Underwater breathing apparatus

Abstract

A breathing apparatus for providing pressurized air to a swimmer. The breathing apparatus is based on a geometrically shaped structure that provides superior floatation characteristics in all sea conditions. The breathing apparatus includes a spherical shaped buoyant housing that is mounted above a half spherical shaped submersible housing. The buoyant housing provides a reservoir for pressurized air that is delivered to one or more swimmers by use of flexible air hoses. A battery powered air compressor and motor to produce the pressurized air is positioned within the submersible housing. An air intake for the air compressor receives air by a snorkel, the snorkel stores in a second position suitable for use as a handle while towing the apparatus on wheels. A rechargeable battery is positioned within the submersible housing to power the air compressor with cycling provided by use of a pressure switch. The rechargeable battery and air compressor operate as ballast within the submersible housing. The housings include bracket assemblies to provide handholds above and below the surface of the water.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The instant invention relates generally to the field of underwater breathing devices and in particular to a battery powered air compressor and motor housed in a combination pressure reserve tank providing a stable air delivery apparatus for swimmers.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Scuba diving provides a diver with the ability to breathe underwater for an extended period of time by use of independent breathing equipment. Scuba, which is an acronym for “self contained underwater breathing apparatus” requires the diver to carry a compressed air tank on their back while exploring or working underwater. Buoyancy of the breathing apparatus is regulated by the construction of the equipment and the salinity of the water. Further adjustment is by use of dive belts and a buoyancy compensator.

While buoyancy of scuba equipment may be compensated in the water, the weight and bulk size of all the gear limits scuba diving to more athletic individuals capable of carrying such a load. Known attempts to lessen this burden and allow others to enjoy spending time beneath the water, include the use of a swimmer tethered to a floatation device that is carrying the compressed air tanks used in scuba diving.

So as to minimize or eliminate the need for carrying compressed tanks, a portable air compressor is also known to be used. In such an application, an air compressor is powered by a self contained power source thereby eliminating the need for larger high pressure compressed air tank.

Unfortunately, the use of an air compressor may harm an individual if they are not properly operated or if water conditions are problematic. For instance, a gas powered engine is capable of operating an air compressor thereby providing pressurized air to one or more divers. The engine fuel, and air compressor is placed on a float that remains buoyant above the surface of the water. This equipment must remain close to the surface of the water to provide stability to the float, but be placed high enough to prevent damage from adverse sea conditions.

As with any internal combustion engine, the engine creates an exhaust, which under certain conditions, may be drawn into the air makeup to the swimmer. Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless gas that if consumed by the swimmer can quickly cause the swimmer to become disoriented or poisoned. A swimmer would have no warning of carbon monoxide poisoning as the air is drawn directly into the mouth, by passing the sense of smell. In addition, even if such devices are safe they are not designed for a salt-water environment and can quickly deteriorate.

Protection of a gasoline engine from a salt environment is difficult due to the common metals used in mass production which are known to rust quickly when exposed to a salt environment. In addition, because the diving takes place close to shore, the breathing apparatus is susceptible to wave action, and could be swamped or otherwise rendered unusable should the device be tipped over. A boat passing close to a floating breathing apparatus can easily create a wave that would cause such a device to be swamped or be sprayed with saltwater. Further, a gasoline powered engine cannot be easily cycled so the use of an air reservoir is not practical. However, without an air reservoir, loss of the engine operation can cause immediate loss of air leaving the diver to surface immediately. If the diver is fairly deep, surfacing very quickly can cause death.

Snorkeling involves substantially less sophistication than scuba diving. Unlike scuba diving, where the diver carries all equipment necessary, snorkeling requires the swimmer to stay near the surface as no air is supplied under pressure. In snorkeling, the swimmer has the ability to draw air directly from a snorkel tube while swimming not more than a couple of feet beneath the surface of the water. The area to be addressed is a hybrid area that takes advantages of both scuba diving and snorkeling. A scuba diver has the ability to dive over 100 feet beneath the surface of the water having to carry heavy tanks, whereas a snorkel swimmer can only dive a couple of feet beneath the water but is not encumbered by the carrying of compressed air tanks.

Electric driven portable diving devices have many known problems. Batteries, air compressors, and pressure tanks are heavy, bulky and often inefficient. The electric compressors are typically heavy and if they are exposed to salt water, subject to corrosion. Enclosing of an electric generator may protect it from corrosion but the enclosure traps heat which leads to substantial heat problems including early failure of the assembly.

Prior art shows pressure controls that vent off excess air pressure or turn the compressor on and off to diver demand, without charging adequate size air tanks. These methods are inefficient or require large compressors to supply adequate demand for peak inhale demands of one or more divers. The larger compressors required for these methods are heavy, expensive and less efficient than a smaller compressor with adequate reserve tank. Attempts have been made at cooling the cylinder, valve assembly and cylinder head to improve compressor output and efficiency. Also dramatic changes have been made in batteries and motors.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,919,631 discloses an underwater diving system which consists of a compressed air tank that is placed in a floating raft. The improvement to scuba conventional equipment being that the air tank is not attached to the diver. However, as with scuba diving there is a finite limit to the amount of time a diver can use a tank due to the quantity of air stored.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,297,545 discloses an underwater breathing device that employs a battery powered air compressor. This device allows a diver to swim a few feet beneath the surface of the water as the air compressor operates as a non-positive displacement compressor.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,327,849 discloses an underwater breathing apparatus employing battery powered air compressor mounted on top of a floatation device. With the compressor positioned above the surface of the water, it is susceptible to wave action. To maintain stability, the compressor is mounted as close to the surface of the water as practical, limiting the use of the apparatus to instances where wave action will not cause the apparatus to tip over or be swamped.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,924,416 is related to U.S. Pat. No. 5,327,849 wherein a container is partially submerged and used to house an air compressor. The housing for the air compressor has slots which allow water to enter the container for cooling purposes. This device employs an inflatable floatation tube to support a combination of two containers housing a compressor mounted in a lower container and a battery mounted in an upper container. The lower container is open allowing water to submerge the compressors.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,674,493 is an underwater breathing apparatus contained in a circular container having an outward projecting flange. A separate pressure tank can be coupled to the breathing apparatus to provide reserve air should an air compressor discontinue operation. When the apparatus is out off the water, handles may be attached to each end and the apparatus can be pulled by the handles allowing the container to roll like a barrel. This apparatus attempts to address stability by having a container that can roll in the waves. However, the use of the separate air tank that secures to the first housing like a train makes the apparatus more complex in operation. Further, barrel rolling a housing on dry land is not acceptable in most instances, especially across the surface of a boat deck, and could loosen the compressor fittings.

U.S. Pat. No. 3,400,680 is a floating device holding an air compressor for use in providing air to a diver. The compressor is located above a floatation device so as to keep the compressor above the surface of the water.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,832,013 discloses a portable underwater breathing apparatus, which consists of a gasoline engine for use in driving an air compressor. The engine is placed within a container having an inlet for the fresh air and exit port for exhaust gases. Despite the safety aspects incorporated into such a device, the operation requires a qualified person due to the amount of maintenance required for an internal combustion engine, and the risk of accident due to the place of fuel in a closed container.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,996,578 discloses an underwater breathing apparatus having a battery powered air compressor. This device is placed within a water tight compartment in a housing preferably worn by the swimmer. In operation the unit produces compressed air while the diver is in close proximity with the surface of the water. When the swimmer goes beneath the surface the compressor stops and the swimmer breathes the air from a storage reservoir through a regulator. The reservoir is designed to provide several minutes of air to the swimmer while under water.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,170,483 discloses a self contained diving unit that employs a compressed air tank connected by a flexible air tube to a snorkel/breathing regulator. This device includes an apparatus for operating a compressor for refilling a compressed air tank when the external air in tank is above the surface of the water and to allow interruption of the refilling of the compressed air tank when the external air supply is submerged.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,471,976 discloses an underwater breathing device which consists of a floating waterproof vessel having a battery operated air pump. The pump draws air through a vertical extension tube to the swimmer beneath the water. The device allows for extended breathing underwater but fails to provide a secure air source. This device is based upon a minimal capacity electric air pump with the purpose of avoiding a conventional rigid air storage tank. If the battery loses power then the diver is immediately shut off of air. Further, there are no means for stabilizing the vessel in the water making is susceptible to adverse wave action.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,193,530 discloses an underwater breathing apparatus based upon floating air tank that can be filled with either a manual or electric pump. The teaching limits the device to a finite air supply.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,986,267 discloses an underwater breathing apparatus employing a bag suspending from a donut shaped float. A compressed air diving tank is supported within the bag providing a diver with access to compressed air. A length of air hose allows the swimmer to move without carrying tanks.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,800,373 discloses a low pressure warning device for use by scuba divers capable of indicating when a low pressure condition is occurring from lack of air in the compressed air tank.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,832,916 discloses a method of verifying the functionality of a breathing apparatus. A test signal is generated and sent to at least one electronic component contained within the breathing apparatus. Response is compared to a predetermined response corresponding to a proper functioning of the electronic component to determine if there is any change in the status of the component, if so an alarm is activated.

Thus what is needed in the art is an apparatus to allow a swimmer to explore the underwater environment uninhibited by the complexities of scuba with diving which requires training, understanding and command of associated equipment prior to utilization. Such an apparatus relies on the simplicity of the snorkel device yet provides the ability to roam to deeper depths without the need for complex equipment.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Disclosed is a breathing apparatus for providing pressurized air underwater to a swimmer. The apparatus employs two levels, on the top level a buoyant spherically shaped housing, and on the bottom level a submersible housing comprising of half a spherically shaped top portion and a squared off bottom portion, attached to the squared off bottom portion is an upwardly extending snorkel/handle and two outwardly disposed wheels. The apparatus comprises of a top level buoyant housing and bottom level submersible housing having a linear vertical arrangement creating a geometric shape that is practically impossible to tip over and permit self-righting. The interior chamber of the buoyant housing operates as a pressurized air reservoir with air supplied to the swimmers through flexible spiral wound air hoses that prevent kinking and includes signal paths for warning the swimmer of possible air flow problems. Each flexible air hose having a first end coupled to the air reservoir located in the buoyant housing and a second end coupled to a conventional mouthpiece air regulator worn by the swimmer.

The submersible housing is secured to the bottom surface of the buoyant housing. The spherically shaped top portion of the submersible housing contains water inlets to allow water to fill the spherically shaped chamber for added buoyancy, ballast support, and heat transfer. The interior of the squared off bottom portion of the submersible housing is a machinery chamber for placement of an air compressor powered by a motor and a battery. The air compressor produces pressurized air to the air reservoir in the buoyant housing, the battery operates as a rechargeable power source for operation of the motor and air compressor. The make-up air to the air compressor is drawn through a suction intake coupled to a snorkel. The snorkel is attached to the submersible housing, specifically the squared off bottom portion, and extends offset and above the buoyant housing. The submersible housing is placed beneath the water surface where it operates as ballast for the buoyant housing that floats on the surface.

The breathing apparatus includes a bracket assembly to hold in place the top and bottom portions of their respective housing. The bracket assemblies have integrated hand holds for a swimmer. The bracket assembly on the buoyant housing allows a swimmer to hold on to the apparatus at a position above the surface of the water. The bracket assembly on the submersible housing allows a swimmer to hold on to the apparatus at a position below the surface of the water. The bracket assemblies are spined together by the snorkel/handle. The hand holds also allow for easy lifting and placement of breathing apparatus from the boat to the water. On the squared off bottom portion of the submersible housing is attached a pair of wheels for easy moving of the apparatus from a vessel to a storage area. By tilting the device about the wheel base, using the handle to maneuver, and allowing the wheels to roll, the apparatus shall function in a manner similar to a wheeled suitcase.

Thus, an objective of the instant invention is to provide an underwater breathing apparatus designed for the safety of the swimmer by use of an air make-up system stabilized in a vertical stacked housing assembly allowing for a low center of gravity making the apparatus practically impossible to tip over. The apparatus is a combination tank and floatation chamber having vertical configuration.

Still another objective of the instant invention is to employ the use of an air reservoir in combination with an air compressor and snorkel to intake ambient air through snorkel tube to the air compressor and relay pressurized air from the air compressor to the air reservoir to be used by submerged swimmers through use of an air hose.

Still yet another objective of the invention is to utilize a brushless electric motor that is easy to cool, efficient and has low maintenance.

Still another objective of the invention is to teach the use of strategically positioned handholds to provide a swimmer the option of holding on to the floating apparatus at either a position above the surface of the water or below the surface of the water.

Yet another objective of the instant invention is to employ the use of a lithium ion battery to eliminate the problems associated with internal combustion power sources.

Still another objective of the invention is to utilize the use of lithium ion batteries at 3.7 volts nominal per cell to provide higher voltage per cell, and much higher energy to weight density for driving of a compressor motor.

Still another objective of the instant invention is to teach a sounding device. The sounding device teaches the use of a low air pressure indicator to alert the swimmer should the pressure in the air reservoir fall below a predetermined level, informs the submerged swimmer of an air delivery problem allowing adequate time to surface, and includes the use of a specialty hose to provide an integrated communication link.

Yet another objective of the instant invention is to teach the use of integrated wheels for ease of transport of the breathing apparatus on dry ground.

Yet still another objective of the instant invention is to teach the use of a telescoping snorkel assembly that has an inlet positioned above the water to allow water free ambient air to the air compressor in most all conditions, an outlet that is separated from the air compressor to permit water separation should water entry into the snorkel, and further stores in a position to provide a handle for moving the apparatus on wheels.

Another objective of the instant invention is to provide water evacuation of the submersible housing should water enter the interior chamber.

Yet still another objective of the instant invention to provide an efficient and reliable underwater breathing apparatus that can be made highly efficient and reliable by use of pump cooling, a pulse type bilge pump, forced air cooling, and advanced battery technology.

It is hitherto an objective of the instant invention to utilize the use of convection to cool off the submerged equipment box through transfer of thermal energy to reach thermal equilibrium.

It is hitherto another objective of the instant invention to provide a battery that may be charged externally to replenish the power capacity of the battery.

Still another objective of the instant invention is to teach the use of an electric powered underwater breathing apparatus having a speed reduction between the motor and compressor between the ranges of 1.5:1 to 5:1.

Other objectives and advantages of this invention will become apparent from the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings wherein are set forth, by way of illustration and example, certain embodiments of this invention.

The drawings constitute a part of this specification and include exemplary embodiments of the present invention and illustrate various objects and features thereof.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the underwater breathing apparatus;

FIG. 2 is a exploded view of the underwater breathing apparatus;

FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the underwater breathing apparatus;

FIG. 4 is an exploded view of the bottom portion of the underwater breathing apparatus;

FIG. 5 is a pictorial view of the underwater breathing apparatus;

FIG. 6 is an electrical schematic of the underwater breathing apparatus; and

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the sounding device of the underwater breathing apparatus.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

Now referring to the Figures, shown is a breathing apparatus (10) for use in providing pressurized air to a swimmer. The apparatus consists of a buoyant housing (12) having a top surface (14) and a bottom surface (16) with a spherical shape side wall (18) thereinbetween. The side wall (18) is structurally reinforced for use in storing compressed air. The buoyant housing (12) abuts a centrally located bracket (24), that extends outwardly to provide a plurality of hand holds (26). On one end of the centrally located bracket (24) is an indenture (25) that provides a support and guide for the snorkel tube (22). The volume of buoyant housing is between 10 and 50 liters.

The hand holds or grips (26) permit a swimmer to hold on to the buoyant housing (12) when the swimmer is on the surface (30) of the water. The centrally located bracket assembly (24) further allows ease of mobility when the apparatus is placed on land, allowing an individual to grasp the hand holds (26) for use as a hand grip for lifting or carrying of the apparatus. The centrally located bracket (24) operates as a sealing member wherein the upper portion of the sphere (32) is mounted to an upper surface of the centrally located bracket (24) and the lower portion of the sphere (34) is secured to a lower surface of the centrally located bracket (24). Two apertures (20) and (21) are located on the surface of the lower portion of the sphere (34). The apertures (20) and (21) are attached to conduit connectors (48) and (49) and conduits (51) and (53) that permits the passage of compressed air into the buoyant housing (12) for use by a swimmer. The interior chamber of the buoyant housing (12) is air tight allowing compressed air to be inserted through the apertures (20) and (21) providing a capacity of air capable of sustaining multiple swimmers even when the air makeup system, as discussed later in this specification, has been discontinued. Ports (36) and (38) on the buoyant housing (12) are available for securement to an air hose (39) and (41) from which a swimmer receives the compressed air as regulated through an air regulator (43) and (45) formed into a mouthpiece in a manner commonly employed by a scuba diver, as seen in FIG. 5. The buoyant housing having a volume sufficient to prevent rapid pressure loss in the event of sudden air supply failure, and of sufficient volume to provide peak air requirement for one or more swimmer. Preferably the buoyant chamber may be pressurized to at least two atmospheres.

A submersible housing (40), more aptly shown in FIG. 2 and FIG. 4, includes a spherically shaped upper portion (70) and a squared off equipment box (72). Coupled to squared off equipment box (72) is an outwardly disposed crank case (42) with three openings. One opening is for a crank case cover (52), and the other two openings are two cylinder head covers (63) and (65). Atop of the crank case (42) is a suction port (47) for the snorkel (22) to engage into, whereby a suction chamber (46) allows air to be drawn through a snorkel tube (22) as required air make-up to the air compressor (44). The output from the air compressor (44) is delivered through conduits (51) and (53) located on crank case (42) into the air chamber of the buoyant housing (12) via the apertures (20) and (21). A pressure switch (59) provides cycling control of the compressor between a predetermined high pressure and a low pressure. Power to the air compressor is provided by a motor (67), which is integrated into the air compressor (44), and by a battery (50), which is coupled to the air compressor (44), preferably the battery (50) is lithium ion which provides a superior weight advantage without venting.

To provide optimum life of the compressor, a speed reduction is used between the compressor and the motor. The compressor is known to run more efficiently and have a much longer life at slow speed operation. Electric motors, especially brushless D.C. motors, can run efficiently at very high speeds. Thus, the preferred embodiment includes electric motor have a speed reduction between the motor and the compressor between the ranges of 1.5:1 to 5:1.

A battery (50) can be placed within the submersible housing (40) whereby a water-proof battery charge connector (84) on the surface of the squared off equipment box (72) provides a means to recharge without disassembling, as discussed later. In an alternative embodiment, the battery charger (84) can be kept internal and secured to the battery (50).

Similar to the buoyant housing, the submersible housing (40) includes a centrally located bracket assembly (60) providing multiple hand holds (62) available for a swimmer. The centrally located bracket assembly (60) is constructed of a squared outer edge and a smaller hollow squared inner edge. The centrally located bracket (60) operates as a sealing member wherein the spherically upper portion (70) of submersible housing (40) is screwed onto the upper surface of centrally located bracket (60); and squared off equipment box (72) is securely mounted to the lower surface of centrally located bracket (60). The hand holds (62) of the centrally located bracket assembly (60) allows a swimmer to stay beneath the water as a decompression stop or when the swimmer simply chooses to use the apparatus in a snorkeling type situation staying less than a couple of feet beneath the surface of the water. Screwed onto the smaller hollow inner edge of the centrally located bracket assembly (60) is a cover plate (73). The cover plate (73) protects the squared off equipment box (72) by acting as a water tight seal. The cover plate (73) is capable of being unscrewed to provide access to the squared off equipment box (72) for maintenance purposes. Maintenance of the machinery chamber may be accomplished in one of two ways. Firstly, the squared off equipment box (72) may be unmounted from the lower surface of the centrally located bracket (60) and secondly, the spherically shaped upper portion may be unmounted and the cover plate (73) unscrewed to allow access into the machinery chamber.

The submersible housing (40) operates as a machinery chamber preferably with the air compressor (44) mounted halfway between the crank case (42) and squared off equipment box (72), with the suction chamber (46) located within the crank case (42) and the remaining portion of the air compressor (44) occupying the other space within squared off equipment box (72). The air compressor (44) is fixed in place by use of a top and bottom heat sink (76) and (77), respectively. Preferably the battery (50) is located perpendicular to the air compressor (44) and affixed in place by use of a retaining bracket (56). Also located on the outside of the squared off equipment box (72) is a circuit board box (55) and a terminal strip and cover (54). The weight of the machinery located within the crank case (42), squared off equipment box (72), and circuit board box (55) operates as a ballast providing a stabilized assembly when used in combination with the buoyant housing (12) stacked in a vertical position through the formation of a geometric shape. Also assisting in ballasting are the plurality of water inlets (71) on the spherically shaped upper portion (70) of the submersible housing (40) that allows water to enter into the spherically shaped chamber (70).

The submersible housing (40) is beneath the surface of the water (30) which assists in cooling of the air compressor (44) through convection. To further assist in heat transfer, the spherically shaped upper portion (70) of the submersible housing (40) is submerged with cool water. The cool water then lowers the temperature of the cover plate (73) and equipment in the squared off equipment box (72) to reach thermal equilibrium. Because the cover plate (73) is in close proximity to the motor (67), air compressor (44), and the mounting devices the heat transfer between these elements helps cool off the equipment within the squared off equipment box (72). To mount the air compressor (44) and motor (67) in place heat sinks (76) and (77) are placed above and below the motor (67) and air compressor (44). The top heat sink (76) is in contact with the cover plate (73) to help cool, and the bottom heat sink (77) is placed on the floor of the squared off equipment box (72) to help cool when the submersible housing (40) is submerged. Optionally, the centrally located bracket assembly (60) may include a radiant material wherein the air compressor is cooled by heat exchange through a radiator. Still another option is to employ a water circulation pump to circulate water around the air compressor for cooling purposes.

The air compressor (44) can be duplexed for 100% redundancy or a single air compressor can be sized to be of a sufficient quantity to feed one or more swimmers. The use of a duplex air compressor allows both compressors to operate with a minimal operation to maintain a fixed pressure power. The use of a duplex air compressor simply provides 100% backup to an individual compressor providing sufficient air makeup to the air chamber should a secondary air compressor fail. Preferably the electric motor is brushless making it easy to cool, efficient and low maintenance. Depending on the type of air compressor employed, heat generated from the air compressor may be dissipated through the side walls of housing. Alternatively, heat dissipating metals, such as radiator fins, may be incorporated into the centrally located bracket assembly (60) providing heat transfer between the inside of the housing and the water surrounding the housing. Also, a water cooled air compressor can be incorporated wherein water is circulated around the air compressor so as to optimize the longevity of the air compressor.

As to the buoyant housing (12), the centrally located bracket (24) includes a support structure of inwardly facing braces (27) meeting at a center point within the buoyant housing (12). Both centrally located brackets (24) and (60) provide a seal to their respective housings (12) and (40). Also the upper spherical (70) may be attached to the bottom surface (16) of the buoyant housing (12) for greater stability. As to the submersible housing (40), the squared off equipment box (72) may be secured to the lower surface of the centrally located bracket (60) so as to provide ease of assembly as well as access to the machinery chamber when unfastened. Removal of the sphere (70) or squared off equipment box (72) allows ease of access to the battery (50) for replacement or recharging. It should be noted that the battery (50) may also be charged while the halves are in place by providing a coupling wire that is attached to a battery charger connector (84). Preferably, the batter charger connector (84) should have an electrical outlet mounted on the outside of the squared off equipment box (72) for easy access and the battery charger connector (84) should contain a seal or enclosure so as to not exposure the battery charger connector (84) to the salt water elements. The spheres and centrally located brackets are preferably constructed from ABS plastic or the like materials that are resistant to corrosion. Glass filled nylon provide a lightweight alternative. It is contemplated that the two housings need not have spherical or rectangular cross-section.

The machinery chamber can be accessed by removal of the squared off equipment box (72) from the bracket assembly (60) to allow maintenance of the air compressor (44) and/or battery (50) or removal of the spherically shaped upper portion (72) and cover plate (73) to allow maintenance by reaching in. Should a lead acid battery be employed, the charging of the battery needs to be vented which can be done through either a reverse snorkel or upon removal of squared off equipment box (72) to prevent gassing into an otherwise sealed compartment. Preferably the battery is lithium ion rated at 3.7 volts nominal per cell to provide higher voltage per cell, and much higher energy to weight density for driving of a compressor motor. The squared off equipment box (72) is preferably a flat surface (74) which provides a stable base when used in combination with the wheels by creating a three point stance. A drain port (75) can be placed in the flat surface (74) to permit drainage of condensation or spill water from the bottom of the submersible housing (40). As an option, a pump (87) may be positioned at the bottom of the submersible housing (40) which can be used in adverse sea conditions for removal of water that infiltrates the housing. Such a pump may work in a similar manner as a vessel bilge pump by attachment to the battery through a float switch, or may consist of a pump mechanism driven by the crank shaft of the air compressor.

On the crank case (42) there is a pair of wheels (68) that allows the apparatus to be moved on land. Grasping either the upper hand holds (26) or the snorkel tube (22) and moving the apparatus along the wheels (68), in a similar fashion as a wheeled suitcase, permits ease of transporting. The snorkel tube (22), which has a telescoping means, preferably extends at least 30 inches above the surface of the water (30) providing a source of make-up air in most any sea condition. A snorkel air water separator (19) located on the upper end of the snorkel (22) is included so as not to affect the operation of the air compressor (44), should water enter the snorkel tube due to an extreme sea condition. The snorkel tube (22) is preferably T-shaped (23) which allows the snorkel tube to be used as a handle for movement of the apparatus, similar to a wheeled suitcase. The T-shape nozzle (23) is slanted downwardly to further prevent water from entering the snorkel (22) in adverse wave conditions or the rain. The snorkel tube (22) has a locking handle (17) to lock the snorkel tube (22) in place when the apparatus (10) is going to be hauled or to unlock when the apparatus (10) is in-use and the snorkel (22) needs to be telescoped. The snorkel tube (22) is supported by the two centrally located brackets (24) and (6) where an indenture (25) and (61) on the two centrally located brackets (24) and (60) hold the snorkel tube (22) in place and provides greater stability. The snorkel tube (22) preferable includes a seal (58) so as to direct incoming ambient air to the suction chamber (46) of the air compressor (44) as well as prevent leakage of air or leakage of water. A second snorkel tube, not shown, may be use when the compressor motor is air cooled by use of an electric fan, not shown, the electric fan providing a forced air cooling of the compressor motor and with the second snorkel tube providing an exhaust for heated air.

An ON/OFF switch (99) is provided to engage breathing apparatus (10). As shown in FIG. 6, when the switch (99) is in the ON position, the battery (101) provides at least a minimum safe voltage signal to the pressure and voltage control (103) to direct voltage to the sounding device (105) and air compressor (107); as well as provide pressure control to the air compressor, and air reservoir. If a warning signal (105) is created, power is directed to the sounding device (109) creating a underwater sound that can be heard by the divers (111) & (113). When in the CHARGE position, a charge input (115) is coupled to the battery to replenish the power capacity of the battery. As discussed before, the battery charger may be externally connected, so that charging would take place when in the CHARGE position, or charging may be internal so that in the OFF position charging is automatic.

As shown in FIG. 5, a sounding device (80) is shown to be electrically coupled between the proximal and distal end of the air hoses. The internal components of the sounding device (80) are more aptly shown in FIG. 7. The sounding device (80) acts as an alerting signal to multiple submerged swimmers. Pressurized air exits the buoyant housing (12) and enters the proximal end of the air hose and passes through the sounding device (80) whereby the air is capable of splitting and supplying multiple swimmers through the use of multiple air hoses (39) and (41) on the distal end. Along the proximal air hose an electrical wire passes through the hose and is eventually coupled to a solenoid (81), which is housed in a casing (83), it is also contemplated that the solenoid be air activated. Upon any disturbance such as air delivery problem, low battery, low-pressure levels, or even just as a communication link, an actuator (82) vibrates against the casing (83) to produce an audible signal through the multiple air hose (39) and (41) for the submerged swimmers to hear. The sounding device is to be used to warn a diver below should the air pressure fall below a preset level, a signal through the air hose (39) and (41) to the diver to make the diver aware of a low pressure situation, wherein the air reservoir provides sufficient air for the swimmer to surface and determine the cause of the air interruption. The sounding device need not only be used for low air pressure it may be used as a communication device between the diver and the person above water to warn of impending dangers or the like. The sounding device provides an advantage over tugging on the air hose to get the divers attention from above the water. Should the air pressure fall below a critical pressure for any reason, an automatic warning signal can be sent through the pressure hose to warn the diver of a problem allowing the diver sufficient time to surface. The spiral wound hoses permit a low voltage signal wire to be placed through the interior without inhibiting airflow. Unique to this sounding device is the proximity to the submerged swimmer. Having a sound actuator placed low in the water allows the water to operate as a sound carrier providing a clear indication of an alarm condition, as opposed to having a sound actuator placed on the surface of the water.

The sounding housing includes an inlet and an outlet; an inlet air hose has a proximal end coupled to a surface located breathing apparatus and a distal end coupled to said inlet of said sounding housing; a sound mechanism positioned within said sounding housing, said solenoid actuated by an alarm function initiated from said breathing apparatus; at least one outlet air hose have a proximal end coupled to said outlet of said sounding housing and a distal end coupled to a regulator carried by a submerged diver; wherein said inlet and outlet air line hose provides air to at least one submerged diver though said sounding housing whereby an alarm function operates said sound mechanism creating a sound wave that can be heard by submerged divers.

The sounding device may be either a solenoid electrically operated and electrically coupled to an alarm actuator located on said surface mounted breathing apparatus by flexible electrical wires placed along an inner passageway of said inlet hose or a speaker electrically coupled to a transmitter located on said surface mounted breathing apparatus by flexible electrical wires placed along an inner passageway of said inlet hose, said speaker providing audible messages to the submerged divers. Message may include: SHARK, LUNCH, MY TURN, STORM, BOAT SINKING, and the like messages.

The sounding device for alerting a submerged swimmer comprises a sounding housing having an inlet and an outlet; an inlet air hose having a proximal end coupled to a surface located breathing apparatus and a distal end coupled to said inlet of said sounding housing; a sound mechanism positioned within said sounding housing, said solenoid actuated by an alarm function initiated from said breathing apparatus; at least one outlet air hose have a proximal end coupled to said outlet of said sounding housing and a distal end coupled to a regulator carried by a submerged diver; wherein said inlet and outlet air line hose provides air to at least one submerged diver though said sounding housing whereby an alarm function operates said sound mechanism creating a sound wave that can be heard by submerged divers.

The sounding device may multiple outlets permitting multiple air hoses to supply air to multiple divers. In the preferred embodiment the sound mechanism is an electrically activated solenoid coupled to an alarm actuator located on the surface mounted breathing apparatus by flexible electrical wires placed along an inner passageway of an inlet hose. Alternatively the sounding device is a speaker electrically coupled to a transmitter located on said surface mounted breathing apparatus by flexible electrical wires placed along an inner passageway of the inlet hose, the speaker providing audible messages to the submerged divers.

The air hose preferably includes a spiral wound wire which operates as an electrical conduit for coupling the alarm function to the sounding device. The spiral wrapping prevents kinking of said air hose and may be metal wire reinforced, the metal wire operates as an electrical conduit.

The preferred air hose is a spiral wound hose as it will not kink and has adequate pressure rating for the amount of pressure produced by the air compressor. A spiral wound hose also eliminates the common failure found in hoses that kink and allows part of the reinforcement to operate as an electrical carrier that can be coupled to the low-pressure switch. Pressurized air is stored in the air chamber of the buoyant housing (12).

It is to be understood that while we have illustrated and described certain forms of the invention, it is not to be limited to the specific forms or arrangement of parts herein described and shown. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes may be made without departing from the scope of the invention and the invention is not to be considered limited to what is shown in the drawings and described in the specification.

Claims

1. A vertically stacked breathing apparatus for providing pressurized air underwater comprising:

at least one air tank forming a buoyant housing;

at least one submersible housing coupled to said air tank, said submersible housing having a sealed chamber supporting a battery powered motorized air compressor producing pressurized air for storage within said air tank, said air tank and said submersible housing forming a vertically stacked structure;

a snorkel tube fluidly coupled to said sealed chamber and extending above said air tank;

at least one air hose having a proximal end coupled to said air tank and a distal end coupled to a diving regulator; and

a control means electrically coupled to said air compressor, said control means including a pressure regulator to cause operation of said air compressor between predetermined air pressures;

wherein said air tank forms a buoyant housing for maintaining said vertically stacked breathing apparatus in a vertical plane thereby preventing capsizing and permit self-righting while said apparatus is floating on a body of water, said breathing apparatus drawing air through said snorkel and compressing said air to provide a continuous flow of pressurized air through said air tank and to said diving regulator thereby permitting an extended submergence of a swimmer that employs the diving regulator for breathing.

2. The vertically stacked breathing apparatus according to claim 1 wherein said air tank is spherical shaped having an internal volume sufficient to provide a peak air requirement for at least one swimmer.

3. The vertically stacked breathing apparatus according to claim 2 wherein said air tank volume is between 10 and 50 liters.

4. The vertically stacked breathing apparatus according to claim 1 wherein said air tank may be pressurized to at about 2 atmospheres.

5. The vertically stacked breathing apparatus according to claim 1 wherein said submersible housing includes at least one wheel allowing transport of said apparatus over a hard surface.

6. The vertically stacked breathing apparatus according to claim 1 wherein said sealed chamber includes a water separator operatively associated with said snorkel.

7. The vertically stacked breathing apparatus according to claim 5 wherein said snorkel tube is configured to facilitate movement of the apparatus in combination with said wheels, said snorkel tube providing a leverage handle to permit tilting of said apparatus and movement over the surface of the ground in a suit-case style arrangement.

8. The vertically stacked breathing apparatus according to claim 1 wherein said controller includes a pressure switch, said pressure switch electrically coupling said battery to said motorized air compressor when the air pressure within said air tank falls below a predetermined lower level and uncoupling said battery from said motorized air compressor when the air pressure within said air tank reaches a predetermined upper level.

9. The vertically stacked breathing apparatus according to claim 1 including a submerged sounding device for alerting a swimmer.

10. The vertically stacked breathing apparatus according to claim 9 wherein said sounding device is an electrically actuated solenoid located along a length of said air line.

11. The vertically stacked breathing apparatus according to claim 1 including at least two lower handholds extending outwardly from said submersible chamber, said lower handholds providing a handhold for a submerged swimmer.

12. The vertically stacked breathing apparatus according to claim 1 including at least two upper handholds extending outwardly from said air tank, said upper handholds providing a handhold for a surfaced swimmer.

13. The vertically stacked breathing apparatus according to claim 1 wherein said air tank and said submersible housing is constructed from injection molded plastic.

14. The vertically stacked breathing apparatus according to claim 1 including a means for evacuation of water from said sealed chamber.

15. The vertically stacked breathing apparatus according to claim 14 wherein said means for evacuation is further defined as a crankshaft driven water pump coupled to the air compressor crankshaft wherein operation of the air compressor allows for evacuation of water from said sealed chamber.

16. The vertically stacked breathing apparatus according to claim 1 including a heat sink mounted to the electric motor of said air compressor, said heat sink juxtapositioned with an outer water of said sealed chamber for use in dispersing heat.

17. The vertically stacked breathing apparatus according to claim 1 including a speed reduction between the motor and the compressor between the range of 1.5:1 to 5:1.

18. The vertically stacked breathing apparatus according to claim 1 wherein said battery is lithium ion and rated at about a nominal 3.7 volts per cell.

19. The vertically stacked breathing apparatus according to claim 1 wherein at least a portion of said air compressor extends through said sealed chamber whereby said air compressor is cooled through direct contact with water.

20. The vertically stacked breathing apparatus according to claim 1 said submersible housing coupled has an unsealed chamber allowing water ingress and a sealed chamber supporting said battery powered motorized air compressor.

21. A vertically stacked breathing apparatus for providing pressurized air underwater comprising:

at least one plastic air tank having a volume between 10 and 50 liters forming a buoyant housing;

at least one plastic submersible housing coupled to said air tank, said submersible housing having an unsealed chamber allowing water ingress and a sealed chamber supporting a battery powered motorized air compressor producing pressurized air for storage within said air tank, said air tank and said submersible housing forming a vertically stacked structure;

at least one wheel coupled to said submersible housing allowing ease of transport of said apparatus over hard surface;

a snorkel tube fluidly coupled to said sealed chamber and extending above said air tank;

at least one air hose having a proximal end coupled to said air tank and a distal end coupled to a diving regulator; and

a control means electrically coupled to said air compressor, said control means including a pressure regulator to cause operation of said air compressor between predetermined air pressures;

wherein said air tank forms a buoyant housing for maintaining said vertically stacked breathing apparatus in a vertical plane thereby preventing capsizing and permit self-righting while said apparatus is floating on a body of water, said breathing apparatus drawing air through said snorkel and compressing said air to provide a continuous flow of pressurized air through said air tank and to said diving regulator thereby permitting an extended submergence of a swimmer that employs the diving regulator for breathing.

22. The vertically stacked breathing apparatus according to claim 21 wherein said air tank may be pressurized to at about 2 atmospheres.

23. The vertically stacked breathing apparatus according to claim 21 wherein said sealed chamber includes a water separator operatively associated with said snorkel.

24. The vertically stacked breathing apparatus according to claim 23 wherein said snorkel tube is configured to facilitate movement of the apparatus in combination with said wheels, said snorkel tube providing a leverage handle to permit tilting of said apparatus and movement over the surface of the ground in a suit-case style arrangement.

25. The vertically stacked breathing apparatus according to claim 21 including at least two lower handholds extending outwardly from said submersible chamber, said lower handholds providing a handhold for a submerged swimmer.

26. The vertically stacked breathing apparatus according to claim 21 including at least two upper handholds extending outwardly from said air tank, said upper handholds providing a handhold for a surfaced swimmer.

27. The vertically stacked breathing apparatus according to claim 21 including a pump for evacuation of water from said sealed chamber.

28. The vertically stacked breathing apparatus according to claim 27 wherein said pump is crankshaft driven wherein operation of the air compressor allows for evacuation of water from said sealed chamber.

29. The vertically stacked breathing apparatus according to claim 21 including a heat sink mounted to the electric motor of said air compressor, said heat sink juxtapositioned with an outer water of said sealed chamber for use in dispersing heat.

30. The vertically stacked breathing apparatus according to claim 21 including a speed reduction between the motor and the compressor between the range of 1.5:1 to 5:1.

31. The vertically stacked breathing apparatus according to claim 21 wherein said battery is lithium ion and rated at about a nominal 3.7 volts per cell.

32. The vertically stacked breathing apparatus according to claim 21 wherein at least a portion of said air compressor extends through said sealed chamber whereby said air compressor is cooled through direct contact with water.