button 306 can be pressed, so that the front PASS, the rear PASS and any beacons enter the alarm mode. In order to reset the alarm, the alarm button 306 may be pressed twice in succession.

In order to connect the front PASS 62 to the rear PASS 104, a power cable 310 may be provided. There may be two power lines and three signal lines in the power cable 310. Signal wires can include the following wires: low battery, signal, and ground. The power cable 310 may be hard-connected to the front PASS 62, and may be connected to the rear PASS 104 through a spring pin connector. In the illustrated structure, five spring pin connectors can be used. In some embodiments, more data may pass through the power cable 310, which has additional wires, and a corresponding number of spring pins may be provided in the associated spring pin connectors.

The front PASS 62 shown in the figure also has a beacon 64 embedded in the front PASS housing 290. Because the beacon 64 may be an optional element, the beacon 64 is fixed to the housing 290 by threaded fasteners, and is arranged in its own protective housing 312. Other structures are also feasible.

Gas cylinder belt assembly The gas cylinder belt assembly 114 preferably allows one-handed loosening, which facilitates quick gas cylinder replacement. As will be described with reference to FIG. 25, the gas cylinder strap assembly 114 preferably includes a locking mechanism 230 that can be unlocked by a thumb, and the cam lock mechanism 322 can be operated by one hand to release the gas cylinder strap 324.

In a preferred structure, the gas cylinder belt 324 can be extended to loosen the gas cylinder belt or tighten the gas cylinder belt 324 by operating the cam lock mechanism 322. The cam lock mechanism is provided on the cylinder 32 of the illustrated structure. One side. Therefore, the illustrated gas cylinder belt assembly 114 facilitates the replacement of gas cylinders of different diameters. In a preferred configuration, the gas cylinder strap assembly 114 allows the backpack assembly 30 to accommodate gas cylinders of different sizes, from at least about 5 inches to at least about 7.3 inches. When the gas cylinder is placed in the gas cylinder belt assembly 114, the slack gas cylinder belt 324 can be slid into the cam lock mechanism 304 before the gas cylinder belt locking mechanism 320 tightens the gas cylinder belt 324 around the gas cylinder 32 , The cam lock mechanism can be buckled into the locked position.

Referring to FIG. 25, the gas cylinder belt assembly 114 is illustrated as including a base 330. The base 330 can be used to fix the gas cylinder belt assembly to the back frame 34. In the illustrated structure, the base 330 includes four mounting holes 332. The mounting holes can accommodate mechanical fasteners that fix the base 330 to the back frame 34. In some structures, the base 330 may be fixed in other ways, including, but not limited to, interlocking mechanical structures, bonding, and the like.

The illustrated base 330 includes two pairs of ears 334. One set of ears 334 pivotally connects the cylinder belt locking mechanism 320 and the base 330, and another set of ears 334 connects the cam lock mechanism 322 to the base 330. Other mounting structures can also be used to fix the cylinder belt locking mechanism 320 and the cam locking mechanism 322 to the base 330. The central portion of the base 330 may also include a recess 336, which is generally cylindrical. The recess 336 accommodates the part of the gas cylinder belt 324 that does not fix the gas cylinder 32.

200880012475.5 The cam lock mechanism 322 allows the remaining gas cylinder belt to be removed from between the cam lock mechanism 322 and the cylinder belt locking mechanism. The cam lock mechanism includes a main pivot arm 340. The main pivot arm 340 is preferably connected to the base 330 by a pivot. In the illustrated structure, the pivot 342 connects the main pivot arm 340 to the respective ear 334. The shaft 342 can be fixed in position by any suitable means. In one structure, the main pivot arm 340 may include ribs 345 (see FIG. 27), which abut the base 330, so that the pivotal movement range of the main pivot arm 340 relative to the base 330 may be limited. The restricted range is beneficial to reduce or eliminate the sudden drop of the main pivot arm from one side to the other when the gas cylinder is not installed in the backpack assembly 30.

The main pivot arm 340 preferably forms a slot 346. The size and structure of the slot can accommodate the width and thickness of the cylinder band 324. In the illustrated structure, the groove 346 is at least partially formed by the inner surface 350. Preferably, the inner surface is generally cylindrical and forms a cylindrical surface portion in which a gas cylinder 32 is placed.

The upper part of the main pivot arm 340 forms a through hole, and the through hole accommodates the shaft 352. The shaft 352 supports two torsion springs 354 at each end. The torsion spring is preferably housed in the part of the main pivot arm 340 through which the shaft passes. The main pivot arm 340 may also include a slot 356 that receives one end of the torsion spring 354. The other end of the torsion spring 354 is preferably connected to the locking bracket 360. Therefore, when no gas cylinder 32 is installed in the backpack assembly 30, the locking bracket 360 can be deflected into the open position.

The locking bracket 360 is connected to the main pivot arm 340 through a pivot 352. In the illustrated structure, the locking bracket 360 includes a piece 362, and the end of the piece 362 has at least one tooth 364, but preferably has two teeth 364. As shown in FIGS. 26 and 27, the two teeth 364 extend into the groove 346 when the locking bracket 360 is in the closed position. When the teeth are engaged with the cylinder belt 324, the ends of the teeth maintain the locking bracket 60 in the closed position. Preferably, the inner surface 350 of the main pivot arm 340 also includes a corresponding hole 366. In one configuration, when the locking bracket 360 is rotated to the closed position, the hole accommodates the tooth 364.

For aesthetic reasons and to improve the user's grasp of the locking bracket 360, a handle 370 may be fixed on the outside of the locking bracket 360 (omitted from FIG. 27 to clearly show the locking bracket 360). The size and structure of the handle 370 can be set as required. In the illustrated structure, the handle 370 is fixed to the locking bracket 360 by steel nails or other mechanical fasteners. Other suitable fastening techniques can also be used.

As described above, the torsion spring 354 presses the lock bracket 360 toward the open position. Therefore, in order to restrict the movement of the locking bracket 360 and the handle 370 in the opening direction, the rib 374 is provided on the main pivot arm 340. When the handle 370 moves in the opening direction, the upper surface of the handle 370 in the figure is close to the rib 374, so that the range of movement of the handle can be restricted. Other structures can also be used.

Referring to Figure 28, the cylinder belt locking mechanism 320 will be further described. The mechanism 320 also includes a main pivot arm 380. The pivot 382 rotatably joins the main pivot arm 380 to the ear 334 of the base 330. The pivot 382 can be fixed in position by any suitable means, for example, by using a buckle 384 or the like.

The main pivot arm 380 preferably includes a structure that cooperates with the structure on the base 330 to limit the rotation range of the main pivot arm 380 relative to the base 330. In the illustrated structure, the main pivot arm 380 includes a rib 386 (FIG. 29) that abuts the base 330 to limit the movement of the main pivot arm 380 to other main pivot arms 340. Because the cylinder belt 324 connects two

200880012475.5 The first pivot arm 340, 380, and because the main pivot arm 340, 380 respectively restrict the range of movement in opposite directions, when the assembly 114 is not equipped with the gas cylinder 32, all the movements of the three elements can be restricted in all directions .

The support bracket 390 (see FIG. 30) has tabs that extend downward into the bag in the main pivot arm 380. The coil spring 392 is mounted on the upper end of the shaft 394 and is mounted to the potassium nail 396 or other mechanical fasteners or other structures on the main pivot arm 380. The spring 392 allows mutual movement between the support frame 390 and the main pivot arm 380.

Referring to FIG. 31, the cam bracket 400 is rotatably engaged with the support bracket 390 through a shaft 394. The cam bracket 400 can thus rotate about the shaft 394 relative to the support bracket 390. The end 402 of the cylinder band 324 is preferably rolled up or connected to a channel forming element. The channel accommodates the shaft 404 (Figure 30). When the shaft 404 is rotated downward by the cam bracket 400 relative to the supporting bracket 390, the end 402 of the gas cylinder belt 324 is moved, so that the belt is tightened around the gas cylinder 32. In addition, when the gas cylinder 32 is fixed by the strap 324, the cam bracket 400 tends to remain in the closed position by the force on the locking mechanism 320 without any remaining features.

The handle 406 (FIG. 29) may be fixed to the cam bracket 400 in any suitable manner. In the illustrated structure, the handle 406 is fixed by potassium nails or other mechanical fasteners. The handle 406 may include a latch lock 414. The latch piece 412 may be provided in the channel on the side of the handle 406. The fingers 416 are preferably connected to the support bracket 390 by mechanical fasteners 420. When the handle 406 is rotated to the closed position, the finger 416 engages the tongue piece 412 of the spring lock assembly 414. In this way, the spring lock assembly 414 helps maintain the cylinder belt locking mechanism 320 in the closed position. Of course, in order to open the cylinder belt locking mechanism 320, the user can push the finger 416 over the locking tongue piece 412 and lift the handle 406, thereby releasing the tension on the belt 324.

The cylinder belt 324 preferably includes a plurality of holes 420. In the illustrated structure, the hole 420 and the teeth 364 of the cam lock mechanism 322 are adapted in size, shape, and position. Preferably, the teeth rush out from the inner surface of the gas cylinder belt 324 to minimize burrs and reduce damage to the gas cylinder. The slot 422 is shown in the center, but other positions can also be used. The groove 422 is preferably also formed from the inner surface of the cylinder belt 324. In addition, in some configurations, the gas cylinder belt 324 has a rolled outer surface to further protect the gas cylinder 32.

The groove 422 advantageously does not extend completely to either end of the cylinder belt 324. The protrusion formed in the cam lock mechanism rides in the groove 422. In one structure, protrusions are formed on the rear side of the inner surface 350. The protrusion and the groove cooperate to limit the feeding or retreating amount of the gas cylinder belt 34 relative to the cam lock mechanism 322.

Referring to FIG. 28, the base 330 preferably includes an inclined protrusion 424 or other such surface to reduce the possibility of the gas cylinder belt 324 entering between the base 330 and the main pivot arm 380. Other suitable structures can also be used.

Based on the above, the distance from the cylinder to the lumbar spine can be reduced. In addition, the center of the cylinder can be better aligned with the lower chest area, allowing for a straighter torso posture. In addition, the pressure measured in the scapula and lamina is negligible (equal to or less than about 5 pounds), while the traditional self-contained breathing apparatus measures 15 pounds in the scapula and 22 pounds in the lamina.

Although the present invention has been described above through preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art will understand that the present invention extends to other alternative embodiments and/or the use of the present invention beyond the disclosed embodiments, as well as obvious changes and substitutions.

200880012475.5 Changed. In addition, many variations of the invention have been described, and other modifications will be within the scope of the present invention, which will be obvious to those skilled in the art. At the same time, various combinations of specific features and embodiments are feasible and also fall within the scope of the present invention. Therefore, it must be understood that various features and methods of the embodiments can be combined or substituted with each other to form various modes. Therefore, the scope of the present invention is not limited to the above-mentioned embodiments.

200880012475.5