Regulator First Stage with Orthogonal Medium Pressure Outlets
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pressure regulators for two-stage underwater breathing apparatuses face limitations in hose arrangement due to the fixed configuration of medium pressure outlets, which reduces user comfort and system safety, especially in non-ideal diving conditions.
Innovation Solution
A regulator first stage with a monolithic body featuring medium pressure outlets arranged with axes parallel and orthogonal to the operating axis of the balance valve, allowing for a versatile hose arrangement and reduced interference, combined with a second stage that optimizes hose orientation to minimize length and prevent crossings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If medium pressure outlets are arranged with axes perpendicular to the operating axis of the balance valve (conventional configuration), then the regulator structure is simplified, but the hose arrangement options are limited and user comfort is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dimensionality change by transitioning from a conventional single-plane outlet arrangement (perpendicular to valve axis) to a multi-dimensional configuration where outlets are arranged in different spatial orientations including parallel to the valve operating axis. This creates multiple spatial dimensions for hose routing, dramatically increasing arrangement options without complicating the core valve mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The regulator body is segmented into distinct functional zones: the balance valve assembly area, the reduction chamber, and multiple outlet ports positioned at different locations and orientations. This segmentation allows each outlet to be independently positioned for optimal hose routing while maintaining the integrity of the pressure reduction function.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple medium pressure outlets are added for balancing jackets, then the functionality is improved, but the hose arrangement around the regulator and cylinder becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The regulator is designed with universal adaptability by providing multiple medium pressure outlets that can serve different functions: primary breathing, balancing jackets, and optional third stages. The outlets are positioned and oriented to accommodate various hose routing scenarios, making the same regulator body adaptable to different diving configurations without requiring additional components.
Solution Approach 2:
The hose arrangement system is made dynamic through the strategic positioning of outlets in multiple orientations. This allows the hose configuration to be dynamically adapted to different user needs, body positions, and equipment setups, rather than being fixed in a single rigid arrangement.
3Ease of operation
If outlets are arranged in fixed configurations, then manufacturing is simplified, but user comfort and safety in non-ideal conditions are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
Different regions of the regulator body are assigned different outlet orientations and positions tailored to specific functional requirements. For example, outlets on opposite faces are positioned to accommodate hoses routing in different directions around the user's body, while outlets on the same face are arranged to prevent hose crossings. This local optimization of outlet quality enhances user comfort without requiring complete redesign of the manufacturing process.
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 provides a compact and versatile regulator design that enhances user comfort and system safety by offering a wide range of hose arrangement options, improving operational convenience and reducing hose interference.
Implementation Method 1
a balance valve, that is influenced by the pressure of the external environment by a balance diaphragm that, by means of a suitable actuator, acts on said valve
Data Source
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AI summary
Regulator first stage for two-stage underwater breathing apparatuses, comprising a reduction chamber (601) communicating with high-pressure gas supply through a balance valve (5), that is influenced by the pressure of the external environment by a balance diaphragm (4) that, by means of a suitable actuator (105), acts on said valve (5), said reduction chamber (601) being provided with at least one or a plurality of medium pressure outlets, characterized in that the said plurality of medium pressure outlets (311) with their axes (30) parallel to the operating axis (50) of the balance valve (5). According to a further characteristic, in addition to said plurality of outlets with axes parallel to the operating axis (50) of the balance valve, at least one or a plurality of medium pressure outlets (611) with their axes (60) orthogonal to the operating axis (50) of the valve (5) are provided.