Configurable Demand Regulator for Left- or Right-Handed SCBA Use
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing demand regulators in self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) systems are not user-friendly for left- and right-handed individuals, as the breathing gas hose and bypass valve positions are fixed, making it difficult for users to easily grasp and control them with their dominant hand.
Innovation Solution
A demand regulator with two identical connector points positioned on opposite sides, allowing the breathing gas hose and bypass valve to be connected in different configurations, enabling customization based on user preference and hand dominance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the breathing gas hose connector is positioned on one side of the demand regulator, then the hose routing is simplified, but users with different hand dominances cannot easily grasp the regulator without obstruction
Solution Approach 1:
The demand regulator is segmented with separate connector points for the breathing gas hose and bypass valve, allowing independent positioning of each connection. This segmentation enables the hose to be connected at one location while the bypass valve is positioned at another, optimizing both routing simplicity and ease of operation for users with different hand dominances.
Solution Approach 2:
The demand regulator incorporates adjustable or reconfigurable connector positions, allowing the hose and bypass valve connections to be dynamically arranged based on user preference and hand dominance. This dynamic configuration capability enables right-handed users to have the hose on the left side while bypass valve remains accessible, or vice versa for left-handed users.
2Ease of manufacture
If the bypass valve is positioned in a fixed position on the demand regulator, then the manufacturing is simplified, but users with different hand dominances cannot easily control the valve
Solution Approach 1:
The bypass valve position is made adjustable or reconfigurable on the demand regulator, allowing it to be dynamically positioned based on the user's hand dominance. This dynamic positioning maintains manufacturing simplicity through a standardized base design while enabling easy operation for both right-handed and left-handed users through optional position adjustments.
Solution Approach 2:
The position parameter of the bypass valve is made variable, allowing it to be changed between different locations on the demand regulator body. This parameter change capability enables optimization of valve accessibility for users with different hand dominances while maintaining a simple standardized manufacturing process for the base regulator design.
3Device complexity
If the demand regulator is designed with a single fixed configuration, then the design is simplified, but it cannot adapt to different user preferences and hand dominances
Solution Approach 1:
The demand regulator incorporates dynamic or reconfigurable features that allow users to adjust the positions of hose and bypass valve connections according to their hand dominance and preferences. This dynamic adaptability is achieved through adjustable connectors or reconfigurable mounting mechanisms that maintain a relatively simple base design while providing customization capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The demand regulator is designed with multi-functional connector points that can accommodate different configurations for hose and bypass valve connections. This universal design approach allows a single regulator model to serve users with different hand dominances and preferences by enabling multiple valid configurations without requiring multiple specialized device designs.
Data Source
AI summary
There is disclosed a demand regulator for a breathing apparatus comprising: a first connector point; and a second connector point, wherein the first connector point and the second connector point are each configured to connect to a universal connector. Also disclosed is a breathing apparatus comprising a demand regulator or a demand regulator system.