WO2018053564A1

WO2018053564A1 - Breathing apparatus indicator device

Info

Publication number: WO2018053564A1
Application number: PCT/AU2016/050879
Authority: WO
Inventors: Steven Leslie Joseph BUHAGIAR; Augustinus Bruce BELLEKENS
Original assignee: Diverga Pty Ltd
Priority date: 2016-09-21
Filing date: 2016-09-21
Publication date: 2018-03-29

Abstract

An indicator device for use with a breathing apparatus including a pressurised breathing gas supply, a pressure regulator, and a breathing component that is positioned on a face of a user in use, wherein the indicator device includes: one or more sensors for generating one or more sensor signals indicative of a condition of the breathing apparatus; an indicator panel including one or more illuminated indicators, the indicator panel being attached to the breathing component so that each of the one or more illuminated indicators can emit light away from the face of the user in use; and a controller configured to selectively activate the one or more illuminated indicators based on the one or more sensor signals, to thereby provide an indication of the condition of the breathing apparatus to any other individual looking towards the face of the user.

Description

BREATHING APPARATUS INDICATOR DEVICE Background of the Invention

[0001] This invention relates to an indicator device for use with a breathing apparatus, being particularly but not exclusively suitable for underwater diving applications.

Description of the Prior Art

[0002] The most important element of scuba diving is safety. Scuba diving is a high risk activity as it is conducted in an underwater environment that is not typically inhabited by humans. To minimise the chances of an incident occurring, a range of products have been designed and procedures have been put in place to keep divers alive. When diving, a diver's air tank is their lifeline. Therefore monitoring and maintaining this crucial piece of equipment is critical to whether a diver survives the dive.

[0003] It is important for a diver to not only know about their own tank status, but also the status of those with whom they are diving. Scuba diving is typically performed using a buddy system, in which dive buddies rely on each other for backup air and support. Beyond equipment considerations, the mental wellbeing of a diver is also a significant safety concern and can impact the dive experience if not handled correctly. If a diver is anxious or uncomfortable for any reason while diving underwater, be it because of a new environment or imminent threat, it not only causes the diving experience to be tainted but physiologically causes breaths to become shorter and of higher frequency. This causes tank pressure to drop more rapidly and increases nitrogen retention within the bloodstream; as such it is important for a diver to know how their buddy is coping and tend to them if they are uncomfortable, be it remaining closer together or aborting the dive.

[0004] Whilst there are current methods for monitoring both tank pressure and diver wellbeing, they typically require constant dialogue between buddies (such as by using hand signals or the like) which can detract from the diving experience. Divers traditionally need to complete safety protocols according to their training and may have trouble doing so due to inexperience and cognitive overloading. These safety protocols can act as barriers to undertaking scuba diving. [0005] Accordingly, there is a need for enhancing communication of a diver's status to other divers, such as dive buddies or instructors, without the need for active participation by the diver, to thereby create a safer environment through critical safety protocols between divers. Furthermore, it would be desirable to provide such enhanced communication without the need for the diver to carry additional bulky or sophisticated equipment.

[0006] US5191317A discloses a low air warning system for scuba divers in which a pressure switch and an electromagnetic transmitter are positioned at or near the high pressure air supply tank of the scuba diver and a corresponding electromagnetic receiver is positioned on the diver's mask. A plenum extending from the receiver provides a pair of LED light indicators of two different colors which also oscillate at different frequencies, depending upon the condition of the pressure switch in response to the supply of air in the diver's air supply tank. Changes in both the color and frequency of the flashing light virtually assure that the diver cannot ignore a change in the status of his air supply when it has been reduced sufficiently to fall below a threshold that is sensed by a pressure attached to a valve on the tank. However, the lights are only visible to the diver wearing the mask 18, so other divers will be unaware of a low air condition unless this is communicated by the diver using other conventional techniques.

[0007] Other devices have been proposed for detecting the pressure of a diver's air tank and providing an indication that may be seen by other divers. For example, US6054929A discloses a device worn by a first diver that provides a warning of conditions of danger and/or emergency to a second diver positioned at a distance from the first diver. The device includes a pressure sensor for detecting the pressure in the compressed-air tanks and a transmitter communicating a signal to a diving computer including LEDs for indicating the detected pressure. US20080066748A1 discloses an apparatus for monitoring a condition of a breathing gas supply by illuminating optically distinct regions of that are visible to a user, and by others in a common group. The apparatus includes a flexible light transmissive tube having a distributed light source that illuminates a plurality of optically distinct regions within the tube, where each illuminated region indicates the detected condition of the breathing gas supply within a predetermined value. However, these solutions require the diver to carry additional equipment and may not always be readily visible to other divers. [0008] The reference in this specification to any prior publication (or information derived from it), or to any matter which is known, is not, and should not be taken as an acknowledgment or admission or any form of suggestion that the prior publication (or information derived from it) or known matter forms part of the common general knowledge in the field of endeavour to which this specification relates.

Summary of the Present Invention

[0009] In a broad form the present invention seeks to provide an indicator device for use with a breathing apparatus including a pressurised breathing gas supply, a pressure regulator, and a breathing component that is positioned on a face of a user in use, wherein the indicator device includes:

a) one or more sensors for generating one or more sensor signals indicative of a condition of the breathing apparatus;

b) an indicator panel including one or more illuminated indicators, the indicator panel being attached to the breathing component so that each of the one or more illuminated indicators can emit light away from the face of the user in use; and, c) a controller configured to selectively activate the one or more illuminated indicators based on the one or more sensor signals, to thereby provide an indication of the condition of the breathing apparatus to any other individual looking towards the face of the user.

[0010] Typically the breathing component includes one of:

a) a mouthpiece;

b) a mouth mask;

c) a face mask; and,

d) a full face helmet.

[0011] Typically the breathing component includes a portion of the pressure regulator of the breathing apparatus.

[0012] Typically the indicator device is provided as a part of the breathing component. [0013] Typically the breathing component includes a housing part having an opening facing away from the face of the user, and the indicator device is provided in the form of a cover part for covering the opening.

[0014] Typically the indicator device is configured to replace an original cover part of the breathing component.

[0015] Typically the one or more sensors includes a pressure sensor for detecting a breathing gas pressure and generating a pressure signal.

[0016] Typically the one or more illuminated indicators includes one or more gas supply level indicators, and the controller is configured to:

a) determine an estimated gas supply level based on the pressure signal; and, b) selectively activate the one or more gas supply level indicators to thereby provide an indication of the estimated gas supply level.

[0017] Typically the one or more gas supply level indicators include a plurality of illuminated indicator segments corresponding to respective portions of a maximum gas supply level, and the controller is configured to selectively activate a number of the illuminated indicator segments based on a comparison between the estimated gas supply level and the maximum gas supply level.

[0018] Typically the plurality of illuminated indicator segments is arranged in a circular pattern.

[0019] Typically the controller is configured to:

a) determine whether the estimated gas supply level is critically low; and, b) selectively activate the one or more gas supply level indicators to thereby provide a low gas supply level warning.

[0020] Typically the low gas supply level warning includes one of:

a) causing the one or more gas supply level indicators to flash periodically; and, b) causing the one or more gas supply level indicators to emit light in a warning colour that is different to a colour that is ordinarily emitted by the one or more gas supply level indicators. [0021] Typically the one or more sensors includes a breathing sensor for detecting breathing of the user and generating a breathing signal.

[0022] Typically the one or more illuminated indicators includes one or more breathing indicators, and the controller is configured to selectively activate the one or more breathing indicators based on the breathing signal to thereby provide an indication of the breathing of the user.

[0023] Typically the controller is configured to vary an intensity of light emitted by the one or more breathing indicators based on the breathing signal.

[0024] Typically the controller is configured to:

a) determine a breathing phase of the user based on the breathing signal; and, b) selectively activate the one or more breathing indicators for the determined breathing phase.

[0025] Typically the breathing sensor is configured to detect breathing of the user by detecting a flow rate of the breathing gas.

[0026] Typically the breathing sensor is a flow meter.

[0027] Typically the breathing sensor is configured to detect breathing of the user by detecting movement of a part of the breathing component corresponding to a breathing action of the user.

[0028] Typically the breathing sensor includes a switch configured to be triggered by movement of a diaphragm of a pressure regulator of the breathing component.

[0029] Typically the indicator panel includes one or more light emitting devices positioned behind an external fascia formed from a translucent material to thereby provide the one or more illuminated indicators.

[0030] Typically the indicator device is connected between a hose and a gas input connector of the breathing component.

[0031] In another broad form the present invention seeks to provide a breathing component of a breathing apparatus including a pressurised breathing gas supply and one or more pressure regulators, the breathing component being configured for being positioned on a face of a user and including an indicator device as described above.

[0032] Typically the breathing component includes a second stage regulator of the breathing apparatus.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0033] An example of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: -

[0034] Figure 1 is a diagram showing a diver using a breathing apparatus and an example of an indicator device;

[0035] Figure 2 is a block diagram showing elements of the breathing apparatus and the indicator device of Figure 1 ;

[0036] Figure 3A is a perspective view of an example of a second stage regulator including the indicator device;

[0037] Figure 3B is a side view of the second stage regulator of Figure 3 A;

[0038] Figure 3C is a front view of the second stage regulator of Figure 3A;

[0039] Figure 3D is a section view of the second stage regulator at section A- A of Figure 3C;

[0040] Figure 4A is a perspective view of an example of a replacement cover part including the indicator device;

[0041] Figure 4B is a top view of the replacement cover part of Figure 4A;

[0042] Figure 5 is a perspective view of another example of an indicator device for use with a second stage regulator;

[0043] Figure 6 is a block diagram showing elements of another example of an indicator device. Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiments

[0044] An example of an indicator device 100 for use with a breathing apparatus 10 will now be described with reference to Figures 1 and 2.

[0045] In the embodiment depicted in Figure 1, the indicator device 100 is configured for use with a breathing apparatus 10 in the form of a self-contained underwater breathing apparatus (SCUBA) for use in underwater diving applications. However, it should be understood that other embodiments of the indicator device 100 may be provided for other types of breathing apparatus 10, such as self-contained breathing apparatus for use by rescue workers, firefighters, underground miners, or the like.

[0046] The breathing apparatus 10 generally includes a pressurised breathing gas supply 11, a pressure regulator 12, and a breathing component 13 that is positioned on a face of a user 1 in use. The pressurised breathing gas supply 11 may be a gas cylinder filled with a compressed air or any other suitable breathing gas, although this is not essential and the indicator device 100 may be configured for use with other types of pressurised breathing gas supplies 11. The pressure regulator 12 may include any suitable arrangement for reducing the pressurized breathing gas to ambient pressure and delivering it to the user via the breathing component 13.

[0047] The breathing component 13 may be in the form of a mouthpiece positioned in the mouth of the user, a mouth mask positioned over the mouth of the user, a face mask positioned over the face of the user, or a full face helmet positioned over the entire head of the user. In some examples, the breathing component 13 may include a portion of the pressure regulator 12 of the breathing apparatus 10. For instance, in the embodiment of Figure 1, the breathing component 13 is in the form of a mouthpiece including a second stage regulator of the breathing apparatus 10.

[0048] In any case, the breathing component 13 delivers the breathing gas to the diver's mouth (and optionally the diver's nose) to allow the diver to breathe the breathing gas supplied from the pressurised breathing gas supply 11 after it has been reduced to ambient pressure by the regulator 12. [0049] With regard to Figure 2, the indicator device 100 includes one or more sensors 110 for generating one or more sensor signals indicative of a condition of the breathing apparatus 10 and an indicator panel 130 including one or more illuminated indicators 131. As shown in Figure 1, the indicator panel 130 is attached to the breathing component 13 so that each of the one or more illuminated indicators can emit light away from the face of the user 1 in use. It is noted that other elements of the indicator device 100 may also be attached to the breathing component 13 but this is not essential. The indicator device 100 further includes a controller 120 configured to selectively activate the one or more illuminated indicators based on the one or more sensor signals, to thereby provide an indication of the condition of the breathing apparatus 10 to any other individual looking towards the face of the user.

[0050] It will be appreciated that attaching the indicator panel 130 to the breathing component 13 to allow light to be emitted away from the face of the user as discussed above allows the indicator device 100 to provide an effective way of communicating indications of the condition of the user's breathing apparatus 10 to another individual whenever the user and the other individual face one another.

[0051] In the context of underwater diving applications, a common safety protocol when diving with other divers using a buddy system is for dive buddies to make regular eye contact with one another, for example after every three to five breaths. Similar safety protocols will typically be implemented in dive instruction scenarios. Since the indicator panel 130 emits light away from the user's face, this emitted light will be readily visible to the user's dive buddy or dive instructor whenever eye contact is made. Accordingly, the indicator device 100 facilitates regular checks of the condition of the user's breathing apparatus 10 without requiring any new safety protocols or any specific action by the user.

[0052] Furthermore, by attaching the indicator panel 130 to the breathing component 13, this avoids the need for the user to carry additional equipment separate from the breathing apparatus to allow the condition indications to be communicated to other individuals. Accordingly, the user will not need to alter their pre-dive procedure to use the indicator device 100, which will help to ensure it does not become a burden to use.

[0053] Optional features of embodiments of the indicator device 100 will now be described. [0054] In some embodiments, the indicator device 100 may be provided as a part of the breathing component 13. This may involve packaging the elements of the indicator device 100 including the sensor(s) 110, controller 120 and indicator panel 130 together with other elements of the breathing component 13. In some examples, the entire breathing component 13 may be custom designed to incorporate the indicator device 100, whilst in other examples, the indicator device 100 may be designed for integration with a commercially available breathing component 13.

[0055] An example of a breathing component 13 in the form of a second stage regulator 300 incorporating the indicator device 100 is shown in Figures 3 A to 3D. In this example, the second stage regulator 300 includes a main housing part 310 and a cover part 320.

[0056] The housing part 310 may include a mouthpiece portion 311 for allowing the second stage regulator 300 to be held in the user's mouth and for delivery of the breathing gas to the user, along with a gas input connector 312 for allowing the breathing gas to be supplied into the second stage regulator 300. The housing part 310 will typically house a valve arrangement (not shown) for regulating the final breathing gas pressure as the user breathes through the mouthpiece portion 311. The valve arrangement may be provided using any conventional design, but for the purpose of this example it will be assumed that the valve arrangement includes a diaphragm. As shown, the housing part 310 may include other elements typically provided in second stage regulators, such as a breathing resistance knob 340 and a gas exhaust outlet 350.

[0057] In this example, the housing part 310 has an opening that opposes the mouthpiece portion 311 and thus faces away from the face of the user in use, and the indicator device 100 is provided in the cover part 320 for covering the opening. The elements of the indicator device 100 may thus be incorporated into the cover part 320, which is attached to the housing part 310 opposite to the mouthpiece portion 311. The indicator panel 130 is provided on an exterior region of the cover part 320 so that the illuminated indicators 131 can emit light away from the face of the user.

[0058] It should be understood that whilst the second stage regulator 300 in this example has been configured to provide the indicator device 100 integrally with its cover part 320, in other examples, the indicator device 100 may be provided in a replacement cover part configured to replace an original cover part of a conventional second stage regulator.

[0059] In any event, further operational details of the indicator device 100 will now be described, still with regard to the example of Figures 3 A to 3D.

[0060] In some examples, the one or more sensors 110 of the indicator device 100 may include a pressure sensor for detecting a breathing gas pressure and generating a pressure signal. Typically, the pressure sensor will be provided in a stage of the regulator 12, although the pressure sensor may be located in any suitable position along the breathing gas flow path between the pressured gas supply 11 and the breathing component 13.

[0061] In the example where the indicator device 100 is provided in the second stage breathing regulator 300, the pressure sensor may be positioned to detect a breathing gas pressure inside the housing part 310 or in a hose connected to a gas input connector 312. Preferably the pressure sensor will be packaged together with the other elements of the indicator device 100, such as by integrating the pressure sensor into the cover part 320. However, this is not essential and in some examples the pressure sensor may be provided in a separate location, such as in a first stage regulator of the breathing apparatus 10, and the pressure signal may be transmitted from the pressure sensor to the controller 120 by a suitable wired or wireless connection.

[0062] In embodiments having a pressure sensor as discussed above, the one or more illuminated indicators 131 may include one or more gas supply level indicators 331, 332, 333, 334, 335, as identified in Figure 3C. The controller 120 may thus be configured to determine an estimated gas supply level based on the pressure signal, and selectively activate the gas supply level indicators 331, 332, 333, 334, 335 to thereby provide an indication of the estimated gas supply level.

[0063] In this example, the gas supply level indicators 331, 332, 333, 334, 335 include a plurality of illuminated indicator segments corresponding to respective portions of a maximum gas supply level. In this case, there are five illuminated indicator segments providing the gas supply level indicators 331, 332, 333, 334, 335, which each represent 20% of the maximum gas supply level. The controller 120 is configured to selectively activate a number of the illuminated indicator segments based on a comparison between the estimated gas supply level and the maximum gas supply level. For example, when the estimated gas supply level determined based on the pressure signal falls in the range of 60% to 80%, four of the five illuminated indicator segments may be activated.

[0064] In this example, the five illuminated indicator segments are arranged in a circular pattern. Accordingly, when the gas supply level is near full, the gas supply level indicators 331, 332, 333, 334, 335 will all be activated so that the circular pattern will appear full, and as the gas supply level drops the illuminated indicator segments will be progressively deactivated.

[0065] In any event, it will be appreciated that the gas supply level indicators 331, 332, 333, 334, 335 will allow another individual to easily monitor the gas supply level of the user by periodically looking towards the face of the user.

[0066] In preferred embodiments, the controller may be configured to determine whether the estimated gas supply level is critically low, and if this is the case, selectively activate the gas supply level indicators 331, 332, 333, 334, 335 to thereby provide a low gas supply level warning. The low gas supply level warning may include causing the gas supply level indicators 331, 332, 333, 334, 335 to flash periodically or causing the one or more gas supply level indicators 331, 332, 333, 334, 335 to emit light in a warning colour that is different to a colour that is ordinarily emitted by the gas supply level indicators 331, 332, 333, 334, 335. In either case, by changing the operation of the gas supply level indicators 331, 332, 333, 334, 335 in the event of a critically low gas supply level, this will help to quickly attract the attention of another individual and ensure they can take action to assist the user if required.

[0067] In some examples, the one or more sensors 110 of the indicator device 100 may additionally or alternatively include a breathing sensor for detecting breathing of the user and generating a breathing signal. The one or more illuminated indicators 131 of the indicator panel 130 may include one or more breathing indicators 336, and the controller 120 may be configured to selectively activate the one or more breathing indicators 336 based on the breathing signal to thereby provide an indication of the breathing of the user. [0068] In the example of Figures 3 A to 3D, a single breathing indicator 336 is provided in a central position inside the circular pattern of illuminated indicator segments providing the gas supply level indicators 331, 332, 333, 334, 335. However, this is not essential and any suitable arrangement of the illuminated indicators may be used.

[0069] In any event, it will be appreciated that the breathing indicator 336 may be used to efficiently communicate the user's breathing rate to other individuals such as a dive buddy or dive instructor, at a glance. Visualisation of the user's breathing rate can provide valuable insight into the user's current physiological or mental state, which may not be effectively obtained under conventional safety protocols. For example, an elevated breathing rate could indicate that the user is experiencing fear or anxiety, and another individual observing this condition could take actions to try to calm the user. It will be appreciated that a prolonged high rate of breathing may rapidly consume the user's pressurised breathing gas supply 10, and may require alteration of a dive plan to allow the user to safely end the dive before the supply is exhausted.

[0070] In some implementations, the controller 120 may be configured to vary an intensity of light emitted by the breathing indicator 336 based on the breathing signal. For example, depending on the type of breathing sensor used, the breathing signal may vary according to the flow of the breathing gas as the user inhales and exhales, and the intensity of the light may be varied accordingly.

[0071] In other examples, the controller may be configured to determine a breathing phase of the user based on the breathing signal and selectively activate the breathing indicator 336 for the determined breathing phase. This may involve simple activation and deactivation of the breathing indicator, or may involve more sophisticated control strategies, such as ramping the intensity of light up during a determined inhalation breathing phase and ramping the intensity of light down during a determined exhalation breathing phase.

[0072] The breathing sensor may take different forms. In some examples, the breathing signal may be generated using the same pressure sensor as used for generating the pressure signal; however it will generally be preferred to provide a dedicated breathing sensor. [0073] In one implementation, the breathing sensor may be configured to detect breathing of the user by detecting a flow rate of the breathing gas. In these cases, the breathing sensor may be provided in the form of a flow meter. The flow meter may be positioned in any suitable location within the breathing apparatus 10 in which the breathing gas flow varies during breathing of the user. However, it will usually be preferable to provide the flow meter in the breathing component 13 to simplify the design of the indicator device 100.

[0074] In an alternative implementation, the breathing sensor may be configured to detect breathing of the user by detecting movement of a part of the breathing component 13 corresponding to a breathing action of the user. For example, in the example of Figures 3 A to 3D where the indicator device is incorporated into the cover part 320 of a second stage regulator 300, the breathing sensor may detect movement of a part of a valve arrangement housed inside the housing part 310. In one specific example, the breathing sensor may include a switch configured to be triggered by movement of a diaphragm of the second stage regulator 300.

[0075] In any event, it will be appreciated that there are a range of suitable techniques for generating a suitable breathing signal indicative of a user's breathing, to facilitate selective activation of the breathing indicator 336 by the controller 120.

[0076] In some examples, illuminated indicators 131 may be selectively activated by the controller 120 to indicate other breathing parameters, such as depth of the user's breathing. For example, this may be determined by analysing the breathing signal generated by a flow rate based breathing sensor. In one possible implementation, the controller 130 may be configured to integrate the breathing sensor signal for an inhalation phase and activate the breathing indicator 336 so that the intensity of the emitted light is based on the integrated breathing sensor signal.

[0077] In other examples, the indicator device 130 may be further configured to detect a condition of the user, by providing sensors for sensing one or more of a user's pulse, a user's temperature, or perspiration of the user's skin. Such sensors may be integrated with the breathing component 13 in a location that allows them to engage with the user's skin, such as on the user's face. [0078] In some examples, illuminated indicators 131 may be used to indicate other parameters such as a current depth, a stage of a dive plan, rate of descent/ascent, or any other information that may be desirable for another individual to see. This may be achieved using additional illuminated indicators 131 or by illuminating existing illuminated indicators 131 with different colours or in different patterns.

[0079] In some practical implementations of the indicator device 100, the indicator panel 130 may include one or more light emitting devices, such as light emitting diodes (LEDs), positioned behind an external fascia formed from a translucent material, to thereby provide the one or more illuminated indicators 131. Multiple LEDs may be used to illuminate a single illuminated indicator 131 if needed to provide suitable luminosity or to more evenly cover an area of the illuminated indicator 131. The LEDs may be provided in a single colour, or in multiple colours which may be used to denote different outputs.

[0080] An electrical power source such as a battery may be provided for supplying electrical power to the controller 120 and light emitting devices, and suitable techniques for configuring these electrical elements will be readily apparent to the skilled person.

[0081] In one example, a generator may be provided for converting kinetic energy from a flow of breathing gas into electrical energy for powering at least the light emitting devices. For instance, a small turbine generator could be positioned in the breathing gas flow part, such as in or near the gas input connector 312. This could allow the breathing rate indicator functionality to be implemented by simply allowing the breathing indicator 336 to be activated whenever electrical energy is being supplied by the turbine generator. In this case, the turbine generator itself may fulfil the role of the breathing sensor.

[0082] Whilst suitable controller 120 functionality may be provided in some simple cases using discrete circuit elements, the controller will typically be provided using one or more integrated circuits. Preferably, the controller 120 will include an electronic processor such as a microprocessor or microcontroller configured to execute a control program stored in a memory, for providing the required functionality for processing the sensor signals and selectively activating the indicators. Such an arrangement allows flexibility in the operating parameters and in some examples can facilitate reprogramming of the controller 120 to operate using different pressure signals or indicator parameters, for instance. In any case, the controller 120 will typically be provided as an electronic controller capable of receiving electronic input signal(s) and providing electronic output signal(s).

[0083] Functional elements of an example of the indicator device 100 for implementing the above functionalities will now be described with regard to Figure 6. In this example, the sensors 110 include a pressure sensor 611 and a breathing sensor 612 as described above. The pressure sensor 611 and the breathing sensor 612 are each connected to the controller 120, which includes a processor and a memory. In this case, the controller 120 is connected to the indicator panel 130 via a switching circuit 640. A battery 650 provides electrical power to the controller 120 and the switching circuit 640, for enabling the selective activation of illuminated indicators 131 of the indicator panel 130 based on the senor signals. In this example, the illuminated indicators 131 include the gas supply level indicators 331, 332, 333, 334, 335 and the breathing indicator 336 as described above.

[0084] The controller 120 may optionally be further adapted to store sensor data indicative of the sensor signals from the sensors 110 in the memory 622. This can allow the controller 120 to perform more sophisticated analysis of the sensor signals in use. For example, the controller 120 may be able to analyse a time history of the pressure signal from the pressure sensor 611 to determine how quickly the gas supply is being consumed and estimate a remaining gas supply duration. In another example, the controller 120 may be configured to monitor the user's breathing rate and determine whether this has exceeded a predetermined baseline breathing rate for a predetermined duration, in which case the user may be consuming excessive amounts of breathing gas. In this case the controller 120 may cause a warning indication to be provided by the indicator panel 130.

[0085] The stored sensor data may also be made available for later retrieval and analysis, for example after a dive is completed. A communications interface 660 may optionally be provided for allowing the controller 120 to communicate with another electronic processing device such as a computer or smartphone. The communications interface 660 will preferably utilise a wireless communications protocol such as Bluetooth or Wi-Fi to allow communications without the need for providing a wired connection port which could act as a water ingress point if not adequately sealed. However, the communications interface 660 may utilise any suitable wired connection (with appropriate sealing if intended for underwater use).

[0086] In some examples, the indicator device 100 may provide a capability for the user to upload planning data and have this stored in the memory 622 of the controller 120. Typically, the planning data will be uploaded before use of the breathing apparatus 10, such as before a dive, in which case the planning data may be indicative of a dive plan. The dive plan may include a time-based schedule of the planned depths and gas supply consumption for the dive. Such a dive plan may be used by the controller 120 of the indicator device 100 to allow monitoring of the user's compliance with the dive plan and activation of warning indicators if a deviation from the dive plan may be needed for safety reasons. For example, the controller 120 may be configured to compare the estimated gas supply level against a predicted level from the dive plan and to determine whether the gas supply consumption has been excessive compared to the dive plan. In this case, the controller 120 may cause a warning indication to be provided by activating one or more of the illuminated indicators 131. This may involve illuminating the illuminated indicators 131 using a different colour or pattern to distinguish over normal operation of the illuminated indicators 131.

[0087] In view of the above, it will be appreciated that the indicator device 100 may be provided as part of an advanced second stage scuba regulator 300 which provides a visual output of diver data to aid the completion of crucial scuba protocols. The regulator displays crucial information including breathing gas supply pressure and breath patterns, allowing dive buddies to streamline the communication and maximise the safety elements. This design solution has visual readouts on the second stage regulator 300 which is located in the mouth of the diver and is visible to anyone looking at them. A current procedure for diver safety is for buddies to make eye contact after 3 to 5 breaths, and the design leverages this existing procedure by increasing the amount of information available to the divers for the same action. The readouts will depict firstly the tank pressure which will update according to the descending air level in the tank. Secondary to this is the diver breathing rate output which pulsates in unison with the divers breathing which directly correlates to diver wellbeing. These two outputs will allow critical information to be displayed at all times in an easily digestible format, increasing diver communication and ultimately enhancing the experience of scuba diving.

[0088] As mentioned above, although the example of Figures 3 A to 3D includes the indicator device 100 provided as part of a custom designed second stage regulator 300, other embodiments of the indicator device 100 may provide this as a cover part that can replace an original cover part of a standard second stage regulator. An example of such a replacement cover part 400 is shown in Figures 4 A to 4D.

[0089] The indicator device 100 may be incorporated into the replacement cover part 400 in a generally similar manner as described above, with the indicator panel 130 provided on an exterior region of the replacement cover part 320 so that the illuminated indicators 131 can emit light away from the face of the user. However, in this case, the replacement cover part 400 includes attachment members 410 for allowing it to be attached to the housing of a standard second stage regulator. The attachment members 410 are designed to engage with protrusions on the standard second stage regulator corresponding to a gas input connector on one side and a breathing resistance knob on the other side.

[0090] Another embodiment of an indicator device 500 for use with a standard second stage regulator 510 is shown in Figure 5. In this case, the indicator device 500 does not replace a cover part 511 of the second stage regulator 510, but instead attached to the second stage regulator 510 at its gas input connector 512. In particular, the indicator device 500 includes an in line connector 540 that is connected between a hose 501 and a gas input connector 512 of the second stage regulator 510. This allows a pressure sensor and a breathing rate sensor of the indicator device 500 to tap into the flow of breathing gas into the second stage regulator 510, by providing these in line with the hose 501 (which is connected to a gas input connector 512). It will be appreciated that this can simplify the positioning of the sensors 110 relative to the indicator device 500.

[0091] The indicator device 500 is configured so that its indicator panel 130 is positioned in front of the original cover part 511 of the second stage regulator 510. In this case, the indicator panel 130 includes gas supply level indicators 531, 532, 533, 534, 535 arranged in a straight line in a central location and breathing indicator 536 surrounding these in an elongated ring configuration. This embodiment therefore exemplifies an alternative arrangement of the illuminated indicators 131, although it will be appreciated that any suitable indication of the illuminated indicators 131 may be used.

[0092] It will be appreciated that connecting the indicator device 500 using an in line connector 540 in the manner described above can allow a standard connection type to be used for a range of off-the-shelf second stage regulators 510. This can remove the need to design the indicator device 500 to adapt to particular second stage regulator 510 designs, as may be required in the above mentioned example where the indicator device 100 was incorporated in a replacement cover part 400.

[0093] In summary, the embodiments of the indicator device provide a capability for the condition of a user's breathing apparatus, such as breathing gas supply level and/or breathing rate, to be visually communicated to other individuals. This visual communication is achieved using an indicator panel positioned on the user's face, allowing this to readily observed whenever the used and any other individuals make eye contact, thereby providing important feedback to a dive buddy or dive instructor at a glance without requiring the user to follow any new safety protocols.

[0094] The indicator device may be conveniently integrated with a second stage regulator of a scuba set such that the user will not need to carry additional equipment, and in some embodiments a standard second stage regulator may be retrofitted with a suitable indicator device.

[0095] Throughout this specification and claims which follow, unless the context requires otherwise, the word "comprise", and variations such as "comprises" or "comprising", will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated integer or group of integers or steps but not the exclusion of any other integer or group of integers.

[0096] Persons skilled in the art will appreciate that numerous variations and modifications will become apparent. All such variations and modifications which become apparent to persons skilled in the art, should be considered to fall within the spirit and scope that the invention broadly appearing before described.

Claims

THE CLAIMS DEFINING THE INVENTION ARE AS FOLLOWS:

1) An indicator device for use with a breathing apparatus including a pressurised breathing gas supply, a pressure regulator, and a breathing component that is positioned on a face of a user in use, wherein the indicator device includes:

b) an indicator panel including one or more illuminated indicators, the indicator panel being attached to the breathing component so that each of the one or more illuminated indicators can emit light away from the face of the user in use; and,

c) a controller configured to selectively activate the one or more illuminated indicators based on the one or more sensor signals, to thereby provide an indication of the condition of the breathing apparatus to any other individual looking towards the face of the user.

2) An indicator device according to claim 1, wherein the breathing component includes one of:

a) a mouthpiece;

b) a mouth mask;

c) a face mask; and,

d) a full face helmet.

3) An indicator device according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the breathing component includes a portion of the pressure regulator of the breathing apparatus.

4) An indicator device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the indicator device is provided as a part of the breathing component.

5) An indicator device according to claim 4, wherein the breathing component includes a housing part having an opening facing away from the face of the user, and the indicator device is provided in the form of a cover part for covering the opening.

6) An indicator device according to claim 5, wherein the indicator device is configured to replace an original cover part of the breathing component.

7) An indicator device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the one or more sensors includes a pressure sensor for detecting a breathing gas pressure and generating a pressure signal. 8) An indicator device according to claim 7, wherein the one or more illuminated indicators includes one or more gas supply level indicators, and the controller is configured to: a) determine an estimated gas supply level based on the pressure signal; and,

b) selectively activate the one or more gas supply level indicators to thereby provide an indication of the estimated gas supply level.

9) An indicator device according to claim 8, wherein the one or more gas supply level indicators include a plurality of illuminated indicator segments corresponding to respective portions of a maximum gas supply level, and the controller is configured to selectively activate a number of the illuminated indicator segments based on a comparison between the estimated gas supply level and the maximum gas supply level.

10) An indicator device according to claim 9, wherein the plurality of illuminated indicator segments is arranged in a circular pattern.

11) An indicator device according to any one of claims 8 to 10, wherein the controller is configured to:

a) determine whether the estimated gas supply level is critically low; and,

b) selectively activate the one or more gas supply level indicators to thereby provide a low gas supply level warning.

12) An indicator device according to claim 11, wherein the low gas supply level warning includes one of:

a) causing the one or more gas supply level indicators to flash periodically; and, b) causing the one or more gas supply level indicators to emit light in a warning colour that is different to a colour that is ordinarily emitted by the one or more gas supply level indicators.

13) An indicator device according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the one or more sensors includes a breathing sensor for detecting breathing of the user and generating a breathing signal.

14) An indicator device according to claim 13, wherein the one or more illuminated indicators includes one or more breathing indicators, and the controller is configured to selectively activate the one or more breathing indicators based on the breathing signal to thereby provide an indication of the breathing of the user. 15) An indicator device according to claim 14, wherein the controller is configured to vary an intensity of light emitted by the one or more breathing indicators based on the breathing signal.

16) An indicator device according to claim 14, wherein the controller is configured to:

17) An indicator device according to any one of claims 13 to 16, wherein the breathing sensor is configured to detect breathing of the user by detecting a flow rate of the breathing gas.

18) An indicator device according to claim 16, wherein the breathing sensor is a flow meter.

19) An indicator device according to any one of claims 13 to 16, wherein the breathing sensor is configured to detect breathing of the user by detecting movement of a part of the breathing component corresponding to a breathing action of the user.

20) An indicator device according to claim 16, wherein the breathing sensor includes a switch configured to be triggered by movement of a diaphragm of a pressure regulator of the breathing component.

21) An indicator device according to any one of claims 1 to 20, wherein the indicator panel includes one or more light emitting devices positioned behind an external fascia formed from a translucent material to thereby provide the one or more illuminated indicators.

22) An indicator device according to any one of claim 1 to 21, wherein the indicator device is connected between a hose and a gas input connector of the breathing component.

23) A breathing component of a breathing apparatus including a pressurised breathing gas supply and one or more pressure regulators, the breathing component being configured for being positioned on a face of a user and including an indicator device according to any one of the claims 1 to 22.

24) A breathing component according to claim 23, wherein the breathing component includes a second stage regulator of the breathing apparatus.