Abstract: 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.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: An easily released belt fastener can be constructed utilizing an elongated body having an opening extending through the body intermediate the ends of the body. A clamping bar is movably mounted on the body so as to extend across the opening adjacent to and parallel to a clamping surface. This clamping bar is mounted in such a manner that it is capable of being moved between a clamping position in which it is spaced from the clamping surface and a non-clamping position in which it is also parallel to the clamping surface but is located further from the clamping surface than in the clamping position. The body is formed so that an end of it may be secured in an operative position in which it can be rotated about an axis which is substantially parallel with the clamping surface. A belt may be inserted through the opening around the clamping bar and between this bar and the clamping surface then back underneath the body along itself.