Abstract: Personal protective systems for filtering incoming air flow to the user are provided. The personal protective systems include head gear shaped to be worn over the head of a user, a tube having a first end operatively connected to the head gear and a second end operatively connected to an air supply unit, where the air supply unit is configured to propel filtered air through the tube to the head gear, thereby creating an overpressure inside the head gear and protecting the user from transmission of harmful airborne particles.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a multifunctional transparent facemask system having a transparent facemask that seals over the nose, jawbone, and neck of a wearer to provide clean air for inhalation. The system filters out harmful contaminates from exhaled air before the exhaled air is released into the environment. The facemask system includes a removable visor to be disposed in front of the eyes of the wearer to prohibit drying of the eyes and preventing pathogens from entering therein. The system includes an air pump for providing fresh air to the facemask, an air filter for filtering out harmful contaminates from exhaled air, an inlet pipe for fresh air flow into the facemask, an outlet pipe for flowing exhaled air out from the facemask, and a small air tube for providing fresh air to the visor. The facemask includes a microphone and a speaker for providing effective communication, and LEDs for illumination.

Abstract: A filter adaptor is provided for a respirator that allows the respirator to accommodate filters that have a different connection interface than the filter connection on the respirator. The adaptor includes a body having a first surface and an opposite second surface and defines a through hole. Mask locking tabs on the first surface engage with a complementary bayonet attachment the respirator. A first wall on the first surface and an inlet port gasket thereon nests within a complementary inlet port on the respirator to form an air-tight seal between the first wall and the inlet port. A valve ring on the first surface of the body engages an inlet valve on the respirator. A second wall on the second surface includes filter locking tabs that engage with a complementary filter opening of a filter. A filter gasket around the second wall forms an air-tight seal between the filter opening and the adaptor.

Abstract: A system for delivering a pressurized flow of breathable gas to a patient includes a patient interface and a flow generator mounted on the patient interface. The patient interface is configured to contact the patient's head and includes a frame and a cushion supported by the frame and configured to sealingly connect the patient interface to the patient's face and form a chamber between the frame and the patient's face. An inlet port in the frame is configured to receive the pressurized flow of breathable gas. The flow generator is configured to generate the pressurized flow and is capable of creating a pressure of about 2-40 cm H2O in the chamber. In addition, a pressure sensor assembly spans from an outlet port of the flow generator to the inlet port of the patient interface.

Abstract: A body cooling apparatus is configured for wear under an outer garment such as those worn by welders. The apparatus is constructed of cloth-covered air tubing which distributes a supply of received compressed air. The user wears the tubing harness much like a vest. When the harness is connected to a compressed air source, the compressed air is vented through the cloth-covered tubing to assist in cooling the user's body.

Abstract: A container for storing oxygen under pressure is disclosed that includes a chamber adapted to be worn around a user's waist and adapted for supplying oxygen to the user; the chamber defining a volume to contain oxygen under pressure; wherein the chamber is defined by a central portion extending between opposite side portions; wherein each of the opposite side portions has a height greater than a maximum height of the central portion that further defines a void between the side portions and above the central portion; and wherein the chamber is further defined by an exterior surface of the chamber adjacent the user.

Abstract: A self-contained breathing apparatus includes a tank of compressed air and an associated connector. A coaxial conduit extends from the connector to a face plate which might be used by a first responder. Air from the tank is coupled to the face plate via an internal conduit. Exhaled air from the face mask is carried away via an external conduit that surrounds the internal conduit, at least in part, and insulates the air being coupled to the face plate from ambient temperatures. The breathable air, flowing in the internal conduit also cools the exhaled air in the external conduit prior to that air flushing spaces between protective layers of the first responder's coat.

Abstract: There is provided a regulation valve for a life support system for use in an aircraft cabin. The valve may have a gas inlet, an air mask supply outlet connected to the gas inlet, and a pressure vest branch interconnected between the gas inlet and an opening. The valve may further have a decompression valve adapted to inhibit gas flow from the pressure vest branch to the air mask supply outlet if pressure in the aircraft cabin decreases below a predetermined value, a one-way valve adapted to inhibit gas flow from the pressure vest branch to the air mask supply outlet at a predetermined pressure difference between the pressure vest branch and the gas inlet, and a one-way dump valve adapted to direct gas from the pressure vest branch to the environment at the predetermined pressure difference between the pressure vest branch and the gas inlet.

Abstract: A hazardous materials protective garment may use a two-stage evaporative cooling process to ease heat strain on the wearer of the garment. The garment may include an impermeable inner layer and a wicking outer layer. One or more reservoirs may be disposed interior to the inner layer for collecting condensed and/or unevaporated sweat. One or more pumps may move the sweat to the exterior of the impermeable layer for distribution in the wicking layer and evaporation from the garment.

Abstract: The invention is an apparatus that blocks out light and improves breathing. The apparatus includes a sleep mask with an integral nasal dilation system. The nasal dilation system includes a nasal element mounted with on the nose section of the mask, where the nasal element in one version has a channel through which a band can move substantially orthogonal to the wearer's nose. Sidewalls center the band, and inward folded cuffs retain the band. The band encircles the wearer's head between the mask straps. It is threaded through the slideway and can slide therein equalizing side-to-side forces. The band is elastic and when stretched it generates an opposing force. Pressure is exerted on the nose by using the band in a stretched state. The extended band creates pressure on the slideway, which causes the nose section to press against the nostrils causing them to distend, which in turn dilates the nasal passages, and breathing is improved.

Abstract: The present invention of one embodiment includes a combined microclimate, thermal management, life-support system for care of patient and system for measurement of vital signs. The system of one embodiment, provides active external heating and simultaneously provides active internal heating.

Abstract: The present invention of one embodiment includes a combined microclimate, thermal management, life-support system for care of patient and system for measurement of vital signs. The system of one embodiment, provides active external heating and simultaneously provides active internal heating.

Abstract: A hazardous materials protective garment may use a two-stage evaporative cooling process to ease heat strain on the wearer of the garment. The garment may include an impermeable inner layer and a wicking outer layer. One or more reservoirs may be disposed interior to the inner layer for collecting condensed and/or unevaporated sweat. One or more pumps may move the sweat to the exterior of the impermeable layer for distribution in the wicking layer and evaporation from the garment.

Abstract: In a first aspect, a monoplace hyperbaric chamber providing Venturi induced gas circulation and ventilation is disclosed. The chamber includes a control and monitoring system that offers reduced oxygen consumption, duplex pressure gauges, referenced flow control, a patient activated stop function, an independent pressure time recorder, and/or a precise pressure control circuit that uses a 1:1 forced-balanced volume amplifier adapted to supply gas to and exhaust gas from the chamber through different penetrators and/or use flow-control check valves supplied with static reference or set pressures. A computer control and monitoring subsystem is also disclosed. Numerous other aspects are provided.

Abstract: An articulated firefighter breathing pack includes multiple polymeric pressure vessels connected together and to a flexible manifold with sections of flexible conduit. The pressure vessels and sections of flexible conduit are encased in high strength fiber material. The pressure vessels are wrapped in high strength ballistic ribbon material. The manifold provides connections for a high pressure regulator and an air fill source. A low pressure hose is connected to the high pressure regulator, a low pressure regulator is connected to the low pressure hose and a mouthpiece connected to the low pressure regulator. A pressure vessel container attaches the pressure vessels, the flexible conduit and the manifold to a harness having a waist portion and two vertical straps extending upwardly over the shoulders and back down to the waist portion. A utility belt provides mounting for equipment for the breathing pack including hoses, a power supply, electronic sensors and controls.

Abstract: The invention is an apparatus that blocks out light and improves breathing. The apparatus includes a sleep mask with an integral nasal dilation system. The nasal dilation system includes a nasal element mounted with on the nose section of the mask, where the nasal element in one version has a channel through which a band can move substantially orthogonal to the wearer's nose. Sidewalls center the band, and inward folded cuffs retain the band. The band encircles the wearer's head between the mask straps. It is threaded through the slideway and can slide therein equalizing side-to-side forces. The band is elastic and when stretched it generates an opposing force. Pressure is exerted on the nose by using the band in a stretched state. The extended band creates pressure on the slideway, which causes the nose section to press against the nostrils causing them to distend, which in turn dilates the nasal passages, and breathing is improved.

Abstract: A rescue device includes a control module to sense an avalanche, sense the direction of the surface and establish a target path to the surface. A nozzle is selected or oriented by the control module along the target path. A fluid reservoir is connected to the nozzle to force a fluid through the nozzle along the target path to the surface. This allows rescuers to identify the location of a victim and also provides an air path to the victim.

Abstract: A high output, powered air purifying respirator that includes an anti-contamination suit, a filter for filtering particulates from the air, a high powered blower for delivering a cool flow of air to the body, and a stabilization mechanism. The stabilization mechanism is configurable in either head mounted or back mounted modules as desired by a worker. The head mounted configuration facilitates stream lined mobility and includes a head mounted suspension system with a circular rail and roller bearing halo around the worker's head for stabilizing the blower/filter and allowing for rotation of the worker's head inside the halo. The invention also includes additional modules, also configurable by the user, such as personal hydration and independent camera and dosimeter support.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a harness for breathing apparatus, comprising a structural support member 10 having a front for accommodating a gas cylinder and a rear for facing the back of a wearer, and left and right sides. Left and right shoulder straps 110, 120 are disposed towards the left and right sides of the structural support member respectively, and each shoulder strap has a first end attached to an upper portion of the structural support member and a second end attached to a lower portion of the structural support member. A plurality of flexible conduits 140, 150 extend from a lower portion of the structural support member along the structural support member, each to a position on either the left or right shoulder strap. Left and right guide channels 30, 32 extend longitudinally along the structural support member along left and right sides respectively, for accommodating the flexible conduits.

Abstract: A heat exchange module comprising a number of substantially parallel and spaced apart heat exchange elements is provided. One or more surfaces of the heat exchange elements may be coated with a dessicant. The module can be manufactured so that first and second surfaces of the module are curved. The module may be used as part of a face mask or other garment that positions the module within the respiratory air stream of a user. The module may be inserted in a mesh sleeve provided as part of the garment. The module may also be used as part of other forms of clothing that protect the face and in protective helmets, or as part of outdoor or survival equipment.

Abstract: The invention relates to an adsorptive filtering material with biological and chemical protective function, in particular with protective function with regard to both chemical and biological poisons and noxiants, such as chemical and biological warfare agents, the adsorptive filtering material having a multilayered construction comprising a first outer supporting layer and a second outer supporting layer and an adsorptive layer disposed between the two supporting layers, the adsorptive filtering material further comprising at least one catalytically active component, the first outer supporting layer and/or the second outer supporting layer being provided with the catalytically active component. The adsorptive filtering material is particularly useful in NBC protective materials (for example NBC protective apparel) and also for production of filters.

Abstract: A self-contained breathing apparatus includes a tank of compressed air and an associated connector. A coaxial conduit extends from the connector to a face plate which might be used by a first responder. Air from the tank is coupled to the face plate via an internal conduit. Exhaled air from the face mask is carried away via an external conduit that surrounds the internal conduit, at least in part, and insulates the air being coupled to the face plate from ambient temperatures. The breathable air, flowing in the internal conduit also cools the exhaled air in the external conduit prior to that air flushing spaces between protective layers of the first responder's coat.

Abstract: A supplemental oxygen system and method is set forth for providing oxygen to an occupant of a pressurized aircraft. A flexible hood may be adapted to be stowed in a small volume when the flexible hood is deflated and may be further adapted to cover at least a portion of the head of the occupant and to provide a flow of oxygen to the occupant when the flexible hood is inflated. A source of oxygen may be adapted to rapidly inflate and deploy the flexible hood.

Abstract: The present invention provides a system for a gas delivery and monitoring system for delivering a gas product to a patient and receiving a gas product exhaled from a patient. In an embodiment, the gas delivery and monitoring system includes a head support made of resilient material and having therein a facial cavity. The facial cavity is configured to fit the contours of a patient's face and provides an oxygen rich environment for the patient while undergoing a medical procedure. In an embodiment, the facial cavity is shaped substantially in the form of a figure eight. In an embodiment, the facial cavity is further provided with one or more segmented edges that can be removed to further shape the facial cavity to the contours of the patient's face. In an embodiment, tubing is used to deliver oxygen from an oxygen source to the patient. Similarly, tubing is also used to receive carbon dioxide exhaled by the patient so that it might be measured by a carbon dioxide monitor.

Abstract: A system is provided for a firefighter or other emergency worker and includes a protective coat and a self-contained breathing apparatus. The self-contained breathing apparatus includes a regulator connected by a high-pressure hose to a gas tank that is releasibly carried on the coat by shoulder straps and waist straps.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method in connection with SCUBA diving to control a diver's buoyancy, in which method the diver (11) is equipped with diving equipment comprising at least one air pressure tank (1), a valve device (2) connected to the pressure tank (1) and arranged to supply air from said pressure tank via first supply means (5) to a breathing regulator (4) and via second supply means (7) to an inflatable diving jacket (6) in order to control the diver's buoyancy, inflation of the diving jacket being initiated when the diver has not affected the air flow through the breathing regulator (4) for a certain time period. The invention also relates to a safety device and diving equipment.

Abstract: A hyperbaric capsule has a base forming a seat that can be enclosed by an elongate oval canopy having a large transparent window formed therein. The bottom of the front of the canopy is pivotally attached to the front of the base by a hinge assembly and can be locked in the closed position on the base by a plurality of latches that are conjointly operated by an external lever and an internal lever. The weight of the canopy upon opening is borne by a pair of side gas or spring struts.

Abstract: A method of providing a user with an extra-terrestrial somatosensory experience includes equipping the user with an underwater breathing apparatus, having the user occupy an underwater environment, such environment providing buoyancy to the user, and while the user occupies the underwater environment, using a computer-implemented virtual reality system to present to the user a virtual reality environment modeling an extra-terrestrial setting. The virtual reality system inhibits visual perception by the user of items outside of the virtual reality environment so that the user experiences the virtual reality environment under a buoyancy condition provided by the underwater environment. The buoyancy condition enhances the experience of the virtual reality environment.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are a silencer for an airline hood and a protective hood having the silencer. The present invention reduces the speed of air fed into a space between upper and lower units, using an air distributing means, prior to discharging the air through air outlet holes formed on the lower unit to the outside of the space, thus minimizing noise due to the air. Further, the silencer for an airline hood is installed in the protective hood, thus minimizing noise, therefore increasing work efficiency, when a worker works with the protective hood on.

Abstract: A breathing gas feed assembly for the flight crew of an airplane comprises an emergency breathing mask and a stowage box for the mask. The box is adapted to receive the mask diagonally and it is closed by two doors hinged about respective hinge axes situated on two adjacent edges of the box.

Abstract: There is described a wearable garment capable of supplying air to a user comprising a plurality of compartments disposed about the garment, a plurality of air storage vessels for fitting into respective ones of the compartments, an air regulator, a connector for connecting the plurality of air storage vessels to the regulator, and a breathing member connected to the regulator in fluid communication therewith, wherein the breathing member allows a user to receive air from the plurality of air storage vessels.

Abstract: A respirator (1) having a plurality of internal masks (2, 3) within an external mask (4), the inner masks (2, 3) being linked by ducts (8, 9) so as to direct the inhaled air from the outside of the mask to the oronasal area via an ocular mask. The oronasal mask (3) has a secondary valve (12) that is sprung so as to operate within the timeframe of the exhalation part of the breathing cycle, the exhaled air being ejected into the hollow outer body of the mask (4).

Abstract: The present invention provides a system for a gas delivery and monitoring system for delivering a gas product to a patient and receiving a gas product exhaled from a patient. In an embodiment, the gas delivery and monitoring system includes a head support made of resilient material and having therein a facial cavity. The facial cavity is configured to fit the contours of a patient's face and provides an oxygen rich environment for the patient while undergoing a medical procedure. In an embodiment, the facial cavity is shaped substantially in the form of a figure eight. In an embodiment, the facial cavity is further provided with one or more segmented edges that can be removed to further shape the facial cavity to the contours of the patient's face. In an embodiment, tubing is used to deliver oxygen from an oxygen source to the patient. Similarly, tubing is also used to receive carbon dioxide exhaled by the patient so that it might be measured by a carbon dioxide monitor.

Abstract: A container for enclosing at least one pressure vessel includes interface devices accessible on an exterior of the outer surface of the container. The container can also include various features for enhanced efficiency and convenience in stock piling of such containers.

Abstract: One or more items of apparel have a plurality of sensors (10, 11, and 12) disposed therein (either permanently or temporarily). These sensors sense physical states of the individual wearing the items of apparel and/or of the local environment. In one embodiment, multiple sensors sense, in alternative ways, a parameter that corresponds to a physical state of interest. Information from these alternative sensing approaches is co-processed to yield a resultant parameter value that can be used in various ways. In one embodiment, the parameter value is locally or remotely displayed. In one embodiment, the parameter value is used in comparison against risk thresholds to ascertain a degree of risk to the individual.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a ventilation system for a protective suit for use in hazardous environments. In a further aspect it concerns the protective suit itself. An air purifying respirator draws air from outside the protective suit through a filter, supplies filtered breathing air via a breathing hose to a space within the face piece, and supplies filtered ventilating air via a ventilating hose to the interior of the protective suit. A ventilation valve in the ventilating hose automatically closes only during periods of high breathing demand to counter a pressure drop inside the face piece.

Abstract: The present invention enables functional testing nearly all aircrew equipment including a COMBAT EDGE (combined advanced technology enhanced design “G” ensemble) system components which include a mask, a G-suit, communication systems, and a goggle. The present invention includes a gas system which includes an input filter, a first compressor comprising at least one blower, preferably three blowers connected in series, a second compressor, a first flow sensor a second flow sensor, a first flow valve, a second flow valve, a regulator, a first pressure sensor, a second pressure sensor, a first pressure valve, a second pressure valve, and a controller. The inlet filter designed to accept a chemical filter. The second compressor produces a lower flow at a higher pressure than the first compressor.

Abstract: A personal containment system is disclosed. The personal containment system includes a generally fluid-tight barrier having an inner surface and an outer surface. The generally fluid tight barrier is adapted to at least partially define an inner environment interfacing with the inner surface, and an outer environment interfacing with the outer surface. The personal containment system also includes an air delivery system powered by a blower connected through the generally fluid-tight barrier. The blower is generally isolated from the outer environment and draws purified air from a filter in fluid communication with the blower that is located outside of the containment. Air from the outer environment is passed into the inner environment by the blower through a filter and exhausted through a one-way valve or a exhaust filter.

Abstract: A utility belt includes a gas storage vessel for providing a portable and ambulatory supply of oxygen for the person wearing the belt or a person being attended to by the person wearing the belt. In particular, the utility belt provides a portable supply of pressurized gas while it is suspended from the body of a user, with a plurality of item holders, such as implement holsters and utility pouches, suspended from the utility belt. The supply of pressurized gas is provided by a gas storage vessel carried on the utility belt. The gas storage vessel is formed from a plurality of polymeric hollow chamber having either an ellipsoidal or spherical shape and interconnected by a plurality of relatively narrow conduit sections disposed between consecutive ones of the chambers. The gas storage vessel includes a reinforcing filament wrapped around the interconnected chambers and interconnecting conduit sections to limit radial expansion of the chambers and conduit sections when filled with a fluid under pressure.

Abstract: A wearable storage system for pressurized fluid includes a pressure vessel formed from a plurality of polymeric hollow chamber having either en ellipsoidal or spherical shape and interconnected by a plurality of relatively narrow conduit sections disposed between consecutive ones of the chambers. The pressure vessel includes a reinforcing filament wrapped around the interconnected chambers and interconnecting conduit sections to limit radial expansion of the chambers and conduit sections when filled with a fluid under pressure. The container system further includes a fluid transfer control system attached to the pressure vessel for controlling fluid flow into and out of the pressure vessel. A gas delivery mechanism for delivering gas stored in the pressure vessel to the patient in a controlled manner is connected to the fluid transfer control system. The pressure vessel and the fluid transfer control system are incorporated into a wearable garment to provide an ambulatory supply of gas for the patient.

Abstract: A wearable belt includes two or more pressure packs, each including a pressure vessel for storing therein a fluid under pressure for providing a portable, and ambulatory, source of the compressed fluid. The pressure vessel is formed from a plurality of hollow chamber having either en ellipsoidal or spherical shape and interconnected by a plurality of relatively narrow conduit sections disposed between consecutive ones of the chambers. The pressure vessel includes a reinforcing filament wrapped around the interconnected chambers and interconnecting conduit sections to limit radial expansion of the chambers and conduit sections when filled with a fluid under pressure. The container system further includes a fluid transfer control system attached to the pressure vessel for controlling fluid flow into and out of the pressure vessel and a gas delivery mechanism for delivering gas from the pressure vessel to a user in a breathable manner.

Abstract: A container system for pressurized fluid includes a pressure vessel formed from a plurality of polymeric hollow chamber having either en ellipsoidal or spherical shape and interconnected by a plurality of relatively narrow conduit sections disposed between consecutive ones of the chambers. The pressure vessel includes a reinforcing filament wrapped around the interconnected chambers and interconnecting conduit sections to limit radial expansion of the chambers and conduit sections when filled with a fluid under pressure. The container system further includes a fluid transfer control system attached to the pressure vessel for controlling fluid flow into and out of the pressure vessel.

Abstract: An emergency breathing apparatus includes a hood, a gas storage pack, and a supply conduit connecting the hood and the gas storage pack. The gas storage pack includes a pressure vessel formed from a plurality of hollow chambers, which have either an ellipsoidal or spherical shape, interconnected by a plurality of relatively narrow conduit sections disposed between consecutive ones of the chambers. The pressure vessel includes a reinforcing filament wrapped around the interconnected chambers and interconnecting conduit sections to limit radial expansion of the chambers and conduit sections when filled with a fluid under pressure. The gas storage pack further includes a fluid transfer control system attached to the pressure vessel for controlling fluid flow into and out of the pressure vessel and a housing for containing the pressure vessel.

Abstract: A fitting with a dual locking swaging mechanism includes a projection to be inserted into the open end of an elastomeric tube. A ferrule is connected at one end thereof to a body portion of the fitting and is swaged over the tube to hold the tube onto the projection inserted into the tube. The tube is thereby held to the fitting by both frictional engagement of the tube with the projection and the ferrule and by the connection of the ferrule with the main body of the fitting.

Abstract: A fluid transfer control valve is connected to a pressure vessel formed from a plurality of hollow, polymeric chambers interconnected by polymeric conduit sections disposed between adjacent ones of the chambers. The valve includes a valve body and a pressure relief mechanism attached to the body. The pressure relief mechanism is operative to release pressure from the pressure vessel when the pressure within the vessel exceeds a predetermined maximum pressure. In a preferred embodiment, the relief mechanism comprises a rupture disk. The pressure relief valve may also include a filter element disposed along a fluid flow path defined within the valve body and/or a restrictive flow path for reducing the pressure of fluid flowing through the valve body.

Abstract: A protective neck and shoulder shroud assembly for use with a self contained breathing apparatus, the assembly including a neck curtain including a head portion, a left flap coupled to and extending generally forwardly from the head portion, and a right flap coupled to and extending generally forwardly from the head portion. The neck curtain further includes a fastener for releasably coupling the left and right flaps together such that when the flaps are coupled together. The neck curtain has a front opening located above the flaps, the front opening being located to expose at least a portion of a wearer's face or to expose at least a portion of an mask worn on the wearer's face when the neck curtain is worn by a wearer. The assembly includes a generally cylindrical enclosure shaped and sized to receive a gas canister therein, and a fastener for coupling the enclosure to an inner surface of the neck curtain.

Abstract: A carrying device for a respirator is combined with protective clothing. The combination includes shoulder belts and waist belts on the carrying device. Quick-connection elements are provided at the ends of the shoulder belts and of the waist belts. Coupling elements are provided on the protective clothing for the quick-connection elements.

Abstract: A supplied air snorkeling device is provided. This device includes a flotation vest coupled with a tank holder. This flotation vest contains flotation material that cannot be deflated and substantially prohibits a user from submerging. A tank cover is positioned within the tank holder for holding an air tank. Still further, a hose retainer is coupled with the vest. In use, an air tank is placed within the tank cover which is then placed within the tank holder. A hose extends from the air tank through the hose retainer and is connected to a regulator that is connected to a mouthpiece which fits into a user's mouth. The hose retainer keeps the mouthpiece in close proximity to the user's mouth. Another aspect of the present invention is a method of making this supplied air snorkeling device. This method includes coupling a tank holder with a flotation vest.

Abstract: An underwater breathing apparatus is so improved that it is simple to manufacture and that it provides a decoupling of the breathing gas conducting components and attachment elements. A support vest (2) is provided which includes an inner enclosure (3) and a textile outer enclosure. The inner enclosure (3) extends from the shoulders to the hips of the person carrying the apparatus. The inner enclosure (3) is made of two panels (31, 32) which lie one atop the other. On the periphery, the panels (31, 32) are provided with a first weld seam (33) which connects the panels at the periphery. Further weld seams (34, 36, 37), which connect the panels, are provided within the inner enclosure (3). The weld seams (34, 36, 37) subdivide the inner enclosure (3) into at least an inhalation bag (38), an exhalation bag (39) and a buoyancy bag (40).