Breathing Apparatus Tank Alignment Bracket
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current self-contained breathing apparatuses (SCBAs) face challenges with variable tank sizes and geometries, leading to complex and costly connections, potential leakage risks, and user interface issues due to the need for multiple components and high-pressure seals, as well as difficulties in positioning and angling tanks correctly.
Innovation Solution
A carrier system with a plurality of differently configured brackets that position tanks at a predetermined angle and height relative to the backplate, using a dovetailed connector to maintain a consistent distance between the tank valve outlet and the connector, regardless of tank size, and a cover system to protect pneumatic and electronic components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple fastening components are used to position and attach pneumatic and electronic components, then the components can be securely attached, but the assembly and removal of these components becomes impeded
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple fastening components into a single integrated tank bracket assembly that attaches to the backplate. This single assembly includes the tank bracket, fastening mechanisms, and positioning features all integrated together, allowing the user to attach or remove the entire assembly in one operation rather than manipulating multiple separate fastening components.
Solution Approach 2:
The tank bracket assembly serves multiple functions simultaneously: it positions the tank, attaches pneumatic components, secures electronic components, and provides structural support. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate fastening components for each function, simplifying the assembly process while maintaining secure attachment of all components.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the first stage regulator assembly is made variable in position to adjust distance for different tank sizes, then compatibility with different tank sizes is improved, but the structural support and hose configuration become adversely impacted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the distance adjustment function from the first stage regulator assembly and relocates it to the tank bracket assembly. The tank bracket is designed with variable positioning features that accommodate different tank sizes and geometries, while the first stage regulator remains in a fixed, structurally supported position on the backplate.
Solution Approach 2:
The tank bracket assembly acts as an intermediary between the tank and the first stage regulator. It absorbs the variability in tank dimensions and maintains a consistent connection point for the regulator, eliminating the need for the regulator itself to be movable or adjustable.
3Adaptability or versatility
If an articulating tank connection is used to accommodate different size tanks, then the connection can be positioned properly, but the design complexity and cost increase along with leakage risks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the tank connection system into a fixed articulating connection point on the backplate and a movable tank bracket assembly. The bracket assembly accommodates different tank sizes through its adjustable positioning mechanisms while maintaining a sealed connection at the fixed articulation point, reducing the number of high-pressure seals required.
4Adaptability or versatility
If various abutment geometries are used to contact the tank, then different tank geometries can be contacted, but the position control of tanks becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The tank bracket assembly incorporates multiple contact points with different local geometries designed for specific tank types. Each contact point has a specialized shape optimized for contacting a particular tank geometry, while all contact points work together within the bracket system to maintain precise and consistent tank positioning regardless of tank variation.
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 1C~1D
AI summary
A system includes a carrier system adapted to be worn by a user and to support at least one of a plurality of differently sized tanks of breathing gas, a bracket connector attached to the carrier system, and a plurality of brackets. The carrier system may, for example, be part of a breathing apparatus such as a self-contained breathing apparatus. Each of the plurality of brackets has a different configuration. Each of the plurality of brackets is attachable to an associated one of the plurality of differently sized tanks and to the bracket connector. For each one of the plurality of brackets, an assembly that includes the one of the plurality of brackets and the associated one of the plurality of differently sized tanks, when attached to the bracket connector, positions the associated one of the plurality of differently sized tanks in a predetermined manner relative to the carrier system.