U.S. Divers Company, Inc.

Daniel B Merrifield

The disclosure of this specification illustrates and teaches the use of a self contained breathing apparatus for attachment to a user's back and incorporates a plurality of tanks having a manifold between them that is common to all with a single filling block leading thereto, and a reserve system mounted at one end thereof. The reserve system comprises a poppet valve which signals a loss in pressure by closing, after which it can then be actuated to open it for supplying the remaining portion of the reserve breathing gas through the manifold. The system also has a first and second stage regulator to provide regulated breathing gas to a user. The first stage regulator incorporates a dynamically balanced piston which is supported by an O Ring or torroidal member that is deformed through its cross section to provide movement to the valving piston. The O Ring is eliptical through its cross section. First stage regulation is caused by the deformation of the eliptical cross sectioned O Ring, rather than substantial sliding thereof. At the same time the O Ring is implaced in juxtaposition to a ledge and formed so that upon overpressurization of the intermediate pressure zone such as through valve failure, the O Ring can provide pressure relief to the intermediate pressure system. This avoids inadvertent strains and failures of the downstream system, such as the conduits, hoses, and second stage regulator connected thereto. The entire system is encapsulated within a package or casing which can be opened along a parting line thereof and which is secured by over-center latches. The casing has a number of straps and support members attached thereto forming a harness that a user places around his torso.

Underwater diving system

The disclosure of this specification illustrates and teaches the use of a self contained breathing apparatus for attachment to a user's back and incorporates a plurality of tanks having a manifold between them that is common to all with a single filling block leading thereto, and a reserve system mounted at one end thereof. The reserve system comprises a poppet valve which signals a loss in pressure by closing, after which it can then be actuated to open it for supplying the remaining portion of the reserve breathing gas through the manifold. The system also has a first and second stage regulator to provide regulated breathing gas to a user. The first stage regulator incorporates a dynamically balanced piston which is supported by an O-ring that is deformed through its cross section to provide movement to the valving piston. The entire system is encapsulated within a package or casing which can be opened along a parting line thereof and which is secured by over-center latches. The casing has a number of straps and support members attached thereto forming a harness that a user places around his torso.

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Redondo Beach, CA, United States of America

Daniel B Merrifield