EP3038716B1 - Fresh air port mechanism for facepiece used on self-contained open-circuit compressed air breathing apparatus - Google Patents
Fresh air port mechanism for facepiece used on self-contained open-circuit compressed air breathing apparatus Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- EP3038716B1 EP3038716B1 EP13892386.7A EP13892386A EP3038716B1 EP 3038716 B1 EP3038716 B1 EP 3038716B1 EP 13892386 A EP13892386 A EP 13892386A EP 3038716 B1 EP3038716 B1 EP 3038716B1
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- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- operable
- assembly
- mask
- cam
- demand valve
- 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.)
- Not-in-force
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Classifications
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- 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
- A62B18/02—Masks
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- 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
- A62B18/10—Valves
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A62—LIFE-SAVING; FIRE-FIGHTING
- A62B—DEVICES, APPARATUS OR METHODS FOR LIFE-SAVING
- A62B7/00—Respiratory apparatus
- A62B7/02—Respiratory apparatus with compressed oxygen or air
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A62—LIFE-SAVING; FIRE-FIGHTING
- A62B—DEVICES, APPARATUS OR METHODS FOR LIFE-SAVING
- A62B9/00—Component parts for respiratory or breathing apparatus
- A62B9/02—Valves
Definitions
- a self-contained breathing apparatus may use a demand valve to control the air flow from one or more cylinders into a mask for the user to breathe.
- a demand valve may be controlled by the pressure from the breathing of a user, allowing air flow when a user breathes in and stopping air flow when a user breathes out.
- a user may wish to breathe ambient air when able, such as when the user is in a waiting area or has exited a hazardous environment, in order to preserve the air stored in the cylinders of the SCBA.
- an intermediate device may provide the user with the ability to temporarily disconnect and/or deactivate the demand valve, while wearing the mask.
- Applicants have developed a fresh-air port apparatus operable to allow a user to alternate between the demand valve and ambient air.
- International Patent Publication WO 2011/136674 describes disengaging air tanks and allowing ambient air by push, twist and pull of the whole casing and demand valve away from the mask.
- European Patent Application EP 0760700 describes an adjuster for a closable ambient air intake aperture with a release switch. The actuating member is formed directly by the connecting piece for the automatic lung machine and can be actuated by a simple pressure from the front on the automatic pulmonary system, while a subsequent pull is switched back to the automatic unit.
- United States Patent Publication US 7322350 describes a combined high-pressure and medium-pressure air line with a pivotable coupling to an air manifold block and a pressure reducer.
- aspects of the disclosure may include embodiments of a self-contained breathing apparatus comprising: one or more air cylinders; a pressure reducer; a mask having an exhalation with the demand valve; a combined pressure gauge and warning whistle; and a fresh-air port assembly coupled to the demand valve such that the fresh-air port assembly is positioned between the demand valve and the mask, wherein the fresh-air port assembly is operable to rotate and open and close one or more port to ambient air.
- the fresh-air port assembly comprises: a cam knob operable to house one or more driving balls; a cam collar comprising at least one pathway operable to accept and guide the driving balls; an adapter operable to attach the fresh-air port assembly to the mask; and a spring positioned between the cam collar and the adapter operable to bias the cam collar away from the adapter.
- the cam knob comprises a first protrusion operable to interact with the exhalation valve to hold the exhalation valve open when the one or more port is open to ambient air.
- the cam knob comprises a second protrusion operable to indicate the position of the cam assembly to the user of the apparatus, wherein the second protrusion is in the line-of-sight of the user when the port is open to ambient air.
- the at least one pathway of the cam collar comprises: a first section operable to provide control feel resistance when initiating the turning operation; a second section operable to move the cam collar in a linear motion perpendicular to the face of the mask; a third section operable to lock the cam collar in an open position; and a forth section operable to allow assembly of the cam assembly.
- the fresh-air port assembly further comprises a front cover attached to the cam collar. The demand valve attaches to the fresh-air port assembly via the demand valve adapter.
- the apparatus may further comprise a mask cover assembly operable to cover at least a portion of the mask and exhalation valve.
- the invention includes a rotating assembly for use with a respirator comprising a mask and a demand valve, the assembly comprising: one or more driving balls; a cam knob operable to house the one or more driving balls; a cam collar coupled to the cam knob comprising at least one pathway on the exterior surface of the collar operable to receive the driving balls; an adapter operable to attach the cam assembly to the mask of the respirator; and a spring positioned between the cam collar and the adapter operable to bias the cam collar away from the adapter, wherein: the rotating assembly is coupled to the mask such that the assembly is positioned between the demand valve and the mask, and the rotating assembly is operable to open and close one or more port to ambient air.
- the cam knob comprises a first protrusion operable to interact with the exhalation valve to hold the exhalation valve open.
- the cam knob comprises a second protrusion operable to indicate the position of the cam assembly to the user of the apparatus, wherein the second protrusion is in the line-of-sight of the user when the port is open to ambient air.
- the cam knob rotates with respect to the mask and the cam collar moves linearly perpendicular to the face of the mask.
- the at least one pathway of the cam collar comprises: a first section operable to provide control feel resistance when initiating the turning operation; a second section operable to move the cam collar in a linear motion perpendicular to the face of the mask; a third section operable to lock the cam collar in an open position; and a forth section operable to allow assembly of the cam assembly.
- the cam collar comprises two matching pathways.
- the assembly may further comprise a front cover attached to the cam collar with screws.
- the adapter interacts with a push rod of the demand valve to activate or deactivate the demand valve.
- the port to ambient air opens between the demand valve and the adapter, while the demand valve remains coupled to the rotating assembly.
- Additional aspects of the invention include a method according to claims 12 - 14, of retrofitting or upgrading a self-contained breathing apparatus having a mask and a demand valve.
- a fresh-air port assembly into the mask of a self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) may be beneficial to enabling the user to breathe ambient air when purified air is not required.
- SCBA self-contained breathing apparatus
- a fresh-air port assembly positioned between the demand valve and mask of an SCBA may be operable to disconnect and/or disable the demand valve to allow ambient air into the mask, as well as to control the exhalation valve of the mask so that a user may easily breathe ambient air. This may also allow a user to quickly switch to purified air when necessary.
- the fresh-air port assembly comprises a cam knob operable to rotate with respect to the mask, a cam collar operable to move linearly perpendicular to the face of the mask, and a demand valve adapter operable to attach the assembly to the mask and/or the demand valve.
- FIG. 1 illustrates a SCBA system 100 comprising a mask 102, a demand valve 104 operable to be connected to the mask 102, one or more air cylinders 110, a medium-pressure hose 106 providing fluid communication between the air cylinder(s) 110 and the mask 102 via the demand valve 104 (which may also be known as a second stage reducer), and a pressure reducer 124, operable to reduce the pressure of the air from the cylinders 110, providing fluid communication between the air cylinders 110 and the medium-pressure hose 106.
- the cylinders 110 may comprise high-pressure air at approximately 310 bar (4500 psi), for example.
- the pressure reducer 124 may reduce the high-pressure air from the cylinders 110 to medium-pressure air of approximately 6,9 bar (100psi), for example.
- the demand valve 104 may be operable to reduce the medium-pressure air to approximately atmospheric pressure before delivering the air into the mask 102.
- the SCBA system 100 may comprise a harness comprising shoulder straps 108, a belt strap 112, and/or a cylinder strap 122.
- the SCBA may also comprise a pressure gauge 118 and whistle 119, wherein the pressure gauge 118 and whistle 119 may be in fluid communication with the air cylinder(s) 110 via a high-pressure hose 120.
- the high-pressure hose 120 may be coupled to the cylinders 110 via the pressure reducer 124.
- the pressure reducer 124 may comprise a high-pressure pathway, for the high-pressure hose 120 to provide high-pressure air to the high-pressure gauge 118), a first medium-pressure pathway for the medium-pressure hose 106, and a second medium-pressure pathway (to provide medium-pressure air to the whistle).
- the pressure reducer 124 of FIG. 1 may be operable to reduce the high-pressure air of the air cylinder(s) 110 to medium pressure air, and to transmit (via coupling of the appropriate hoses) high pressure air to the pressure gauge 118, medium pressure to the demand valve 104, and medium pressure air to the whistle 119.
- the high-pressure hose 120 comprises a high-pressure pathway and a medium-pressure pathway, and couples to the pressure reducer 124 so that both high-pressure air and medium-pressure air may be transmitted to the combined high-pressure gauge 118 and whistle 119.
- the pressure reducer 124 has only one high-pressure pathway/port (for attachment of the high-pressure hose 120).
- the pressure gauge 118 and whistle 119 may be operable to monitor the pressure of the air in the cylinders 110 as well as alert a user of the SCBA if the pressure drops below a pre-set or defined limit.
- the mask 102 may comprise an exhalation valve 202.
- the demand valve 104 may be operable to control air flow 206 into the mask 102, wherein the air may flow into the mask from the medium-pressure hose 106 through the demand valve 104 and out of the mask through the exhalation valve 202.
- a user may be breathing in, causing the demand valve 104 to open and allow air flow 206 into the mask 102.
- FIG. 2B a user may be breathing out, causing the demand valve 104 to close and the exhalation valve 202 to open and allow air flow 206 out of the mask 102.
- both the demand valve 104 and the exhalation valve 202 may be controlled by springs.
- the demand valve 104 may be attached to the mask 102 via threads 208 on the mask 102 and threads 210 on the demand valve 104.
- the demand valve 104 may couple to the medium-pressure hose 106 at a connector 204.
- FIGS. 3A-3B an exemplary embodiment of the mask 102 and demand valve 104 is shown, wherein the assembly further comprises a fresh-air port assembly 300 coupled to both the mask 102 and the demand valve 104
- the fresh-air port assembly 300 is positioned between the mask 102 and the demand valve 104.
- the fresh-air port is operable to rotate in the direction shown by arrow 302, wherein FIG. 3A illustrates the fresh-air port assembly 300 in a first position, and FIG. 3B illustrates the fresh-air port assembly 300 in a second position.
- the fresh-air port assembly 300 may be considered "closed" in the first position and "open” in the second position.
- the open and closed positions of the fresh-air port assembly 300 control engagement of one or more air passages through the assembly 300, wherein the air passages provide air from the cylinders 110 of the SCBA and/or ambient air.
- the fresh-air port assembly 300 comprises a cam collar 402, a cam knob 404, driving balls 405, a load spring 410, a demand valve adapter 412, and front cover 414.
- the cam collar 402 comprises pathways 406 operable to receive the driving balls 405.
- the cam knob 404 is operable to fit over the cam collar 402, wherein the cam knob 404 may comprise indentions 407 operable to hold the driving balls 405.
- the demand valve adapter 412 may be operable to fit through the cam collar 402 and cam knob 404. In some embodiments, the demand valve adapter 412 may be operable to attach to the mask 102, wherein the demand valve adapter 412 may comprise threads 411 operable to fit with threads 208 of the mask 102.
- the assembly 300 comprises a load spring 410 that fits between the cam collar 402 and the demand valve adapter 412, wherein the load spring 410 biases the cam collar 402 away from the demand valve adapter 412.
- the front cover 414 may attach to the cam collar 402 with screws 416 and may be operable to hold the demand valve adapter 412 and spring 410 in place.
- the mask 102 may attach to a mask cover assembly 430, which may comprise an exhalation valve cover 432 and a nozzle cover 434. Additionally, the exhalation valve 202 may be coupled to a hold clip 436. In some embodiments, the demand valve 104 may be operable to attach to the demand valve adapter 412.
- the cam collar 402 comprises at least one pathway 406, wherein the embodiment shown in FIGS. 5A-5D comprises two pathways 406.
- the cam collar 402 may comprise a lip 502 around the circumference of the cam collar 402 and protruding into the center of the cam collar 402 operable to contact the load spring 410.
- the cam collar 402 may comprise one or more openings 504 operable to receive screws 416 and hold the front cover 414 in place against the cam collar 402.
- the pathways 406 may be located on the outer surface of the cam collar 402, and they may be located on opposite sides of the cam collar 406.
- the pathways 406 may be matching.
- the cam collar 402 may comprise any number of pathways 406 wherein the pathways 406 may each be operable to receive and direct a driving ball 405.
- FIG. 6 outer surface of the cam collar 402 is shown as a rectangle comprising the two pathways 406.
- FIG. 6 is a special view of the exterior surface of the cam collar 402 that has been cut and flattened out, such that the far left and far right sides of the rectangle shown would be connected.
- the pathways 406 may comprise four sections, a first section 601, a second section 602, a third section 603, and a fourth section 604.
- the fresh-air port assembly may be considered closed.
- the shape of the first section 601 is designed to demand the user to positively control and turn the cam knob 404.
- the second section 602 may be angled such that, if a user releases, or loses their hold on, the assembly 300 while the driving ball 405 is in the second section 602, the assembly 300 may be biased closed, or back to the first section 601, by the load spring 410.
- the user must deliberately turn the cam knob 404 past the second section 602 into the third section 603 to open, and must deliberately turn the cam knob 404 back past the third section 603 into the second section 602 to close.
- the assembly 300 may be locked in an open position, or biased open, by the load spring 410.
- the third section 603 may be angled such that, if a user releases, or loses their hold on, the assembly 300 while the driving ball 405 is in the third section 602, or if the assembly 300 is bumped or moved, the assembly 300 may be biased open, or back to the third section 603, by the load spring 410.
- the fourth section 604 may only be used when assembling the fresh-air port assembly 300.
- the first section may be operable to provide control feel resistance when initiating the turning operation; the second section may be operable to move the cam collar in a linear motion perpendicular to the face of the mask; the third section may be operable to lock the cam collar in an open position; and the forth section may be operable to allow assembly of the cam assembly.
- the cam knob 404 may comprise indentions 702 on the interior surface operable to receive the driving balls 405.
- the driving balls 405 may interact with the pathways 406 of the cam collar 402 and may follow the pathways 406 if the cam knob 404 is turned in either a clockwise or counter-clockwise direction.
- the cam knob 404 may comprise an indicator 704 , wherein the indicator 704 may align with the line of sight of a user whenever the assembly 300 is turned to the second (or open) position. This may allow a user to notice if the fresh-air port assembly is open or closed before entering a hazardous environment, for example.
- the indicator 704 may also be considered a protrusion from the cam knob 404.
- the indicator 704 may comprise a color, particularly a bright or noticeable color. In some embodiments, the indicator 704 may comprise further indication, such as a light, for example.
- the cam knob 404 may comprise a protrusion 706 operable to engage with at least a portion of the exhalation valve 202, wherein when the cam knob is in the second (open) position, the exhalation valve 202 may be held open by the protrusion 706. In some embodiments, the protrusion 706 may slope away from the side of the cam knob 404, so that it may slidingly engage with the exhalation valve 202.
- the protrusion 706 and the indicator 704 may be aligned on opposite sides of the cam knob 404, such that when the indicator 204 is in the line of sight of a user, the protrusion 706 is holding the exhalation valve 202 open.
- the cam knob 404 may also comprise a lip 710 about the circumference of the cam knob 404 and protruding in toward the center of the cam knob 404, operable to contact the cam collar 402.
- the cam knob 404 may comprise ridges 708 on the outer surface, wherein the ridges 708 may allow for gripping to assist turning of the cam knob 404.
- the demand valve adapter 412 may comprise threads 411 operable to connect the demand valve adapter 412 to the mask 102.
- the demand valve adapter 412 may comprise a first sealing ring 802, wherein the sealing ring 802 may be operable to seal against a portion of the demand valve 104.
- the sealing ring 802 may be operable to create an air-tight seal between the demand valve 104 and the demand valve adapter 412.
- the demand valve adapter 412 may comprise a second sealing ring 804 operable to seal with at least a portion of the mask 102.
- the second sealing ring 804 may be operable to create an air-tight seal between the mask 102 and the demand valve adapter 412.
- the front cover 414 may comprise openings 902 operable to receive screws 416.
- the screws 416 may attach the front cover 414 to the cam collar 402.
- the front cover 414 may comprise any number of openings 902 and screws 416, wherein in the embodiment shown in FIGS. 9A-9B , the front cover 414 may comprise 6 openings 902 equally spaced around the circumference of the front cover 414.
- the exhalation valve 202 may be coupled to a hold clip 436, wherein the hold clip 436 may be attached to one or more rods 1006.
- the exhalation valve 202 may comprise a membrane 1004 operable to seal the exhalation valve 202 closed against at least a portion of the mask 102.
- the rods 1006 may be attached to a pin 1010. Additionally, the rods 1006 may be coupled to the membrane 1004, such that if the rods 1006 are moved, the membrane 1004 is also moved.
- the exhalation valve 202 may comprise a spring 1002 operable to bias the membrane 1004 against the mask 102.
- the spring 1002 may be operable to bias the exhalation valve 202 closed.
- the hold clip 436 and/or rods 1006 may be operable to interact with the protrusion 706 of the cam knob 404.
- the protrusion 706 of the cam knob 404 may be operable to move the hold clip 436, and therefore the rods 1006, in a lateral direction.
- the protrusion 706 may be holding the exhalation valve 202 open, such that if the fresh-air port assembly 300 is open, the exhalation valve 202 is also held open. In the embodiment shown in FIG.
- the membrane 1004 may be in a first position, held against the mask 102 by the spring 1002, and the exhalation valve 202 may be considered closed.
- the membrane 1004 may be in a second position, pulled away from the mask 102 by the hold clip 436 and/or rods 1006, and the exhalation valve 202 may be considered open.
- the membrane 1004 may move a distance 1008 between the first and second positions.
- the mask cover assembly 430 may comprise an exhalation valve cover 432 and a nozzle cover 434.
- the nozzle cover 434 may fit over at least a portion of the mask 102.
- the nozzle cover 434 may comprise vents 1102 to allow air flow from the exhalation valve 202.
- the exhalation valve cover 432 may cover at least a portion of the exhalation valve 202.
- the exhalation valve cover 432 may fit against, or snap to, the nozzle cover 434.
- the rods 1006 of the exhalation valve 202 may fit through the vents 1102 of the nozzle cover 434, wherein the hold clip 436, coupled to the rods 1006, may be located on the exterior of the nozzle cover 434, while the exhalation valve 202 may be covered by the nozzle cover 434. In some embodiments, the hold clip 436 may be covered by the exhalation valve cover 432.
- the demand valve 104 may comprise a push rod 1202, wherein the push rod 1202 may be a trigger operable to open up and/or close down the demand valve 104.
- the demand valve 104 may be activated or opened, such as when the demand valve 104 is attached to the mask 102 and/or the demand valve adapter 412.
- the demand valve 104 may be deactivated or closed, such as when the demand valve 104 is removed from the mask 102 and/or the demand valve adapter 412.
- the push rod 1202 may be spring loaded, such that the push rod 1202 is biased to an extended position, shown in FIG. 12C .
- the demand valve 104 may comprise a portion 1204, wherein the portion 1204 of the demand valve 104 may be operable to seal with the demand valve adapter 412.
- FIGS. 13A-13B the fresh-air port assembly 300 is shown assembled and coupled to the demand valve 104 and mask 102, wherein the assembly 300 may be positioned between the demand valve 104 and the mask 102.
- the assembly 300 may be in a first (or closed) position.
- the driving ball 405 may be in the first section 601 of the pathway 406 on the cam collar 402.
- the assembly 300 may be considered closed when the demand valve 104 is positioned against a sealing ring 802 located within the demand valve adapter 412. As shown in FIG.
- the demand valve 104 may be positioned against the demand valve adapter 412, wherein the sealing ring 802 may be in contact with the portion 1204 of the demand valve 104.
- the air flow 206 may flow through the demand valve 104, through the demand valve adapter 412, and into the mask 102 when a user is breathing in, and then out through the exhalation valve 202 when a user is breathing out (similar to FIGS. 2A-2B ).
- the demand valve 104 may be activated, wherein the push rod 1202 may be pushed down by the demand valve adapter 412.
- FIGS. 14A-14B the fresh-air port assembly 330 is shown, wherein the driving ball 405 may be in the second section 602 of the pathway 406.
- the cam knob 404 may be turned, moving the driving ball(s) 405 into the second section 602.
- cam collar 402 may be pushed against the load spring 410 by the movement of the driving ball(s) 405, pushing the demand valve 104 outward (or away from the mask 102). This may release the seal between the sealing ring 802 and the portion 1204 of the demand valve 104.
- a port 1402 may be opened between the portion 1204 of the demand valve 104 and the demand valve adapter 412.
- the push rod 1202 may begin to extend, deactivating the demand valve 104. Additionally, as the cam knob 404 is turned, the protrusion 706 may be moving the hold clip 436 outward, or away from the mask 102, causing the exhalation valve 202 to be opened.
- the position of the fresh-air port assembly 300 shown in FIGS. 14A-14B may be considered a transition stage between closing and opening the assembly 300. In this transition stage, if the user were to stop turning the cam knob 404, the load spring 410 may be operable to push the cam collar 402 and driving ball(s) 405 back to the first (closed) position. This may serve as a safety mechanism to prevent from opening the fresh air port 1402 accidentally, since it may be dangerous in a contaminated environment.
- FIGS. 15A-15B the fresh-air port assembly 300 is shown in an open position.
- the cam knob 404 may be turned further, causing the driving ball(s) 405 to enter the third section 603 of the pathway(s) 406 on the cam collar 402.
- the cam collar 402 may be further pushed against the load spring 410, pushing the demand valve 104 outward (or away from the mask 102).
- the port 1402 may be further opened as the demand valve 104 is pushed away from the demand valve adapter 412.
- the port 1402 may extend around the circumference of the demand valve adapter 412, wherein a portion of the circumference may be blocked by the push rod 1202.
- the space created between the portion 1204 of the demand valve 104 and the demand valve adapter 412 may extend around the circumference of both the portion 1204 and the demand valve adapter 412.
- the demand valve 104 may comprise ports or spaces 1504 to allow air flow through at least a portion of the demand valve 104.
- the exhalation valve 202 may also be held open by the protrusion 706 interacting with the hold clip 436.
- air flow 206 may flow through the port 1402 around the demand valve adapter 412 as well as through the exhalation valve 202.
- the direction of the air flow may be directed into the mask through the fresh-air port assembly 300 and out of the mask through the exhalation valve 202.
- the push rod 1202 of the demand valve 104 may be extended, deactivating the demand valve 104.
- Some embodiments of the disclosure may include methods of using the fresh-air port assembly 300 described above.
- a user may wish to deactivate the demand valve 104 and breathe atmospheric air while wearing a mask 102, such as on a SCBA 100.
- the method may comprise rotating a cam knob 404 of the fresh-air port assembly 300 from a first position to a second position, causing the demand valve 104 to be deactivated and opening one or more ports 1402 through the fresh-air port assembly 300, allowing atmospheric air into the mask 102.
- rotating the cam knob 404 may also open the exhalation valve 202 of the mask 102, allow a user to breathe out of the mask 102 without the pressure gradient typically required to open the exhalation valve 202.
- the method may further comprise rotating the cam knob 404 in the opposite direction from the second position to the first position, causing the demand valve 104 to be activated and closing the one or more ports 1402 through the fresh-air port assembly 300.
- rotating the cam knob 404 back to the first position may release the exhalation valve 202, wherein the exhalation valve 202 may then operate based on the pressure in the mask 102 from a user's breathing.
- the invention includes methods of retrofitting a fresh-air port assembly to an SCBA 100.
- the method may comprise removing the demand valve 104 from the mask 102 of the SCBA 100, attaching the fresh-air port assembly 300 to the mask 102, and attaching the demand valve 104 to the fresh-air port assembly 300.
- the fresh-air port assembly 300 may attach to the mask 102 via the demand valve adapter 412.
- the fresh-air port assembly 300 may attach to the demand valve via the cam collar 402 and/or front cover 414 of the fresh-air port assembly 300.
Description
- Traditionally, a self-contained breathing apparatus (or SCBA) may use a demand valve to control the air flow from one or more cylinders into a mask for the user to breathe. A demand valve may be controlled by the pressure from the breathing of a user, allowing air flow when a user breathes in and stopping air flow when a user breathes out. In some instances, a user may wish to breathe ambient air when able, such as when the user is in a waiting area or has exited a hazardous environment, in order to preserve the air stored in the cylinders of the SCBA. However, it may be difficult or time intensive to disconnect the demand valve or remove the mask of the SCBA. Applicants have found that the use of an intermediate device may provide the user with the ability to temporarily disconnect and/or deactivate the demand valve, while wearing the mask. Applicants have developed a fresh-air port apparatus operable to allow a user to alternate between the demand valve and ambient air.
International Patent PublicationWO 2011/136674 describes disengaging air tanks and allowing ambient air by push, twist and pull of the whole casing and demand valve away from the mask. European Patent ApplicationEP 0760700 describes an adjuster for a closable ambient air intake aperture with a release switch. The actuating member is formed directly by the connecting piece for the automatic lung machine and can be actuated by a simple pressure from the front on the automatic pulmonary system, while a subsequent pull is switched back to the automatic unit. United States Patent PublicationUS 7322350 describes a combined high-pressure and medium-pressure air line with a pivotable coupling to an air manifold block and a pressure reducer. - Aspects of the disclosure may include embodiments of a self-contained breathing apparatus comprising: one or more air cylinders; a pressure reducer; a mask having an exhalation with the demand valve; a combined pressure gauge and warning whistle; and a fresh-air port assembly coupled to the demand valve such that the fresh-air port assembly is positioned between the demand valve and the mask, wherein the fresh-air port assembly is operable to rotate and open and close one or more port to ambient air. The fresh-air port assembly comprises: a cam knob operable to house one or more driving balls; a cam collar comprising at least one pathway operable to accept and guide the driving balls; an adapter operable to attach the fresh-air port assembly to the mask; and a spring positioned between the cam collar and the adapter operable to bias the cam collar away from the adapter. In some embodiments, the cam knob comprises a first protrusion operable to interact with the exhalation valve to hold the exhalation valve open when the one or more port is open to ambient air. In some embodiments, the cam knob comprises a second protrusion operable to indicate the position of the cam assembly to the user of the apparatus, wherein the second protrusion is in the line-of-sight of the user when the port is open to ambient air. In some embodiments, the at least one pathway of the cam collar comprises: a first section operable to provide control feel resistance when initiating the turning operation; a second section operable to move the cam collar in a linear motion perpendicular to the face of the mask; a third section operable to lock the cam collar in an open position; and a forth section operable to allow assembly of the cam assembly. In some embodiments, the fresh-air port assembly further comprises a front cover attached to the cam collar. The demand valve attaches to the fresh-air port assembly via the demand valve adapter. In some embodiments, the apparatus may further comprise a mask cover assembly operable to cover at least a portion of the mask and exhalation valve.
- The invention includes a rotating assembly for use with a respirator comprising a mask and a demand valve, the assembly comprising: one or more driving balls; a cam knob operable to house the one or more driving balls; a cam collar coupled to the cam knob comprising at least one pathway on the exterior surface of the collar operable to receive the driving balls; an adapter operable to attach the cam assembly to the mask of the respirator; and a spring positioned between the cam collar and the adapter operable to bias the cam collar away from the adapter, wherein: the rotating assembly is coupled to the mask such that the assembly is positioned between the demand valve and the mask, and the rotating assembly is operable to open and close one or more port to ambient air. In some embodiments, the cam knob comprises a first protrusion operable to interact with the exhalation valve to hold the exhalation valve open. In some embodiments, the cam knob comprises a second protrusion operable to indicate the position of the cam assembly to the user of the apparatus, wherein the second protrusion is in the line-of-sight of the user when the port is open to ambient air. In some embodiments, the cam knob rotates with respect to the mask and the cam collar moves linearly perpendicular to the face of the mask. In some embodiments, the at least one pathway of the cam collar comprises: a first section operable to provide control feel resistance when initiating the turning operation; a second section operable to move the cam collar in a linear motion perpendicular to the face of the mask; a third section operable to lock the cam collar in an open position; and a forth section operable to allow assembly of the cam assembly. In some embodiments, the cam collar comprises two matching pathways. In some embodiments, the assembly may further comprise a front cover attached to the cam collar with screws. In some embodiments, the adapter interacts with a push rod of the demand valve to activate or deactivate the demand valve. In some embodiments, the port to ambient air opens between the demand valve and the adapter, while the demand valve remains coupled to the rotating assembly.
- Additional aspects of the invention include a method according to claims 12 - 14, of retrofitting or upgrading a self-contained breathing apparatus having a mask and a demand valve.
- These and other features will be more clearly understood from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and claims.
- For a more complete understanding of the present disclosure, reference is now made to the following brief description, taken in connection with the accompanying drawings and detailed description, wherein like reference numerals represent like parts.
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FIG. 1 is an illustration of an exemplary embodiment of a self-contained breathing apparatus system; -
FIGS. 2A-2B illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a demand valve; -
FIGS. 3A-3B illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a fresh-air port assembly coupled to a mask and demand valve of a self-contained breathing apparatus; -
FIG. 4 is an exploded view of an exemplary embodiment of a fresh-air port assembly; -
FIGS. 5A-5D illustrate detailed views of an embodiment of a cam collar; -
FIG. 6 illustrates an embodiment of a pathway of the cam collar; -
FIGS. 7A-7E illustrate detailed views of an embodiment of a cam knob; -
FIGS. 8A-8D illustrate detailed views of an embodiment of a demand valve adapter; -
FIGS. 9A-9B illustrate detailed views of an embodiment of a front cover comprising screws; -
FIGS. 10A-10C illustrate detailed views of an embodiment of an exhalation valve assembly; -
FIGS. 11A-1 ID illustrate detailed views of an embodiment of a mask cover assembly; -
FIGS. 12A-12D illustrate detailed views of an embodiment of a demand valve; -
FIGS. 13A-13B illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a fresh-air port assembly when the fresh-air port is closed; -
FIGS. 14A-14B illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a fresh-air port assembly when the fresh-air port is being opened; and -
FIGS. 15A-15B illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a fresh-air port assembly when the fresh-air port is open. - Generally, Applicants have found that incorporation of a fresh-air port assembly into the mask of a self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) may be beneficial to enabling the user to breathe ambient air when purified air is not required. For example, a user may be in a waiting area and may wish to conserve the air in the cylinders of the SCBA, so they may wish to temporarily switch to ambient air. A fresh-air port assembly positioned between the demand valve and mask of an SCBA may be operable to disconnect and/or disable the demand valve to allow ambient air into the mask, as well as to control the exhalation valve of the mask so that a user may easily breathe ambient air. This may also allow a user to quickly switch to purified air when necessary. The fresh-air port assembly comprises a cam knob operable to rotate with respect to the mask, a cam collar operable to move linearly perpendicular to the face of the mask, and a demand valve adapter operable to attach the assembly to the mask and/or the demand valve.
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FIG. 1 illustrates aSCBA system 100 comprising amask 102, ademand valve 104 operable to be connected to themask 102, one ormore air cylinders 110, a medium-pressure hose 106 providing fluid communication between the air cylinder(s) 110 and themask 102 via the demand valve 104 (which may also be known as a second stage reducer), and apressure reducer 124, operable to reduce the pressure of the air from thecylinders 110, providing fluid communication between theair cylinders 110 and the medium-pressure hose 106. In some embodiments, thecylinders 110 may comprise high-pressure air at approximately 310 bar (4500 psi), for example. Thepressure reducer 124 may reduce the high-pressure air from thecylinders 110 to medium-pressure air of approximately 6,9 bar (100psi), for example. In some embodiments, thedemand valve 104 may be operable to reduce the medium-pressure air to approximately atmospheric pressure before delivering the air into themask 102. - Additionally, the
SCBA system 100 may comprise a harness comprisingshoulder straps 108, abelt strap 112, and/or acylinder strap 122. In some embodiments, the SCBA may also comprise apressure gauge 118 andwhistle 119, wherein thepressure gauge 118 and whistle 119 may be in fluid communication with the air cylinder(s) 110 via a high-pressure hose 120. In some embodiments, the high-pressure hose 120 may be coupled to thecylinders 110 via thepressure reducer 124. For example, in some embodiments thepressure reducer 124 may comprise a high-pressure pathway, for the high-pressure hose 120 to provide high-pressure air to the high-pressure gauge 118), a first medium-pressure pathway for the medium-pressure hose 106, and a second medium-pressure pathway (to provide medium-pressure air to the whistle). Thus, thepressure reducer 124 ofFIG. 1 may be operable to reduce the high-pressure air of the air cylinder(s) 110 to medium pressure air, and to transmit (via coupling of the appropriate hoses) high pressure air to thepressure gauge 118, medium pressure to thedemand valve 104, and medium pressure air to thewhistle 119. Typically, the high-pressure hose 120 comprises a high-pressure pathway and a medium-pressure pathway, and couples to thepressure reducer 124 so that both high-pressure air and medium-pressure air may be transmitted to the combined high-pressure gauge 118 andwhistle 119. InFIG. 1 , thepressure reducer 124 has only one high-pressure pathway/port (for attachment of the high-pressure hose 120). In some embodiments, thepressure gauge 118 and whistle 119 may be operable to monitor the pressure of the air in thecylinders 110 as well as alert a user of the SCBA if the pressure drops below a pre-set or defined limit. - Turning now to
FIGS. 2A-2B , an exemplary embodiment of themask 102 and thedemand valve 104 is shown. Themask 102 may comprise anexhalation valve 202. Thedemand valve 104 may be operable to controlair flow 206 into themask 102, wherein the air may flow into the mask from the medium-pressure hose 106 through thedemand valve 104 and out of the mask through theexhalation valve 202. InFIG. 2A , a user may be breathing in, causing thedemand valve 104 to open and allowair flow 206 into themask 102. InFIG. 2B , a user may be breathing out, causing thedemand valve 104 to close and theexhalation valve 202 to open and allowair flow 206 out of themask 102. In some embodiments, both thedemand valve 104 and theexhalation valve 202 may be controlled by springs. In the embodiment shown inFIGS. 2A-2B , thedemand valve 104 may be attached to themask 102 viathreads 208 on themask 102 andthreads 210 on thedemand valve 104. In some embodiments, thedemand valve 104 may couple to the medium-pressure hose 106 at aconnector 204. - Turning now to
FIGS. 3A-3B , an exemplary embodiment of themask 102 anddemand valve 104 is shown, wherein the assembly further comprises a fresh-air port assembly 300 coupled to both themask 102 and thedemand valve 104 The fresh-air port assembly 300 is positioned between themask 102 and thedemand valve 104. The fresh-air port is operable to rotate in the direction shown byarrow 302, whereinFIG. 3A illustrates the fresh-air port assembly 300 in a first position, andFIG. 3B illustrates the fresh-air port assembly 300 in a second position. In some embodiments, the fresh-air port assembly 300 may be considered "closed" in the first position and "open" in the second position. As described further herein, the open and closed positions of the fresh-air port assembly 300 control engagement of one or more air passages through theassembly 300, wherein the air passages provide air from thecylinders 110 of the SCBA and/or ambient air. - Turning now to
FIG. 4 , an exploded view of the fresh-air port assembly 300,mask 102 anddemand valve 104 is shown. Although, in some embodiments, theassembly 300 may comprise the specific components described herein, different components may also be used to accomplish similar functionality. The fresh-air port assembly 300 comprises acam collar 402, acam knob 404, drivingballs 405, aload spring 410, ademand valve adapter 412, andfront cover 414. Thecam collar 402 comprisespathways 406 operable to receive the drivingballs 405. Thecam knob 404 is operable to fit over thecam collar 402, wherein thecam knob 404 may compriseindentions 407 operable to hold the drivingballs 405. In some embodiments, thedemand valve adapter 412 may be operable to fit through thecam collar 402 andcam knob 404. In some embodiments, thedemand valve adapter 412 may be operable to attach to themask 102, wherein thedemand valve adapter 412 may comprisethreads 411 operable to fit withthreads 208 of themask 102. Theassembly 300 comprises aload spring 410 that fits between thecam collar 402 and thedemand valve adapter 412, wherein theload spring 410 biases thecam collar 402 away from thedemand valve adapter 412. In some embodiments, thefront cover 414 may attach to thecam collar 402 withscrews 416 and may be operable to hold thedemand valve adapter 412 andspring 410 in place. - In some embodiments, the
mask 102 may attach to amask cover assembly 430, which may comprise anexhalation valve cover 432 and anozzle cover 434. Additionally, theexhalation valve 202 may be coupled to ahold clip 436. In some embodiments, thedemand valve 104 may be operable to attach to thedemand valve adapter 412. - Turning now to
FIGS. 5A-5D , thecam collar 402 is shown in detail. The cam collar comprises at least onepathway 406, wherein the embodiment shown inFIGS. 5A-5D comprises twopathways 406. In some embodiments, thecam collar 402 may comprise alip 502 around the circumference of thecam collar 402 and protruding into the center of thecam collar 402 operable to contact theload spring 410. Additionally, thecam collar 402 may comprise one ormore openings 504 operable to receivescrews 416 and hold thefront cover 414 in place against thecam collar 402. In some embodiments, thepathways 406 may be located on the outer surface of thecam collar 402, and they may be located on opposite sides of thecam collar 406. In some embodiments, thepathways 406 may be matching. In other embodiments, thecam collar 402 may comprise any number ofpathways 406 wherein thepathways 406 may each be operable to receive and direct adriving ball 405. - Turning now to
FIG. 6 , outer surface of thecam collar 402 is shown as a rectangle comprising the twopathways 406.FIG. 6 is a special view of the exterior surface of thecam collar 402 that has been cut and flattened out, such that the far left and far right sides of the rectangle shown would be connected. Thepathways 406 may comprise four sections, afirst section 601, asecond section 602, athird section 603, and afourth section 604. In some embodiments, when the drivingball 405 is in thefirst section 601 of the pathway, the fresh-air port assembly may be considered closed. The shape of thefirst section 601 is designed to demand the user to positively control and turn thecam knob 404. When the drivingball 405 is in thesecond section 602 of thepathway 406, a user may be opening the fresh-air port assembly 300. In some embodiments, thesecond section 602 may be angled such that, if a user releases, or loses their hold on, theassembly 300 while the drivingball 405 is in thesecond section 602, theassembly 300 may be biased closed, or back to thefirst section 601, by theload spring 410. The user must deliberately turn thecam knob 404 past thesecond section 602 into thethird section 603 to open, and must deliberately turn thecam knob 404 back past thethird section 603 into thesecond section 602 to close. When the drivingball 405 is in thethird section 603, theassembly 300 may be locked in an open position, or biased open, by theload spring 410. In some embodiments, thethird section 603 may be angled such that, if a user releases, or loses their hold on, theassembly 300 while the drivingball 405 is in thethird section 602, or if theassembly 300 is bumped or moved, theassembly 300 may be biased open, or back to thethird section 603, by theload spring 410. Thefourth section 604 may only be used when assembling the fresh-air port assembly 300. In some embodiments, the first section may be operable to provide control feel resistance when initiating the turning operation; the second section may be operable to move the cam collar in a linear motion perpendicular to the face of the mask; the third section may be operable to lock the cam collar in an open position; and the forth section may be operable to allow assembly of the cam assembly. - Turning now to
FIGS. 7A-7E , thecam knob 404 is shown in detail. Thecam knob 404 may compriseindentions 702 on the interior surface operable to receive the drivingballs 405. The drivingballs 405 may interact with thepathways 406 of thecam collar 402 and may follow thepathways 406 if thecam knob 404 is turned in either a clockwise or counter-clockwise direction. Additionally, thecam knob 404 may comprise anindicator 704 , wherein theindicator 704 may align with the line of sight of a user whenever theassembly 300 is turned to the second (or open) position. This may allow a user to notice if the fresh-air port assembly is open or closed before entering a hazardous environment, for example. Theindicator 704 may also be considered a protrusion from thecam knob 404. In some embodiments, theindicator 704 may comprise a color, particularly a bright or noticeable color. In some embodiments, theindicator 704 may comprise further indication, such as a light, for example. Also, thecam knob 404 may comprise aprotrusion 706 operable to engage with at least a portion of theexhalation valve 202, wherein when the cam knob is in the second (open) position, theexhalation valve 202 may be held open by theprotrusion 706. In some embodiments, theprotrusion 706 may slope away from the side of thecam knob 404, so that it may slidingly engage with theexhalation valve 202. In some embodiments, theprotrusion 706 and theindicator 704 may be aligned on opposite sides of thecam knob 404, such that when theindicator 204 is in the line of sight of a user, theprotrusion 706 is holding theexhalation valve 202 open. Thecam knob 404 may also comprise alip 710 about the circumference of thecam knob 404 and protruding in toward the center of thecam knob 404, operable to contact thecam collar 402. Additionally, thecam knob 404 may compriseridges 708 on the outer surface, wherein theridges 708 may allow for gripping to assist turning of thecam knob 404. - Turning now to
FIGS. 8A-8D , thedemand valve adapter 412 is shown in detail. Thedemand valve adapter 412 may comprisethreads 411 operable to connect thedemand valve adapter 412 to themask 102. In some embodiments, thedemand valve adapter 412 may comprise afirst sealing ring 802, wherein the sealingring 802 may be operable to seal against a portion of thedemand valve 104. The sealingring 802 may be operable to create an air-tight seal between thedemand valve 104 and thedemand valve adapter 412. In some embodiments, thedemand valve adapter 412 may comprise asecond sealing ring 804 operable to seal with at least a portion of themask 102. Thesecond sealing ring 804 may be operable to create an air-tight seal between themask 102 and thedemand valve adapter 412. - Turning now to
FIGS. 9A-9B , thefront cover 414 is shown in detail. Thefront cover 414 may comprise openings 902 operable to receivescrews 416. Thescrews 416 may attach thefront cover 414 to thecam collar 402. In some embodiments, thefront cover 414 may comprise any number of openings 902 and screws 416, wherein in the embodiment shown inFIGS. 9A-9B , thefront cover 414 may comprise 6 openings 902 equally spaced around the circumference of thefront cover 414. - Turning now to
FIGS. 10A-10C , theexhalation valve 202 is shown in detail. Theexhalation valve 202 may be coupled to ahold clip 436, wherein thehold clip 436 may be attached to one ormore rods 1006. In some embodiments, theexhalation valve 202 may comprise amembrane 1004 operable to seal theexhalation valve 202 closed against at least a portion of themask 102. In some embodiments, therods 1006 may be attached to apin 1010. Additionally, therods 1006 may be coupled to themembrane 1004, such that if therods 1006 are moved, themembrane 1004 is also moved. In some embodiments, theexhalation valve 202 may comprise aspring 1002 operable to bias themembrane 1004 against themask 102. In other words, thespring 1002 may be operable to bias theexhalation valve 202 closed. In some embodiments, thehold clip 436 and/orrods 1006 may be operable to interact with theprotrusion 706 of thecam knob 404. In some embodiments, theprotrusion 706 of thecam knob 404 may be operable to move thehold clip 436, and therefore therods 1006, in a lateral direction. In other words, when thecam knob 404 is in the second (open) position, theprotrusion 706 may be holding theexhalation valve 202 open, such that if the fresh-air port assembly 300 is open, theexhalation valve 202 is also held open. In the embodiment shown inFIG. 10B , themembrane 1004 may be in a first position, held against themask 102 by thespring 1002, and theexhalation valve 202 may be considered closed. In the embodiment shown inFIG. 10A , themembrane 1004 may be in a second position, pulled away from themask 102 by thehold clip 436 and/orrods 1006, and theexhalation valve 202 may be considered open. In some embodiments, themembrane 1004 may move adistance 1008 between the first and second positions. - Turning now to
FIGS. 11A-11D , themask cover assembly 430 is shown in detail. In some embodiments, themask cover assembly 430 may comprise anexhalation valve cover 432 and anozzle cover 434. In some embodiments, thenozzle cover 434 may fit over at least a portion of themask 102. Thenozzle cover 434 may comprisevents 1102 to allow air flow from theexhalation valve 202. In some embodiments, theexhalation valve cover 432 may cover at least a portion of theexhalation valve 202. In some embodiments, theexhalation valve cover 432 may fit against, or snap to, thenozzle cover 434. In some embodiments, therods 1006 of theexhalation valve 202 may fit through thevents 1102 of thenozzle cover 434, wherein thehold clip 436, coupled to therods 1006, may be located on the exterior of thenozzle cover 434, while theexhalation valve 202 may be covered by thenozzle cover 434. In some embodiments, thehold clip 436 may be covered by theexhalation valve cover 432. - Turning now to
FIGS. 12A-12D , thedemand valve 104 is shown in detail. Thedemand valve 104 may comprise apush rod 1202, wherein thepush rod 1202 may be a trigger operable to open up and/or close down thedemand valve 104. For example, when thepush rod 1202 is pushed down, as shown inFIG. 12D , thedemand valve 104 may be activated or opened, such as when thedemand valve 104 is attached to themask 102 and/or thedemand valve adapter 412. Additionally, when thepush rod 1202 is extended, as shown inFIG. 12C , thedemand valve 104 may be deactivated or closed, such as when thedemand valve 104 is removed from themask 102 and/or thedemand valve adapter 412. In some embodiments, thepush rod 1202 may be spring loaded, such that thepush rod 1202 is biased to an extended position, shown inFIG. 12C . In some embodiments, thedemand valve 104 may comprise aportion 1204, wherein theportion 1204 of thedemand valve 104 may be operable to seal with thedemand valve adapter 412. - Turning now to
FIGS. 13A-13B , the fresh-air port assembly 300 is shown assembled and coupled to thedemand valve 104 andmask 102, wherein theassembly 300 may be positioned between thedemand valve 104 and themask 102. In the embodiment shown inFIGS. 13A-13B , theassembly 300 may be in a first (or closed) position. The drivingball 405 may be in thefirst section 601 of thepathway 406 on thecam collar 402. Theassembly 300 may be considered closed when thedemand valve 104 is positioned against a sealingring 802 located within thedemand valve adapter 412. As shown inFIG. 5B , at least a portion of thedemand valve 104 may be positioned against thedemand valve adapter 412, wherein the sealingring 802 may be in contact with theportion 1204 of thedemand valve 104. In the embodiment shown inFIGS. 5A-5B , theair flow 206 may flow through thedemand valve 104, through thedemand valve adapter 412, and into themask 102 when a user is breathing in, and then out through theexhalation valve 202 when a user is breathing out (similar toFIGS. 2A-2B ). In the embodiment shown inFIGS. 13A-13B , thedemand valve 104 may be activated, wherein thepush rod 1202 may be pushed down by thedemand valve adapter 412. - Turning now to
FIGS. 14A-14B , the fresh-air port assembly 330 is shown, wherein the drivingball 405 may be in thesecond section 602 of thepathway 406. Thecam knob 404 may be turned, moving the driving ball(s) 405 into thesecond section 602. As shown inFIG. 14B ,cam collar 402 may be pushed against theload spring 410 by the movement of the driving ball(s) 405, pushing thedemand valve 104 outward (or away from the mask 102). This may release the seal between the sealingring 802 and theportion 1204 of thedemand valve 104. In some embodiments, aport 1402 may be opened between theportion 1204 of thedemand valve 104 and thedemand valve adapter 412. Additionally, as thedemand valve 104 is pushed away from the mask 102 (and therefore the demand valve adapter 412), thepush rod 1202 may begin to extend, deactivating thedemand valve 104. Additionally, as thecam knob 404 is turned, theprotrusion 706 may be moving thehold clip 436 outward, or away from themask 102, causing theexhalation valve 202 to be opened. In some embodiments, the position of the fresh-air port assembly 300 shown inFIGS. 14A-14B may be considered a transition stage between closing and opening theassembly 300. In this transition stage, if the user were to stop turning thecam knob 404, theload spring 410 may be operable to push thecam collar 402 and driving ball(s) 405 back to the first (closed) position. This may serve as a safety mechanism to prevent from opening thefresh air port 1402 accidentally, since it may be dangerous in a contaminated environment. - Turning now to
FIGS. 15A-15B , the fresh-air port assembly 300 is shown in an open position. Thecam knob 404 may be turned further, causing the driving ball(s) 405 to enter thethird section 603 of the pathway(s) 406 on thecam collar 402. As shown inFIG. 15B , thecam collar 402 may be further pushed against theload spring 410, pushing thedemand valve 104 outward (or away from the mask 102). Theport 1402 may be further opened as thedemand valve 104 is pushed away from thedemand valve adapter 412. In some embodiments, theport 1402 may extend around the circumference of thedemand valve adapter 412, wherein a portion of the circumference may be blocked by thepush rod 1202. In other words, the space created between theportion 1204 of thedemand valve 104 and thedemand valve adapter 412 may extend around the circumference of both theportion 1204 and thedemand valve adapter 412. Additionally, thedemand valve 104 may comprise ports orspaces 1504 to allow air flow through at least a portion of thedemand valve 104. In some embodiments, theexhalation valve 202 may also be held open by theprotrusion 706 interacting with thehold clip 436. In the embodiment shown,air flow 206 may flow through theport 1402 around thedemand valve adapter 412 as well as through theexhalation valve 202. In some embodiments, the direction of the air flow may be directed into the mask through the fresh-air port assembly 300 and out of the mask through theexhalation valve 202. As shown inFIGS. 15A-15B , thepush rod 1202 of thedemand valve 104 may be extended, deactivating thedemand valve 104. - Some embodiments of the disclosure may include methods of using the fresh-
air port assembly 300 described above. In some embodiments, a user may wish to deactivate thedemand valve 104 and breathe atmospheric air while wearing amask 102, such as on aSCBA 100. The method may comprise rotating acam knob 404 of the fresh-air port assembly 300 from a first position to a second position, causing thedemand valve 104 to be deactivated and opening one ormore ports 1402 through the fresh-air port assembly 300, allowing atmospheric air into themask 102. In some embodiments, rotating thecam knob 404 may also open theexhalation valve 202 of themask 102, allow a user to breathe out of themask 102 without the pressure gradient typically required to open theexhalation valve 202. The method may further comprise rotating thecam knob 404 in the opposite direction from the second position to the first position, causing thedemand valve 104 to be activated and closing the one ormore ports 1402 through the fresh-air port assembly 300. In some embodiments, rotating thecam knob 404 back to the first position may release theexhalation valve 202, wherein theexhalation valve 202 may then operate based on the pressure in themask 102 from a user's breathing. - The invention includes methods of retrofitting a fresh-air port assembly to an
SCBA 100. The method may comprise removing thedemand valve 104 from themask 102 of theSCBA 100, attaching the fresh-air port assembly 300 to themask 102, and attaching thedemand valve 104 to the fresh-air port assembly 300. In some embodiments, the fresh-air port assembly 300 may attach to themask 102 via thedemand valve adapter 412. In some embodiments, the fresh-air port assembly 300 may attach to the demand valve via thecam collar 402 and/orfront cover 414 of the fresh-air port assembly 300. - The figures discussed above provide examples of various exemplary devices, systems, and techniques and ways to make and use such devices. These illustrations are merely exemplary.
Claims (15)
- A self-contained breathing apparatus (100) comprising:one or more air cylinders (110);a pressure reducer (124);a mask (102) having an exhalation valve (202);a demand valve (104) operable to attach to the mask (102), wherein the exhalation valve and the demand valve are configured such that a user inhales air through the demand valve (104) and exhales air through the exhalation valve (202);a medium-pressure hose (106), extending from the pressure reducer (124) to the demand valve (104), wherein the pressure reducer (124) is in fluid communication with the demand valve (104);a combined pressure gauge (118) and warning whistle (119); anda fresh-air port assembly (300) coupled to the mask (102) and the demand valve (104) such that the fresh-air port assembly (300) is positioned between the demand valve (104) and the mask (102), wherein the fresh-air port assembly (300) is operable to rotate with respect to the mask (102) and the demand valve (104) in order to open and close one or more ports (1402) to ambient air,wherein the fresh-air port assembly (300) comprises:a cam knob (404) operable to house one or more driving balls (405);a cam collar (402) comprising at least one pathway (406) operable to accept and guide the driving balls (405), wherein the cam knob (404) is rotatable with respect to the cam collar (402) in order to move the one or more driving balls (405) through the at least one pathway (406).
- The apparatus (100) of claim 1, wherein the fresh-air port assembly further comprises:an adapter (412) operable to attach the fresh-air port assembly (300) to the mask (102); anda spring (410) positioned between the cam collar (402) and the adapter (412) operable to bias the cam collar (402) away from the adapter (412).
- The apparatus (100) of claim 2, wherein the cam knob (404) comprises a first protrusion (706) operable to interact with the exhalation valve (202) to hold the exhalation valve (202) open when the port (1402) is open to ambient air.
- The apparatus (100) of claim 3, wherein the cam knob (404) further comprises a second protrusion (704) operable to indicate the position of the cam assembly (300) to the user of the apparatus (100), wherein the second protrusion (704) is in the line-of-sight of the user when the port (1402) is open to ambient air.
- The apparatus (100) of claim 2, wherein the at least one pathway (406) of the cam collar (402) comprises:a first section (601) operable to provide control feel resistance when initiating the turning operation;a second section (602) operable to move the cam collar (402) in a linear motion perpendicular to the face of the mask (102);a third section (603) operable to lock the cam collar (402) in an open position; anda forth section (604) operable to allow assembly of the fresh-air port assembly (300).
- The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the fresh-air port assembly (300) further comprises a front cover (414) attached to the cam collar (402), and wherein the demand valve (104) attaches to the fresh-air port assembly (300) via a demand valve adapter (412).
- A rotating assembly (300) for use with a respirator (100) comprising a mask (102) and a demand valve (104), the assembly (300) comprising:one or more driving balls (405);a cam knob (404) operable to house the one or more driving balls (405);a cam collar (402) coupled to the cam knob (404) comprising at least one pathway (406) on the exterior surface of the collar (402) operable to receive the driving balls (405);an adapter (412) operable to attach the rotating assembly (300) to the mask (102) of the respirator (100); anda spring (410) positioned between the cam collar (402) and the adapter (412) operable to bias the cam collar (402) away from the adapter (412),wherein:the rotating assembly (300) is coupled to the mask (102) such that the assembly (300) is positioned between the demand valve (104) and the mask (102), andthe rotating assembly (300) is operable to open and close one or more ports (1402) to ambient air.
- The assembly (300) of claim 7, wherein the cam knob (404) comprises a first protrusion (706) operable to interact with an exhalation valve (202) of the mask (102) to hold the exhalation valve (202) open.
- The assembly (300) of claim 8, wherein the cam knob (404) comprises a second protrusion (704) operable to indicate the position of the rotating assembly (300) to the user, wherein the second protrusion (704) is in the line-of-sight of the user when the port (1402) is open to ambient air.
- The assembly (300) of claim 7, wherein the cam knob (404) rotates with respect to the mask (102) and the cam collar (402) moves linearly perpendicular to the face of the mask (102).
- The assembly (300) of claim 7, wherein the at least one pathway (406) of the cam collar (402) comprises:a first section (601) operable to provide control feel resistance when initiating the turning operation;a second section (602) operable to move the cam collar (402) in a linear motion perpendicular to the face of the mask;a third section (603) operable to lock the cam collar (402) in an open position; anda fourth section (604) operable to allow assembly of the rotating assembly (300).
- The assembly (300) of claim 7, wherein the adapter (412) interacts with a push rod (1202) of the demand valve (104) to activate or deactivate the demand valve (104), and wherein the port (1402) to ambient air opens between the demand valve (104) and the adapter (412), while the demand valve (104) remains coupled to the rotating assembly (300).
- A method of retrofitting or upgrading a self-contained breathing apparatus (100) having a mask (102) and a demand valve (104), the method comprising:providing a fresh-air port assembly (300);attaching the fresh-air port assembly (300) to the mask (102); andattaching the demand valve (104) to the fresh-air port assembly (300);wherein the fresh-air port assembly (300) is operable to rotate with respect to the mask (102) and the demand valve (104) in order to open and close one or more ports (1402) to ambient air, and wherein the fresh-air port assembly (300) comprises:a cam knob (404) operable to house one or more driving balls (405); anda cam collar (402) comprising at least one pathway (406) operable to accept and guide the driving balls (405), wherein the cam knob (404) is rotatable with respect to the cam collar (402) in order to move the one or more driving balls (405) through the at least one pathway (406).
- The method of claim 13, wherein attaching the fresh-air port assembly (300) to the mask comprises attaching an adapter (412) of the assembly (300) to the mask (102) via threads.
- The method of claim 13, wherein attaching the demand valve (104) to the fresh-air port assembly (300) comprises attaching the demand valve (104) to the cam collar (402) of the assembly (300).
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
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PCT/CN2013/082350 WO2015027390A1 (en) | 2013-08-27 | 2013-08-27 | Fresh air port mechanism for facepiece used on self-contained open-circuit compressed air breathing apparatus |
Publications (3)
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EP3038716A1 EP3038716A1 (en) | 2016-07-06 |
EP3038716A4 EP3038716A4 (en) | 2017-04-12 |
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EP13892386.7A Not-in-force EP3038716B1 (en) | 2013-08-27 | 2013-08-27 | Fresh air port mechanism for facepiece used on self-contained open-circuit compressed air breathing apparatus |
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EP (1) | EP3038716B1 (en) |
CN (1) | CN105682750B (en) |
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BR112018013549B1 (en) * | 2015-12-30 | 2022-04-26 | Scott Technologies, Inc | Breathing mask with air saving switch, regulator and facepiece for a breathing mask |
CN110145620B (en) * | 2019-04-02 | 2020-09-04 | 中国辐射防护研究院 | Full-plastic diaphragm type one-way exhaust check valve with emergency ventilation function |
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- 2013-08-27 EP EP13892386.7A patent/EP3038716B1/en not_active Not-in-force
Non-Patent Citations (1)
Title |
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CN105682750B (en) | 2019-03-01 |
EP3038716A1 (en) | 2016-07-06 |
EP3038716A4 (en) | 2017-04-12 |
CN105682750A (en) | 2016-06-15 |
WO2015027390A1 (en) | 2015-03-05 |
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