Demand Regulator Layout for Left- or Right-Handed Hose Routing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing demand regulators in self-contained breathing apparatuses are not user-friendly for left- and right-handed individuals due to fixed positioning of breathing gas connectors and bypass valves, which can obstruct the dominant hand's grasp and control.
Innovation Solution
A demand regulator with two interchangeable connector points and universal connectors, allowing the breathing gas delivery hose and bypass valve to be routed on either side of the user's body, enabling customization based on hand dominance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a single fixed breathing gas input connector is used on the demand regulator, then the device structure is simple, but left-handed and right-handed users cannot easily access the connector and bypass valve with their dominant hand
Solution Approach 1:
The demand regulator is equipped with multiple connector points (at least two) that can all connect to universal connectors, allowing the breathing gas delivery hose to be routed on either the left or right side of the user's body. This multi-functionality enables both left-handed and right-handed users to access the connector and bypass valve with their dominant hand, resolving the accessibility issue without requiring different devices for different users.
2Ease of operation
If the breathing gas delivery hose is routed around one fixed side of the user, then the hose routing is simple, but the dominant hand of left- or right-handed users may be obstructed
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from a static, fixed hose routing to a dynamic, adjustable configuration. Users can change the hose routing side by disconnecting and reconnecting the universal connector to different connector points on the demand regulator. This dynamic adaptability allows left-handed users to route the hose on the left side and right-handed users to route it on the right side, ensuring the dominant hand can easily grasp and control the bypass valve without obstruction.
Data Source
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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.