Flattened SCBA Tank with Segmented Bladders for Firefighter Mobility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) tanks are cylindrical, protruding from the back of firefighters, which can be disadvantageous in terms of comfort and mobility.
Innovation Solution
A protective coat system with a flattened, low-profile oxygen/air tank system featuring interconnected semi-cylindrical bladders and a releasible harness that securely attaches the tank to the coat, minimizing external hose exposure and providing a comfortable, secure fit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a cylindrical SCBA tank is used, then the tank can maintain structural strength, but it protrudes from the back of the firefighter reducing mobility and comfort
Solution Approach 1:
The tank is divided into two semi-cylindrical bladders that can be connected together. Each bladder can be independently manufactured and then joined to form the complete tank structure, allowing for a flattened profile while maintaining structural integrity through the connection between the two halves.
Solution Approach 2:
The two semi-cylindrical bladders are nested together to form the complete tank structure. When connected, they create a flattened tank profile that reduces protrusion while maintaining the volume and strength needed for SCBA functionality.
2Ease of manufacture
If a cylindrical tank is used, then manufacturing is straightforward, but the tank creates bulk and reduces firefighter comfort
Solution Approach 1:
The tank is segmented into two manufacturable bladder components that can be produced using standard manufacturing processes and then joined together. This segmentation allows for easier manufacturing of each individual bladder while achieving the desired flattened profile when connected.
Solution Approach 2:
The tank structure uses flexible bladder elements that can be manufactured as thin-walled components and then connected to form the complete tank. This approach allows for simplified manufacturing of each bladder while achieving the flattened profile needed for firefighter comfort.
3Ease of operation
If a flattened tank design is used, then mobility and comfort are improved, but the tank structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The flattened tank is achieved by segmenting the structure into two semi-cylindrical bladders that are connected together. This segmentation simplifies the overall design by using basic geometric shapes that are easy to manufacture and connect, rather than attempting to create a completely new complex flattened structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The tank structure uses composite construction with two bladder elements that work together to achieve the flattened profile. The connection between the bladders creates a composite structure that maintains structural integrity while achieving the desired shape for improved mobility and comfort.
Data Source
AI summary
A system is provided for a firefighter or other emergency worker and includes a protective coat and a self-contained breathing apparatus. The self-contained breathing apparatus includes a regulator connected by a high-pressure hose to a gas tank that is releasibly carried on the coat by shoulder straps and waist straps.