Abstract: An apparatus for providing oxygen-enriched air at a first pressure and at a second pressure, the second pressure being greater than the first pressure. The apparatus comprises, in combination, a pressure swing adsorption system and a pressure intensifier. The pressure swing adsorption system for enriching the oxygen content of air has a pressure of at least the first pressure. The pressure swing adsorption system is adapted to provide oxygen-enriched air to a first outlet at the first pressure and to provide oxygen-enriched air to a pressure intensifier at the first pressure. The pressure intensifier pressurizes the oxygen-enriched air and provides the oxygen-enriched air to a second outlet at the second pressure.

Abstract: A control system for sequentially communicating a source of pressurized fluid mixture to first and second beds of adsorption material to separate at least one component from the fluid mixture and produce a product fluid. A pressure transducer connected to a supply conduit develops a switching signal corresponding to a predetermined fluid pressure in the fluid mixture communicated to the first and second beds of adsorption material. An electronic controller responds to the switching signal to sequentially develop first and second electrical signals. The electronic controller allows the first and second electrical signals to overlap for a predetermined controlled time period. Valve mechanisms sequentially respond to the first and second electrical signal to prevent communication of the fluid mixture to one of the first and second chambers while allowing communication to the second chamber.

Abstract: A portable breathing apparatus for use in a noxious atmosphere includes a helmet that is closed except for a bottom opening that is provided with a neck seal to permit the helmet to be slipped over the head of the wearer while sealing the open bottom of the helmet to provide an airtight enclosure about the wearer's head. A backpack includes a high pressure oxygen cylinder, that is connected to a regulator valve through a pressure reducer; and a carbon dioxide scrubber, that receives expiration gas from the helmet through an exhaust breathing line which connects to a flexible reservoir which collects the majority of expired gases and which is provided with a relief valve to protect the bag and limit expiration resistance.

Abstract: In an aircraft breathing system a sensor assembly for monitoring the concentration of oxygen in a source of breathable fluid supplied to a recipient. The sensor assembly has a housing with a chamber therein connected by a conduit to the source of breathable fluid. A restricted orifice member in the conduit allows a sample of the breathable fluid to continually flow into the chamber while an exit port in the housing allows the sample of breathable fluid to flow to the surrounding environment. A sensor responsive to the partial pressure of oxygen is connected to the chamber. The sensor in response to the partial pressure of the oxygen produces an operational signal. The operational signal activates an indicator to provide the recipient with a reading of the concentration of oxygen in the breathable fluid. An aneroid fixed to the housing has a face that engages a seat surrounding the exit port.

Abstract: A method and system for supplying a person with breathable fluid in an irrespirable atmosphere. A package which is attached to a person holds a container having a valve which is activated upon removal of a protective cover. The valve allows a breathable fluid to flow at a variable rate to a supply conduit. The supply conduit is connected to a reservoir. An inhalation check valve connects the supply conduit to the person. Upon inhalation, the check valve will open and allow breathable fluid to flow from the supply conduit. Upon exhalation, the inhalation check valve closes and an exhalation check valve opens to permit the breathed air to flow through a filter where carbon dioxide is removed before returning to be mixed with breathable fluid in the supply conduit.