Breathing apparatus with tank alignment system

Breathing equipment with tank alignment system

[0001] Cross reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims the rights of U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14/144310 filed on December 30, 2013 and U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 61/910181 filed on November 29, 2013, these publications are by reference Merged here.

Background technique

[0003] The following information is provided to help readers understand the technologies disclosed below and the environment in which these technologies can generally be applied. The terms used herein are not intended to be limited to any specific narrow interpretation unless clearly stated otherwise in this document. The references given here can help understand its technology or background. The disclosures of all references mentioned here are incorporated by reference.

[0004] Self-contained breathing apparatus ("SCBA") is a device used to breathe in an environment that is immediately life-threatening and health-threatening (sometimes referred to as an "IDLH" environment). For example, firefighters wear SCBA when fighting fires. SCBA usually has an appliance or carrying system that includes a back plate that supports an air tank or canister connected to a user interface such as a mask or mask (all of which is worn or carried by the user). The tank usually contains air and oxygen-containing breathing gas at high pressure (eg, 2200-5500 psi or 15168-37921 kPa) and is connected to a first-stage regulator that reduces the pressure to approximately 80-100 psi or 552-689 kPa. SCBA usually has a second stage regulator with an inlet valve that controls the flow of breathing air between the air tank and the mask. Generally, the inlet valve controls the flow of air through the second regulator in response to the user's breathing. Such a breathing control regulator assembly is disclosed, for example, in U.S. Patent Nos. 4,821,767 and 5,016,627, which publications are incorporated herein by reference.

[0005] SCBA and other breathing equipment currently available include multiple fastening components to locate and attach pneumatic and/or electronic components (eg, connectors, hoses, cables, etc.) to the backplane. Access to multiple fastening components hinders the assembly and removal of pneumatic and/or electronic components. In addition, pneumatic and/or electronic components and their related connections are basically unprotected or poorly protected in some currently available systems. Therefore, pneumatic and/or electronic components and connections will be subject to a lot of shock and environmental exposure. Generally, the materials used for pneumatic and/or electronic device components and their related connections must be selected to withstand large amounts of environmental exposure and impact, increasing the cost and weight of the respiratory equipment.

[0006] Many problems have also arisen in currently available respiratory equipment due to multiple tanks of different sizes. For example, it is difficult to make a connection between the tank/cylinder valve outlet and the first-stage regulator because the distance between them varies with tanks of different sizes. The variable distance may, for example, require the use of different high-pressure hose assemblies with different lengths and/or configurations. Many breathing devices include a first-stage regulator assembly that changes position (such as sliding or floating) to adjust the distance between the tank valve outlet and the connector for the first-stage regulator. This method requires the first-stage regulator assembly to move up and down and/or back and forth in order to connect to tanks of different diameters. In these systems, hoses that leave the first-stage regulator (eg, second-stage regulator hoses and/or instrument hoses) must be able to move relative to the backplate and/or shoulder strap. Sports hoses change the effective hose length and/or configuration, which can adversely affect the user interface. In addition, the movable first-stage adjuster assembly cannot be properly structurally supported, and clearance spaces must be provided to accommodate the movement of the movable first-stage adjuster assembly.

[0007] Many breathing devices use can/barrel connections that articulate to accommodate different sized cans. These systems require connections that include multiple components and high pressure seals to allow the tank connection to be properly positioned relative to tanks of different sizes. Additional components and seals increase design complexity and cost, while introducing the risk of additional high-pressure seal leakage. Articulated tank connection also

This can hinder the user's ability to properly position and engage the cartridge valve.

[0008] A variety of abutment geometries can be used to contact the can in order to position the can relative to the backing plate. However, the geometry of the tank has changed significantly (for example, due to different pressure levels, construction materials, and manufacturing processes). The change in tank geometry makes it very difficult to properly control the position of the tank via abutments or stops.

[0009] Changes in tank size and geometry also affect the connection of the tank to the backing plate and the orientation of the tank relative to the backing plate. Widely varying tank geometries and dimensions can, for example, cause the tank to tilt relative to the backing plate and cause an increase in profile (thus increasing the possibility of clamping or entanglement in a confined space). Due to the changes in tank geometry described above, the use of The currently available connectors and/or adjacencies to locate the tank have a limited success rate.

Summary of the invention

[0010] In one aspect, a system includes a carrier system capable of being worn by a user and supporting at least one of a plurality of different sized tanks for breathing gas, a bracket connector attached to the carrier system, and a plurality of brackets. The carrier system may for example be part of a breathing device such as a self-contained breathing device. Each of the multiple stents has a different configuration. Each of the plurality of brackets can be attached to an associated one of a plurality of different sized tanks and to the bracket connector. For each of the plurality of brackets, an assembly including one of the plurality of brackets and a related one of the plurality of different size tanks when attached to the bracket connector makes the related one of the plurality of different size tanks relative to the load-bearing system Position in a predetermined manner.

[0011] In many embodiments, the load-bearing system includes a rigid backing plate, and when the assembly is attached to the bracket connector, an associated one of the multiple different sized tanks of the assembly is positioned at a predetermined angle with respect to the rigid backing plate. When the assembly is attached to the bracket connector, the associated one of the plurality of different sized tanks of the assembly may be positioned approximately parallel to a portion of the rigid backing plate, for example, regardless of which of the plurality of different sized tanks is connected to the assembly.

[0012] In many embodiments, when the assembly is attached to the bracket connector, the tank valve outlet of the tank valve of one of the plurality of different sized tanks of the assembly is positioned at a predetermined rearward position relative to the carrier system and relative to the carrier system Position at a predetermined height. The predetermined rearward position of the tank valve outlet relative to the carrying system and the predetermined height of the tank valve outlet relative to the carrying system substantially coincide with the predetermined arc for each of the plurality of different sized tanks. In many embodiments, the bracket connector is a dovetail connector, and each of the plurality of brackets includes a cooperating dovetail connector.

[0013] The system may, for example, further comprise at least one pressure regulator attached to the carrier system and a connector attached to the carrier system fluidly connected (directly or indirectly) with the at least one pressure regulator. In many embodiments, for each of the plurality of brackets, an assembly including one of the plurality of brackets and a related one of the plurality of different size tanks makes the plurality of different size tanks of the assembly when attached to the bracket connector The relevant one of the tanks is positioned such that the distance between the tank valve outlet and the connector of the relevant one of the plurality of tanks of different sizes varies less than a predetermined distance. The predetermined distance is the same for each of the multiple different size tanks. The predetermined distance may be, for example, less than 0.5 inches, less than 0.25 inches, or less than 0.1 inches. The system also includes, for example, a hose assembly having a fixed length and including a cooperating connector that can be attached to the connector and a tank valve connector that can be attached to the tank valve outlet, so that when the assembly is attached to the bracket connector, The outlet of the tank valve is fluidly connected with at least one pressure regulator, regardless of which of the plurality of tanks of different sizes is connected to the assembly. The load-bearing system may, for example, include a rigid backplate attached to at least one pressure regulator, connector, and bracket connector. When the component is attached to the bracket connector, the relevant one of the plurality of different sized tanks of the component is approximately parallel to a portion of the rigid backing plate, regardless of which of the plurality of different sized tanks is connected to the component. Each of the plurality of different sized tanks of the assembly may, for example, be generally cylindrical over a portion of its length.

[0014] In many embodiments, each of the plurality of brackets includes a first section and is removably attached to the first section

The second section. Each of the plurality of brackets can be attached to a related one of the plurality of different size tanks, for example, by attaching the first section to the second section, to clamp a portion of the related one of the plurality of different size tanks, Make the tank valve extend between the first section and the second section.

[0015] In many embodiments, the carrying system further includes an arc-shaped bracket contacting an associated one of the plurality of different sized cans and a can strip extending around a portion of the associated one of the different sized cans. When the component is attached to the bracket connector, the relevant one of the plurality of different sized tanks of the component may be positioned approximately parallel to the overall orientation of the bracket, for example, regardless of which of the plurality of different sized tanks is connected to the component.

[0016] In many embodiments, the system further includes at least one pressure regulator attached to the carrier system and a cover system releasably attached to the carrier system. The cover system surrounds at least a part of the pneumatic hose fluidly connected to the pressure regulator. The carrier system may also include, for example, an electronic device system having at least one electronic device cable. The cover system may enclose at least a part of the at least one electronic device cable. In many embodiments, the cover system includes an outer cover that is releasably attached to the carrier system, and the electronic device system includes an electronic device module housing from which a plurality of electronic device cables extend, where the outer cover is releasably attached to the carrier system. In the case of the system, the outer cover surrounds at least a part of each of the plurality of electronic device cables.

[0017] The carrier system may also include a plurality of inner covers that can be placed in operative connection with the carrier system to enclose one or more components thereof. The outer cover can be placed at the rear of the plurality of inner covers and interface with the plurality of inner covers to releasably connect the plurality of inner covers to the carrier system when the outer cover is releasably attached to the carrier system. The carrier system may also include, for example, a plurality of electronic device covers that can be placed in operative connection with the electronic device component housing. The outer cover may for example be able to be placed at the rear of a plurality of electronic device covers and interface with the plurality of electronic device covers in order to releasably connect the plurality of electronic device covers to the carrier system when the outer cover is releasably attached to the carrier system.

[0018] In many embodiments, the outer cover holds at least one pneumatic hose and each of the multiple electronics cables of the system between the outer cover and the rigid backplane of the carrying system.

[0019] In many embodiments, the bracket connector is attached to the rearward surface of the outer connector.

[0020] In many embodiments, the load-bearing system includes a rigid backing plate, and the system further includes at least one pressure regulator attached to the lower portion of the rigid backing plate, at least one pressure regulator attached to the rigid backing plate adjacent to the at least one pressure regulator The electronic component housing and the outer cover releasably attached to the rigid backplane. When the outer cover is releasably attached to the carrying system, the outer cover encloses at least a portion of the length of the pneumatic hose extending from the pressure regulator and at least the length of the at least one electronic device cable extending from the at least one electronic device component housing. Part. When the outer cover is releasably attached to the carrying system, the outer cover may, for example, enclose at least a part of the at least one pressure regulator and at least a part of the electronic component housing. When the outer cover is releasably attached to the carrier system, the outer cover can be positioned generally centered relative to the rigid backing plate, for example.

[0021] In another aspect, a method of providing for attaching one of a plurality of different sized canisters for breathing gas to a carrying system worn by a user includes providing a plurality of brackets, each of the plurality of brackets With different configurations, each of the plurality of brackets can be attached to a related one of a plurality of tanks of different sizes and attached to the load-bearing system, wherein for each of the plurality of brackets, one of the plurality of brackets and The assembly of the related one of the plurality of different-sized tanks when attached to the carrier system positions the related one of the plurality of different-sized tanks at a predetermined position relative to the carrier system.

[0022] The load-bearing system includes, for example, a rigid backing plate, and when the assembly is attached to the bracket connector, a relevant one of the plurality of different sized tanks of the assembly is positioned at a predetermined angle with respect to the rigid backing plate. When the assembly is attached to the bracket connector, the relevant one of the plurality of different size tanks of the assembly may be positioned approximately parallel to a portion of the rigid backing plate, for example, regardless of which of the plurality of different size tanks is connected to the assembly.

[0023] In many embodiments, when the component is attached to the bracket connector, the phases in the multiple different sized tanks of the component

The outlet of the tank valve of the closed tank valve is positioned at a predetermined rearward position with respect to the carrying system and at a predetermined height with respect to the carrying system. The predetermined rearward position of the tank valve outlet relative to the carrying system and the predetermined height of the tank valve outlet relative to the carrying system may, for example, substantially coincide with the predetermined arc for each of the plurality of different sized tanks. In various embodiments, the bracket connector is a dovetail connector, and each of the plurality of brackets includes a cooperating dovetail connector.

[0024] In many embodiments, at least one pressure regulator is attached to the carrier system, and the connector is attached to the carrier system fluidly connected to the at least one pressure regulator, wherein for each of the plurality of brackets, including The assembly of one of the plurality of brackets and the related one of the plurality of different size tanks when attached to the bracket connector allows the related one of the plurality of different size tanks of the assembly to be positioned such that the related one of the plurality of different size tanks is The change in the distance between the outlet of the tank valve and the connector is less than a predetermined distance. The predetermined distance is the same for each of the multiple different size tanks. The predetermined distance may be, for example, less than 0.5 inches, less than 0.25 inches, or less than 0.1 inches.

[0025] In many embodiments, when the assembly is attached to the bracket connector, the hose assembly can be attached to the connector and the tank valve outlet, regardless of which of the multiple different size tanks is connected to the assembly, the hose The assembly has a fixed length and includes a cooperating connector that can be attached to the connector and a tank valve connector that can be attached to the tank valve outlet to fluidly connect the tank valve outlet with at least one pressure regulator.

[0026] In another aspect, the respiratory system includes a carrier system worn by a user and capable of having a tank for breathing gas attached thereto, at least one pressure regulator attached to the carrier system, and releasably attached To the cover system of the carrying system. The cover system encloses at least a part of the length of the pneumatic hose fluidly connected to the pressure regulator. The carrier system may also include an electronic device system having at least one electronic device cable. The cover system encompasses at least a portion of the length of the at least one electronic device cable.

[0027] The cover system may, for example, include an outer cover that is releasably attached to the carrier system, and the electronic device system may include an electronic device module housing from which a plurality of electronic device cables extend. When the outer cover is releasably attached to the carrying system, the outer cover may surround at least a portion of the length of each of the plurality of electronic device cables. In many embodiments, the system also includes multiple inner covers that can be placed in operative connection with the carrier system to enclose one or more of its components. The outer cover may for example be able to be placed at the rear of the plurality of inner covers and interface with the plurality of inner covers in order to releasably connect the plurality of inner covers to the carrier system when the outer covers are releasably attached to the carrier system. The system may, for example, include a plurality of electronic device covers that can be placed in operative connection with the electronic device assembly housing. The outer cover may for example be able to be placed at the rear of the plurality of electronic device covers and interface with the plurality of electronic device covers in order to releasably connect the plurality of electronic device covers to the carrier system when the outer cover is releasably attached to the carrier system .

[0028] In many embodiments, the outer cover holds each of at least one pneumatic hose and a plurality of electronics cables between the outer cover and the rigid backplane of the carrying system. In many embodiments, the outer cover includes a connector capable of attaching the canister to it. [0029] In many embodiments, the load-bearing system includes a rigid backing plate, and at least one pressure regulator of the system is attached to the lower portion of the rigid backing plate. The system may also include at least one electronics assembly housing attached to the rigid backplate adjacent to the at least one pressure regulator. The cover system may, for example, include an outer cover that is releasably attached to a rigid backing plate. When the outer cover is releasably attached to the carrying system, the outer cover may enclose at least a portion of the length of the pneumatic hose extending from the pressure regulator and the length of the at least one electronic device cable extending from the at least one electronic component housing At least part of it. When the outer cover is releasably attached to the carrier system, the outer cover may, for example, enclose at least a part of the at least one pressure regulator and at least a part of the electronic component housing. When the outer cover is releasably attached to the carrier system, the outer cover can be positioned generally centered relative to the rigid backing plate, for example. The outer cover may further enclose at least one of the pneumatic connector or the electronic device connector, for example.

[0030] In another aspect, the method includes providing a carrying system worn by a user and capable of having a canister for breathing gas attached thereto. At least one pressure regulator is attached to the carrying system. The method also includes providing a releasable attachment

To the cover system of the carrying system. When the cover system is releasably attached to the carrier system, the cover system surrounds at least a portion of the length of the pneumatic hose fluidly connected to the pressure regulator. In many embodiments, an electronic device system including at least one electronic device cable is attached to the carrier system. When the cover system is releasably attached to the carrier system, the cover system may, for example, enclose at least a portion of the length of the at least one electronics cable.

[0031] In yet another aspect, a method of protecting and maintaining at least one electronics cable and at least one pneumatic hose operatively connected to a carrying system of a breathing apparatus includes providing a cover system that is releasably attached to the carrying system. When the cover system is releasably attached to the carrier system, the cover system encompasses at least a portion of the length of the at least one pneumatic hose and at least a portion of the length of the at least one electronics cable.

[0032] The device, system and method of the present invention and their attributes and accompanying advantages will be best understood and understood from the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

Description of the drawings

[0033] FIG. 1A illustrates a side view of an embodiment of a self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), showing a tank operatively connected to the back plate of the SCBA's carrier system.

[0034] FIG. 1B illustrates an enlarged side view of the lower portion of the self-contained breathing apparatus of FIG. 1A, showing three different sized tanks and three related tank supports used to position the tanks on the backing plate relative to the backing plate.

[0035] FIG. 1C illustrates a perspective exploded view of one of the three tank supports of FIG. 1B.

[0036] FIG. 1D illustrates a perspective view of the three tank supports of FIG. 1B in an assembled state, which includes a protective enclosure or cover that protects the pressure gauge of the tank.

[0037] FIG. 2A illustrates a side view of the back plate of FIG. 1 with the canister attached thereto.

[0038] FIG. 2B illustrates a side view of the back plate of FIG. 1 opposite to the side view of FIG. 2A with the canister attached thereto.

[0039] FIG. 3A shows a perspective view of the back plate of FIG. 1 in an exploded or disassembled state.

[0040] FIG. 3B illustrates a perspective view of the back plate of FIG. 1 in an assembled state.

[0041] FIG. 4 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a portion of the backplane of the carrier system of FIG. 1 including an electronic circuit.

[0042] FIG. 5A illustrates a perspective view of the lower portion of the backing plate with the tank operatively connected to it.

[0043] FIG. 5B illustrates a perspective view of the lower portion of the back plate of FIG. 5A with the tank not operatively connected thereto.

[0044] FIG. 6A illustrates another perspective view of the lower portion of the back plate.

[0045] FIG. 6B illustrates a top view of the lower portion of the back plate.

[0046] FIG. 6C illustrates a side view of the lower portion of the back plate.

[0047] FIG. 7A illustrates a bottom view of the backing plate with the tank operatively connected to it.

[0048] FIG. 7B illustrates a bottom view of the backing plate with the tank not operatively connected to it.

Detailed ways

[0049] It will be readily understood that, in addition to the exemplary embodiments, the components of the embodiments generally described and illustrated in the drawings herein can be arranged and designed in a wide variety of different configurations. Therefore, the following more detailed description of the exemplary embodiments represented in the drawings is not intended to limit the scope of the claimed embodiments, but is merely a representation of the exemplary embodiments.

[0050] Reference to "an embodiment" or "an embodiment" (or similar terms) in the context means that a specific feature, structure or characteristic described in combination with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment, therefore, The appearances of the terms "in one embodiment" or "in an embodiment" in multiple places do not necessarily all refer to the same embodiment.

formula.

[0051] In addition, the features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. In the following description, many specific details are provided to give a thorough understanding of the embodiments. However, those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that various embodiments can be implemented without one or more specific details or through other methods, components, materials, and the like. In other examples, known structures, materials, or operations are not shown or described in detail to avoid confusion.

[0052] As used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms "a", "an" and "the" include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, "light source" refers to including a plurality of such light sources and equivalents known to those of ordinary skill in the art, and "the light source" refers to one or more such light sources and equivalents known in the art. Things etc. The quotation of a range of values here is only intended to be used as a convenient way of individually referencing each individual value falling within the range. Unless otherwise indicated here, each individual value and all intermediate ranges are combined and appear to be individually quoted here. All methods described herein can be executed in any appropriate order, unless otherwise specified herein or otherwise clearly denied by context.

[0053] Generally, the terms of relative position or orientation used herein (such as up, down, front, back, height, depth, width, etc.) refer to wearing the system 10 with respect to being upright and in the overall orientation shown in FIG. 1A. The location and direction of the user.

[0054] FIG. 1 illustrates an embodiment of a respiratory system 10 such as SCBA. In the illustrated embodiment, the respiratory system 10 includes a user interface such as a mask or mask 100 worn by a user, through which breathing gas is delivered to the user. The mask 100 forms a sealed volume around the mouth and nose of the user, and breathing gas is introduced into the sealed volume. In this regard, the mask 100 includes a regulator interface 110 to fluidly connect the mask 100 with the second-stage pressure regulator assembly 300 so that pressurized air can be supplied from a pressurized air tank such as the tank 400 via a high-pressure hose 350 ( See Figures 1 and 4). Figures 1A-7B illustrate an embodiment of a carrying system 500, which includes tanks 400, 400 of different sizes^?Or 400" can be attached to the holding system and related technology of the back plate 510 of the carrying system 500. Various aspects of the system 10 can be described herein with respect to the tank 400 attached to the back plate 510 as a representative example.

[0055] Masks suitable for the respiratory system 10 are described in, for example, U.S. Patent Application Publication Nos. 2012/0160245 and 2012/0152253 and U.S. Patent No. 8256420, which are incorporated herein by reference. Similarly, second-stage pressure regulators suitable for use in combination therewith are described in, for example, U.S. Patent Application Publication Nos. 2012/0160245 and 2012/0152253 and U.S. Patent No. 8256420.

[0056] The pressurized air tank or cylinder 400 (or another tank) is supported or strapped to an appliance or carrying system 500 worn by a user passing through the system 10. In the illustrated embodiment, the carrying system 500 includes a rigid backing plate 510, to support (among other parts of the SCBA 10) the tank 400 and tie it (including, for example, a shoulder strap and a waist belt not shown) to connect the back panel 510 to the user. The adjustable tank strap 512 (eg, a metal strap) in combination with a breathing bracket 514 formed on or attached to the back plate 510 helps to hold the tank 400. The valve 410 of the tank 400 provides air from the pressurized tank 400 to the connector 520 attached to the back plate 510 (see, for example, FIG. 3B). The connector 520 is fluidly connected with the first-stage regulator assembly 700 via the connector 520a and the connector 710 of the first-stage regulator assembly 700 (see, for example, FIG. 4). As described above, the tank 400 may, for example, contain air or oxygen-containing breathing gas under high pressure (for example, in the range of 2200-5500 psi or 15168-37921 kPa). The first stage regulator assembly 700 attached to the back plate 510 reduces the pressure to, for example, approximately 80-100 psi (552-689 kPa). The breathing gas leaves the first-stage regulator 700 via the connector 720, and flows to the inlet (not shown) of the second-stage regulator 300 via the high-pressure hose 350 (a part of which is shown in FIG. 1).

[0057] FIGS. 1A-2B, for example, illustrate a tank holding system that includes a plurality of tank holders having various configurations, the tank holders being attached to tanks of different sizes and/or geometries to form an attachment to the carrying system 500 components. Related unique cans

The rack can be provided, for example, for each tank size/geometry, which is specifically designed or constructed for that tank/geometry. When the tank holder is attached to the relevant tank to form an assembly as described above, the tank holder cooperates with the holder connector of the carrier system 500 to position the tank at a predetermined angle with respect to the carrier system or at a predetermined position with respect to the carrier system 500.

[0058] In many embodiments, tanks of various sizes and/or geometries are held in contact and engagement with at least a portion of the carrier system 500 or its back plate 510, respectively, in substantially parallel. For example, the longitudinal axis or plane of each tank (which may be substantially cylindrical on at least a portion thereof) may extend substantially parallel to (for example, within no more than 5 parallel degrees or no more than 2.5 parallel degrees) axially The substantially linear portion of the bracket 514 or the back plate 510 is retained. Generally, it is desirable in many embodiments to maintain the axis of the canister approximately parallel to the orientation of the user's back. Therefore, if the user's back (or front or coronal plane) is roughly vertical (ie roughly aligned with the direction of gravity at the point where the user is standing), the axis of the tank remains in a roughly vertical orientation. In many embodiments, tanks of various sizes and/or geometries are positioned relative to the carrier system 500 such that the connector 520 (or another point on the carrier system 500) and the tank valve outlet (or another point on the tank) The distance between remains approximately constant for each tank, regardless of varying tank size and/or geometry. For each of a plurality of tanks having varying sizes, sizes and/or geometric structures, the maintenance of such a fixed distance can be used in combination with each of the plurality of tanks having varying sizes and/or geometric structures, for example. A single hose assembly 450 of fixed length.

[0059] In FIGS. 1A and 1B, three different size tanks including tank 400 (the largest tank), tank 400, (middle size tank), and tank 400" (smallest tank) are provided with related brackets connected by a back plate 510. 800, 800, and 800" are shown within the components (through dashed lines or transparent views). Reference numerals for many elements are omitted from the lower part of the system 10 of FIG. 1A to avoid crowding and confusion. These reference numerals are given in the enlarged view of the lower part of the system 10 given in FIG. 1B.

[0060] As described above, in many embodiments, the tank retention system includes an adjustable tank strap 512 and a cooperating bracket 514. The tank holding system also includes a tank support that cooperates with the valve end of the tank to control the position of the tank in the X, y, and ζ directions or axis relative to the carrier system (see Figure 1B). In FIG. 1B, the X-axis generally corresponds to the vertical direction when the carrying system 500 is worn by the user, and the y-axis generally corresponds to the horizontal, forward, or backward direction. The z axis perpendicular to the plane of the drawing roughly corresponds to the horizontal transverse direction. As mentioned above, each tank has an associated bracket that is uniquely designed to position the tank in at least the X and y directions or axes (assuming the size and/or geometry of the tank) such that, for example, the tank remains approximately parallel to the back plate The general orientation of 510 is such that the distance between the axis of the connector 520 and the outlet of the tank valve remains substantially constant for each tank.

[0061] In the illustrated embodiment, the bracket 800 is used in combination with the tank 400, the bracket 800 is used in combination with the tank 400, and the bracket 800" is used in combination with the tank 400". Generally, the structures and operations of the brackets 800, 800', and 800" are similar. However, the geometric structures of the brackets 800, 800, and 800" are different in order to hold the tanks 400, 400', and 400" parallel to the back plate 510, for example, respectively. , And keep the distances D1, D2, and D3 approximately the same (see Figure IB). The distances D1, D2, and D3 are the connector 520 and the tank 400,400, respectively^?And the 400" tank valve outlets 410, 410' and 410" axis distance.

[0062] In the illustrated embodiment, the distance from the front end of the bracket (that is, the end closest to the back plate 510 during use) to the opening through which the tank valve outlet of the bracket extends (in the direction y of FIG. 1B) Measurement) increases as the tank diameter/cylinder diameter increases. As the tank/cylinder diameter increases, the tank valve outlet therefore remains in a more rearward position (ie, further away from the backing plate 510 along the axis y of FIG. 5B), while the tank remains approximately parallel to and in contact with the backing plate 510. In addition, as the tank/cylinder diameter increases, the bracket maintains the tank valve outlet in a higher or more upward vertical position (ie to the left along the axis X of Figure IB). In the illustrated embodiment, the positioning of the tank along the X axis causes the axis of the tank valve outlets 410, 410, and 410" to ideally follow a substantially arc A, which is shown in the connector 520 shown in FIG. 1B. Has a radius center at the axial end. In this embodiment, D1, D2, D3...Dn (for a system designed for use with n tanks, where

η is an integer greater than 3) will all be the same and will correspond to the radius of the arc. In actual use, the arc A does not need to be a perfect circle, and the distances D1, D2, D3-Dn are preferably approximately the same. In many embodiments, the distances D1, D2, D3... Dn are not greater than 0.5 inches (0.01270 meters), not greater than 0.25 inches (0.00635 meters), or even not greater than 0.1 inches Change or change within the range of (0.00254 meters).

[0063] In the illustrated embodiment, the positioning of the tank in the X direction is achieved via the cooperation of the connector 532 of the back plate 510 and the cooperative connector at the front end of each bracket. The connector 820 of the bracket 800 is illustrated in FIGS. 1C and 1D, for example. In the illustrated embodiment, the connector 532 includes or defines a dovetail channel or slot 534 (ie, a female dovetail connection), and the cooperating connector 820 is one or more dovetail flanges (ie, a male dovetail connection). The geometry of the dovetail cooperative connector (for example, its expansion angle) is easily predetermined for a specific stent in order to position the canister associated with the stent at a desired position along the X axis as described above. Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that other cooperating connector geometries or adjustable connectors attached to the bracket can be used. Static or non-adjustable connectors provide ease of manufacture and operation.

[0064] In a tank/cylinder such as the tank 400 to be used in conjunction with the system 10, a support such as the bracket 800 is first placed in conjunction with the tank 400 to form the assembly as described above. In the illustrated embodiment, the representative bracket 800 includes two independent sections or members 800a and 800b (for example, formed of metal). An opening 810 is formed in the section 800a so that the valve 410 passes therethrough. An opening 814 is formed in the section 800b for the tank control handle 420 to pass therethrough. The sections 800a and 800b are brought together to surround the lower end of the can 400 as described above, and then attached using a connector or fastener such as a screw 805, thereby clamping the lower end of the can 400. The sections 800a and 800b include openings or seats 824 to surround the pressure gauge 430 of the tank 400 when the bracket 800 is connected to the tank 800. In many embodiments, a protective member or enclosure such as a rubber boot or enclosure 830 is attached to the sections 800a and 800b after its connection in order to clamp the lower end of the tank 400, thereby providing, for example, the pressure gauge 430 of the tank 400 protection. The opening 832 in the enclosure 830 may be configured to view the meter 430 when the enclosure 830 is in place (see, for example, Figures 1C, 1D, and 5A). It will be clear to those of ordinary skill in the art that the bracket is easily formed as described herein to cooperate with and attach to substantially any tank design and geometry. Support 800, and similar parts and supports of 800" Corresponding parts of the rack 800 are similarly numbered, but the symbols "'and """ are added therein.

[0065] Once the support 800 is installed on the tank 400, the assembly including the tank 400 and the support 800 can be placed in operative connection with the backing plate 510. In this regard, the assembly is positioned such that the cooperating connector 820 of the bracket 800 is aligned with the connector 532. The assembly then slides down so that the dovetail flange of the cooperating connector 820 is abuttingly connected with the dovetail slot or channel 534 of the connector 532 (thereby fixing the position of the tank 400 in the x, y, and z directions). The can strap 512 is then fixedly fastened around the can 400 via a latch mechanism 514 known in the art.

[0066] In the illustrated embodiment, the hose assembly 450 includes a threaded hand wheel 452 that is threaded to the tank valve outlet 410, for example, via a cooperative thread as known in the art. The hose assembly 450 also includes a length of a high-pressure hose 454 having a cooperating connector 456 (eg, a high pressure cooperating quick coupler) to form a cooperating fluid connection with the connector 520 (eg, a high pressure quick coupler). As described above, due to the tank positioning and maintaining system and technology described above, the hose assembly 450 can be used in combination with any of the tanks 400, 400', and 400" (and other tanks).

[0067] For example, as shown in FIG. 4, the back plate 510 of the breathing apparatus 10 includes a connecting assembly or system 550 that connects and positions the first-stage adjustment assembly 700 at the lower end of the back plate 510. The back plate 510 also includes or is attached with a power supply compartment 552 positioned approximately in the center, and a power supply 554 including, for example, one or more batteries is assembled in the power supply compartment 552. The power supply 554 is, for example, electrically connected to an electronic device system including, for example, a printed circuit board 560 (for example, via a connector 556), and the printed circuit board 560 (in the illustrated embodiment) is positioned between the power supply compartment 552 and the first-stage regulator 700 between. The printed circuit board 560 includes electrical components and control components (including, for example, one or more processors 564 such as one or more microprocessors).

[0068] Many electrical connections extend from the printed circuit board 560. For example, one or more electrical connections 566 connect the printed circuit board 560 and the control module 900 via intermediate cables. The control module 900 may include, for example, the personnel alarm security system described in US Patent No. 6198396 or the PASS 910, so as to provide an alarm without the movement of the user. The control module 900 may also include, for example, an analog pressure gauge 920 that provides the user with a visual reading of the pressure in the tank 400 and one or more displays 930 that provide other information, alarms, and the like. The analog pressure meter 920 is fluidly connected to the connector 520 (and thus to the tank 400 or other tanks connected to the connector 520) via a connector 520c that is fluidly connected to the connector 520.

[0069] The electrical connection 568 connects the printed circuit board 560 to, for example, a sound amplifier via an intermediate cable. Similarly, one or more electrical connections 568 connect the printed circuit board 560 via intermediate cables to, for example, a microphone 320 and a head-mounted display (HUD) component 322 incorporated in the second-stage regulator 300 (schematically shown in FIG. 4 ). Such a microphone and HUD are described in, for example, U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2012/0152253.

[0070] In many embodiments, the carrying system 500 includes channels or guide paths to guide or guide pneumatic hoses and cables/cables. Such a channel or guide path may, for example, be formed in the back plate 510 or be formed (at least in part) by a component attached to the back plate 50. For example, the hose from the connector 520c passes through a channel or guide path 574 to the control module 900. Similarly, the cable from the electrical connection 566 passes through the guide path 574 to the control module 900. Similarly, the hose connecting the first-stage pressure assembly connector 720 to the hose 350 (fluidly connected with the second-stage pressure regulator 300) passes through or follows the guide path 578. The cables or cables from the electrical connections 568 and 570 also pass or follow the guide path 578. The guide paths 574 and 578 may, for example, pass through or under the carriage assembly 514 (helping to protect, guide, and maintain the components passing through the guide paths 574 and 578). This guide path helps guide and manage hoses and cables, and contributes to their protection, as described further below. For example, as shown in FIG. 3A, the printed circuit board 560 is enclosed in the electronic device housing assembly 580, which extends laterally across the backplane between the first-stage pressure regulator 700 and the power source 554 (from which electrical connections 566, 568, and 570 extend) 510 width.

[0071] In many embodiments, the carrying system 500 also includes a cover or enclosure system that can be attached to the back plate 510 to protect and/or retain components such as pneumatic and/or electronic components (e.g., connectors, hoses, One or more covers such as outer cover 530 (as described above). The backplate 510 also includes features that interface with the lid or enclosure system. In the illustrated embodiment, the first side cover or enclosure 584 covers the cable connected to the connector 566 so that the cable is guided (for example, with the help of the first side cover 584) to the first side of the back plate 510 Guide path 574 on the side. The second side cover or enclosure 588 covers the cables connected to the connectors 568 and 570 so that the cables are guided (for example with the help of the second side cover 588) to the guide path 574 on the second side of the back plate 510 . The first side cover 584 slides to connect with the upper part of the electronic device housing assembly 580 on the first side (or the left side), and the second side cover 588 slides with the electronic device on the second side (or the right side) The upper part of the housing assembly 580 is connected.

[0072] In the illustrated embodiment, an outer or rearward cover or enclosure 530 is attached to the back plate 510 so as to cover or enclose (and hold) pneumatic and electrical components (such as the first stage regulator 700) as described above. , Electronic component housing 580, power supply 554 and pneumatic and/electrical components passing through guide paths 574 and 578). In the illustrated embodiment, the outer cover 530 includes fasteners 536 that cooperate with cooperating fasteners 551 (located below the first stage pressure regulator 700), for example, in the form of simple hooks and chains. The outer cover 530 extends over at least a portion of the first stage regulator assembly 700 and the electronics housing assembly 680, for example, to help retain and protect the first stage regulator assembly 700 and the electronics housing assembly 580. The outer cover 530 also surrounds and protects the connectors 520a, 520c, 710, and 720. The outer cover may, for example, include features or components that cooperate with and hold the side covers or enclosures 584 and 588 in order to hold these covers in place.

[0073] When the breathing apparatus 10 is assembled, the first-stage regulator assembly 700, the electronic device system or assembly (including, for example, the printed circuit board 560, the connections 566, 568 and 570, and the electronic device assembly housing 580) and the power supply 544 are positioned at On the backplane 510. Subsequently, the pneumatic and electrical connections as described above are made. Subsequently, the first and second side covers 584 and 588 are respectively slid into place. The outer cover 530 is then hooked into the back plate 510 (via the fastener 536 and the cooperating fastener 551), and the outer cover 530 is attached to the front. As described above, the features on the outer cover 530 may be interlocked with the first and second side covers 584 and 588, respectively, for example. In the illustrated embodiment, the flanges 540 and 542 formed on the outer cover 530 abut and cooperate with the flanges 585 and 589 on the first side cover 584 and the second side cover 588, respectively. Therefore, the first and second side covers 584 and 588 are fixedly connected to the back plate 510. When the outer cover 530 is attached to a fixed position, it may be held, for example, by a connector (for example, a screw not shown) attached to the upper part of the outer cover 503 on each side.

[0074] In the illustrated embodiment, the outer cover 530 includes a connector 532 as described above for attaching a can/can holder (such as the can holder 800) thereto. The outer cover 530 and other components of the carrying system 500 may be molded (eg, integrally molded) of a polymer material, for example.

[0075] In contrast to systems in which pneumatic and/or electrical components are exposed, the use of protective covers such as side covers 584 and 588 and outer cover 530 provides the ability to expand material options to, for example, help reduce weight. For example, aluminum can replace brass in many parts. As mentioned above, currently available breathing devices with remote tank connections use multiple connectors to locate and attach pneumatic and electrical components to the backplane. The use of a single component, such as the outer cover 530, that covers and holds at least a portion of the pneumatic and/or electronic components and simultaneously (optionally) positions and attaches the canister significantly simplifies the respiratory device design and related manufacturing and maintenance operations. The assembly and removal of pneumatic and/or electronic components is advantageously assisted by its cover system.

[0076] The first-stage pressure regulator 700 at the bottom of the back plate 510 and the positioning of the electronics assembly housing 580 and the pneumatic hose/conduit and the electronic device cables/cables are arranged toward the center of the back plate 510 and upward. The cloth helps to provide protection and retention by a single outer cover 530 that covers the lower central part of the SCBA system 10. As described above, the components forming the bracket 514 can further help protect and maintain the pneumatic hose/conduit and the electronics cables/cables on the upper portion of the back plate 50.

[0077] The above description and drawings present many representative embodiments at this time. Of course, those of ordinary skill in the art can understand various modifications, additions and alternative designs in view of the above teachings without departing from the scope thereof. The scope of the present invention is indicated by the following claims instead of the above. All changes and modifications that fall within the meaning and equivalent scope of the claims are included in the scope thereof.