AU2021202554B1

AU2021202554B1 - Filling station for breathing apparatus

Info

Publication number: AU2021202554B1
Application number: AU2021202554A
Authority: AU
Inventors: Damian John EGGLESTON; Fady Raouf N. RIAD
Original assignee: Draeger Australia Pty Ltd
Current assignee: Draeger Australia Pty Ltd
Priority date: 2021-04-26
Filing date: 2021-04-26
Publication date: 2021-09-09
Anticipated expiration: 2041-04-26

Abstract

A filling station for filling one or more breathing apparatus is described. The filling station comprises two or more fill panels and a cascade bank, the cascade bank comprising a supply of compressed air, the cascade bank comprising two or more banks wherein each fill panel is connected to each bank and the connection to each bank comprises a respective sequence valve for controlling filling of one or more breathing apparatus with the compressed air stored in the cascade bank. Methods for filling one or more breathing apparatus using the filling station, of assembling a filling station, of fitting or retrofitting a second or further fill panel to a filling station are also described.

Description

P/00/011 Regulation 3.2

AUSTRALIA

Patents Act 1990

COMPLETE SPECIFICATION FOR A STANDARD PATENT ORIGINAL

Name of Applicant: DRAEGER AUSTRALIA PTY LTD

Actual Inventor(s): EGGLESTON, Damian John RIAD, Fady Raouf N.

Address for Service: Houlihan 2 , Level 1, 70 Doncaster Road, Balwyn North, Victoria 3104, Australia

Invention Title: FILLING STATION FOR BREATHING APPARATUS

The following statement is a full description of this invention, including the best method of performing it known to the Applicant:-

BREATHING APPARATUS FILLING STATION WITH TWO OR MORE FILL PANELS FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a breathing apparatus filling station with two or more fill panels. More particularly the invention relates to breathing apparatus filling station with two or more fill panels wherein each fill panel of the two or more fill panels is connected to each bank of a cascade bank.

BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION

[0002] Breathing apparatus (BA) are used routinely in environments where there is no breathable air and in emergency situations when the availability or quality of air is not guaranteed. For example, in underground mines in an emergency situation workers are required to put on a BA as part of the emergency protocol.

[0003] Filling stations are required to refll the BAs so that they are ready for use and in situations where the BA is in use and must be refilled. Filling stations ordinarily fill BAs with compressed air (CA); giving rise to the term CABA (Compressed Air Breathing Apparatus). Another term used for BA is self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA)

[0004] Australian Patent No. 2012201265 to DRAEGER AUSTRALIA is directed to a filling station which divides the storage tanks used as a supply source for filling into five or more banks.

[0005] Australian Innovation Patent No. 2019101454 describes a fill system in which fluid mixture is directly decanted from one or more storage tanks. The operation of this system requires comparatively high pressure.

[0006] Improved filling stations are desirable and required for increased safety.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0007] The present invention is broadly directed a breathing apparatus filling station comprising two or more fill panels. In a particular embodiment, the invention relates to a breathing apparatus filling station comprising two or more fill panels wherein each fill panel of the two or more fill panels is connected to each bank of a cascade bank.

[0008] Preferred advantages that the breathing apparatus filling station of the present invention may attain include that it can fill more breathing apparatus without recharging than comparable filling stations and may do so more quickly.

[0009] In a broad form, the invention relates to a breathing apparatus filling station with two or more fill panels wherein each fill panel of the two or more fill panels is connected to each bank of a cascade bank.

[0010] In one aspect, the present invention provides a filling station for filling one or more breathing apparatus, the filling station comprising:

two or more fill panels and a cascade bank, the cascade bank comprising a supply of compressed air, the cascade bank comprising two or more banks; each fill panel of the two or more fill panels connected to each bank of the two or more banks, the connection to each bank comprising a respective sequence valve for controlling filling of one or more breathing apparatus with the compressed air stored in the cascade bank.

[0011] In a second aspect the invention provides a method for filling one or more breathing apparatus using the filling station of the first aspect.

[0012] In a third aspect, the invention provides a method of filling one or more breathing apparatus, the method comprising:

connecting the one or more breathing apparatus to a respective fill panel of two or more fill panels comprised on the filling station, each respective fill panel connected to each bank of two or more banks comprised in a cascade bank, the connection to each bank comprising a respective sequence valve for controlling filling of the one or more breathing apparatus with compressed air stored in the cascade bank.

[0013] In one embodiment of the second aspect or the third aspect, the method further comprises using the respective sequence valves to control the sequence of filling from the cascade bank.

[0014] In another embodiment of the second or third aspect, one or more respective breathing apparatus is filled simultaneously on each respective fill panel. Two or more respective breathing apparatus may be filled simultaneously on each respective fill panel.

[0015] In a fourth aspect, the invention provides a breathing apparatus filled by the filling station of the first aspect, the method of the second aspect or the method of the third aspect.

[0016] In a fifth aspect, the invention provides a method of assembling a filling station, the method comprising:

constructing or otherwise providing two or more fill panels and a cascade bank, the cascade bank disposed to supply compressed air from two or more banks; and connecting each respective fillpanel of the two or more fill panels to each bank of the two or more banks with a respective sequence valve for controlling filling of one or more air breathing apparatus with compressed air stored in the cascade bank.

[0017] In a sixth aspect, the invention provides a method of fitting or retrofitting a second or further fill panel to a filling station, the method comprising:

connecting the second or further fill panel to each bank of two or more banks of a cascade bank, wherein each of the two or more banks are connected to at least one existing fill panel, the connection to both the second or further fill panel and the at least one existing fill panel being with a respective sequence valve for controlling filling of the one or more breathing apparatus with compressed air to be supplied from the cascade bank.

[0018] In a seventh aspect, the invention provides a filling station to which a second or further fill panel has been fitted or retrofitted according to the sixth aspect.

[0019] In an eighth aspect, the filling station and a recharging device may be combined to form a filling station assembly. The recharging device may comprise a compressor.

[0020] In a ninth aspect, the invention also provides a method for filling a filling station of claim 1 comprising the step of connecting a compressor to the filling station through a compressor connection comprised in the fill station. The method also includes operating the compressor so that a cylinder store comprised in the fill station is recharged or partially recharged.

[0021] According to a particular embodiment of any one of the above aspects, two fill panels are comprised. In another particular embodiment one fill panel is comprised on each of two opposing sides of the filling station.

[0022] According to another embodiment of any one of the above aspects, the cascade bank comprises a cylinder store comprising five or more banks. In a particular embodiment of any one of the above aspects, the cylinder store comprises five banks. Each bank may comprise one or more cylinder.

[0023] In a particular embodiment of any one of the above aspects, when the cylinder store comprises five banks, each fill panel comprises four respective sequence valves.

[0024] According to any one of the above embodiments, a first sequence valve on each fill panel may control filling from a second bank.

[0025] According to any one of the above embodiments, a second sequence valve on each fill panel may control filling from a third bank.

[0026] According to any one of the above embodiments, a third sequence valve on each fill panel may control filling from a fourth bank.

[0027] According to any one of the above embodiments, a fourth sequence valve on each fill panel may control filling from a fifth bank.

[0028] According to any one of the above embodiments, initial filling may occur from the first bank. The cascade bank may comprise switching or provision to switch in series from one bank to another. The switching may occur from a first bank to a last bank in the series. The switching may be automatic.

[0029] According to any one of the above embodiments, a first sequence valve on a first fill panel may control filling from a second bank and a first sequence valve on a second fill panel may comprise filling from the second bank. According to any one of the above embodiments, a second sequence valve on a first fill panel may control filling from a third bank and a second sequence valve on a second fill panel may comprise filling from the third bank. According to any one of the above embodiments, a third sequence valve on a first fill panel may control filling from a fourth bank and a third sequence valve on a second fill panel may comprise filling from the fourth bank. According to any one of the above embodiments, a fourth sequence valve on a first fill panel may control filling from a fifth bank and a fourth sequence valve on a second fill panel may comprise filling from the fifth bank.

[0030] According to any one of the above embodiments, a higher order (n) sequence valve on each respective fill panel may control filling from a higher order (n+1) bank. The higher order sequence valve may comprise one or more of: a fifth sequence valve controlling filling from a sixth bank; a sixth sequence valve controlling filling from a seventh bank; a seventh sequence valve controlling filling from an eighth bank; an eighth sequence valve controlling filling from a ninth bank; a ninth sequence valve controlling filling from a tenth bank; and a tenth sequence valve controlling filling from an eleventh bank.

[0031] According to any one of the above aspects, when filling of the one or more breathing apparatus is occurring from one bank, all other banks are isolated.

[0032] In one embodiment of any one of the above aspects, switching from filling from one bank to another bank occurs when the pressure in the bank being used for filling is lower than the demand required to fill the one or more breathing apparatus. The switching occurs by closing the previously open sequence valve and opening the next sequence valve in series.

[0033] In yet another embodiment of any one of the above aspects, one or more of the sequence valves may comprise a lock to secure the sequence valve.

[0034] In still another embodiment of any one of the above aspects, one or more of the sequence valves may comprise a locknut to secure the sequence valve.

[0035] According to any one of the above aspects, each of the respective sequence valves may comprise:

a casing comprising a pilot-side body and a valve-side body joined together in an air-tight connection; the pilot-side body defining a pilot flow path comprising a pilot flow path inlet and a pilot flow path outlet; the valve-side body defining a cascading flow path comprising a cascading flow path inlet and a cascading flow path outlet; a poppet comprised on a piston; a spring biasing the piston to hold the poppet in a blocking position to block the cascading flow path; and an internal adjustment mechanism for setting a pressure differential where the biasing is overcome and the piston is actuated to move the poppet to open the cascading flow path.

[0036] The adjustment mechanism may be positioned entirely within inside the casing. The adjustment mechanism may be tamper proof and/or vibration proof, or tamper resistant and/or vibration resistant. The adjustment mechanism may be preset to actuate the opening of the cascading flow path. The internal adjustment mechanism may comprise a screw. The screw may be turned to adjust the differential pressure at which switching occurs.

[0037] The pilot-side body and the valve-side body may be joined by a fastener. The fastener may comprise a thread. The pilot side body and valve side body may comprise complementary threads for fastening. Either body may comprise an internal thread and the other body may comprise a complementary external thread. In a particular embodiment, the pilot side body comprises a female fastener comprising an internal thread and the valve side body comprises a male fastener comprising an external thread. The fastener may comprise a seal. The seal may comprise a gasket. In a particular embodiment the seal comprises an O-ring.

[0038] In another embodiment of any one of the above aspects, when the cascading flow path is opened compressed air flows through the cascading flow path from the cascading flow path inlet to the cascading flow path outlet.

[0039] In yet another embodiment of any one of the above aspects, the transitional time, when switching from one bank to another, is less than one second. In a particular embodiment, the transitional time is of a millisecond time frame.

[0040] In still another embodiment of any one of the above aspects, the risk of air escaping from the sequence valve is reduced.

[0041] According to any one of the above aspects, the two or more fill panels and/or the cascade bank may be comprised on a cradle. The cradle may comprise one or more top hatch to access the bank cylinders and/or one or more top clamp. The one or more top clamp may secure bank cylinders to avoid or minimize movement and/or vibration. The cradle may comprise one or more side hatch to access a respective fill panel.

[0042] According to any one of the above aspects, each bank may comprise a unique volume or number of cylinders; two or more banks may comprise an equivalent volume or number of cylinders; three or more banks may comprise an equivalent volume or number of cylinders; four or more banks may comprise an equivalent volume or number of cylinders; five or more banks may comprise an equivalent volume or number of cylinders; or one or more subset of the banks may comprise an equivalent volume or number of cylinders compared to the other banks in the cascade bank.

[0043] In one embodiment of any one of the above aspects, the cascade bank comprises five; six; seven; eight; nine; ten; eleven; twelve; thirteen; fourteen; fifteen; sixteen; seventeen; eighteen; nineteen; twenty; twenty one; twenty two; twenty three; twenty four; twenty five; twenty six; twenty seven; twenty eight; twenty nine; thirty; thirty five; forty; forty five; fifty; or fifty or more cylinders. In a particular embodiment, the cascade bank comprises twenty five cylinders.

[0044] In a particular embodiment of the any one of the above aspects, the five or more banks may comprise a first bank comprising six cylinders, a second bank comprising five cylinders, a third bank comprising five cylinders, a fourth bank comprising four cylinders and a fifth bank comprising five cylinders.

[0045] In other embodiments of any one of the above aspects, the five banks comprise any configuration.

[0046] In another embodiment of any one of the above aspects, a station manifold is comprised to connect each bank to each respective fill panel.

[0047] According to one embodiment any one of the above aspects, each fill panel may comprise a fill panel manifold. Each fill panel manifold may comprise a recharging connection for connecting the filling station to a compressor or other recharging device to allow charging or recharging the of cylinder store. Each charging or recharging connection may be comprised on a respective compressor line. The compressor line may further comprise a ball valve for opening and closing.

[0048] According to any one of the above embodiments, each fill panel comprises one or more or a plurality offill attachments for connection and filling of a breathing apparatus. Each fill panel may comprise one; two; three; four; five; six; seven; eight; nine; ten; or ten or more fill attachments. In a particular embodiment, each fill panel comprises six fill attachments. Each of the one or more fill attachments may be connected to the outlet line. Each of the one or more fill attachments may comprise a beer tap valve. Each of the one or morefill attachments may comprise a quick release coupling. The quick release coupling may be connected or disconnected to a breathing apparatus under pressure.

[0049] According to any one of the above embodiments, each cylinder in a respective bank may comprise a cylinder connection. Each cylinder may further comprise an on/off valve.

[0050] In one embodiment of any one of the above aspects, each fill panel comprises cylinder bank inlets for connection to the cascade bank.

[0051] In one embodiment of any one of the above aspects, each cylinder may have a volume of 50 litres.

[0052] In another embodiment of any one of the above aspects, the filling station comprises a pneumatic line. In a particular embodiment of any one of the above aspects, each respective fill panel comprises a respective fill panel pneumatic line. The first fill panel may comprise a first fill panel pneumatic line and the second fill panel may comprise a second fill panel pneumatic line. The pneumatic line may comprise rigid pipe and/or flexible tubing. The pneumatic line may comprise one or more fill line and one or more pilot line. Each respective fill panel may comprise or be associated with a respective fill line and a respective pilot line. A first fill panel fill line; a first fill panel pilot line; a second fill panel fill line; and a second fill panel pilot line may be comprised. Each respective pilot line and fill line may connect at a fill line-pilot line connection. The pneumatic line may further comprise a compressor line for charging or recharging with a compressor. The pneumatic line may further comprise one or more outlet line for supply of compressed air to one or more breathing apparatus.

[0053] Each fill panel pneumatic line may comprise a plurality of bifurcations. The plurality of pneumatic line bifurcations may comprise a respective pneumatic line bifurcation for the second sequence valve and each higher order sequence valve. In an embodiment wherein each fill panel comprises four sequence valves, the plurality of fill panel pneumatic line bifurcations comprises a first pneumatic line bifurcation; a second pneumatic line bifurcation; and a third pneumatic line bifurcation.

[0054] According to any one of the above aspects, each respective fill panel may further comprise one or more bank pressure gauge. The one or more bank pressure gauge may comprise a respective pressure gauge for each bank. In an embodiment wherein the cascade bank comprises five banks, each respective fill panel comprises a first bank pressure gauge, a second bank pressure gauge; a third bank pressure gauge; a fourth bank pressure gauge; and afifth bank pressure gauge.

[0055] According to any one of the above aspects, a fill pressure gauge may be further comprised on each respective fill panel. The fill pressure gauge may be positioned proximal to one or more filling attachments.

[0056] Each bank pressure gauge and each fill pressure gauge may further comprise a display.

[0057] According to any one of the above aspects, each respective fill panel may further comprise one or more non-return valves. The one or more non-return valves may comprise on each respective fill panel a respective non-return valve for each sequence valve and/or each bank. One or more valve such as, a ball valve, may be closed to isolate a respective fill panel

[0058] According to any one of the above aspects, each respective fill panel may further comprise one or more other valve and/or one or more filter. The one or more other valve may comprise one or more ball valve; and/or one or more beer tap valve. The one or more filter may comprise a t-type filter.

[0059] In one embodiment of any one of the above aspects, each respective fill panel may further comprise a pressure regulator. The pressure regulator may be comprised in an outlet line. The pressure regulator may be used to adjust the filling pressure.

[0060] Advantageously, the pressure may be transferred from each bank to each respective fill panel equally. Each fill panel may function independently to fill the one or more breathing apparatus.

[0061] According to any one of the above aspects, each respective fill panel outlet line may comprise a ball valve; a filter; and a pressure regulator.

[0062] In a particular embodiment of any one of the above aspects, the pressure regulator may be positioned proximal to one or more filling attachments.

[0063] In one embodiment of any one of the above aspects, the filling station does not comprise any electronic component.

[0064] In one embodiment of any one of the above aspects, the filling is driven by the compressed air stored in the cascade bank.

[0065] In embodiments of any one of the above aspects, the air pressure in each bank is 345 to 450; or 345 to 350 bar. In a particular embodiment, the air pressure in each bank is 345 bar.

[0066] In another particular embodiment, the one or more breathing apparatus may be filled to 300 bar.

[0067] According to any one of the above aspects, the one or more breathing apparatus may comprise one or more compressed air breathing apparatus. In a particular embodiment, each of the one or more compressed air breathing apparatus may be a compressed air breathing apparatus.

[0068] The pneumatic line; station manifold; and fill panel manifold may be comprised of stainless steel.

[0069] According to any one of the above embodiments, the first fill panel is different to the second fill panel, that is the first fill panel is a different component to the component that is the second fill panel. Also, each of the first, second, third, fourth and fifth banks are different to each of the other banks.

[0070] Where the terms "comprise", comprises", "comprising", "include", "includes", "included" or "including" are used in this specification, they are to be interpreted as specifying the presence of the stated features, integers, steps or components referred to, but not to preclude the presence or addition of one or more other feature, integer, step, component or group thereof.

[0071] Further, any prior art reference or statement provided in the specification is not to be taken as an admission that such art constitutes, or is to be understood as constituting, part of the common general knowledge.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0072] In order that the present invention may be readily understood and put into practical effect, reference will now be made to the accompanying illustrations, wherein like reference numerals refer to like features and wherein:

Figure 1: is schematic diagram illustrating a filling station according to one embodiment of the invention. Figures 2A; 2B; 2C; and 2D: are line drawings showing various perspective views of a filling station according to one embodiment of the invention. Figure 2E: is a line drawing illustrating one embodiment of a top clamp according to the invention. Figures 3A and3B: are photos illustrating an external view of a fill panel and a close up of two fill attachments according to one embodiment of the invention. Figure 4: is a line drawing illustrating a top view of one embodiment of a fill panel according to the invention. Figure 5: is a circuit diagram illustrating a plan view of a filling station according to one embodiment of the invention.

Figure 6: is a line graph illustrating the improved results of afilling station according to the invention compared to other Draeger devices. Figure 7: is a flowchart showing one embodiment of a method according to the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0073] The present invention is broadly directed a breathing apparatus filling station comprising two or more fill panels. In a particular embodiment, the filling station comprises two or more fill panels with each fill panel connected to each bank of a cascade bank.

[0074] The following description refers to specific embodiments of the present invention and is in no way intended to limit the scope of the present invention to those specific embodiments.

[0075] For purposes of description herein, relative terms such as, "upper", "lower", "right", "left", "rear", "front", "vertical", "horizontal", "interior", "exterior," and derivatives thereof, shall relate to the invention as oriented in Figure 2A. However, it is to be understood that the invention may assume various alternative orientations, except where expressly specified to the contrary.

[0076] The skilled person will understand that "filling", "refilling" and "charging" and "recharging" mean filling or re-filling of an air storage. This air storage may be air stored in a breathing apparatus or a filling station. This air storage may be in one or more cylinder of any size. Although these four terms may be used interchangeably, for ease of reference, "filling" and "refilling" will be used with reference to filling a breathing apparatus with a filling station and "charging" and "recharging" will be used with reference to filling a filling station from a compressor.

[0077] Although the invention will be described with reference to a filling station comprising two fill panels, the invention is not so limited. Other numbers offill panels may be present. The components of the first fill panel will be labelled with conventional reference numbers, while the corresponding components on the second fill panel will be labelled with the same reference number with the addition of the prime symbol (').

[0078] Figure 1 presents a schematic diagram showing one embodiment of a filling station 100 of the invention comprising two fill panels 130, 130' and a cascade bank 170. The cascade bank

170 houses a supply of compressed air which the filling station 100 uses to fill one or more breathing apparatus 200. In the embodiment shown, cascade bank 170 comprises five banks of cylinders. As described below, each bank may comprise one or more cylinder.

[0079] While cascade bank 170 is shown to comprise cascade bank 170 in the form of a cylinder store comprising five banks, first bank 171; second bank 172; third bank 173; fourth bank 174; and fifth bank 175, in other embodiments, other numbers of banks are present. For example, two; three; four; six; seven; eight; nine; ten; or ten or more banks may be comprised.

[0080] As show in the Figures, when cascade bank 170 comprises five banks, each fill panel 130, 130' comprises four respective sequence valves. That is, each of the first fill panel 130 and second fill panel 130' are connected to each bank 171, 172, 173, 174, 175 by a respective sequence valve 141, 142, 143, 144, 141', 142', 143', 144' for controlling filling of one or more breathing apparatus 200.

[0081] The first sequence valve 141, 141' on each fill panel 130, 130' controls filling from a second bank 172. The second sequence valve on each fill panel may control filling from a third bank 173. The third sequence valve 143, 143'on each fill panel 130, 130'controls filling from the fourth bank 174. The fourth sequence valve 144, 144' on each fill panel 130, 130' controls filling from the fifth bank 175.

[0082] That, is initial filling occurs from the first bank 171, before sequence valve 141, 141' initiates filling from the second bank 172, 172'. The person of skill in the art readily understands this to be a cascade, that is switching in series from one bank to another. This switching may occur sequentially, from a first bank in the series, in this case first bank 171, to a last bank in the series, in this case fifth bank 175.

[0083] Higher order (n) sequence valve on each respective fill panel 130, 130' may control filling from a higher order (n+1) bank. The higher order sequence valve may comprise one or more of: a fifth sequence valve controlling filling from a sixth bank; a sixth sequence valve controlling filling from a seventh bank; a seventh sequence valve controlling filling from an eighth bank; an eighth sequence valve controlling filling from a ninth bank; a ninth sequence valve controlling filling from a tenth bank; and a tenth sequence valve controlling filling from an eleventh bank.

[0084] As will be readily understood by the skilled person, when filling of the one or more breathing apparatus 200 is occurring from one bank (171, 172, 173, 174, 175), all other banks (171, 172, 173, 174, 175) are isolated.

[0085] The switching from filling from one bank 171, 172, 173, 174, 175 to another bank 171, 172, 173, 174, 175 occurs when the pressure in the bank being used for filling is lower than the demand required to fill the one or more breathing apparatus 200. The switching occurs by closing the previously open sequence valve 141, 142, 143, 144, 141', 142', 143', 144' and opening the next sequence valve (141, 142, 143, 144, 141', 142', 143', 144') in series.

[0086] The sequence valves 141, 142, 143, 144, 141', 142', 143', 144' control switching between banks 1 to 5, 171, 172, 173, 174, 175, i.e. the first sequence valve 141, 141' controls switching between first bank 171 and second bank 172; the second sequence valve 142, 142' controls switching between second bank 172 and third bank 173; the third sequence valve 143, 143' controls switching between third bank 173 and fourth bank 174; and the fourth sequence valve 144, 144' controls switching between fourth bank 174 and fifth bank 175.

[0087] Further detail on the switching process is that sequence valves 141, 142, 143, 144, 141', 142', 143', 144' are connected to manifold 102 from which the discharge pressure of the regulator 108 (which is similar to breathing apparatus 200 pressure), as limited by regulator 108, is detected and which should be the nominal fill pressure desired for filling a breathing apparatus 200 and the supply pressure of the applicable bank 171, 172, 173, 174 (i.e. as described above first sequence valve 141, 141' controls switching between first bank 171 and second bank 172).

[0088] In the embodiment shown, pressure is detected on one side of a chamber divided by a piston type arrangement in sequence valve 141, 142, 143, 144, 141', 142', 143', 144'. The magnitude of the manifold pressure is enhanced by a spring so the pressures equalise for example, at 250 bar pilot pressure and 280 bar supply pressure. When this point is exceeded the relevant sequence valve 141, 142, 143, 144, 141', 142', 143', 144' opens to use the next bank 171, 172, 173, 174, 175. The sequencing controls by sequence valves 141, 142, 143, 144, 141', 142', 143', 144' controls the switching in cascade bank 170 to allow more air to flow from the previous bank (e.g. bank 1, 171, when switching is controlled by first sequence valve 141, 141' from first bank 171 to second bank 172) because the pressure is lower.

[0089] When the pressure in the starting bank (when cascade bank 170 is full or substantially full, this will be first bank 171) is not sufficient, filling station 100 automatically switches to the bank 172, 173, 174, 175 with the next highest pressure until 300 bar is shown on fill pressure gauge 106.

[0090] Once a breathing apparatus 200 is connected to the fill attachment 135, fill valves can be opened and the fill process monitored on the pressure gauge(s) on the breathing apparatus 200. When 300 bar or the desired pressure is reached the self-venting or fill valve(s) can be closed by a operating lever.

[0091] Each of one or more of the sequence valve 141, 142, 143, 144, 141', 142', 143', 144' may comprise a lock to secure from unauthorised operation and/or a locknut to secure it.

[0092] Each sequence valve 141, 142, 143, 144, 141', 142', 143', 144'may comprise a sequence valve as described in Australian Patent Application No: 2016277732 to DRAEGER AUSTRALIA PTY LTD. The is the sequence valve 141, 142, 143, 144, 141', 142', 143', 144' may comprise a casing comprising a pilot-side body and a valve-side body joined together in an air-tight connection; in which the pilot-side body defines a pilot flow path comprising a pilot flow path inlet and a pilot flow path outlet; the valve-side body defining a cascading flow path comprising a cascading flow path inlet and a cascading flow path outlet; a poppet comprised on a piston; a spring biasing the piston to hold the poppet in a blocking position to block the cascading flow path; and an internal adjustment mechanism for setting a pressure differential where the biasing is overcome and the piston is actuated to move the poppet to open the cascading flow path.

[0093] The adjustment mechanism may be positioned entirely within inside the casing. The adjustment mechanism may be tamper proof and/or vibration proof, or tamper resistant and/or vibration resistant. The adjustment mechanism may be preset to actuate the opening of the cascading flow path. The internal adjustment mechanism may comprise a screw. The screw may be turned to adjust the differential pressure at which switching occurs.

[0094] The pilot-side body and the valve-side body may be joined by a fastener. The fastener may comprise a thread. The pilot side body and valve side body may comprise complementary threads for fastening. Either body may comprise an internal thread and the other body may comprise a complementary external thread. In a particular embodiment, the pilot side body comprises a female fastener comprising an internal thread and the valve side body comprises a male fastener comprising an external thread. The fastener may comprise a seal. The seal may comprise a gasket. In a particular embodiment the seal comprises an O-ring.

[0095] When the cascading flow path is opened, compressed air flows through the cascading flow path from the cascading flow path inlet to the cascading flow path outlet.

[0096] Advantageously, the transitional time, when switching from one bank to another, is less than one second. In a particular embodiment, the transitional time is of a millisecond time frame.

[0097] As described in Patent Application No: 2016277732 the risk of air escaping from this type of sequence valve is reduced.

[0098] Figures 2A; 2B; 2C and 2D along with the photos of Figures 3A and 3B show, in line drawings and photographs, respectively, one embodiment of a form factor of filling station 100 according to the invention. The cradle 120 of the filling station 100 comprises a top hatch 122, one or more top clamp 124, bottom hatch 126 (not shown) and side doors 128, which open by swinging on hinges 129. Figure 3 shows on embodiment of a top clamp 124 which can be used on cradle 120 to secure bank cylinders to avoid or minimize movement and/or vibration. The top hatch 122 allows access to the cylinders comprising each bank 171, 172, 173, 174, 175. The side doors 127 allow access to a respective fill panel 130, 130', while support struts 128 hold side 127 doors up.

[0099] Cradle 120 fully encloses filling station 100 and is in the form of a cradle that has retaining brackets which enable forklift access from three or four sides. High visibility indicators may be comprised on cradle 120 such as, bright paint and/or reflective decals. Cradle 120 may comprise a quick detachment system (QDS). The QDS may comprise a weight of 790 kg.

[0100] Suitably, cradle 120 is comprised of mild steel. However, other strong metals or other strong materials may be suitable. Based on the teachings herein a skilled person is readily able to select suitable materials for cradle 120.

[0101] Cradle 120 may comprise a frame. The frame may have a weight of 1166 kg. In the embodiment shown, cradle 120 has dimensions of 2,210 mm long X 1,770 mm wide X 1,400 mm high. The dimensions may be varied to house the various components of filling station 100.

[0102] Each fill panel 130, 130' may comprise a weight of 100kg. When carrying a full component of twenty-five cylinders, the cylinders may add 2,500 kg in weight. The total weight, when fully loaded of filling station 100 may be approximately 4,781 kg, with a weight excluding cylinders of approximately 2,281 kg.

[0103] With the side doors 127 open, as shown in Figures 3A and 3B, one of the fill panels 130, 130' is visible. The fill panels 130, 130' control the air flow to ensure safe and quick recharging of one or more breathing apparatus 200. As will be described below, the logic offill panels 130, 130' makes possible the most effective use of the stored air pressure to maximise the number of breathing apparatus fills.

[0104] Each bank 171, 172, 173, 174, 175 may comprise a unique volume or number of cylinders; two or more banks 171, 172, 173, 174, 175 may comprise an equivalent volume or number of cylinders; three or more banks 171, 172, 173, 174, 175 may comprise an equivalent volume or number of cylinders; four or more banks 171, 172, 173, 174, 175 may comprise an equivalent volume or number of cylinders; five or more banks 171, 172, 173, 174, 175 may comprise an equivalent volume or number of cylinders; or one or more subset of the banks 171, 172, 173, 174, 175 may comprise an equivalent volume or number of cylinders compared to the other banks in the cascade bank 170.

[0105] As noted above, cascade band 170 comprises twenty-five cylinders. In other embodiments, cascade bank 170 comprises five; six; seven; eight; nine; ten; eleven; twelve; thirteen; fourteen; fifteen; sixteen; seventeen; eighteen; nineteen; twenty; twenty one; twenty two; twenty three; twenty four; twenty five; twenty six; twenty seven; twenty eight; twenty nine; thirty; thirty five; forty; forty five; fifty; or fifty or more cylinders.

[0106] In a particular embodiment, the five or more banks 171, 172, 173, 174, 175 comprise a first bank 171 comprising six cylinders, a second bank 172 comprising five cylinders, a third 173 bank comprising five cylinders, a fourth 174 bank comprising four cylinders and a fifth bank 175 comprising five cylinders.

[0107] In other embodiments cascade bank 170 comprises a configuration selected from that shown in Table 1.

[0108] Although not shown, each fill panel 130, 130' comprises cylinder bank inlets for connection to the cascade bank 170. Each cylinder in a respective bank 171, 172, 173, 174, 175 also comprises a cylinder connection and each cylinder may further comprise an on/off valve. In the embodiment shown, each cylinder has a volume of 50 litres. From the teaching herein a skilled person readily understands that any suitable cylinder size may be selected.

[0109] The schematic diagram of Figure 1 includes a label for station manifold 102 which connects each bank 171, 172, 173, 174, 175 to the fill panels 130, 130'.

[0110] Manifold 102 comprises a network pneumatic line 110 and connectors. In the embodiment shown manifold 102 is comprised of stainless steel 3/8" and1/4" tubes and connectors are used. In another embodiment manifold 102 may comprise coated mild steel and or flexible hose. The flexible hose may be used at the outlet of fill panel 130, 130'to connect to the breathing apparatus 200.

[0111] Each fill panel 130, 130'comprises a fill panel manifold 132, 132', one embodiment of which is shown in Figure 4. Advantageously, each fill panel manifold 132, 132' comprises a recharging connection 134, 134' for connecting the filling station 100 to a compressor or other recharging device to allow recharging of the cascade bank 170. As shown in the circuit diagram of Figure 5, each recharging connection 134, 134' is comprised on the respective compressor line 118, 118'. A compressor valve 119 such as, a ball valve, may be used to open and close compressor line 118, 118'.

[0112] Each fill panel 130, 130' is shown to comprises a plurality of fill attachments 135 for connection and filling of a breathing apparatus 200. While, each fill panel 130, 130' is shown to comprise six fill attachments 135, in other embodiments one; two; three; four; five; seven; eight; nine; ten; or ten or more fill attachments may be comprised. Each fill attachment 135 comprises a quick release coupling for connecting to a breathing apparatus 200. Advantageously, the quick release coupling allows connection and disconnection to a breathing apparatus 200 whether under pressure or not. In one embodiment the quick release coupling is a Normally Closed (NC) FD17 quick release fill adapter.

[0113] Each of the one or more fill attachments 135 is shown connected to the outlet line 115, 115'. Figure 3B shows each fill attachment 135 to comprise a beer tap valve. Advantageously, each fill attachment 135 comprises a quick release coupling which may be connected or disconnected to a breathing apparatus 200 under pressure.

[0114] Beer tap valves are self vented so when a user closes them, the air in the hose will be released automatically. When beer tap valves are combined with the quick release coupling, this combination allows a user to connect and disconnect under pressure. The venting provided by the beer tap valves makes the disconnecting easier and makes servicing easier and safer.

[0115] Filling station 100 comprises a pneumatic line 110 which comprises respective fill panel pneumatic lines 111, 111'. The pneumatic line 110 may be comprised of rigid pipe and/or flexible tubing. Each respective fill panel 130, 130'is shown to comprise or be associated with a respective fill line 112, 112' and a respective pilot line 114, 114'. That is first fill panel fill line 112; a first fill panel pilot line 114; a second fill panel file line112'; and a second fill panel pilot line 114' are shown on filling station 100. Each respective pilot line 114, 114' and fill line 112, 112' connect at a fill line-pilot line connection 116, 116'. As mentioned above, pneumatic line 110 further comprises compressor line 118, 118' for charging or recharging with a compressor or other mechanism. The pneumatic line 110 further comprises one or more outlet line 115, 115' for supply of compressed air to the one or more breathing apparatus 200.

[0116] Each fill panel pneumatic line 111, 111' comprises a plurality of bifurcations 117, 117'. There may be a respective pneumatic line bifurcation 117, 117' for the second sequence valve 142, 142' and each higher order sequence valve 143, 144, 143', 144'. In fill station 100, in which each fill panel 130, 130'comprises four sequence valves 142, 142',143, 144, 143', 144, the plurality of fill panel pneumatic line bifurcations 117, 117' comprises a first pneumatic line bifurcation 117, 117'; a second pneumatic line bifurcation 117, 117'; and a third pneumatic line bifurcation 117, 117'.

[0117] Each respective fill panel 130, 130' is shown to comprise one or more bank pressure gauge 104. A respective bank pressure gauge 104 is shown for each bank 171, 172, 173, 174, 175. In the embodiment shown pressure gauges 104 are Wika 63mm diameter, S/S case, 0-400 bar, liquid filled gauges.

[0118] Fill pressure gauges 106 are also shown on each respective fill panel 130, 130'. As shown, these fill pressure gauges 106 are positioned proximal to filling attachments 135.

[0119] The circuit diagram of Figure 5 shows each respective fill panel 130, 130'to comprise one or more non-return valve 136. Each respective fill panel a respective non-return valve for each sequence valve 141, 142, 143, 144, 141', 142', 143', 144'and/or each bank. One or more ball valve 136 may be closed to isolate a respective fill panel 130, 130'.

[0120] Each respective fill panel 130, 130'may further comprise one or more other valve and/or one or more filter. The one or more other valve may comprise one or more ball valve; and/or one or more beer tap valve. The one or more filter may comprise a t-type filter. As show in Figure 5, a ball valve; a filter; and a pressure regulator may be comprised in each respective outlet line 115, 115'.

[0121] Each respective fill panel 130, 130'is shown to comprise a pressure regulator 108, which is shown disposed in an outlet line 115, 115', proximal to thefilling attachments 135. The pressure regulators 106 may be used to adjust the filling pressure. In one embodiment the pressure regulator 108 is set to 300 bar, or above 300 bar such as 305 bar, and ensures that the breathing apparatus 200 are not overfilled. In the embodiment shown the regulator is a single stage self venting brass standard flow pressure regulator made by Aquatech California USA.

[0122] Advantageously, the pressure may be transferred from each bank 171, 172, 173, 174, 175 to each respective fill panel 130, 130' equally. That is, each fill panel 130, 130' may function independently to fill the one or more breathing apparatus 200.

[0123] The one or more breathing apparatus may be filled to a pressure of 300 bar.

[0124] The pneumatic line 110; station manifold 102; and fill panel manifold 132, 132' are comprised of stainless steel. From the teaching herein, a skilled person can readily select other suitable materials.

[0125] The invention also provides a method for filling one or more breathing apparatus using filling station 100.

[0126] As shown in Figure 7, a method 300 offilling one or more breathing apparatus 200 is further provided. Method 300 comprises connecting 302 the one or more breathing apparatus 200 to a respective fill panel 130, 130'. Figure 7, also shows method 300 to comprise the optional step of using 302 the respective sequence valves 141, 142, 143, 144, 141', 142', 143', 144' to control the sequence of filling from the cascade bank 170.

[0127] From the above description, the skilled person readily understands that the invention also provides a method of assembling filling station 100 and a method of fitting or retrofitting a second or further fill panel 130'to a filling station comprising a first fill panel 130.

[0128] The following non-limiting examples illustrate the filling station 100 and methods of the invention. These examples should not be construed as limiting: the examples are included for the purposes of illustration only. The filling station 100 discussed in the Examples will be understood to represent an exemplification of the invention.

Examples

Test Results: Comparefill times with otherfillingstations:

[0129] Figure 6 shows the improved filling time for filling station 100 over the comparable devices. The data is also shown in Table 1. The fill time is recorded for 10 x 9L breathing apparatus cylinders at 300 bar, with a starting pressure of 60 bar. These figures are from practical testing using a test routine based on filling ten cylinders at a time. However the device and method of the invention, is capable of filling up to twelve breathing apparatus sets and/or cylinders at a time but in this case two ports were used to monitor the filling pressure using an external master gauge.

[0130] 9L is capacity of each cylinder used in testing and commonly used in Coal Mines.

[0131] The advantages of the invention include that it allows, for example, up to twelve breathing apparatus 200 to be charged at the same time, which prevents, or at least reduces, the bottle necks in emergency situations such as, in underground mines during an escape process.

[0132] Additionally, the present invention safely improved filling speed. The filling station 100, and methods of the invention ensure, maximise or improves the utilisation of the air inside each bank.

[0133] Further, by operating at 345 bar bank pressure with a compressor inlet port, there is no need for pumps or ultrahigh pressure compressors. Instead, filling is driven by the compressed air stored in the cascade bank 170. By operating at an air pressure in each bank 171, 172, 173, 174, 175 of 320 to 370; 330 to 360; or 345 to 350 bar, high pressures, and the consequence danger, are avoided.

[0134] Of further advantage, filling station 100 does not comprise any electronic component.

[0135] Advantageously, each respective fill panel 130, 130' works fully independently of the others, which means each can be used without additional monitoring.

[0136] These advantages are achieved while also providing a compact design suitable for underground mines.

[0137] A preferred advantage of the filling station 100 is that it can fill more breathing apparatus 200 without recharging than comparable filling stations. Another preferred advantage is that filling of breathing apparatus 200 by the invention is quicker than comparable filling stations. Moreover, a more balanced filling time is achieved for a large number of fills such as 0 to 60; 0 to ; or 0 to 100 fills.

[0138] While this invention has been described in connection with specific embodiments thereof, it will be understood that it is capable of further modification(s). This application is intended to cover any variations uses or adaptations of the invention following in general, the principles of the invention and including such departures from the present disclosure as come within known or customary practice within the art to which the invention pertains and as may be applied to the essential features hereinbefore set forth.

[0139] As the present invention may be embodied in several forms without departing from the spirit of the essential characteristics of the invention, it should be understood that the above described embodiments are not to limit the present invention unless otherwise specified, but rather should be construed broadly within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims. The described embodiments are to be considered in all respects as illustrative only and not restrictive.

[0140] Various modifications and equivalent arrangements are intended to be included within the spirit and scope of the invention and appended claims. Therefore, the specific embodiments are to be understood to be illustrative of the many ways in which the principles of the present invention may be practiced. In the following claims, means-plus-function clauses are intended to cover structures as performing the defined function and not only structural equivalents, but also equivalent structures.

[0141] Whenever a range is given in the specification, for example, a temperature range, a time range, or a composition or concentration range, all intermediate ranges and subranges, as well as all individual values included in the ranges given are intended to be included in the disclosure. It will be understood that any subranges or individual values in a range or subrange that are included in the description herein can be excluded from the claims herein.

[0142] As used herein, "comprising" is synonymous with "including", "containing" or "characterized by" and is inclusive or open-ended and does not exclude additional, unrecited elements or method steps. As used herein, "consisting of' excludes any element, step, or ingredient not specified in the claim element. As used herein, "consisting essentially of' does not exclude materials or steps that do not materially affect the basic and novel characteristics of the claim. The broad term "comprising" is intended to encompass the narrower "consisting essentially of' and the even narrower "consisting of' Thus, in any recitation herein of a phrase "comprising one or more claim element" (e.g., "comprising A"), the phrase is intended to encompass the narrower, for example, "consisting essentially of A" and "consisting of A" Thus, the broader word "comprising" is intended to provide specific support in each use herein for either "consisting essentially of' or "consisting of'. The invention illustratively described herein suitably may be practiced in the absence of any element or elements, limitation or limitations which is not specifically disclosed herein.

[0143] One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that materials and methods, other than those specifically exemplified can be employed in the practice of the invention without resort to undue experimentation. All art-known functional equivalents, of any such materials and methods are intended to be included in this invention. The terms and expressions which have been employed are used as terms of description and not of limitation, and there is no intention that in the use of such terms and expressions of excluding any equivalents of the features shown and described or portions thereof, but it is recognized that various modifications are possible within the scope of the invention claimed. Thus, it should be understood that although the present invention has been specifically disclosed by examples, preferred embodiments and optional features, modification and variation of the concepts herein disclosed may be resorted to by those skilled in the art, and that such modifications and variations are considered to be within the scope of this invention as defined by the appended claims.

[0144] Each reference cited herein is incorporated in its entirety. Such references may provide sources of materials; alternative materials, details of methods, as well as additional uses of the invention.

TABLE 1: Test Results

Fill time for 10 BAs (Sec)

Comparable Comparable Comparable FillingStation100 BA No.FilnStto10 Device 1 Device 2 Device 3 10 595 272.4 232.0 154.0 20 830 384.8 299.0 201.0 30 1055 508.0 340.0 241.0 40 1440 591.3 392.0 253.0 50 - 688.0 436.0 280.0 60 - 841.3 456.0 280.0 70 - - 491.0 310.0 80 - 535.0 310.0

Test regime: - Filling 10 Breathing Apparatus at a time. - BA primary pressure: 60 bar - BA final pressure: 300 bar - Bank pressures: 345 bar

TABLE OF PARTS

100 Filling station 200 breathing apparatus 102 Station manifold 104 bank pressure gauge 300 method 106 fill pressure gauge 302 connect 108 regulator 304 using

110 pneumatic line 111 fill panel pneumatic line 111' Second fill panel pneumatic line 112 fill line 112' Second fill panel fill line 114 pilot line 114' Second fill panel pilot line Second fill panel fill line-pilot line 116 fill line-pilot line connection 116' connection 118 compressor line 118' Second fill panel compressor line 115 outlet line 115' Second fill panel outlet line 117 bifurcations 117' Second fill panel bifurcations 119 compressor valve

120 Cradle 122 top hatch 124 clamps 126 bottom hatch 127 side doors 128 support struts 129 hinges

130 Fill panel 130' Second Fill panel 132 fill panel manifold 132' Second fill panel manifold 134 recharging connection 134' Second recharging connection 135 fill attachment Second fill panel fill attachment 136 non return valve Second fill panel non return valve

141 sequence valve 141' Second fill panel sequence valve 142 sequence valve 142' Second fill panel sequence valve 143 sequence valve 143' Second fill panel sequence valve 144 sequence valve 144' Second fill panel sequence valve

170 Cascade Bank 171 first bank 172 second bank 173 third bank 174 fourth bank 175 fifth bank

Claims

THE CLAIMS DEFINING THE INVENTION ARE AS FOLLOWS:

1. A filling station for filling one or more breathing apparatus, thefilling station comprising:

two or more fill panels and a cascade bank, the cascade bank comprising a supply of compressed air, the cascade bank comprising two or more banks; each fill panel of the two or more fill panels connected to each bank of the two or more banks, the connection to each bank comprising a respective sequence valve on each fill panel of the two or more fill panels for controlling filling of one or more breathing apparatus with the compressed air stored in the cascade bank.

2. A method for filling one or more breathing apparatus using the filling station of claim 1.

3. A method of filling one or more breathing apparatus, the method comprising:

connecting the one or more breathing apparatus to a respective fill panel of two or more fill panels comprised on the filling station, each respective fill panel connected to each bank of two or more banks comprised in a cascade bank, the connection to each bank comprising a respective sequence valve on each fill panel of the two or more fill panels for controlling filling of the one or more breathing apparatus with compressed air stored in the cascade bank.

4. The method of claim 2 or claim 3 further comprising using the respective sequence valves to control the sequence of filling from the cascade bank.

5. The method of any one of claims 2 to 4 wherein one or more respective breathing apparatus is filled simultaneously on each respective fill panel.

6. A method of assembling a filling station, the method comprising:

constructing or otherwise providing two or more fill panels and a cascade bank, the cascade bank disposed to supply compressed air from two or more banks; and connecting each respective fill panel of the two or more fill panels to each bank of the two or more banks with a respective sequence valve on each fill panel of the two or more fill panels for controlling filling of one or more air breathing apparatus with compressed air stored in the cascade bank.

7. A method of fitting or retrofitting a second or further fill panel to a filling station, the method comprising:

connecting the second or further fill panel to each bank of two or more banks of a cascade bank, wherein each of the two or more banks are connected to at least one existing fill panel, the connection to both the second or further fill panel and the at least one existing fill panel being with a respective sequence valve on each fill panel of the two or more fill panels for controlling filling of the one or more breathing apparatus with compressed air to be supplied from the cascade bank.

8. A filling station assembly comprising the filling station of claim 1 and a recharging device

9. A method for filling the filling station of claim 1 comprising the step of connecting a compressor to the filling station through a compressor connection comprised in thefill station.

10. The filling station of claim 1 or the method of any one of claims 2 to 7 wherein two fill panels are comprised.

11. The filling station of claim or 1 or claim 10 or the method of any one of the claims 2 to 7 or claim 10 wherein the cascade bank comprises a cylinder store comprising five or more banks.

12. The filling station of claim 11 or the method of claim 11 wherein each fill panel comprises four respective sequence valves.

13. The filling station of claim 1 or any one of claims 10 to 12 or the method of any one of claims 2 to 7 or 10 to 12 wherein eachfill panel comprises a fill panel manifold.

14. The filling station of claim 1 or any one of the claims 10 to 13 or the method of any one of claims 2 to 7 or 10 to 13 wherein each fill panel comprises one or more or a plurality of fill attachments for connection and filling of a breathing apparatus.

15. The filling station of claim 1 or any one of the claims 10 to 14 or the method of any one of claims 2 to 7 or 10 to 14 wherein each respective fill panel further comprises one or more bank pressure gauge.

16. The filling station of claim 1 or any one of the claims 10 to 15 or the method of any one of claims 2 to 7 or 10 to 15 wherein afill pressure gauge is further comprised on each respective fill panel.

17. The filling station of claim 1 or any one of the claims 10 to 16 or the method of any one of claims 2 to 7 or 10 to 16 wherein each respective fill panel further comprises a pressure regulator.

18. The filling station of claim 1 or any one of the claims 10 to 17 or the method of any one of claims 2 to 7 or 10 to 17 wherein pressure is transferred from each bank to each respective fill panel equally.

19. The filling station of claim 1 or any one of the claims 10 to 18 or the method of any one of claims 2 to 7 or 10 to 18 wherein air pressure in each bank is 345 to 450; or 345 to 350 bar.

20. A breathing apparatus filled by the filling station of claim 1, the method of the claim 2 or the method of claim 3.