Diving Or Swimming Apparatus Patents (Class 128/201.27)
  • Patent number: 11957835
    Abstract: An exchanger conduit permits temperature and/or humidity conditioning of a gas for a patient respiratory interface. In an example embodiment, a conduit has a first channel and a second channel where the first channel is configured to conduct an inspiratory gas and the second channel configured to conduct an expiratory gas. An exchanger is positioned along the first channel and the second channel to separate the first channel and the second channel. The exchanger is configured to transfer a component (e.g., temperature or humidity) of the gas of the second channel to the gas of the first channel. In some embodiments, an optional flow resistor may be implemented to permit venting at pressures above atmospheric pressure so as to allow pressure stenting of a patient respiratory system without a substantial direct flow from a flow generator of respiratory treatment apparatus to the patient during patient expiration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2020
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2024
    Assignee: ResMed Pty Ltd
    Inventors: Liam Holley, Paul Jan Klasek, Robert Henry Frater, Quangang Yang, Pallavi Gosain
  • Patent number: 11844968
    Abstract: A system includes a pressure regulator including a housing, an inlet for connection to a pressurized gas comprising oxygen, and at least one energy transfer element. The system further includes a respiration facepiece including at least one seal system to form a sealing engagement with the face of a user to encompass the nose and mouth of the user, thereby creating a volume of sealing engagement between the respiration facepiece and the user, an opening into the volume of sealing engagement of the respiration facepiece in communicative connection with an interface for removable attachment of the pressure regulator to the respiration facepiece, and an inspiration port in fluid connection with the interface and in fluid connection with the volume of sealing engagement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2019
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2023
    Assignee: MSA Technology, LLC
    Inventors: Carsten Leuschner, Klaus Schmidtke, Marco Tekelenburg, Michael Horn, Detlef Kielow, Thomas Kuba
  • Patent number: 11794076
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a floatable breathing device. The floatable breathing device provides includes a head unit, a snorkel, a plurality of receiving passageways, and an internal pathway. The head unit has buoyant properties and includes an ornamental shaped outer housing and an inner housing positioned within the outer housing, the inner housing forms a head receiving section, the head receiving section is provided between outer surfaces of the outer housing and is configured to be contoured to a human head. The snorkel connects to and extends from the head unit. The plurality of receiving passageways are disposed about the outer housing and receiving the snorkel, the snorkel extending through and exiting a portion of the head unit above a predetermined waterline extending along a periphery of a lower portion of the head unit thereof and identifies buoyancy of the head unit in water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2020
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2023
    Assignee: RTB Innovations LLC
    Inventor: J. Rodney Garber
  • Patent number: 11745033
    Abstract: A process and apparatus to preclude unfiltered atmospheric gases and the products of human respiration including carbon-dioxide (CO2) with carbon-14 (14C) from contaminating greenhouse atmospheric gases which has utility in growing agricultural products with a reduced abundance of 14C are disclosed. Agricultural products with reduced 14C content can be grown in greenhouses with filtered atmospheric gases for the benefit of reducing harmful damage to human DNA. Agricultural production in greenhouses still requires humans to plant, maintain, and harvest crops in many cases. The process and apparatus allow for humans to access, work, and operate in these controlled environments without contaminating the atmospheric gases and agricultural products therein with respiration products and unfiltered atmospheric gases containing radioactive 14C.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2020
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2023
    Inventor: Brett Patrick
  • Patent number: 11703938
    Abstract: According to an example aspect of the present invention, there is provided an apparatus comprising a first processing core configured to generate first control signals and to control a display by providing the first control signals to the display via a first display interface, a second processing core configured to generate second control signals and to control the display by providing the second control signals to the display via a second display interface, and the first processing core being further configured to cause the second processing core to enter and leave a hibernation state based at least partly on a determination, by the first processing core, concerning an instruction from outside the apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2019
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2023
    Assignee: Suunto Oy
    Inventor: Erik Lindman
  • Patent number: 11616580
    Abstract: A system receives audio data in a frequency range of 20 Hz-20 kHz. The received audio data is encoded by the system into ultrasonic data in frequencies that are greater than 20 kHz, and transmitted into a local area that is proximal to the transmitting device, i.e., within the transmission range of the transmitting device. An ultrasonic communication device that is located in the transmission range of the transmitting device may receive the ultrasonic data. The received ultrasonic data is decoded by the ultrasonic communication system in the receiving device into audio data in a frequency range of 20 Hz-20 kHz, and subsequently presented to a user of the receiving ultrasonic communication device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2022
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2023
    Assignee: Meta Platforms Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Peter Harty Dodds, Morteza Khaleghimeybodi, Philip Robinson, Scott Phillips Porter, William Owen Brimijoin, II, Andrew Lovitt
  • Patent number: 11370513
    Abstract: The invention concerns a method, device and computer program product for monitoring or planning a dive of a diver. The method includes providing data on the composition of gases breathed by the diver during the dive, providing data on the depth or ambient pressure of the diver, and using a model to provide a safe ascent profile for the diver based on the data on the composition of gases and on the depth or ambient pressure. According to the invention, the method further comprising detecting, based on the data on the composition of gases, a gas composition change which may lead to a deep tissue isobaric counter diffusion situation, and the model comprising means for immediately temporally retarding the ascent profile if such gas composition change is detected. The invention can be used to mitigate the harmful effects of dangerous breathing gas changes during diving.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2022
    Assignee: Suunto Oy
    Inventors: Aimo Heikkinen, Toni Leskelä
  • Patent number: 11292558
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a chest float, comprising a float body; and a support pad, wherein both sides thereof are in detachable connection with both sides of the inner edge of the float body; first and second back limit pads are respectively extended from the two sides of the support pad, the first and second back limit pads are in detachable connection, and a wrapping space is enclosed by the support pad, and first and second back limit pads; when support pad is demounted from the inner edge of the float body from the two sides, the use state of the chest float is switched to the use state of a waist float. By means of the detachable design of the support pad, the chest float realizes the switching between the lying prone state and standing state of an infant, and is adapted to infants of different ages.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2020
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2022
    Inventor: Weixin Zhou
  • Patent number: 11215952
    Abstract: A watch including a watch case provided with a case middle, the case middle carrying an element provided with at least one index and defining an inner cavity. The watch further includes at least one pair of electrodes and at least one light source device connected to the electrode pair and arranged opposite the index, the electrodes of the electrode pair being fixed inside the inner cavity, the element being water permeable such that, when the watch is immersed in seawater, the seawater can penetrate the inner cavity so that the electrode pair and the seawater form an electrochemical cell, for powering the light source device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2019
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2022
    Assignee: The Swatch Group Research and Development Ltd
    Inventors: Pierpasquale Tortora, Michael Stalder, Olga Reinauer
  • Patent number: 11059550
    Abstract: A diving computer with coupled antenna and a water contact assembly is disclosed. The diving computer has at least one radiator element located on or connected to an outermost surface of a bezel of the diving computer and a radio unit having a conductive coupling to said radiator element, for enabling wireless communication between said diving computer and external devices. A conductive water contact surface extends through the housing of the diving computer and a water contact detector circuit is arranged, as a part of an underwater condition sensing circuit, to sense an underwater condition of the device. When water establishes a current path through said underwater condition sensing circuit from the water contact surface to ground, the sensing circuit provides an indication of an underwater condition to the diving computer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2019
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2021
    Assignee: Suunto Oy
    Inventors: Mikko Sepänniitty, Heikki Puuri, Ville Hurskainen, Tapio Stählberg, Niko Tarnanen, Eero Varjonen, Tom Ahola
  • Patent number: 10922951
    Abstract: Various embodiments associated with a heads-up display capable of functioning while underwater are described. An underwater mask can have a segment that a diver sees through and this segmented can be augmented with various portions that disclose information to the diver. These portions can relate to the diver herself or relate to other information such as the location of a source transmitting a signal. With these portions the diver can quickly learn about important information and act on that information.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2021
    Assignee: The Government of the United States, as represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventors: Mark Govoni, John Suarez
  • Patent number: 10703450
    Abstract: A survival helmet device for use in combination with a survival suit includes a helmet, inhale and exhale control valves, and at least one inflatable air cavity pocket secured to the survival suit for selectively controlling the air supply and buoyancy of the survival helmet device and the survival suit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2017
    Date of Patent: July 7, 2020
    Inventor: Immanuel Pauli Maki
  • Patent number: 10642317
    Abstract: In some examples, a computing device may include a first housing mechanically coupled to a second housing. The coupling may enable the first housing to be placed at an angle of between at least 0 to 180 degrees relative to the second housing. A clasp may be used to temporarily hold the first housing against the second housing when the first housing is placed at an angle of about 0 degrees relative to the second housing. A clasp sensor may determine that a user touched the clasp. In response, the computing device may initiate a boot process of an operating system. The boot process may capture biometric data using a biometric sensor in the clasp and compare the biometric data with previously stored biometric data associated with the user. The boot process may authenticate the user when the biometric data matches the previously stored biometric data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2018
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2020
    Assignee: Dell Products L.P.
    Inventors: James Damon Trim, Jace W. Files, John Trevor Morrison, Michiel S. Knoppert
  • Patent number: 10518851
    Abstract: Disclosed are a system and method for undersea navigation with a maritime vehicle or diver undersea navigation device. A sensor interface receives navigation information from a plurality of sensors used to sense navigation information. A processor receives the navigation information from the sensor interface. The processor converts the navigation information into graphics data. The processor provides the graphics data to a graphics processing unit to render a navigation board image on a display of the maritime vehicle or diver undersea navigation device. The navigation board image comprises a plurality of navigation indicators to indicate the navigation information and a compass comprising a plurality of rotational orientation indicators to indicate rotational orientation information. The rotational orientation indicators include a plurality of heading direction indicators, a current heading indicator, and a plurality of pitch indicators, where the plurality of pitch indicators indicate pitch information.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2019
    Assignee: TELEDYNE BROWN ENGINEERING, INC.
    Inventors: Kenneth C. Corl, Roger Dooley, Catherine Alofs, Scott D. Silvey
  • Patent number: 10500422
    Abstract: A system for delivering multiple life-support services within a flexible protective covering, a plurality of different breathing gasses, safety tether, a plurality of ancillary lines for documentable, multidirectional, multi-format data/communications acquisition and delivery, personal/situational awareness and ancillary power sources for tool, accessory or device enervation, to a plurality of Users in an adverse environment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2019
    Inventor: William Messner
  • Patent number: 10486098
    Abstract: The present invention disclosed a method for improving the adsorption capacity of a fixed bed and its application in organic waste gas treatment field. The steps are: (1) adsorption: organic waste gas is passed through the adsorption column containing the adsorbent to allow the organic waste to be adsorbed; when VOCs concentration at the outlet end of the adsorption column reached a preset value, the adsorption is halted; (2) desorption: adsorbent that has absorbed VOCs was desorbed by water vapor of 110° C. or higher, or hot nitrogen of 150° C. or higher; the desorbed VOCs enter into a condenser and is recovered in liquid state; (3) pre-adsorption of water: spray water inside the adsorption column after the desorption to adjust the water content of the adsorbent to 8-35%, no other treatment is necessary before the next batch of VOCs adsorption.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2019
    Assignee: Nanjing University
    Inventors: Chao Long, Honglei He, Xiaohong Yao, Jian Wu, Lijuan Jia, Liuyan Wu
  • Patent number: 10274390
    Abstract: A tank pressure transmitter with integrated breathing gas analyzer and associated methods are provided. The tank pressure transmitter can include a gas sensor which detects a constituent of a breathing gas. The transmitter is operable to compile a constituent reading from the constituent detected, and communicate this constituent reading wirelessly to a dive computer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2019
    Assignee: Johnson Outdoors Inc.
    Inventors: Arne Sieber, Reima K. Holopainen, Joe Stella, Sebastian Reif, Bradley E. Lally
  • Patent number: 10166415
    Abstract: 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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2019
    Assignee: MSA Technology, LLC
    Inventors: Marco Tekelenburg, David J. Losos, Bryan J. Peoples
  • Patent number: 10046840
    Abstract: Described is an underwater oxygen bar. The underwater oxygen bar provides a new recreational experience that unites the unique aquatic experience of being in an underwater environment with the benefits and appeal of an oxygen bar. More specifically, an underwater oxygen bar is provided in which patrons may descend into a water tank wearing a breathing apparatus. Once submerged, the patrons can move about the water tank and interact with an underwater appliance that provides a coupling to a source of an oxygen concentration. Customers can enhance their oxygen experience by using various flavored scents (including, for example, aromatherapy scents) to be added to the oxygen, such as lavender or mint.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2018
    Inventor: Jim Mayfield
  • Patent number: 10004924
    Abstract: A system is designed to increase diver safety in a high-risk environment containing one or more hazardous materials. The system includes chemically-hardened surface-supplied diving equipment designed to provide full environment isolation for the diver. The system also includes a dive helmet and a surface-return exhaust system, where the surface-return exhaust system includes a demand exhaust regulator that serves as a pressure-actuated valve to enable exhausting to a breathable atmosphere outside of a dive helmet instead of exhausting into the environment containing one or more hazardous materials. The system also includes retrofittable kits enabling the upgrading of contaminant-vulnerable materials of an existing dive helmet. The system also includes fluoroelastomeric materials and components to implement in a closed circuit dive system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2018
    Assignee: Paragon Space Development Corporation
    Inventors: Grant A. Anderson, Taber K. MacCallum, Sebastian A. Padilla, Chad E. Bower
  • Patent number: 9851752
    Abstract: A dive computer system that includes a primary power source and a console, located remotely from the power source. The console includes a display screen configured to be readable underwater. The primary power source is connected to the console via a cable. The console does not include a connection for a gas hose. In certain embodiments the dive computer includes a secondary power source, while in further embodiments the dive computer has a color display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2017
    Assignee: Johnson Outdoors Inc.
    Inventors: Reima K. Holopainen, Stefan E. Wegmann, Jari M. A. Tiira, Bruno Meinrad Erne
  • Patent number: 9821893
    Abstract: Systems and methods for dive masks with multiple interfaces in accordance with embodiments of the invention are illustrated. Dive masks include dive device data interfaces that obtain dive device data by communicating with dive devices. Dive masks can additionally include configuration interfaces that obtain configuration data through wireless communication with configuration devices. Furthermore, a dive mask can have a display processing application which can receive configuration data, receive dive device data, and display dive device data in accordance with configuration data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2017
    Assignee: Pelagic Pressure Systems Corp.
    Inventor: Michael S. Hollis
  • Patent number: 9250041
    Abstract: A carrier garment configured to carry protective panels on a user's torso allows adjustment of the carrier garment and the protective panels to accommodate a wide range of bust and torso sizes, from flat-chested to full figured bust and torso lines. Embodiments allow quick adjustment back to a flat configuration to accommodate rifle protection plates that require the carrier and the underlying panels to be flat. Various embodiments can be locked to ensure that the garment retains its adjusted shape. A shaping point and/or a slit can be provided to assist in shaping stiff materials. Embodiments include a plurality of attachment points to which a lower end of an adjustment lanyard can be attached. A lining or inner layer can be included, and can be configured to adjust in shape with the outer garment. The outer garment and/or the liner or inner layer can include a protective material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 2, 2016
    Assignee: WARWICK MILLS INC.
    Inventors: Charles A. Howland, Virginia Houston Howland
  • Patent number: 8950727
    Abstract: A supporting device for a snorkel is described, comprising a fixing element for a diving mask strap. According to the invention, the fixing element is formed by a clip (1) suitable for being fixed to a tubular portion of a snorkel and by a clip (2) suitable for being fixed to a diving mask strap, the clips (1, 2) being provided with connectors (5, 11) suitable for coming into contact with each other, each connector (5, 11) featuring a magnetic property for mutual attraction of the two clips.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2015
    Inventor: Kai Skudelny
  • Patent number: 8857427
    Abstract: A snorkel and a mouthpiece assembly of the snorkel are disclosed, in which the mouthpiece assembly includes a main body, a mouthpiece and a whistle. The mouthpiece is connected to the main body; and the whistle has a pivoting portion and a blowing portion opposite to the pivoting portion, in which the pivoting portion is pivotally connected to the main body. The snorkel further includes a tube connected to the main body and communicating with the mouthpiece. In this way, the user can rotate the whistle against the main body for making the whistle face the mouth of the user, instead of greatly rotating the mouthpiece assembly against the tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2014
    Assignee: QBAS Co., Ltd
    Inventor: Chih-Cheng Shiue
  • Patent number: 8763603
    Abstract: The invention discloses devices and methods for identifying a diver in distress and initiating a rescue response. Specifically, embodiments of the present invention allow for identification of a diver who is not breathing properly and in response giving local stimuli to allow the diver to response. Should he/she not respond, the instant invention will initiate steps to bring the diver back to the water surface and alert others as to his/her need of assistance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2014
    Inventor: Netanel Raisch
  • Patent number: 8733344
    Abstract: A mouth piece supply valve control system which may be used in connection with mouth piece supply valve with a rebreather. An exemplary mouth piece supply valve control system may include a sensor operative to produce a sensor signal upon sensing a condition, a computer connected to the sensor that may produce a computer signal associated with sensor signal, a logic device operatively connected to the computer for receiving the computer signal, and an automatic actuator operatively connected to the logic device. The automatic actuator may be operatively coupled to a mouth piece supply valve that may be selectable between a first mode and a second mode and the automatic actuator may shift the mouth piece supply valve from the second mode to the first mode upon receipt of a logic device signal from the logic device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2014
    Inventors: Jeffrey Evan Bozanic, Forrest P. Gauthier
  • Patent number: 8555884
    Abstract: A system designed to increase diver safety in high-risk environments containing one or more hazardous materials. The system comprises one or more retrofittable kits enabling the upgrading of contaminate-vulnerable materials of an existing dive helmet to provide full environment isolation for the diver. The system preferably utilizes fluoroelastomeric replacement materials and components to convert an open circuit dive system to a closed circuit dive system. Methods of system development are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2013
    Assignee: Paragon Space Development Corporation
    Inventors: Grant A. Anderson, Taber K. MacCallum, Sebastian A. Padilla, Chad E. Bower
  • Patent number: 8522785
    Abstract: A headgear (200) for a respiratory mask (202) of a ventilator or CPAP device is provided. The headgear includes a strap portion (204, 206) formed of a substantially inextensible material. The strap portion has formed on one end thereof a connecting structure configured to connect to a mask of the ventilator or CPAP device. One advantage is that the mask will not or at least will be less inclined to lift off the face as mask pressure is increased.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Assignee: ResMed Limited
    Inventors: Michael Berthon-Jones, Michael Kassipillai Gunaratnam, Peter Edward Bateman, Philip James Jenkinson, Gordon Joseph Malouf
  • Patent number: 8496000
    Abstract: A snorkel adapter apparatus is disclosed. The snorkel adapter apparatus includes a snorkel tube, a float, a mouthpiece, and a single pivot point. These pieces combined together create a snorkel breathing apparatus that allows the user to submerge the snorkel in water and prevent water from entering the snorkel tube and mouthpiece. When the snorkel is submerged in water, the float rotates around a coupler attached to the pivot attachment point and closes the open end of the snorkel tube. The buoyancy of the float in the water causes it to rotate and seal the snorkel tube closed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 30, 2013
    Inventor: Glen Keith
  • Patent number: 8469024
    Abstract: A tracheostomy tube assembly comprising a tracheostomy tube and an elongated neck plate secured to said tube having an upper edge, a lower edge and holes at opposite ends thereof, is characterized by a soft, flexible gel-like polymer pad having a center port surrounding the tracheostomy tube and releasably secured on the patient side of the neck plate and extending to or beyond the upper and lower neck plate edges and inside the holes. The pad has a smooth, substantially flat, planar first surface for resting against the patient side of the neck plate and a smooth, soft, transversely concave second surface for resting against a patient's neck, whereby the pad has a thicker cross-section at its opposite side edges and ends, and a thinner cross-section along a center portion extending between the upper and lower pad edges and ends.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Assignee: A Plus Medical
    Inventor: Thomas C. Loescher
  • Patent number: 8424522
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for operating a rebreather, wherein oxygen is metered to the breathing gas as a function of a signal of at least one oxygen sensor (11). The oxygen sensor (11) is checked automatically by rinsing it with a gas having a known oxygen concentration. The safety of the system is improved in that the check is triggered automatically.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Assignee: DP Scandinavia AB
    Inventor: Arne Sieber
  • Patent number: 8418689
    Abstract: Apparatus for use during open system diving to support underwater human respiration. In accordance with various embodiments, an air supply provides a supply of air along a supply conduit. A regulator is adapted for engagement with a diver's mouth to receive air from the supply during an inhale cycle and to direct a mixture of water and exhaust air away from the diver along an exhaust conduit during an exhale cycle. An air/water separator separates the exhaust air from the water in said mixture and directs the separated exhaust air through an exhaust air port. In some embodiments, a one-way stop valve is provided within the air/water separator to prevent back flow. In further embodiments, a bubble diffuser emits the exhaust air as a fine mist of bubbles into the surrounding water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Assignee: Davenport Innovations, Inc.
    Inventor: Steven Roy Davenport
  • Patent number: 8413655
    Abstract: An adsorbent is described. The adsorbent may include a membrane and an adsorbent material encapsulated within the membrane. An inhalation device is also described. The inhalation device may include a housing and a membrane within the housing. The membrane may encapsulate an adsorbent material. The membrane may be positioned such that airflow through the housing passes across but not through the membrane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2013
    Assignee: Micropore, Inc.
    Inventors: Douglas B. McKenna, Nicholas J. Dunlop
  • Patent number: 8360054
    Abstract: Device comprising a demand valve (1) for delivering breathable gas to a diver and a fluidic connector (2, 5) that can be selectively connected to the demand valve (1), the demand valve (1) comprising a breathable gas supply inlet (3, 13), characterized in that the demand valve (1) and/or the fluidic connector (2, 5) comprise a blocking device (6, 7, 8, 9; 6, 7, 66, 50) for selectively blocking the connector (2, 5) on the demand valve (1) when the connector (2, 5) is fastened to the demand valve (1) via the catching members (103, 12; 213, 5), the blocking device (6, 7, 8, 9; 7, 66, 50) being selectively moveable and/or deformable between a first configuration of blocking relative movement between the demand valve (1) and the connector (2, 5), and a second configuration of unblocking, allowing relative movement between the demand valve (1) and the connector (2, 5).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2013
    Assignee: La Spirotechnique
    Inventors: Nicolas Peyron, Stephane Carepa
  • Patent number: 8291899
    Abstract: A snorkel is provided on an upper end section of a conduit with an opening for breathing and a valve adapted to open and to close the opening. The valve is pivotally mounted on an upper end section of the conduit via arms integral with the valve. Below the valve, there are provided two or more floats. The respective floats are housed inside an annular housing defined outside the upper end section of the conduit in a manner that these floats may move up- and downward. When any one of these two or more floats is given buoyancy and moves upward, the arms are reliably actuated upward and thereby the valve reliably closes the opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2012
    Assignee: Tabata Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Shunji Fukasawa
  • Patent number: 8272381
    Abstract: A closed circuit rebreather including a breathing hose assembly, head assembly and internal counterlung assembly having axial and radial gas flow passageways therethrough, wherein the assembly is housed within a tank and includes a scrubber substantially enclosed along its longitudinal length within a water impervious counterlung bladder, the scrubber including foraminous inner and outer tubes having a carbon dioxide absorbent material filling the space therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2012
    Inventor: Charles L. Johnson
  • Patent number: 8235038
    Abstract: A scuba mask purging apparatus and method providing selective introduction of pressurized air into a scuba mask to initiate purging, pressure balancing, and de-fogging. An inlet valve, typically positioned conveniently on the top or the side of the mask may control the release of pressurized air into the mask. A pressure-sensitive outlet valve releases the pressurized air to force water from the mask. The outlet valve may be positioned on the lower portion of the mask or at a location where water is likely to collect.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2012
    Inventor: Phillip M. Adams
  • Patent number: 8220840
    Abstract: Positive locking device for components of snorkels and other equipment such as diving regulators, buoyancy compensator hoses and the like. The locking device in a preferred embodiment comprises a hard plastic C-shaped ring or clamp which is preferably mechanically and/or chemically bonded into a soft plastic component connector during molding of that component. The ring or clamp provides an effective locking feature which prevents inadvertent demating of components during a dive or other activity that could otherwise result in a dangerous loss of function. An additional embodiment of the invention provides an optional indexing feature which serves the useful function of audible and tactile feedback during adjustment of components having the locking device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2012
    Assignee: Atomic Aquatics, LLC
    Inventor: Dean R. Garraffa
  • Patent number: 8166968
    Abstract: A conjoined tube within a tube located inside a lower section of a snorkel designed to steer water droplets away from the snorkel diver's breathing path. The lower section of the snorkel has two valves. One is the scupper valve positioned at the lowest point of the inside tube. The scupper valve is a light duty valve or a low resistance one-way watertight passage intended to allow droplets of water to drain into the main reservoir. The outer tube lower section contains a reservoir for holding residual water that travels down to the bottom of the snorkel and is contained therein. During the normal clearing operation, the reservoir can be emptied and water will exit out of the lower section and into the surrounding water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2012
    Assignee: Atomic Aquatics, LLC
    Inventor: Dean R. Garraffa
  • Patent number: 8146601
    Abstract: A bite block is to be positioned between opposing upper and lower teeth in a patient's mouth. The bite block includes an elongate member having a top and a bottom. First and second sidewalls are coupled to the elongate member on opposite sides thereof. Each sidewall extends above and below the top and bottom of the elongate member to define upper and lower teeth spaced apart transverse notches defined in an upper surface thereof. In addition, the second sidewall has a second set of spaced apart receiving channels. The first sidewall has a first set of transverse notches defined in an upper surface thereof. The first sidewall may also have a third set of spaced apart transverse notches defined in a lower surface thereof. In addition, the second sidewall may also have a fourth set of spaced apart transverse notches defined in a lower surface thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2012
    Inventor: John M. James, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8122763
    Abstract: A gas measurement apparatus can comprise a sensor and a processor, in an example. The sensor can measure a pressure condition of a gas tank, in an example. The processor can select at least one light source, the light source can be positioned or be of a distinct color to indicate a corresponding level of gas remaining in the tank when illuminated. The level of gas can be based on the measured pressure. Banks of high intensity LEDs can allow visually discernable colors at a significant distance underwater. A visual beacon mode can be included. An alphanumeric pressure readout mode can be included. A depth sensor can be included.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2012
    Assignee: Avair, LLC
    Inventors: Ronald Fundak, Gary L. Felske
  • Patent number: 8091422
    Abstract: A gas measurement apparatus can comprise a sensor and a processor, in an example. The sensor can measure a pressure condition of a gas tank, in an example. The processor can select at least one light source, the light source can be positioned or of a distinct color to indicate a corresponding level of gas remaining in the tank when illuminated. The level of gas can be based on the measured pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2012
    Assignee: Avair, LLC
    Inventors: Gary L. Felske, Chris E. Berg
  • Publication number: 20110290247
    Abstract: The invention discloses devices and methods for identifying a diver in distress and initiating a rescue response. Specifically, embodiments of the present invention allow for identification of a diver who is not breathing properly and in response giving local stimuli to allow the diver to response. Should he/she not respond, the instant invention will initiate steps to bring the diver back to the water surface and alert others as to his/her need of assistance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 1, 2010
    Publication date: December 1, 2011
    Inventor: NETANEL RAISCH
  • Patent number: 7954489
    Abstract: A waterproof structure of a respiratory tube is provided. The waterproof structure comprises a hollow body and a lid. The hollow body has a first opening end and a second opening end opposing to the first opening end. The lid pivots onto the hollow body at the first opening end. Before the lid is immersed into liquid, the gravity of the lid can keep the lid at a certain position so that the respiratory tube is well-ventilated. After a part of the lid is immersed into the liquid, the buoyancy provided by the liquid forces the closing surface thereof to substantially seal the first opening end and prevent liquid from going into the tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2011
    Assignee: Qbas Co. Ltd.
    Inventor: Chih-Cheng Shiue
  • Patent number: 7946290
    Abstract: An underwater exhaust system and method which includes an exhaust valve having a sealing edge, an exhaust outlet for exiting an exhaust gas, and a projection for directing water flow away from the exhaust valve. The exhaust valve includes a valve head and a valve stem, the valve stem being coupled with the valve head. The system and method prevent a siphoning effect, whereby leakage of water into the exhaust valve is minimized or prevented.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2011
    Assignee: Kirby Morgan Dive Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: William B. Morgan, Peter M. Ryan, Connie L. Morgan, Trent M. Schultz
  • Patent number: 7909030
    Abstract: The instant invention incorporates an asymmetrical purge valve tilted to fit within the confines of a chamber having a substantially elliptical cross-section. The elliptical cross-section is oriented to minimize the frontal area presented in the direction of swimming movement. The reduced cross-section results in a corresponding reduction of drag when the diver is swimming underwater.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2011
    Inventor: Tony Christianson
  • Patent number: 7909540
    Abstract: A portable air supply system includes a main frame for nesting paired air SCUBA cylinders therein. Saddle arms are connected for engaging the frame to pontoons of an inflatable boat. A pair of baskets are connected for carrying umbilical lines. A control box controls air flow, monitors diver status, and provides a communication link.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2011
    Inventor: Hendry R. Leishman
  • Patent number: 7882833
    Abstract: A remote breathing assembly includes a periphery viewable goggle or mask, intake and return air-tubes sealably connected to the goggle, and a breathing apparatus coupled to the tubes opposite the goggle. The goggle includes a transparent lens having a front section defining a lateral front length, and left and right sections extending transversely from the front section a distance not less than one-forth the front length, a compressible liner, an improved liner interface having trapezoidal sections, and a securing element for fixing the goggle and evenly compressing the liner. The air-tubes each present upper and lower ends, with the intake tube further presenting a flared end section at the upper end. A blower is connected to the flared end section and configured to direct air therein. The apparatus further includes at least one submersible handle and link.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2011
    Inventor: William J. Jacob
  • Patent number: 7870860
    Abstract: A respiratory mask provides improved sealing through the use of an intraoral mouthpiece with a large sealing area. A tubular extension, configured at one end to accept standard respiratory fittings, is the conduit for gas delivery to the intraoral mouthpiece. The respiratory mask may also include an intraoral oropharyngeal airway which flexes so that it can be inserted without the need for rotation or use of a tongue blade. The respiratory mask may also include an external shield to enhance sealing and provide a barrier of protection for the healthcare provider. The mask's design allows for a novel handgrip technique that allows a single healthcare provider to ventilate with enhanced sealing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2011
    Assignee: Numask, Inc.
    Inventors: James J. McCormick, William Jou, David Anthony, David Isagholian