EP0288391B1 - Harness for a breathing mask and mask for use with such a harness - Google Patents

Harness for a breathing mask and mask for use with such a harness Download PDF

Info

Publication number
EP0288391B1
EP0288391B1 EP88400981A EP88400981A EP0288391B1 EP 0288391 B1 EP0288391 B1 EP 0288391B1 EP 88400981 A EP88400981 A EP 88400981A EP 88400981 A EP88400981 A EP 88400981A EP 0288391 B1 EP0288391 B1 EP 0288391B1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
valve
mask
harness
rod
harness according
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Expired - Lifetime
Application number
EP88400981A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP0288391A1 (en
Inventor
Fernand Bertheau
Patrick Maire
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Safran Aerosystems SAS
Original Assignee
Intertechnique SA
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Intertechnique SA filed Critical Intertechnique SA
Publication of EP0288391A1 publication Critical patent/EP0288391A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP0288391B1 publication Critical patent/EP0288391B1/en
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Expired - Lifetime legal-status Critical Current

Links

Images

Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A62—LIFE-SAVING; FIRE-FIGHTING
    • A62B—DEVICES, APPARATUS OR METHODS FOR LIFE-SAVING
    • A62B18/00—Breathing masks or helmets, e.g. affording protection against chemical agents or for use at high altitudes or incorporating a pump or compressor for reducing the inhalation effort
    • A62B18/08—Component parts for gas-masks or gas-helmets, e.g. windows, straps, speech transmitters, signal-devices
    • A62B18/084—Means for fastening gas-masks to heads or helmets

Definitions

  • the invention relates to harnesses for quick-fitting respiratory masks and it finds a particularly important application on airplanes with pressurized cabin intended to fly at high altitude.
  • the inflation gas is constituted by the respiratory gas which supplies the respiratory regulator on demand carried by the mask.
  • Such a harness allows the user to grasp the mask in a box placed near his seat and put it in place in a few seconds. But in the event of very brutal depressurization at high altitude, the oxygen deficit created by exposure to the rarefied atmosphere during these few seconds may be enough to cause a delayed loss of consciousness, at the end of which it will be too late for the pilot to regain control of the aircraft.
  • the risk is eliminated if the pilot, or one of the pilots, permanently keeps the mask on the face as long as the airplane is at high altitude, for example beyond 10,000 meters. But the permanent wearing of the mask pressed on the face is a source of respiratory fatigue and discomfort. If, in addition, the mask remains supplied with oxygen, the capacity of the storage bottles must be greater than that which is currently required.
  • the invention aims to provide a quick-fitting harness for a respiratory mask which meets the requirements of practice better than those previously known, in particular in that it practically eliminates the delay after incident after which the user has oxygen. respiratory, and this by limiting the discomfort represented by the prolonged wearing of the mask.
  • the invention provides a harness of the type defined above according to claim 1.
  • the switch may include a calibrated valve fitted with a control lever with at least two positions, the calibration of the valve being able to be fixed once or for all.
  • the user of the mask can adapt the residual pressure to his particular morphology, which is particularly advantageous if the mask remains permanently in the cockpit and must be usable by people of very different sizes.
  • the calibrated valve advantageously comprises a shutter sliding on a rod and the control handle comprises an eccentric of displacement of the rod towards a shutter seat, elastic means being provided between the rod and the valve to push the latter towards the seat to a predetermined position relative to the rod.
  • the means with manual inflation control cooperate with the switch so that, when the latter is in the state where it maintains the gas pressure at the residual value, progressive inflation can be caused by the actuation of the manual control means, which in particular allows the user to restore the residual pressure by temporary action on the manual control means if the force of application of the mask increases due to leakage of the element inflatable.
  • FIG. 1 shows an emergency breathing apparatus in the position it is on the head of a user during use.
  • This device can be regarded as comprising an oro-nasal face cover 10 (which can be completed by a transparent visor for protection against fumes) integral with a rigid connection block 14, straps 20 intended to apply the face cover 10 against the face and fixed to the connection block 14 and a housing 16.
  • the housing contains a demand regulator and possibly a microphone.
  • the assembly constituted by the straps 20, the connection block 14 and the elements which it contains can be considered as a harness 12 carrying the regulator on demand and the face cover 10.
  • connection block 14 is provided with a connection end piece for a flexible pipe 17 for supplying pressurized respiratory gas.
  • the connection block puts the regulator in connection with the supply line and carries means with manual harness inflation control, constituted by a valve intended to be actuated by manual pinching of two ears 18, carried by the connection block 14 and one of which is tiltable, between the thumb and forefinger of the user.
  • valve When the valve is at rest, it communicates an interior volume of the connection block with the atmosphere, in order to allow the harness to retract.
  • the tap When the tap is activated, it admits pressurized gas from the supply line 17 into the volume.
  • the harness has two straps 20 each consisting of an inner tube of elastic material contained in an inextensible sheath limiting the elongation of the tubes.
  • the length at rest of the internal tubes is such that they tend to apply the face cover 10 to the face with sufficient pressure to ensure the required seal.
  • the invention would also be applicable, although in this case it presents less of interest, to a harness comprising one or more inextensible bands, or even a halo, intended to be applied against the back of the head, and one or more pneumatic cylinders intended to separate the band or the halo from the mask sufficiently to allow easy passage of the head.
  • the harness according to the invention comprises a switch making it possible, depending on the position it occupies, to connect the straps to the interior volume of the connection block or to retain in the straps an overpressure determined with respect to the volume, when the pressure in the latter decreases below that prevailing in the straps.
  • the valve comprises a body 21 in which is formed a cavity 22 which communicates permanently, through a passage 24, with the internal volume 26 of the switch 28.
  • the cavity 22 opens into a space which receives the pressurized gas coming from line 17 through a first valve seat and opens into the atmosphere through a second seat.
  • These two seats cooperate respectively with a valve 27 for admission of pressurized gas and a valve 29 for venting, carried by the same rod controlled by the tilting ear 18.
  • the pressure of the gas (and possibly a spring of recall not shown) tend to bring the movable assembly constituted by the valves 27 and 29 and the rod 33 in the position shown in Figure 2A for which the cavity 22 is connected to the atmosphere.
  • the tilting lug 18 When the tilting lug 18 is pressed, the latter moves the mobile assembly, separates the cavity 22 from the atmosphere and puts it in communication with the pipe 17 for the arrival of pressurized gas.
  • the switch 28 has on its side, in the case illustrated in FIG. 2A, a passage 30 for placing the volume 26 in communication with the straps, surrounded by a seat for receiving a shutter valve 32.
  • This valve 32 slides on a rod 34 coaxial with the seat, which a control lever 36 makes it possible to move between an advanced position close to the seat (shown in FIG. 2A) and a separated position seat (shown in Figure 2B).
  • this lever consists of a lever rocking about an axis 37 and provided with an eccentric 38 bearing on the rod 34.
  • a spring of low stiffness 39 permanently maintains the rod 34 in support against the eccentric 38.
  • a spring 40 which brings the shutter valve against a stop 41 of the rod when the rod is in the separated or retracted position shown in FIG. 2B, and fixes the residual pressure maintained in the straps when the rod is in the close position shown in Figure 2A.
  • the stroke given to the rod 34 by the eccentric 38 is chosen so that, when the lever is in the "emergency" position shown in FIG. 2B, which corresponds to the effective use of the mask in the event of an incident, the valve 32 is largely detached from the seat and connects the straps 20 and the volume 26.
  • the control lever is placed in the "comfort" position shown in FIG. 2A before the user releases his action on the ear 18, the pressure in the straps only drops to a value fixed by the calibration spring 40 and chosen to allow long-term use.
  • the variant embodiment shown diagrammatically in FIG. 3 comprises, interposed between the eccentric 38 and the rod 34, an adjustment cam 42 which fixes the distance between the rod and the cam and, therefore, the compression force of the spring 40 when the lever is in the "comfort" position where it is shown in Figure 3.
  • the embodiment shown schematically in Figure 4 further comprises a non-return valve 44 provided with a weak closing spring, intended to allow gas to pass from volume 26 to the straps, when the pressure in volume 26 exceeds the residual pressure in the straps.
  • This valve 44 can be provided at the same time as the cam 42 or independently. It allows in particular, if a leakage of the straps gradually increases the tension of the latter, to relax the straps by re-inflating them to the selected pressure even when the lever 36 is in the "comfort" position. It suffices to pinch the ears 18.
  • the non-return valve 44 advantageously has a small passage section, so that the inflation takes place slowly. Thus, the straps remain in contact with the head during re-inflation and there is no movement of the mask.
  • a valve 44 having a passage section of the order of 0.05 to 0.1 mm2 for a supply pressure of 5 bars generally gives satisfactory results.
  • the device of FIG. 4 can be supplemented by a valve 52 associated with an altimetric capsule which automatically places the internal volume 26 and the harness in communication.
  • a valve 52 associated with an altimetric capsule which automatically places the internal volume 26 and the harness in communication.
  • the manual control lever 36 is mounted on a stirrup 48 so that it can rotate around the axis 37 between a lowered position (where it is shown in solid lines in Figure 1) and a raised position (in phantom).
  • a rod of the handle 36 offset radially from the axis 37, forms the eccentric 38 and carries the adjustment cam 42 which has cut sides bearing on the rod 34, preventing it from inadvertently turning from from the position in which she has been set manually.
  • the latter carries a thumb wheel 50.
  • the cam is mounted to rotate freely on the eccentric so as to maintain the same angular position relative to the rod 34 when the eccentric 38 turns.
  • the procedure for using the mask is as follows.
  • the handle 36 When the mask is stored for use only in an emergency, the handle 36 is in the "emergency" position.
  • the operation is identical to that of the harness described in the patents mentioned above.
  • the user takes it out of its box. He presses on the ears 18 to inflate the harness, then switches the lever 36 to the "comfort" position. If the switch is of the type shown in Figure 5, it then sets the dial 50 to the maximum residual pressure position. He puts the mask in place on the face then relaxes the ears. The harness deflates to the maximum residual pressure. The user then adjusts the tension by acting on the dial 50.

Landscapes

  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Pulmonology (AREA)
  • General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Business, Economics & Management (AREA)
  • Emergency Management (AREA)
  • Respiratory Apparatuses And Protective Means (AREA)

Description

L'invention concerne les harnais pour masque respiratoire à mise en place rapide et elle trouve une application particulièrement importante sur les avions à cabine pressurisée destinés à voler à haute altitude.The invention relates to harnesses for quick-fitting respiratory masks and it finds a particularly important application on airplanes with pressurized cabin intended to fly at high altitude.

Au fur et à mesure que l'altitude de croisière des avions de ligne et des avions d'affaires augmente, il devient de plus en plus difficile de protéger les occupants contre les effets d'une pressurisation brutale. Or il est indispensable d'éviter toute perte de conscience du pilote (ou au moins d'un des pilotes) en cas de dépressurisation, afin qu'il puisse ramener l'avion à basse altitude.As the cruising altitude of airliners and business aircraft increases, it becomes increasingly difficult to protect occupants from the effects of brutal pressurization. However, it is essential to avoid any loss of consciousness of the pilot (or at least one of the pilots) in the event of depressurization, so that he can bring the aircraft back to low altitude.

On connaît déjà (brevet FR 1 506 342 ou US 3 599 636, et brevet U.S. 4,437,462) des harnais pour masque respiratoire, utilisés sur de nombreux avions de ligne, ayant au moins une sangle extensible dont les extrémités sont reliées au masque et qui comporte un élément gonflable par un gaz sous pression pour allonger la sangle jusqu'à une dimension déterminée, suffisante pour permettre à l'utilisateur d'engager la sangle sur la tête, et ayant des moyens à commande manuelle permettant d'admettre du gaz sous pression dans ledit élément pour l'allonger et de vidanger cet élément pour permettre à la sangle de s'appliquer contre la tête et de maintenir le masque.Already known (patent FR 1 506 342 or US 3 599 636, and US patent 4,437,462) of harnesses for respiratory mask, used on many airliners, having at least one extensible strap whose ends are connected to the mask and which comprises an element inflatable by a gas under pressure to lengthen the strap to a predetermined dimension, sufficient to allow the user to engage the strap on the head, and having means with manual control making it possible to admit gas under pressure in said element to lengthen it and to drain this element to allow the strap to be applied against the head and to hold the mask.

Dans un mode de réalisation avantageux, le gaz de gonflement est constitué par le gaz respiratoire qui alimente le régulateur respiratoire à la demande porté par le masque.In an advantageous embodiment, the inflation gas is constituted by the respiratory gas which supplies the respiratory regulator on demand carried by the mask.

Un tel harnais permet à l'utilisateur de saisir le masque dans une boîte placée à proximité de son siège et de le mettre en place en quelques secondes. Mais en cas de dépressurisation très brutale à haute altitude, le déficit en oxygène créé par l'exposition à l'atmosphère raréfiée pendant ces quelques secondes peut suffire à provoquer une perte de conscience retardée, à l'issue de laquelle il sera trop tard pour que le pilote reprenne le contrôle de l'avion.Such a harness allows the user to grasp the mask in a box placed near his seat and put it in place in a few seconds. But in the event of very brutal depressurization at high altitude, the oxygen deficit created by exposure to the rarefied atmosphere during these few seconds may be enough to cause a delayed loss of consciousness, at the end of which it will be too late for the pilot to regain control of the aircraft.

Le risque est écarté si le pilote, ou l'un des pilotes, garde en permanence le masque sur le visage aussi longtemps que l'avion est à altitude élevée, par exemple au-delà de 10 000 mètres. Mais le port permanent du masque plaqué sur le visage est source de fatigue respiratoire et d'inconfort. Si, au surplus, le masque reste alimenté en oxygène, la capacité des bouteilles de stockage doit être supérieure à celle qui est actuellement requise.The risk is eliminated if the pilot, or one of the pilots, permanently keeps the mask on the face as long as the airplane is at high altitude, for example beyond 10,000 meters. But the permanent wearing of the mask pressed on the face is a source of respiratory fatigue and discomfort. If, in addition, the mask remains supplied with oxygen, the capacity of the storage bottles must be greater than that which is currently required.

L'invention vise à fournir un harnais à mise en place rapide pour masque respiratoire répondant mieux que ceux antérieurement connus aux exigences de la pratique, notamment en ce qu'il supprime pratiquement le délai après incident au bout duquel l'utilisateur dispose d'oxygène respiratoire, et ce en limitant l'inconfort que représente le port prolongé du masque.The invention aims to provide a quick-fitting harness for a respiratory mask which meets the requirements of practice better than those previously known, in particular in that it practically eliminates the delay after incident after which the user has oxygen. respiratory, and this by limiting the discomfort represented by the prolonged wearing of the mask.

Dans ce but, l'invention propose un harnais du type ci-dessus défini conforme à la revendication 1.For this purpose, the invention provides a harness of the type defined above according to claim 1.

Le commutateur peut comporter un clapet taré muni d'une manette de commande à au moins deux positions, le tarage du clapet pouvant être fixé une fois pour toutes ou ajustable. Dans le second cas, l'utilisateur du masque peut adapter la pression résiduelle à sa morphologie particulière, ce qui est particulièrement avantageux si le masque reste en permanence au poste de pilotage et doit être utilisable par des personnes de tailles très différentes.The switch may include a calibrated valve fitted with a control lever with at least two positions, the calibration of the valve being able to be fixed once or for all. In the second case, the user of the mask can adapt the residual pressure to his particular morphology, which is particularly advantageous if the mask remains permanently in the cockpit and must be usable by people of very different sizes.

Le clapet taré comprend avantageusement un obturateur coulissant sur une tige et la manette de commande comprend un excentrique de déplacement de la tige vers un siège d'obturateur, des moyens élastiques étant prévus entre la tige et le clapet pour repousser celui-ci vers le siège jusqu'à une position prédéterminée par rapport à la tige.The calibrated valve advantageously comprises a shutter sliding on a rod and the control handle comprises an eccentric of displacement of the rod towards a shutter seat, elastic means being provided between the rod and the valve to push the latter towards the seat to a predetermined position relative to the rod.

Dans un mode avantageux de réalisation, les moyens à commande manuelle de gonflage coopèrent avec le commutateur de façon que, lorsque celui-ci est dans l'état où il maintient la pression de gaz à la valeur résiduelle, un gonflement progressif puisse être provoqué par la mise en action des moyens à commande manuelle, ce qui permet en particulier à l'utilisateur de rétablir la pression résiduelle par action temporaire sur les moyens à commande manuelle si la force d'application du masque augmente du fait de fuites de l'élément gonflable.In an advantageous embodiment, the means with manual inflation control cooperate with the switch so that, when the latter is in the state where it maintains the gas pressure at the residual value, progressive inflation can be caused by the actuation of the manual control means, which in particular allows the user to restore the residual pressure by temporary action on the manual control means if the force of application of the mask increases due to leakage of the element inflatable.

L'invention sera mieux comprise à la lecture de la description qui suit de modes particuliers de réalisation donnés à titre d'exemples non limitatifs. La description se réfère aux dessins qui l'accompagnent, dans lesquels :

  • la Figure 1 est une vue en perspective montrant l'aspect extérieur d'un masque muni d'un harnais suivant l'invention ;
  • les Figures 2A et 2B sont des schémas de principe montrant une constitution simple du commutateur, respectivement en position "confort" et en position "secours" ;
  • les Figures 3 et 4, similaires à la Figure 2A, montrent deux variantes de réalisation ;
  • la Figure 4A, similaire à une fraction de la Figure 4, montre l'adjonction d'un clapet à commande altimétrique ; et
  • la Figure 5 montre une constitution possible d'un commutateur suivant le schéma de la Figure 3.
The invention will be better understood on reading the following description of particular embodiments given by way of nonlimiting examples. The description refers to the accompanying drawings, in which:
  • Figure 1 is a perspective view showing the external appearance of a mask provided with a harness according to the invention;
  • Figures 2A and 2B are block diagrams showing a simple constitution of the switch, respectively in "comfort" position and in "backup"position;
  • Figures 3 and 4, similar to Figure 2A, show two alternative embodiments;
  • Figure 4A, similar to a fraction of Figure 4, shows the addition of an altimetrically controlled valve; and
  • Figure 5 shows a possible constitution of a switch according to the diagram in Figure 3.

La Figure 1 montre un appareil respiratoire de secours dans la position où il se trouve sur la tête d'un utilisateur lors de l'emploi. Cet appareil peut être regardé comme comportant un couvre-face oro-nasal 10 (qui peut être complété par une visière transparente de protection contre les fumées) solidaire d'un bloc de raccordement rigide 14, des sangles 20 destinées à appliquer le couvre-face 10 contre le visage et fixées au bloc de raccordement 14 et un boîtier 16. Le boîtier contient un régulateur à la demande et éventuellement un microphone.Figure 1 shows an emergency breathing apparatus in the position it is on the head of a user during use. This device can be regarded as comprising an oro-nasal face cover 10 (which can be completed by a transparent visor for protection against fumes) integral with a rigid connection block 14, straps 20 intended to apply the face cover 10 against the face and fixed to the connection block 14 and a housing 16. The housing contains a demand regulator and possibly a microphone.

L'ensemble constitué par les sangles 20, le bloc de raccordement 14 et les éléments qu'il contient peut être considéré comme un harnais 12 portant le régulateur à la demande et le couvre-face 10.The assembly constituted by the straps 20, the connection block 14 and the elements which it contains can be considered as a harness 12 carrying the regulator on demand and the face cover 10.

Le bloc de raccordement 14 est muni d'un embout de raccordement d'une conduite souple 17 d'amenée de gaz respiratoire sous pression. Le bloc de raccordement met le régulateur en liaison avec la conduite d'alimentation et porte des moyens à commande manuelle de gonflage du harnais, constitués par un robinet prévu pour être actionné par pincement manuel de deux oreilles 18, portées par le bloc de raccordement 14 et dont l'une est basculante, entre le pouce et l'index de l'utilisateur.The connection block 14 is provided with a connection end piece for a flexible pipe 17 for supplying pressurized respiratory gas. The connection block puts the regulator in connection with the supply line and carries means with manual harness inflation control, constituted by a valve intended to be actuated by manual pinching of two ears 18, carried by the connection block 14 and one of which is tiltable, between the thumb and forefinger of the user.

Lorsque le robinet est au repos, il met en communication un volume intérieur du bloc de raccordement avec l'atmosphère, en vue de permettre au harnais de se rétracter. Lorsque le robinet est actionné, il admet du gaz sous pression en provenance de la conduite d'alimentation 17 dans le volume.When the valve is at rest, it communicates an interior volume of the connection block with the atmosphere, in order to allow the harness to retract. When the tap is activated, it admits pressurized gas from the supply line 17 into the volume.

Dans le mode particulier de réalisation montré en Figure 1, le harnais comporte deux sangles 20 constituées chacune d'un tube interne en matériau élastique contenu dans une gaine inextensible limitant l'allongement des tubes. La longueur au repos des tubes internes est telle qu'ils tendent à appliquer le couvre-face 10 sur le visage avec une pression suffisante pour assurer l'étanchéité requise. Mais l'invention serait également applicable, bien qu'elle présente dans ce cas moins d'intérêt, à un harnais comportant une ou plusieurs bandes inextensibles, ou même une auréole, destinées à s'appliquer contre l'arrière de la tête, et un ou des vérins pneumatiques destinés à écarter la bande ou l'auréole du masque suffisamment pour permettre le passage aisé de la tête.In the particular embodiment shown in Figure 1, the harness has two straps 20 each consisting of an inner tube of elastic material contained in an inextensible sheath limiting the elongation of the tubes. The length at rest of the internal tubes is such that they tend to apply the face cover 10 to the face with sufficient pressure to ensure the required seal. But the invention would also be applicable, although in this case it presents less of interest, to a harness comprising one or more inextensible bands, or even a halo, intended to be applied against the back of the head, and one or more pneumatic cylinders intended to separate the band or the halo from the mask sufficiently to allow easy passage of the head.

Le harnais suivant l'invention comprend un commutateur permettant, suivant la position qu'il occupe, de relier les sangles au volume intérieur du bloc de raccordement ou de retenir dans les sangles une surpression déterminée par rapport au volume, lorsque la pression dans ce dernier diminue au-dessous de celle qui règne dans les sangles.The harness according to the invention comprises a switch making it possible, depending on the position it occupies, to connect the straps to the interior volume of the connection block or to retain in the straps an overpressure determined with respect to the volume, when the pressure in the latter decreases below that prevailing in the straps.

Dans le mode de mise en oeuvre simple de l'invention montré sur les Figures 2A et 2B, le robinet comporte un corps 21 dans lequel est ménagée une cavité 22 qui communique en permanence, par un passage 24, avec le volume intérieur 26 du commutateur 28. La cavité 22 débouche dans un espace qui reçoit le gaz sous pression provenant de la conduite 17 par un premier siège de soupape et débouche à l'atmosphère par un second siège. Ces deux sièges coopèrent respectivement avec un clapet 27 d'admission de gaz sous pression et un clapet 29 de mise à l'atmosphère, portés par la même tige commandée par l'oreille basculante 18. La pression du gaz (et éventuellement un ressort de rappel non représenté) tendent à amener l'équipage mobile constitué par les clapets 27 et 29 et la tige 33 dans la position montrée en Figure 2A pour laquelle la cavité 22 est reliée à l'atmosphère. Lorsqu'on appuie sur l'oreille basculante 18, cette dernière déplace l'équipage mobile, sépare la cavité 22 de l'atmosphère et la met en communication avec la conduite 17 d'arrivée de gaz sous pression.In the simple embodiment of the invention shown in Figures 2A and 2B, the valve comprises a body 21 in which is formed a cavity 22 which communicates permanently, through a passage 24, with the internal volume 26 of the switch 28. The cavity 22 opens into a space which receives the pressurized gas coming from line 17 through a first valve seat and opens into the atmosphere through a second seat. These two seats cooperate respectively with a valve 27 for admission of pressurized gas and a valve 29 for venting, carried by the same rod controlled by the tilting ear 18. The pressure of the gas (and possibly a spring of recall not shown) tend to bring the movable assembly constituted by the valves 27 and 29 and the rod 33 in the position shown in Figure 2A for which the cavity 22 is connected to the atmosphere. When the tilting lug 18 is pressed, the latter moves the mobile assembly, separates the cavity 22 from the atmosphere and puts it in communication with the pipe 17 for the arrival of pressurized gas.

Le commutateur 28 comporte de son côté, dans le cas illustré en Figure 2A, un passage 30 de mise en communication du volume 26 avec les sangles, entouré par un siège de réception d'un clapet obturateur 32. Ce clapet 32 coulisse sur une tige 34 coaxiale au siège, qu'une manette de commande 36 permet de déplacer entre une position avancée proche du siège (montrée en Figure 2A) et une position écartée du siège (montrée en Figure 2B). Dans le mode de réalisation illustré, cette manette est constituée d'un levier basculant autour d'un axe 37 et muni d'un excentrique 38 d'appui sur la tige 34. Un ressort de faible raideur 39 maintient en permanence la tige 34 en appui contre l'excentrique 38. Entre la tige 34 et le clapet 32 est interposé un ressort 40 qui amène le clapet obturateur contre une butée 41 de la tige lorsque la tige est dans la position écartée ou reculée montrée en Figure 2B, et fixe la pression résiduelle maintenue dans les sangles lorsque la tige est dans la position rapprochée montrée en Figure 2A.The switch 28 has on its side, in the case illustrated in FIG. 2A, a passage 30 for placing the volume 26 in communication with the straps, surrounded by a seat for receiving a shutter valve 32. This valve 32 slides on a rod 34 coaxial with the seat, which a control lever 36 makes it possible to move between an advanced position close to the seat (shown in FIG. 2A) and a separated position seat (shown in Figure 2B). In the illustrated embodiment, this lever consists of a lever rocking about an axis 37 and provided with an eccentric 38 bearing on the rod 34. A spring of low stiffness 39 permanently maintains the rod 34 in support against the eccentric 38. Between the rod 34 and the valve 32 is interposed a spring 40 which brings the shutter valve against a stop 41 of the rod when the rod is in the separated or retracted position shown in FIG. 2B, and fixes the residual pressure maintained in the straps when the rod is in the close position shown in Figure 2A.

La course donnée à la tige 34 par l'excentrique 38 est choisie pour que, lorsque la manette est dans la position "secours" montrée en Figure 2B, qui correspond à l'utilisation effective du masque en cas d'incident, le clapet 32 soit largement décollé du siège et mette en communication les sangles 20 et le volume 26. Par contre, lorsque la manette de commande est mise dans la position "confort" montrée en Figure 2A avant que l'utilisateur ne relâche son action sur l'oreille 18, la pression dans les sangles ne redescend qu'à une valeur fixée par le ressort de tarage 40 et choisie pour permettre une utilisation de longue durée.The stroke given to the rod 34 by the eccentric 38 is chosen so that, when the lever is in the "emergency" position shown in FIG. 2B, which corresponds to the effective use of the mask in the event of an incident, the valve 32 is largely detached from the seat and connects the straps 20 and the volume 26. On the other hand, when the control lever is placed in the "comfort" position shown in FIG. 2A before the user releases his action on the ear 18, the pressure in the straps only drops to a value fixed by the calibration spring 40 and chosen to allow long-term use.

La variante de réalisation schématisée en Figure 3 comporte, interposée entre l'excentrique 38 et la tige 34, une came de réglage 42 qui fixe l'écartement entre la tige et la came et, donc, la force de compression du ressort 40 lorsque la manette est dans la position "confort" où elle est montrée en Figure 3.The variant embodiment shown diagrammatically in FIG. 3 comprises, interposed between the eccentric 38 and the rod 34, an adjustment cam 42 which fixes the distance between the rod and the cam and, therefore, the compression force of the spring 40 when the lever is in the "comfort" position where it is shown in Figure 3.

Le mode de réalisation schématisé en Figure 4, comporte de plus un clapet anti-retour 44 muni d'un faible ressort de fermeture, destiné à permettre au gaz de passer du volume 26 vers les sangles, lorsque la pression dans le volume 26 dépasse la pression résiduelle dans les sangles. Ce clapet 44 peut être prévu en même temps que la came 42 ou indépendamment. Il permet en particulier, si une fuite des sangles augmente progressivement la tension de ces dernières, de détendre les sangles en les regonflant jusqu'à la pression choisie même lorsque la manette 36 est en position "confort". Il suffit pour cela de pincer les oreilles 18. Le clapet anti-retour 44 a avantageusement une section de passage faible, de façon que le gonflage s'effectue lentement. Ainsi, les sangles restent en appui sur la tête au cours du regonflage et il n'y a pas déplacement du masque. Un clapet 44 ayant une section de passage de l'ordre de 0,05 à 0,1 mm² pour une pression d'alimentation de 5 bars donne en général des résultats satisfaisants.The embodiment shown schematically in Figure 4, further comprises a non-return valve 44 provided with a weak closing spring, intended to allow gas to pass from volume 26 to the straps, when the pressure in volume 26 exceeds the residual pressure in the straps. This valve 44 can be provided at the same time as the cam 42 or independently. It allows in particular, if a leakage of the straps gradually increases the tension of the latter, to relax the straps by re-inflating them to the selected pressure even when the lever 36 is in the "comfort" position. It suffices to pinch the ears 18. The non-return valve 44 advantageously has a small passage section, so that the inflation takes place slowly. Thus, the straps remain in contact with the head during re-inflation and there is no movement of the mask. A valve 44 having a passage section of the order of 0.05 to 0.1 mm² for a supply pressure of 5 bars generally gives satisfactory results.

Pour éviter la nécessité d'une commande manuelle en cas de dépressurisation, on peut compléter le dispositif de la Figure 4 par un clapet 52 associé à une capsule altimétrique qui met automatiquement en communication le volume interne 26 et le harnais. Une telle disposition est montrée schématiquement en Figure 4A.To avoid the need for manual control in the event of depressurization, the device of FIG. 4 can be supplemented by a valve 52 associated with an altimetric capsule which automatically places the internal volume 26 and the harness in communication. Such an arrangement is shown schematically in Figure 4A.

Dans la pratique, la disposition relative des divers composants peut être celle montrée en Figures 1 et 5. La manette de commande manuelle 36 est montée sur un étrier 48 de façon à pouvoir tourner autour de l'axe 37 entre une position baissée (où elle est montrée en traits pleins sur la Figure 1) et une position levée (en traits mixtes). Une tige de la manette 36, décalée radialement de l'axe 37, forme l'excentrique 38 et porte la came de réglage 42 qui présente des pans coupés d'appui sur la tige 34, l'empêchant de tourner de façon intempestive à partir de la position dans laquelle elle a été mise manuellement. Pour qu'il soit plus facile à l'utilisateur d'orienter la came, celle-ci porte un molette 50. La came est montée libre en rotation sur l'excentrique de façon à conserver la même position angulaire par rapport à la tige 34 lorsque l'excentrique 38 tourne.In practice, the relative arrangement of the various components can be that shown in FIGS. 1 and 5. The manual control lever 36 is mounted on a stirrup 48 so that it can rotate around the axis 37 between a lowered position (where it is shown in solid lines in Figure 1) and a raised position (in phantom). A rod of the handle 36, offset radially from the axis 37, forms the eccentric 38 and carries the adjustment cam 42 which has cut sides bearing on the rod 34, preventing it from inadvertently turning from from the position in which she has been set manually. To make it easier for the user to orient the cam, the latter carries a thumb wheel 50. The cam is mounted to rotate freely on the eccentric so as to maintain the same angular position relative to the rod 34 when the eccentric 38 turns.

Il est nécessaire que le masque, lorsqu'il n'est pas porté, soit stocké avec la manette 36 en position "secours". En effet, dans le cas contraire, il ne serait pas possible de gonfler le harnais avec les dispositions montrées en Figures 2A, 2B et 3 et le gonflage serait lent dans le cas de la Figure 4. Pour cela, il suffit que la boîte de réception du masque respiratoire de secours soit prévue pour que le masque ne puisse y pénétrer que lorsque la manette de commande 36 est en position "secours". Une solution plus simple consiste à revêtir d'une couleur vive la face de la manette qui est apparente en position "confort", la manette devant alors être visible lorsqu'elle est en position de stockage.It is necessary that the mask, when not worn, be stored with the handle 36 in the "emergency" position. Otherwise, it would not be possible to inflate the harness with the arrangements shown in Figures 2A, 2B and 3 and inflation would be slow in the case of Figure 4. For this, it is sufficient that the box reception of the emergency breathing mask is provided so that the mask can only enter it when the control handle 36 is in the "emergency" position. A simpler solution consists in coating the face of the handle which is visible in the "comfort" position with a bright color, the handle then having to be visible when it is in the storage position.

Le procédé d'utilisation du masque est le suivant.The procedure for using the mask is as follows.

Lorsque le masque est stocké pour n'être utilisé qu'en cas d'urgence, la manette 36 est en position "secours". Le fonctionnement est identique à celui du harnais décrit dans les brevets mentionnés plus haut.When the mask is stored for use only in an emergency, the handle 36 is in the "emergency" position. The operation is identical to that of the harness described in the patents mentioned above.

Lorsque le masque doit être porté de façon prolongée, en attente, l'utilisateur le sort de sa boîte. Il appuie sur les oreilles 18 pour gonfler le harnais, puis bascule la manette 36 en position "confort". Si le commutateur est du type montré en Figure 5, il règle alors la molette 50 en position de pression résiduelle maximum. Il met le masque en place sur le visage puis relâche les oreilles. Le harnais se dégonfle jusqu'à la pression résiduelle maximum. L'utilisateur règle alors la tension en agissant sur la molette 50.When the mask is to be worn for a long time, on standby, the user takes it out of its box. He presses on the ears 18 to inflate the harness, then switches the lever 36 to the "comfort" position. If the switch is of the type shown in Figure 5, it then sets the dial 50 to the maximum residual pressure position. He puts the mask in place on the face then relaxes the ears. The harness deflates to the maximum residual pressure. The user then adjusts the tension by acting on the dial 50.

En cas de fuite, la tension du harnais augmente progressivement. Lorsqu'elle devient excessive, l'utilisateur regonfle légèrement le harnais en pinçant les oreilles jusqu'à ce qu'il ait retrouvé le réglage convenable.In the event of a leak, the tension of the harness gradually increases. When it becomes excessive, the user slightly reinflates the harness by pinching the ears until he has found the proper setting.

En cas d'incident, provoquant par exemple une perte de pression ou des fumées dans la cabine, alors que l'utilisateur porte le masque en position "confort", il suffit que l'utilisateur bascule la manette 36 en position "secours" pour provoquer la vidange complète du harnais et l'application étanche du couvre-face sur le visage. Mais, dès avant cette application, l'utilisateur dispose d'oxygène respiratoire.In the event of an incident, for example causing a loss of pressure or fumes in the cabin, while the user is wearing the mask in the "comfort" position, it suffices for the user to tilt the lever 36 to the "emergency" position to cause the complete draining of the harness and the waterproof application of the face cover to the face. But, before this application, the user has respiratory oxygen.

Enfin, lorsque l'utilisateur veut ôter le masque, il bascule également la manette en position "secours". Puis il gonfle le harnais en pinçant les oreilles.Finally, when the user wants to remove the mask, he also switches the joystick to the "emergency" position. Then he inflates the harness by pinching the ears.

Il est important de remarquer qu'il est simple de ré-équiper des masques existants comprenant un harnais à mise en place rapide (du genre décrit dans le brevet FR 1 506 342 déjà mentionné par exemple), simplement par adjonction des moyens montrés en Figures 2 à 5, de sorte que l'on peut constituer des masques suivant l'invention et des masques pour plus basse altitude à partir de composants en grande partie communs ; on peut aussi ré-équiper des masques existants pour les adapter aux vols à haute altitude.It is important to note that it is simple to re-equip existing masks comprising a quick-fitting harness (of the kind described in patent FR 1 506 342 already mentioned for example), simply by adding the means shown in Figures 2 to 5, so that masks according to the invention and masks for lower altitude can be made from largely common components; you can also re-equip existing masks to adapt them to high altitude flights.

Claims (8)

1. Harness for respiratory mask, having at least one expandable strap (20) whose ends are connected to the mask and which has an element inflatable by pressurized gas for lengthening the strap to a predetermined size, sufficient for enabling a user to position it over his head and having manually controlled means (18) enabling to admit pressurized gas into said element for lengthening it and to vent the element for enabling the strap to contact the head and to maintain the mask, characterized in that said manually controlled means comprise a switch (32, 39) enablig, at will, to vent the inflatable element or to maintain a predetermined residual gas pressure, lower than the complete inflation pressure, therein.
2. Harness according to claim 1, characterized in that the switch is constituted of an preloaded valve (32, 34) provided with a control handle (36) having at least two positions and which, in one position, lifts the closure member of the valve from its seat, the preload of the valve being either fixed once for all or adjustable.
3. Harness according to claim 2, characterized in that the preloaded valve comprises a closure member (32) slidably received on a rod (34) and in that the control handle (36) has an excentric cam (38) for moving the rod toward a closure member seat, resilient means (40) being provided between the rod and the valve for biasing the latter toward the seat up to a predetermined position with respect to the rod.
4. Harness according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that it comprises a rotable adjustment cam (42) located between the handle and the valve.
5. Harness according to claim 4, characterized in that said cam has a plurality of flat sizes for abutment against the rod and a knurled wheel (50) for manual angular adjustment.
6. Harness according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the manual control means are arranged in parallel relation with a non-return check valve (44).
7. Harness according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises an altitude responsive valve for venting said element upon depressurization.
8. Fast doning respiratory mask, comprising a harness according to any one of the preceding claims, connected to a connecting block fast with a face cover and carrying a demand regulator.
EP88400981A 1987-04-22 1988-04-21 Harness for a breathing mask and mask for use with such a harness Expired - Lifetime EP0288391B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR8705682A FR2614208B1 (en) 1987-04-22 1987-04-22 BREATHING MASK HARNESS AND MASK COMPRISING APPLICATION.
FR8705682 1987-04-22

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP0288391A1 EP0288391A1 (en) 1988-10-26
EP0288391B1 true EP0288391B1 (en) 1992-04-22

Family

ID=9350366

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP88400981A Expired - Lifetime EP0288391B1 (en) 1987-04-22 1988-04-21 Harness for a breathing mask and mask for use with such a harness

Country Status (4)

Country Link
US (1) US5690102A (en)
EP (1) EP0288391B1 (en)
DE (1) DE3870304D1 (en)
FR (1) FR2614208B1 (en)

Families Citing this family (32)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US6039045A (en) * 1987-04-22 2000-03-21 Intertechnique Head harness for respiratory mask
US4915106A (en) * 1988-02-26 1990-04-10 Puritan-Bennett Corporation Crew oxygen mask with pneumatic comfort adjustment
US5623923A (en) * 1993-06-09 1997-04-29 Intertechnique Respiratory equipment with comfort adjustment
FR2706311B1 (en) * 1993-06-09 1995-09-22 Intertechnique Sa Respiratory protection equipment.
FR2710272B1 (en) * 1993-09-23 1995-12-01 Intertechnique Sa Quick-fitting respiratory protection equipment.
FR2715572B1 (en) * 1994-02-02 1996-04-26 Intertechnique Sa Head protection equipment with respiratory mask and optical screen.
US5704073A (en) * 1995-08-01 1998-01-06 Figgie International Inc. Quick donning goggles for use with breathing mask
FR2752165B1 (en) * 1996-08-12 1998-10-09 Intertechnique Sa RESPIRATORY PROTECTION EQUIPMENT WITH FAST SETUP
US6062221A (en) 1997-10-03 2000-05-16 3M Innovative Properties Company Drop-down face mask assembly
US6732733B1 (en) 1997-10-03 2004-05-11 3M Innovative Properties Company Half-mask respirator with head harness assembly
US5941245A (en) * 1997-10-20 1999-08-24 Nellcor Puritan Bennett Crew oxygen mask with improved comfort control apparatus
FR2778575B1 (en) 1998-05-12 2000-07-28 Intertechnique Sa RESPIRATORY PROTECTION EQUIPMENT WITH FAST SETUP
FR2781381B1 (en) 1998-07-24 2000-09-29 Intertechnique Sa ON-DEMAND REGULATOR FOR RESPIRATORY SYSTEM
FR2784900B1 (en) 1998-10-21 2001-01-26 Intertechnique Sa RESPIRATORY PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT WITH FAST SETUP
US6371110B1 (en) 1999-03-25 2002-04-16 Enviromental Tectonics Corporation Automatic release apparatus and methods for respirator devices
FR2806000B1 (en) 2000-03-10 2002-05-31 Intertechnique Sa QUICK-SETTING HEAD PROTECTION EQUIPMENT
US6619285B2 (en) * 2001-06-13 2003-09-16 Albert D. Hawkins, Jr. Ambient air breathing device
FR2840534B1 (en) 2002-06-10 2005-04-01 Intertechnique Sa HEAD PROTECTION EQUIPMENT WITH RESPIRATORY MASK AND OPTICAL SCREEN
FR2855976B1 (en) 2003-06-10 2006-03-24 Intertechnique Sa HEAD PROTECTION EQUIPMENT WITH RESPIRATORY MASK AND PROTECTION SCREEN
US7198079B2 (en) * 2003-09-09 2007-04-03 Tvi Corporation Liquid delivery system of gas mask
US8584676B2 (en) * 2003-11-19 2013-11-19 Immediate Response Technologies Breath responsive filter blower respirator system
US7273052B2 (en) * 2003-12-11 2007-09-25 Tvi Corporation Pneumatic sealing system for protection masks
US7690379B2 (en) * 2004-06-01 2010-04-06 Branch, Banking and Trust Company Pressure indicator for positive pressure protection masks
US7469699B2 (en) * 2004-09-03 2008-12-30 Tvi Corporation Thin profile air purifying blower unit and filter cartridges, and method of use
US7458390B2 (en) * 2005-12-21 2008-12-02 Tvi Corporation Breath controlled air inlet for blower
GB0606241D0 (en) * 2006-03-29 2006-05-10 Concept 2 Manufacture Design L An improved harness for breathing apparatus
US8028698B2 (en) 2006-09-18 2011-10-04 Invacare Corporation Breathing mask
CA2675939C (en) 2007-01-19 2014-07-29 Intertechnique Protective headgear equipment with respirator and optical shield
JP5106549B2 (en) * 2007-02-05 2012-12-26 ビーイー・インテレクチュアル・プロパティー・インコーポレイテッド Inflatable harness crew mask
DE102007055238B4 (en) * 2007-11-16 2009-10-22 Msa Auer Gmbh Respiratory half mask
GB2499808B (en) * 2012-02-29 2016-05-11 Joseph Anthony Griffiths Airflow control valve
WO2019008446A1 (en) 2017-07-05 2019-01-10 Zodiac Aerotechnics Quick donning comfortable respiratory mask system for aircraft pilot

Family Cites Families (14)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
GB826198A (en) * 1957-06-07 1959-12-31 Frankenstein & Sons Manchester Improvements in or relating to oxygen breathing masks and helmets
US3013556A (en) * 1959-08-07 1961-12-19 Jr Ellis A Galleher Head strap for respiratory masks
US3431931A (en) * 1963-02-01 1969-03-11 Automatic Sprinkler Corp Valve assembly for breathing apparatus
US3330274A (en) * 1964-10-15 1967-07-11 Puritan Compressed Gas Corp Oro-nasal face mask with improved pneumatic sealing cuff
US3441020A (en) * 1966-05-02 1969-04-29 Garrett Corp Continuous flow inhalator mask with obturator means
FR1506342A (en) * 1966-06-30 1967-12-22 Intertechnique Sa Automatic head harness for rapid placement, wearing and rapid removal of various devices
GB1274842A (en) * 1968-05-13 1972-05-17 Kidde Walter Co Ltd An oxygen breathing mask
US3545722A (en) * 1968-11-18 1970-12-08 Sylvania Electric Prod Vacuum valve with spring biased plastic diaphragm
US3599639A (en) * 1969-08-20 1971-08-17 Borg Warner Portable suction pump system
US3599636A (en) * 1969-12-12 1971-08-17 Intertechnique Sa Inflatable head harness for respirator devices
US3792702A (en) * 1972-04-10 1974-02-19 Ulmer & Co Soc Harness for rapidly placing in position a device such as a respirator mask
FR2395890A1 (en) * 1977-07-01 1979-01-26 Intertechnique Sa RESPIRATORY AND ACCELERATION PROTECTION SYSTEM FOR COMBAT AIRCRAFT
US4437462A (en) * 1981-11-19 1984-03-20 Figgie International Inc. Pneumatic head harness
US4664108A (en) * 1984-05-25 1987-05-12 Figgie International Inc. Oxygen supply system and device therefor

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
EP0288391A1 (en) 1988-10-26
DE3870304D1 (en) 1992-05-27
FR2614208B1 (en) 1989-09-08
FR2614208A1 (en) 1988-10-28
US5690102A (en) 1997-11-25

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
EP0288391B1 (en) Harness for a breathing mask and mask for use with such a harness
EP0628325B1 (en) Breathing protection equipment
EP1077743B1 (en) Protective breathing equipment with fast positioning
EP0645164B1 (en) Respiratory protection equipment with rapid positioning
CA2373668C (en) Protective equipment with fast fixing head
US6039045A (en) Head harness for respiratory mask
FR3067612B1 (en) RESPIRATORY EQUIPMENT FOR AIRCRAFT WITH INFLATABLE MASK AND HARNESS AND ITS STORAGE SPACE.
EP0000312B1 (en) Device to afford respiration and protection against acceleration in combat aircraft
EP0136223B1 (en) Protection device against acceleration
FR2715572A1 (en) Head protection equipment with respiratory mask and optical screen.
CA2338178C (en) Standby regulator for breathing system
EP3431145B1 (en) Respiratory assembly for aircraft
EP3355996B1 (en) Aircraft cockpit, assembly comprising a respiratory mask and a storage device, as well as storage method and method for use of such an assembly
EP1895865B1 (en) Device for fixing a visor to a helmet shell
FR2784900A1 (en) Respiratory mask for oxygen has inflatable pad attached to harness to vary mask pressure on face
EP3473300B1 (en) Breathing mask for aircraft and method for placing a breathing mask in a folded position for storage in a storage unit
EP0176533A1 (en) Individual salvage device

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
PUAI Public reference made under article 153(3) epc to a published international application that has entered the european phase

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009012

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: A1

Designated state(s): DE GB IT NL SE

17P Request for examination filed

Effective date: 19890328

GBC Gb: translation of claims filed (gb section 78(7)/1977)
17Q First examination report despatched

Effective date: 19901203

GRAA (expected) grant

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009210

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: B1

Designated state(s): DE GB IT NL SE

REF Corresponds to:

Ref document number: 3870304

Country of ref document: DE

Date of ref document: 19920527

GBT Gb: translation of ep patent filed (gb section 77(6)(a)/1977)
ITF It: translation for a ep patent filed
PLBE No opposition filed within time limit

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009261

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: NO OPPOSITION FILED WITHIN TIME LIMIT

26N No opposition filed
EAL Se: european patent in force in sweden

Ref document number: 88400981.2

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: GB

Ref legal event code: IF02

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: NL

Payment date: 20070316

Year of fee payment: 20

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: SE

Payment date: 20070319

Year of fee payment: 20

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: DE

Payment date: 20070410

Year of fee payment: 20

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: GB

Payment date: 20070410

Year of fee payment: 20

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: IT

Payment date: 20070607

Year of fee payment: 20

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: GB

Ref legal event code: PE20

Expiry date: 20080420

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: NL

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF EXPIRATION OF PROTECTION

Effective date: 20080421

NLV7 Nl: ceased due to reaching the maximum lifetime of a patent

Effective date: 20080421

EUG Se: european patent has lapsed
PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: GB

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF EXPIRATION OF PROTECTION

Effective date: 20080420