AU2019101454B4

AU2019101454B4 - Fluid fill systems and methods for self-contained breathing apparatus

Info

Publication number: AU2019101454B4
Application number: AU2019101454A
Authority: AU
Inventors: Cedo Vitor
Original assignee: Rfd Australia Pty Ltd
Current assignee: Rfd Australia Pty Ltd
Priority date: 2019-11-26
Filing date: 2019-11-26
Publication date: 2021-02-18
Anticipated expiration: 2027-11-26
Also published as: AU2019101454A4

Abstract

A fill system for self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) tanks is disclosed. The system comprises a cradle for accommodating at least one storage tank arranged to contain a fluid mixture at a first pressure. A first fill panel is configured to decant the fluid mixture to one or more SCBA tanks. The first fill panel comprises a first plurality of outlets, each outlet configured to couple to a corresponding SCBA tank so as to be in fluid communication therewith. A conduit is arranged to provide fluid communication between the first plurality of outlets and one or more of the storage tanks provided in the cradle. A pressure regulator is configured to control a pressure differential between the first plurality of outlets and the one or more of the storage tanks. The first fill panel further comprises a valve operable, in a first state, to directly decant the fluid mixture from the one or more of the storage tanks to the first plurality of outlets, to thereby provide the fluid mixture to the one or more SCBA tanks when in fluid communication with respective outlets of the first plurality of outlets.

Description

"Fluid fill systems and methods for self-contained breathing apparatus"

Technical Field

[0001] Disclosed embodiments relate generally to fluid fill systems and methods for self contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) tanks, and some disclosed embodiments relate to quick fluid fill systems and methods for filling multiple SCBA tanks substantially simultaneously.

Background

[0002] A SCBA, sometimes referred to as a compressed air breathing apparatus (CABA), is a device used to provide a user with breathable air. SCBA typically comprise a mask or mouthpiece connected to a tank of breathable air, with a regulator to control the pressure of the air sent to the mask or mouthpiece. A harness may be provided to allow the SCBA to be worn hands-free.

[0003] SCBA may be worn where the user may be exposed to unpleasant or unhealthy breathing conditions, such as dust, fumes, or other particulates. These environments may be referred to as immediately dangerous to life or health (IDLH) atmospheres. For example, in underground mining operations, workers may wear SCBA. Other environments include firefighting or chemical spillage operations.

[0004] One system for filling SCBA tanks is the cascade filling system. In the cascade filling system, the SCBA tank is sequentially connected to various storage tanks containing the desired gas mixture, such that the gas mixture is decanted from a first storage tank until the pressure between the SCBA tank and the first storage tank equalises. The first storage tank may fill the SCBA tank partly, requiring a second (or third, fourth, and so on) storage tank to completely fill it. Successive storage tanks must be at a higher pressure than the previous tank, and must also be at a higher pressure than the pressure in the SCBA tank once it has been partly filled. Accordingly, careful calculation is required to determine the correct order in which the storage tanks are used.

[0005] Automated cascading systems exist. However, some automated systems must cycle through all the storage tanks to find the storage tank with the necessary pressure to fill the SCBA tank. This is a time-consuming process. The filling time of the SCBA tank is also affected by the different pressures in each storage tank. Furthermore, when automated cascading systems are used to simultaneously fill a plurality of SCBA tanks each containing the gas mixture at different pressures, the automated cascading system will use the storage tank required to fill the highest pressure SCBA tank. This means that the lower-pressure SCBA tanks would be filled with a higher-pressure storage tank than would be used if filling the lower-pressure SCBA tanks individually. This is inefficient as it depletes the higher-pressure storage tanks before the lower pressure storage tanks, which may for example result in inconsistent filling times overall.

[0006] It is desired to address or ameliorate one or more shortcomings or disadvantages associated with prior quick fill systems and methods for SCBA, or to at least provide a useful alternative thereto.

Summary

[0007] Some embodiments relate to a fill system for self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) tanks, the system comprising: a cradle for accommodating at least one storage tank arranged to contain a fluid mixture at a first pressure; and a first fill panel configured to decant the fluid mixture to one or more SCBA tanks, the first fill panel comprising: a first plurality of outlets, each outlet configured to couple to a corresponding SCBA tank so as to be in fluid communication therewith; a conduit arranged to provide fluid communication between the first plurality of outlets and one or more of the storage tanks provided in the cradle; a pressure regulator configured to control a pressure differential between the first plurality of outlets and the one or more of the storage tanks; and a valve operable, in a first state, to directly decant the fluid mixture from the one or more of the storage tanks to the first plurality of outlets, to thereby provide the fluid mixture to the one or more SCBA tanks when in fluid communication with respective outlets of the first plurality of outlets.

[0008] The cradle may comprise a frame, and the frame may comprise structural members arranged to enclose the plurality of storage tanks. The frame may comprise at least one of a lug, forklift tines, and/or lifting points for transport of the cradle.

[0009] The at least one storage tank may comprise a plurality of storage tanks, and the cradle may comprise a manifold configured to arrange the plurality of storage tanks with respect to one another such that the fluid mixture is substantially evenly decanted from each one of the plurality of storage tanks to the first plurality of outlets when the valve is in the first state.

[0010] The first pressure in each one or more of the storage tanks maybe substantially identical. The first pressure in each one or more of the storage tanks may decrease at a substantially similar rate to decant the fluid mixture substantially evenly across each one or more of the storage tanks. The fluid mixture may be a gas mixture of breathable air.

[0011] The system may further comprise a second fill panel configured to decant the fluid mixture to the one or more SCBA tanks. The second fill panel may be configured in an identical manner to the first fill panel. The second fill panel and the first fill panel may be connected to the one or more of the storage containers in parallel. The fill panel may comprise a housing to shield the outlets from dust.

[0012] The regulator maybe configured to reduce the first pressure of the fluid mixture received from the one or more of the storage tanks to a second pressure before providing the fluid mixture at the second pressure to the one or more SCBA tanks. The second pressure may be a maximum recommended pressure suitable for providing to the SCBA tanks. The first pressure may be approximately 450 bar, and the second pressure may be approximately 300 bar.

[0013] The regulator maybe configured to control the pressure differential so that the filling time required to substantially fill each of the SCBA tanks may be at least substantially independent of the pressure differential.

Brief Description of Drawings

[0014] Embodiments are described in further detail below, byway of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a quick-fill system for filling self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) tanks, comprising first and second fill panels according to some embodiments; Fig. 2 is a perspective view of the quick-fill system of Fig. 1, according to some embodiments; Fig. 3 is a perspective view of the first fill panel of the quick-fill system of Fig. 1; Fig. 4 is a schematic the first fill panel of Figs. 1 and 3;

Fig. 5 is a schematic of a bank manifold configured to connect to the first or second fill panel(s) of Fig. 1; Fig. 6 is a schematic of a further embodiment of a bank manifold configured to connect to the first or second fill panel(s) of Fig. 1; Fig. 7 is a schematic of a bank manifold configured to connect to the first and second fill panels of Fig. 1; Fig. 8 is a graph of bank pressure (bar) against batch number, showing indicative filling times and bank pressures when filling each batch of SCBA tanks using the system of Fig. 1; and Fig. 9 is a flow diagram depicting a method offilling SCBA tanks using the system of Fig. 1.

Detailed Description

[0015] Disclosed embodiments relate generally to fluid fill systems and methods for self contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) tanks and in some embodiments, disclosed embodiments relate to quick fluid fill systems and methods forfilling multiple SCBA tanks substantially simultaneously.

[0016] In some embodiments, the fill system comprises a cradle for accommodating at least one storage tank arranged to contain a fluid mixture at a first pressure, and a first fill panel configured to decant the fluid mixture to one or more SCBA tanks. The firstfill panel comprises a first plurality of outlets and each outlet is configured to couple to a corresponding SCBA tank so as to be in fluid communication therewith. The first fill panel further comprises a conduit arranged to provide fluid communication between the first plurality of outlets and one or more of the storage tanks provided in the cradle. The first fill panel further comprises a pressure regulator configured to control a pressure differential between the first plurality of outlets and the one or more of the storage tanks, and a valve operable, in a first state, to directly decant the fluid mixture from the one or more of the storage tanks to the first plurality of outlets, to thereby provide the fluid mixture to the one or more SCBA tanks when in fluid communication with respective outlets of the first plurality of outlets. The at least one storage tank may comprise a plurality of storage tanks. The cradle may comprise a manifold configured to arrange the plurality of storage tanks with respect to one another such that the fluid mixture is substantially evenly decanted from each one of the plurality of storage tanks to the first plurality of outlets when the valve is in the first state.

[0017] The fluid fill system and method of the described embodiments employs a direct decanting arrangement to fill a SCBA tank with a fluid mixture, such as a gas mixture. The gas mixture may be breathable air. By employing a direct decanting or flow arrangement, the fluid fill system may be configured to substantially fill a SCBA tank in a substantially consistently time-efficient manner to provide users with quick refills of breathable air in immediately dangerous to life or health (IDLH) atmospheres.

[0018] Fig. 1 shows a quick-fill system 100 for filling SCBA tanks, according to some embodiments. Given the intended use of the system 100 as a safety device, the system 100 may have a prominent size, robust structure and/or be heavy enough to prevent inadvertent removal. When used in underground mining situations, a plurality of systems may be deployed at various locations in the mine and teams of workers, each wearing SCBA, may move from one system to the next to top up the amount of gas mixture in their SCBA tanks.

[0019] The system 100 comprises a cradle 200 for accommodating and/or supporting a fluid source 500 arranged to contain a fluid mixture at the first pressure, and a first fill panel 300 configured to decant the fluid mixture to one or more SCBA tanks (not shown). The one or more SCBA tanks may be empty, or partially empty. The system 100 may fill the one or more SCBA tanks to be full, or partially full, depending on the user's requirements. The fluid mixture may be a gas mixture. For example, the gas mixture may be a breathable air mixture such as Nitrox (a mixture of nitrogen and oxygen), or pure oxygen.

[0020] The first fill panel 300 may comprise at least one outlet 310. In some embodiments, the first fill panel 300 comprises a first plurality of outlets 310. For example, the number of outlets may range from between two to ten outlets. Each outlet 310 may be configured to couple to a corresponding SCBA tank (not shown) so as to be in fluid communication therewith. The first fill panel 300 may comprise a conduit 400 (Fig. 4) arranged to provide fluid communication between the first plurality of outlets 310 and the fluid source 500 to provide the gas mixture to the SCBA tanks.

[0021] The first fill panel 300 may comprise a pressure regulator 410 (Fig. 4). The regulator 410 may be configured to control a pressure differential between the outlets 310 and the fluid source 500. For example, the first pressure may be reduced by the regulator 410 to a second pressure, which is the pressure of the gas mixture exiting the outlets 310. In some embodiments, the second pressure is equal to the maximum recommended pressure suitable for providing to the

SCBA tanks. For example, the first pressure may be approximately 450 bar, and the second pressure may be approximately 300 bar. The first pressure progressively reduces with each fill of the SCBA tanks. When the first pressure has reduced to be less than or equal to the maximum recommended pressure suitable for providing to the SCBA tanks, the regulator 410 may not reduce the first pressure.

[0022] The first plurality of outlets 310 allows multiple SCBA tanks to befilled at substantially the same time, which helps reduce waiting times when there are multiple users of the system, compared to when using a filling system with one outlet.

[0023] In some embodiments, the system 100 comprises a second fill panel 600, which is also configured to decant the fluid mixture to the one or more SCBA tanks (not shown). The first fill panel 300 and the second fill panel 600 may be of modular configuration so that the fill panels 300, 600 may be added and removed as required. The second fill panel 600 may comprise at least one outlet 610, or a second plurality of outlets 610. In some embodiments, the first plurality of outlets 310 and the second plurality of outlets 610 may be configured to operate in an identical manner, and may comprise identical parts as discussed herein. However, it will be appreciated that they may comprise the first plurality of outlets 310 and the second plurality of outlets 610 may be configured to operate in a different manner to one another, and may comprise at least some different parts as discussed herein. Providing the second plurality of outlets 610 in addition to the first plurality of outlets 310 allows more SCBA tanks to be filled substantially simultaneously.

[0024] In some embodiments, the fluid source 500 may comprise a plurality of storage tanks 510. The plurality of storage tanks 510 maybe coupled or connected to a bank manifold 700 of the system 100. The bank manifold 700 may be configured to couple to or connect with the first fill panel 300 and/or the second fill panel 600 to decant the gas mixture contained in the plurality of storage tanks 510 to the one or more SCBA tanks (not shown). The bank manifold 700 may be configured to arrange the plurality of storage tanks 510 with respect to one another, such as in series with one another, so that the gas mixture is substantially evenly decanted from each one of the plurality of storage tanks 510 to the outlets 310 of the fill panel 300 and/or 600 for dispensing to the one or more SCBA tanks (not shown), thereby achieving the direct decanting or direct flow quick fill system.

[0025] The cradle 200 may comprise a frame 210 for accommodating and/or supporting the plurality of storage tanks 510 in a grid arrangement to reduce the overall size of the frame 210. The frame 210 may comprise structural members arranged to enclose the plurality of storage tanks 510. The arrangement of the structural members may form a rigid cage around the storage tanks 510. This arrangement may provide the storage tanks 510 with some protection against impacts. The structural members of the frame 210 may be made of appropriately-sized steel sections, such as rectangular hollow sections. The structural members of the frame 210 may be connected together by welding and/or mechanical fasteners such as bolts. The structural members of the frame 210 may be treated to provide surface protection. For example, where steel sections are used for the frame 210, these may be painted or galvanised to improve their corrosion resistance. In some embodiments, the frame 210 has a generally rectangular form comprising an upper portion 212 disposed opposite a lower portion 214. In some embodiments, the frame 210 has a first end 216 disposed opposite a second end 218. The upper portion 212 and the lower portion 214 may span the first and second ends 216, 218.

[0026] In some embodiments, one or more of the plurality of storage tanks 510 is shaped as a cylinder. Each of the cylinders may be an elongate cylinder with an elongate axis. The cylinders may be arranged in the frame 210 in a grid arrangement wherein the elongate axes of the cylinders are oriented to substantially span the first and second ends 216, 218. However, it will be appreciated that other suitable shapes of storage tanks 510 may be employed. The total fluid capacity of the storage tanks 510 may range between 1000 litres to 1500 litres. In some embodiments, the cradle 200 is configured to accommodate 1500 water litres of the gas mixture, held in 30 "G" size cylinders with a 50 litre water capacity, with each cylinder containing the gas mixture pressurised to 450 bar.

[0027] In some embodiments, the system 100 has a length and width measuring up to approximately 3,000 mm, and a height measuring up to approximately 2,000 mm. In some embodiments, the system 100 has a length, width, and height respectively measuring approximately 2,342 mm by 1,932 mm by 1,410 mm. In some embodiments, the system 100 comprises one fill panel (such as the fill panel 300) and a cradle 200 supporting 30 "G" size cylinders with a 50 litre water capacity and may have a weight measuring approximately 5,450 kg. In some embodiments, the system 100 may comprise two fill panels (such as the fill panels 300, 600) and a cradle 200 supporting 30 "G" size cylinders with a 50 litre water capacity and may have a weight measuring approximately 5,600 kg.

[0028] Turning now to Fig. 2, the cradle 200 may comprise at least one lug 220 configured to allow lifting of the cradle 200, and/or at least one pair of tine pockets 250 for forklift access to raise and lower the cradle 200. For example, each of the at least one lug 220 may comprise a pin 222 attached to plates 224, wherein the pin 222 is adapted to be engaged by a hook or clamp. The at least one lug 220 may comprise a pair of lugs 230, 240. The lugs 230, 240 may be disposed on the upper portion 212 of the frame 210, for example at the second end 218. The lugs 230, 240 may be spaced apart to provide stability when lifting the cradle 200. The tine pockets 250 may comprise a body 252 defining an aperture 254 in which a tine of a forklift can be received. The tine pockets 250 may comprise a first pair of tine pockets 260, and a second pair of tine pockets 270. The first pair of tine pockets 260 may be disposed at a different orientation to the second pair of tine pockets 270 to provide a choice of forklift access points. For example, tine pockets 260 may be substantially perpendicular to tine pockets 270. The tine pockets 270 may be disposed at the first end 216. The tine pockets 260 may be spaced apart from tine pockets 270. At least one of tine pockets 260, 270 may be disposed on the lower portion 214 of the frame 210. The cradle 200 may comprise a plurality of lifting points 280, which may be disposed in the upper portion 212 at each corner of the frame 210 to provide chain attachment points for a crane or hoist to lift the cradle 200. An example of lifting points 280 is the RUD VLBS load ring.. The lug 220, tine pockets 250, and/or lifting points 280 are attached to the frame 210, for example by welding and/or by mechanical fasteners such as bolts. Use of the lug 220, tine pockets 250, and/or lifting points 280 allow the frame 210 to be transported and positioned safely.

[0029] The cradle 200 may comprise a housing 290 which covers the storage tanks 510 to reduce the likelihood of moisture, dirt, and dust coming into contact with its components. In some embodiments, the housing 290 is IP-rated. This may be, for example, a minimum IP54 rating. In some embodiments, the housing 290 has an IP55 or IP56 rating. The housing 290 may comprise several parts to allow parts of the storage tanks 510 to be exposed, such as for maintenance access. For example, the housing 290 may comprise access doors 292 and/or removable panels 294. In some embodiments, the access door 292 is positioned to provide access to a bank manifold 700. The access door 292 may have gas struts (not shown) to assist with moving the access door 292 to an open position. The access door 292 may be biased to move to a closed position from an open position, so that the bank manifold 700 is covered if the user forgets to close the access door 292. For example, the access door 292 may be configured to close under its own weight.

[0030] The first fill panel 300 may comprise a cover or housing 390 to cover the outlets 310, for example to reduce the likelihood of moisture, dirt, and dust coming into contact with the components of fill panel 300. This may help reduce or prevent contamination of the outlets 310 when the system 100 is deployed, especially in dusty environments such as in underground mines. Similarly, the second fill panel 600 may comprise a cover or housing 690 to cover the outlets 610. In some embodiments, the housing 390 comprises a generally elongate surface. The housing 390 may comprise a door 392 which is securable by locking means such as a latch 394. The door 392 may be a single-part door, or a multiple-part door. For example, the housing 390 shown in Fig. 2 comprises a two-part door 392 with latches 394. The door 392 may be biased to move to an open position after the door 392 is unlocked (when the locking means is released).

[0031] Fig. 3 shows the first fill panel 300 comprising the first plurality of outlets 310, according to some embodiments. Each outlet 310 comprises a coupling 312 and a hose 314 In this embodiment, there are five outlets, 31OA to 31OE respectively, each comprising respective couplings 312A to 312E and respective hoses 314A to 314E. The couplings 312 are configured to couple to a corresponding SCBA tank so as to be in fluid communication therewith. For example, the couplings 312 may be filling couplings, such as the Eaton FD17 Series Quick Disconnect Couplings. Other types of couplings may be used depending on the type and size of SCBA tank to be filled.

[0032] The couplings 312 are connected by corresponding tubes or hoses 314 to the conduit 400 as shown in Fig. 4. The conduit 400 provides fluid communication between the outlets 310 and one or more of the storage tanks 510, as described above. The conduit 400 may comprise a tube, hose or rigid piping with capacity to convey the gas mixture at the pressures discussed herein with no substantial loss of pressure. The hoses 314 may each have a hose length sufficient to allow multiple users of system 100 to fill their SCBA tanks without having to remove the tanks from the SCBA harness. The hose length may be approximately 1,500 mm, for example. The tubes or hoses 314 may be flexible to allow the length of hose to be tucked away compactly when not in use. For example, the tubes or hoses 314 may be made from a thermoplastic material. In some embodiments, the tubes or hoses 314 are retractable.

[0033] Continuing to refer to Fig. 3, the panel 300 comprises instrumentation 370 for reading and/or controlling the pressure of the gas mixture flowing through the panel 300. In some embodiments, the instrumentation 370 comprises a bank pressure gauge 372, delivery pressure gauge 374, a valve 376, and/or a pressure relief valve 378 (not shown). The bank pressure gauge

372, delivery pressure gauge 374, the valve 376, and the pressure relief valve 378 may be disposed along the conduit 400 and are discussed below in more detail with reference to Fig. 4.

[0034] The fill panel 300 comprises a body 380 to which the outlets 310 and the instrumentation 370 are attached or coupled. In some embodiments, the body 380 comprises a generally elongate surface. The elongate surface of the housing 390 may be substantially similar in length to the length of the body 380. The length of the elongate surface may be sufficient to allow approximately 300 mm to 500 mm spacing between the outlets 310. The body 380 may have an upper portion 382 and a lower portion 384. In some embodiments, the instrumentation 370 is attached to the upper portion 382, and the upper portion 382 is angled relative to the lower portion 384 so that the instrumentation 370 may be more easily read by a user standing next to the fill panel 300. The body 380 may be made from sheet metal that has been folded to define the relative angle between the upper portion 382 and the lower portion 384.

[0035] The housing 390 maybe connected to the body 380 and/or the cradle 200. The body 380 may be attached to the cradle 200. In some embodiments, the housing 390 and/or the body 380 is IP-rated. This may be, for example, a minimum IP54 rating. In some embodiments, the housing 390 has an IP55 or IP56 rating. The housing 390 may be hinged to the body 380 to be quickly opened by a user when access to the outlets 310 is required. The housing 390 may be biased to move to a closed position so that the fill panel 300 is covered if the user forgets to close the housing 390 after use. In some embodiments, the door 392 may comprise a stay bracket (not shown) or similar mechanism for holding the door in an open position and/or closing it due to its own weight. For example, the housing 390 or door 392 may comprise a gas strut (not shown), rated to 250N. In some embodiments, the door 392 may comprise two gas struts.

[0036] One or more of the storage tanks 510 maybe connected to the first fill panel 300 through a valve, such as a bank isolation valve 420. The bank isolation valve 420 can be switched between an open state and a closed state to permit or obstruct (isolate), respectively, the flow of the gas mixture to the panel 300. The first fill panel 300 may comprise a charge port 430 for adding gas mixture to the storage tanks 510. The first fill panel 300 may further comprise an air charge isolation valve 440 to permit or restrict flow through the charge port 430. The charge port 430 may be a "Snap Tite" nipple, and may be rated to around 10,000 psi (approximately 670 bar), for example.

[0037] Fig. 4 shows, in schematic form, the first fill panel 300, according to some embodiments. As illustrated, the charge port 430 is connected to the conduit 400. Gas mixture entering the conduit 400 via the charge port 430 may pass through the air charge isolation valve 440, a non-return valve 450, and/or a filter 460, which are disposed along the conduit 400.

[0038] Gas mixture maybe added to the storage tanks 510 by attaching a compressor (not shown) to the charge port 430, opening the air charge isolation valve 440, and powering the compressor (not shown) to pump the gas mixture into the conduit 400. In some embodiments, the compressor (not shown) is rated to pump the gas mixture at up to 5000 psi (approximately 345 bar), and a booster pump (not shown) used to "top-up" the fluid source pressure to 450 bar. The booster pump (not shown) may be configured to automatically switch off once the 450 bar pressure is achieved. In embodiments where a filter 460 is present and disposed along the conduit 400, the filter 460 may filter any stray particulate or other undesirable matter. A suitable filter 460 may be a 35 micron filter. The non-return valve 460 may prevent the gas mixture from flowing backwards through the charge port 430, for example when the compressor is switched off. When the desired amount of the gas mixture has been added to the fluid source 500, the compressor (not shown) may be isolated by the isolation valve 440 before being disconnected from the charge port 430. A protective dust cap (not shown) may be applied to the charge port 430 to reduce the likelihood of foreign objects entering conduit 400.

[0039] The conduit 400 may comprise a T-connector 470, such as manufactured by Swagelok. After passing through the filter 460, the gas mixture may enter the T-connector 470 and be diverted towards the storage tanks 510 through the bank isolation valve 420. In some embodiments, closing the bank isolation valve 420 diverts the gas mixture towards the outlets 310. This may allow users to fill the SCBA tanks without having to first fill the storage tanks 510.

[0040] The pressure regulator 410 maybe disposed along the conduit 400. The bank pressure gauge 372 is disposed along the conduit 400 between the bank isolation valve 420 and the regulator 410 to provide an accurate indication of the pressure of the gas mixture exiting the storage tanks 510. This pressure, referred to as the bank pressure, may be at least substantially equivalent to the first pressure, although there may be some minor losses in pressure as the gas mixture is conveyed from the storage tanks 510.

[0041] As illustrated, the delivery pressure gauge 374 is disposed along the conduit 400 between the outlets 310 and the regulator 410 to provide an accurate indication of the second pressure. When the first pressure has reduced to be less than or equal to the maximum recommended pressure suitable for providing to the SCBA tanks, the regulator 410 may not reduce the first pressure, and the bank pressure gauge 372 and the delivery pressure gauge 374 may show the same pressure reading. The valve 376 may also be disposed along the conduit 400. In some embodiments, the conduit 400 comprises a portion 402 between the outlets 310 and the regulator 410. In some embodiments, the valve 376 is positioned along the portion 402 of the conduit 400.

[0042] The valve 376 may be configured to assume multiple operating states, including a first state and a second state. The first state may correspond to an "on" position, wherein the valve 376 is operable to directly decant the gas mixture from the one or more of the storage tanks to the outlets 310, to thereby provide the gas mixture to the one or more SCBA tanks when in fluid communication with respective outlets of the outlets 310. The second state may correspond to an "off' position. In some embodiments, the pressure in the conduit 400 will need to be bled through the outlets 310, for example where the regulator 410 is not configured to be self-venting. The regulator 410 may not be self-venting so as to reduce or prevent unintended leaks from the system 100 over an extended time. Setting the valve 376 to the "off"position may allow the valve 376 to isolate the portion 402 of the conduit 400 from the rest of the conduit 400. This may allow the portion 402 to be bled or de-energised without requiring complete drainage of conduit 400. Bleeding may occur through the outlets 310. To bleed the portion 402 (and/or the conduit 400), the outlets 310 may comprise a bleed mechanism (not shown) on the couplings 312. For example, the coupling 312 may include a dust cap (not shown) with a designated button marked "Press to Bleed". The valve 376 may therefore provide a means for improving the safety of the system 100 by allowing de-energising of the portion 402 and/or the conduit 400, which may, for example, reduce or prevent adverse effects of accidental operation when the outlets 310 are stored away or otherwise not in use. During emergency situations, it is not required to bleed the system 100. In some embodiments, the coupling 312 allows connection and disconnection under fullpressure.

[0043] The valve 376 may provide a means for prolonging the operating lifespan of some parts of the system 100 by reducing the amount of wear and tear. For example, in some embodiments, the repeated pressurisation and depressurisation of the hoses 314 through use of the outlets 310 may cause the hoses 314 to develop small leaks over time. This may depend on the hose material used, for example. Any of the gas mixture remaining in the hoses 314 may thus slowly leak through the walls of the hoses 314. In the event of such leakage of the gas mixture in portion 402 (or a sudden leak through a failure or rupture of the hose 314 or other components), having the valve 376 in a closed position would isolate the rest of the conduit 400 from losing the gas mixture through the leak. The pressure relief valve 378 may also provide a safety function by operating to protect the system 100 and/or the SCBA tank from excessive pressure. For example, in the event that the regulator 400 is out of adjustment and is delivering the gas mixture in excess of 330 bar, the pressure relief valve 378 may operate to reduce the pressure of the gas mixture being delivered the SCBA tank.

[0044] The configuration of cascade filling systems depend on its storage tanks decanting correctly in sequence in order to fill the SCBA tanks. Furthermore, in some cascade filling systems, the combination of high gas flow and a large pressure differential across the reducing regulator may result in moisture in the gas mixture causing freezing of some spring loaded seats in non-return flow components. This may interrupt the normal flow or decanting sequence. By comparison, the system 100 tends to be less complex and may have fewer components than a cascade filling system configured to fill SCBA tanks to similar pressures, resulting in a simpler arrangement of the components. This may reduce the number of failure points and therefore the likelihood of interruptions to the flow of the gas mixture, and may reduce maintenance and/or repair costs when compared to cascade filling systems. In some embodiments, the system 100 delivers a more consistent flow of the gas mixture compared to cascade filling systems. The system 100 may provide more consistent flow at a fasterfilling rate than cascade filling systems.

[0045] Fig. 5 shows a fluid source 500A, according to some embodiments. As illustrated, the fluid source 500A comprises one or more of the storage tanks 510 connected to a bank manifold 700A, according to some embodiments. The bank manifold 700A comprises a conduit 710A and a plurality of couplings 730A which connect each one of the storage tanks 510 to the conduit 710A. In this embodiment, the couplings 730A, and accordingly, the storage tanks 510, are connected to the conduit 710A in series. The conduit 710A may be a tube or hose pressure-rated to communicate the gas mixture from the tanks 510 to the first fill panel 300 or the second fill panel 600. The coupling 730A may comprise a connector 740A, compatible with the type of tank 510. The coupling 730A may comprise a valve 750A and a reducing tee 760A for respectively controlling and providing the flow of the gas mixture exiting the tank 510 via the connector 740A into the conduit 710A. The valve 750A may be operable between open and closed positions to control the flow of gas mixture from specific tanks 510. The conduit 71OA may comprise a first end 770A which is connected to the conduit 400 of the first fill panel 300 or the second fill panel 600, so that when the valve 750A is in the open position, the gas mixture flows from each one of the storage tanks 510 through the couplings 730A into the conduit 710A, through the first end 770A and into the conduit 400 through the bank isolation valve 420 for dispensing through the outlets 310 as described in the embodiments above.

[0046] Fig. 6 shows a fluid source 500B, according to some embodiments. The fluid source 500Bcomprises one or more of the storage tanks 510 connected to a bank manifold 700B. The bank manifold 700B comprises a conduit 710B and the coupling 730B. The conduit 710B may be a tube or hose pressure-rated to communicate the gas mixture from the tank 510 to the first fill panel 300 or the second fill panel 600. In this embodiment, the conduit 710B comprises a first portion 712 and a second portion 714 connected by a T-terminal 720 to a first end 770B of the conduit 710B. Similar to the coupling 730A, the coupling 730B may comprise a connector 740B, a valve 750B, and a reducing tee 760B. Configuring the bank manifold 700B with conduit 710B comprising the first and second portions 712, 714 may reduce the overall length of conduit 710B and/or valve 750B. The configuration of first and second portions 712, 714 may reduce the bending of the conduit 710B and/or valve 750B. This configuration may provide advantages in aesthetics (for example, neater bending) or packaging (for example, a compact arrangement) of conduit 710B and/or valve 750B. Again, in this embodiment, the couplings 730B, and accordingly, the storage tanks 510, are connected to the first and second portions 712, 714 of the conduit 710B in series. As with the bank manifold 700A, the conduit 710B may be connected to the conduit 400, so that when the valve 750B is in the open position, the gas mixture flows from each one of the storage tanks 510 through the couplings 730B into the conduit 71OB, through the first end 770B and into the conduit 400 through the bank isolation valve 420 for dispensing through the outlets 310 as described in the embodiments above.

[0047] Fig. 7 shows a fluid source 500C, according to some embodiments. The fluid source OOC comprises one or more of the storage tanks 510 each connected to a bank manifold 700C via a coupling 730C. Similar to the couplings 730A and 730B, the coupling 730C may comprise a connector 740C, a valve 750C, and a reducing tee 760C. The bank manifold 700C comprises a conduit 710C and the coupling 730C, so that the gas mixture flows from the tanks 510 through the coupling 730C into the conduit 710C. The conduit 710C is configured to communicate the gas mixture from the tanks 510 to both the first fill panel 300 and the second fill panel 600. The conduit 710C may comprise a first end 770C. In some embodiments, the conduit 710C comprises a bifurcation (similar to T-terminal 720) at the first end 770C so as to divert the gas mixture flowing from the tanks 510 to both the first fill panel 300 and the second fill panel 600 as it passes through the first end 770C. In some embodiments, the conduit 710C has a second end 780C, wherein the first and second ends 770C, 780C are disposed at opposite ends of the conduit 71OC with the tanks 510 connected in series to the conduit 71OC therebetween. The first end 770C may be connected to the first fill panel 300, and the second end connected to the second fill panel 600, so that the gas mixture flowing from the tanks 510 into the conduit 71OC may flow towards both the first and second ends 770C, 780C to the fill panels 300 and 600.

[0048] In some embodiments, the storage tanks 510 decant the gas mixture simultaneously at similar pressures. The series arrangement of the storage tanks 510 may provide for the gas mixture to be simultaneously decanted across each of the tanks 510 and the decanting of the gas mixture may occur substantially evenly across the tanks 510. Accordingly, a failure of any one of the couplings 730 may not prevent the decanting of the gas mixture from the storage tanks 510. By comparison, a failure of or damage to a storage tank connection in a cascade filling system may mean that said storage tank is not available to contribute to thefill sequence. In situations where said storage tank in the cascade filling system contains the required pressure of the gas mixture, the cascade filling system may be unable to decant at the required pressure, or may have to decant gas mixture from other storage tanks at higher pressures than would be ideal for efficient filling. This deficiency is addressed in the system 100 by the aforementioned series arrangement of the storage tanks 510, which may reduce the filling time (time taken to fill each of the SCBA tanks) via outlets 310 and/or outlets 610 when compared to a cascade filling system.

[0049] Substantially simultaneously and/or substantially evenly decanting of the gas mixture from each of the storage tanks 510 may decrease the first pressure in each of the tanks 510 at a substantially similar rate. This may allow the filling time to be substantially consistent between operation of the system 100 when the tanks 510 are full (or near full) and operation of the system 100 when the tanks 510 are around half-full or are near empty. Furthermore, maintaining a substantially similar first pressure in each of the tanks 510 avoids the need to cycle through all the tanks 510 to find the tank 510 with the necessary pressure to fill the SCBA tank, as is necessary with some automated cascading systems. This may reduce the filling time associated with the system 100 compared to cascade filling systems configured to fill SCBA tanks to 450 bar. In some embodiments, the system 100 may have filling times up to 10 times faster than the aforementioned cascade filling systems. In some embodiments, the system 100 may be between to 6 times faster.

[0050] The system 100 of the described embodiments is capable of substantially filling a SCBA tank to capacity with substantially consistent fill times from when the tanks 510 are full (or near full), around half-full, or are near empty. In some embodiments, the maximum filling time is approximately 60 seconds. In some embodiments, the filling time is between approximately 40 seconds and approximately 50 seconds. This may be the filling time associated with filling an empty or near-empty 9 litre SCBA cylinder to be full or at least substantially full with the gas mixture decanted from the tanks 510 at the first pressure of 450 bar. In some embodiments, the system 100 is configured to maintain a consistent filling time for filling between approximately 80 SCBA tanks and approximately 100 SCBA tanks from 60 bar to 300 bar.

[0051] Table 1 shows measurements of filling times as recorded during testing for system 100 of the described embodiments. In some embodiments, the system 100 is configured to maintain a filling time between approximately 0.7 minutes (42 seconds) and approximately 0.86 minutes (52 seconds) for 100 fills of an SCBA tank. The recorded average filling time is approximately seconds per tank. The filling times recorded are for an SCBA tank with a water capacity of 9 litres, being filled from 60 bar to 300 bar. The 100fills may be performed individually or in batches of 5 SCBA tanks, with each batch filled simultaneously via fill panel 300 and/or 600. The SCBA tanks in batches 1-16 are filled to 300 bar. By batch 17, the bank pressure (pressure of the gas mixture in the storage tanks 510) will have reduced to 300 bar. After depletion to 300 bar, the regulator 410 will not restrict the pressure of the gas mixture flowing from the tanks 510 and will deliver the gas mixture at its original pressure. Subsequent fills of the SCBA tanks (such as in batches 17-20) will therefore result in the SCBA tanks being filled with gas mixture at a pressure below 300 bar. For example, the SCBA tanks filled in batch 18 will be filled to a pressure of 295 bar. In some embodiments, the first pressure may be between 280 bar and 300 bar to comply with mine site safety requirements. At pressures below 280 bar, the system 100 may be inspected for leaks and other faults.

[0052] Fig. 8 is a graph of Table1 showing indicative filling times and the bank pressure measured at the bank pressure gauge 372, as measured during testing, to fill each batch of SCBA tanks using the system 100. The bank pressure steadily declines with each fill of an SCBA tank, with the filling time remaining between approximately 0.7 minutes (42 seconds) and approximately 0.86 minutes (52 seconds). The filling time may be considered to be substantially independent of the bank pressure; for example, the filling time at 445 bar (Batch 1) is substantially unchanged when the bank pressure is 300 bar (Batch 17).

Table 1

Batches of 5 SCBA BANK 1 (Bar) TIME (min.) Batch 1 445 0.7 Batch 2 440 0.86 Batch 3 430 0.73 Batch 4 420 0.81 Batch 5 408 0.78 Batch 6 400 0.75 Batch 7 390 0.73 Batch 8 380 0.75 Batch 9 370 0.72 Batch 10 360 0.72 Batch 11 350 0.72 Batch 12 340 0.75 Batch 13 332 0.72 Batch 14 325 0.72 Batch 15 320 0.72 Batch 16 310 0.72 Batch 17 300 0.72 Batch 18 295 0.81 Batch 19 290 0.83 Batch 20 285 0.83

[0053] Fig. 9 is a flow diagram depicting a method 800 of using the system 100, according to some embodiments. A user opens the housing 390 of fill panel 300 (or 600) to provide access to the outlets 310, at 810. The user then connects their SCBA tank to one of the outlets 310 via coupling 312, at 820. At 830, the user sets the valve 376 to the "on" position to allow the gas mixture to flow from the tanks 510 to the outlets 310. At 840, the user monitors the gauges 372, 374 as well as the SCBA tank pressure gauge to determine when the SCBA tank is filled to the desired pressure. At 850, the user disconnects the SCBA tank from the outlet 310. This may be when the SCBA tank is filled to the desired pressure. At 860, the user returns the outlet 310 to its stowed position on the panel 300, and moves to safety at 870.

[0054] The gas mixture and the system 100 maybe completely overhauled periodically, for example, every 5 years. The frequency of overhaul may depend on the frequency ofuse, and/or the operating environment. Testing of the gas mixture may occur periodically, for example, every 6 months. Testing may be in accordance with relevant standards such as AS 1716.

[0055] The present disclosure may also relate to self-contained breathing apparatus designed for use underwater, also known as self-contained underwater breathing apparatus or "SCUBA". Herein, disclosures to "SCBA" should be taken to also relate to SCUBA systems, unless noted otherwise. Some embodiments of the system 100 could be used in other applications where quick filling of a large quantity of compressed gas containers is desired, such as in paintball, for example.

[0056] Any discussion of documents, acts, materials, devices, articles or the like which has been included in the present specification is not to be taken as an admission that any or all of these matters form part of the prior art base or were common general knowledge in the field relevant to the present disclosure as it existed before the priority date of each of the appended claims.

[0057] Throughout this specification the word "comprise", or variations such as "comprises" or "comprising", will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated element, integer or step, or group of elements, integers or steps, but not the exclusion of any other element, integer or step, or group of elements, integers or steps.

[0058] It will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that numerous variations and/or modifications may be made to the above-described embodiments, without departing from the broad general scope of the present disclosure. The present embodiments are, therefore, to be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. A fill system for self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) tanks, the system comprising: a cradle for accommodating at least one storage tank arranged to contain a fluid mixture at a first pressure; and a first fill panel configured to decant the fluid mixture to one or more SCBA tanks, the first fill panel comprising: a first plurality of outlets, each outlet configured to couple to a corresponding SCBA tank so as to be in fluid communication therewith; a conduit arranged to provide fluid communication between the first plurality of outlets and one or more of the storage tanks provided in the cradle; a pressure regulator configured to control a pressure differential between the first plurality of outlets and the one or more of the storage tanks; and a valve operable, in a first state, to directly decant the fluid mixture from the one or more of the storage tanks to the first plurality of outlets, to thereby provide the fluid mixture to the one or more SCBA tanks when in fluid communication with respective outlets of the first plurality of outlets.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the at least one storage tank comprises a plurality of storage tanks, and the cradle comprises a manifold configured to arrange the plurality of storage tanks with respect to one another such that the fluid mixture is substantially evenly decanted from each one of the plurality of storage tanks to the first plurality of outlets when the valve is in the first state.

3. The system of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the first pressure in each one or more of the storage tanks is substantially identical, and wherein the first pressure in each one or more of the storage tanks decreases at a substantially similar rate to decant the fluid mixture substantially evenly across each one or more of the storage tanks.

4. The system of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the regulator is configured to reduce the first pressure of the fluid mixture received from the one or more of the storage tanks to a second pressure before providing the fluid mixture at the second pressure to the one or more SCBA tanks, wherein the first pressure is approximately 450 bar, and the second pressure is approximately 300 bar.

5. The system of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the regulator is configured to control the pressure differential so that the filling time required to substantially fill each of the SCBA tanks is at least substantially independent of the pressure differential.

218 500 200 510 600

610 210

212 1/9

300 214 310

700

216

Fig.1

240 200 220 222 224 210 218 294 230 600 222 224 690 290 300 212 390 392

394 292 2/9

214

252 254 252 254 260 252 270 254 252 216 260 280 254 250 270 250 Fig.2

380

382

384 372 312A 370

374

376 310A 3/9

314A

310B

310C

310 310D 440

310E 430

420 Fig.3

374 376

400

402 4/9

314E 314B 314A 314D 314C 310E 450 310D 310C 310B 310A 372 378

440 460

470 410 420 430 To tanks 510 Refer Figs.5‐7 Fig.4

500A

730A 740A 750A 510 760A 5/9

710A

700A 770A

To first fill panel 300 or second fill panel 600 Refer Figs.3 and 4

Fig.5

500B 730B 740B 750B 510 760B

712

710B

770B

To first fill panel 300 or second fill 6/9

panel 600 Refer Figs.3 and 4 720

714

Fig.6

500C 740C 730C 750C 760C 780C 510

700C To second fill panel 600 Refer Figs.3 and 4

710C 7/9

770C

To first fill panel 300 Refer Figs.3 and 4

Fig.7