Breathing Apparatus Back Plate With Shock-Absorbing Valve Mount
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing breathing apparatuses, particularly SCBAs, face issues with damage and misalignment of critical components due to impact, and existing flexible connections introduce additional components and maintenance needs.
Innovation Solution
A resiliently deformable element connects the gas cylinder and pressure reduction valve, allowing for shock absorption and easier alignment, using materials like elastomeric materials to facilitate a robust and flexible mounting system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a rigid connection is used between the gas cylinder and pressure reduction valve, then the alignment precision is improved, but the shock resistance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a flexible pneumatic connection (flying lead) with a flexible membrane structure to connect the gas cylinder and pressure reduction valve. This flexible connection allows relative movement between components during impact events, absorbing shock while maintaining pneumatic sealing. The flexible membrane enables the system to tolerate misalignment and movement without compromising the integrity of the connection or requiring high manufacturing precision.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a flexible pneumatic connection is used between the gas cylinder and pressure reduction valve, then the shock resistance is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the flexible pneumatic connection directly into the back plate structure, merging the shock-absorbing function with the mounting structure. The flying lead is embedded within channels or recesses of the back plate, eliminating the need for separate flexible connection components. This integration reduces the overall number of parts while maintaining the flexible, shock-resistant connection between the gas cylinder and pressure reduction valve.
3Strength
If the pressure reduction valve is rigidly mounted to the back plate, then the structural strength is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic mounting system where the pressure reduction valve can move relative to the back plate through the flexible pneumatic connection. This dynamic arrangement allows the valve to self-align during assembly and operation, accommodating variations in positioning while maintaining secure attachment. The flexible connection provides both structural support and movement capability, eliminating the need for precise rigid alignment.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution enhances shock absorption, reduces damage to components, and simplifies assembly by allowing for easier alignment and maintenance of the pressure reduction valve.
Implementation Method 1
a resiliently deformable element configured to support the pressure reduction valve on the back plate frame so as to permit relative movement between the pressure reduction valve and the back plate frame
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
Figure 4A
AI summary
A back plate (101, 201,...) for a breathing apparatus (100, 200,...) comprises a back plate frame (104, 204,...) for supporting a cylinder (102, 202,...) of breathable gas; and a pressure reduction valve (106, 206,...) configured to receive breathing gas from the cylinder (101, 201) of breathable gas; and a resiliently deformable element (150, 250,...) configured to support the pressure reduction valve (106, 206) on the back plate frame (104, 204) so as to permit relative movement between the pressure reduction valve (106, 206) and the back plate frame (104, 204).