SYSTEM OF CONTROLLING BUOYANCY COMPENSATION DEVICES

The present disclosure relates generally to diving equipment, and in particular to a system of controlling buoyancy compensation devices used in self contained underwater breathing apparatus (SCUBA) diving.

BACKGROUND

In SCUBA diving, a diver generally controls buoyancy by establishing and maintaining neutral buoyancy at any given depth using a buoyancy control device (BCD). If at neutral buoyancy, adding air to an inflatable bladder of a conventional BCD causes the diver to become more buoyant and typically allows the diver to ascend from a particular position. Conversely, when air is compressed or released from a conventional BCD at neutral buoyancy, the diver becomes less buoyant and typically descends from a particular position.

Conventional systems of controlling BCDs typically require two mouthpieces—one connected to an oral inflator of a BCD and the other connected to the breathing gas supply. Such systems squander considerable amounts of breathing gas, subject the diver to potentially dangerous safety situations, and generally shorten the time period a diver may safely remain on a dive.

SUMMARY

Embodiments of the present disclosure generally provide a system of controlling buoyancy compensation devices used in self contained underwater breathing apparatus (SCUBA) diving.

In one embodiment, the present disclosure could generally provide a system that includes a mouthpiece connected to a compressed air source. The system could also include an actuator when in a first position directs exhaled air from the mouthpiece to an ambient environment and when in a second position directs the exhaled air from the mouthpiece to a buoyancy compensation device.

In one embodiment, the present disclosure could generally provide a diving apparatus. The apparatus could include a mouthpiece connected to a second stage regulator. The apparatus could also include an actuator to direct exhaled air from the mouthpiece to the ambient environment when the actuator is in a disengaged position and to direct the exhaled air to inflate a buoyancy compensation device when the actuator is in an engaged position. The apparatus could further include a quick connector disposed between the mouthpiece and the buoyancy compensation device. The apparatus could still further include a poppet valve disposed between the mouthpiece and the buoyancy compensation device. The poppet valve could restrict air from the buoyancy compensation device from entering the mouthpiece.

In one embodiment, the present disclosure could generally provide a self contained underwater breathing apparatus. The apparatus could include a first quick connect connector disposed between a mouthpiece and a second stage regulator. The apparatus could also include an actuator to direct exhaled air from the mouthpiece to the ambient environment when the actuator is in a disengaged position and to direct exhaled air to a buoyancy compensation device when the actuator is in an engaged position. The actuator could include an elongated body proximate to a passageway associated with the buoyancy compensation device and proximate to an orifice associated with the second stage regulator. The apparatus could further include a poppet valve disposed between the mouthpiece and the buoyancy compensation device and configured to restrict air from the buoyancy compensation device from entering the mouthpiece. The apparatus could still further include a second quick connect connector disposed between the mouthpiece and the buoyancy compensation device.

Other technical features may be readily apparent to one skilled in the art from the following figures, descriptions, and claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

For a more complete understanding of this disclosure and its features, reference is now made to the following description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is an exemplary illustration of a self contained underwater breathing apparatus (SCUBA) diving system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 2 is an exemplary illustration of a system generally used to control a buoyancy compensation device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 3 is an exemplary illustration of a buoyancy control system such as the system shown in FIG. 2 having an auxiliary system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 4A is an exemplary cross-sectional view of a mouthpiece system generally compatible with a system such as, for example, the systems shown in FIGS. 1, 2, and 3 having an actuator in a non-engaged position according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 4B is an exemplary cross-sectional view of the system shown in FIG. 4A having an actuator in an engaged position according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIGS. 5A and 5B are exemplary illustrations of connector systems that could be used in the systems shown in, for example, FIGS. 1, 2, and 3 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 6 is a somewhat simplified flow diagram illustrating a method of controlling a buoyancy compensation device using a system similar to that shown in, for example, FIG. 2 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure; and

FIG. 7 is a somewhat simplified flow diagram illustrating a method of using an auxiliary system such as the auxiliary system shown in, for example, FIG. 3 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present disclosure generally provides a system of controlling buoyancy compensation devices (BCDs) used in self-contained underwater breathing apparatus (SCUBA) diving.

Divers routinely rely upon and place a great deal of trust in sophisticated, high-quality, and expensive SCUBA diving equipment to operate correctly and provide life-supporting functions during his/her SCUBA diving excursions. Embodiments of the present disclosure such as, for example, the embodiments shown in FIGS. 1, 2, and 3, could provide enhanced functionality to conventional SCUBA diving equipment by integrating a system of controlling the BCD without the need to purchase an entirely new system. Accordingly, a diver could retrofit a portion of his/her conventional diving equipment system with an embodiment of the present disclosure while continuing to make use of most of his/her existing SCUBA equipment. Embodiments of the present disclosure could thus provide an easily retrofittable, cost-effective, and efficient system of controlling the BCD.

FIG. 1 is an exemplary illustration of SCUBA diving system 100 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. It should be understood that system 100 shown in FIG. 1 is for illustrative purposes only and that any other suitable system or subsystem could be used in conjunction with or in lieu of system 100 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

System 100 could include diver 102, buoyancy compensator device (BCD) 104, gas source 106, first stage regulator system 108, second stage regulator system 110, mouthpiece 112, and protective eye gear or mask 114. In one embodiment, diver 102 could generally retrofit conventional SCUBA diving equipment and systems with components of system 100 relatively easily and facilitate the recycling of exhausted air from diver 102 to inflate BCD 104.

BCD 104 could include any suitable device that provides the ability to adjust and control the overall buoyancy of diver 102 and any equipment associated with diver 102. Depending on the size or state of BCD 104, diver 102 could position himself/herself to remain at constant depth in a neutral buoyancy state, descend in a controlled manner, or ascend in a controlled manner while under water. Diver 102 could generally change the state of BCD 104 by controlling the amount of air within BCD 104. For example, in one embodiment, BCD 104 could include an inflatable bladder-like structure that when increased in volume, diver 102 will typically ascend from a particular location if at neutral buoyancy, increase the rate of ascension if ascending, or decrease the rate of descension if descending. When BCD 104 decreases in volume, diver 102 will typically descend from a particular location if at neutral buoyancy, decrease the rate of ascension if ascending, or increase the rate of descension if descending.

In one embodiment, BCD 104 could include an inflatable bladder associated with a stab jacket, stabilizer jacket, stab, waistcoat, vest, other suitable device, or any combination thereof. Although BCD 104 is illustrated as a vest-like device in FIG. 1, it should be understood that BCD 104 could be any suitable shape, size, or configuration in accordance with the present disclosure. BCD 104 could include any suitable device, supplemental device, or configuration including, for example, a wing-like configuration having an inflatable bladder worn between the diver's back and gas source 106.

Gas source 106 could include any suitable source of breathing gas, compressed air, oxygen, enriched oxygen, other suitable gases or liquids, or any combination thereof. Gas source 106 delivers such breathing gases for diver 102 when under water. In one embodiment, gas source 106 could include, for example, a diving cylinder, SCUBA tank, diving tank, oxygen tank, gas supply, container, reservoir, other suitable source, or any combination thereof, that is configurable to store, transport, and disperse high pressure breathing gas and oxygen to diver 102 while under water. Gas source 106 could include one or more low-pressure outlets and high-pressure outlets (not shown in FIG. 1). Although gas source 106 is generally illustrated as a cylindrical container, it should be understood that any suitable shape, size, or configuration for gas source 106 could be used in accordance with the present disclosure.

First stage regulator system 108 could generally reduce the pressure of the contents of gas source 106 to an intermediate air pressure. For example, in one embodiment, first stage regulator system 108 could reduce the pressure of the contents of gas source 106, which is typically about 300 pounds per inch (PSI), to an intermediate air pressure about 140 PSI above an ambient pressure equal to that surrounding diver 102 at any given depth while under water. It should be understood that the intermediate air pressure could be any suitable pressure above the ambient air pressure.

Second stage regulator system 110, in turn, reduces the air pressure from an intermediate air pressure to an ambient air pressure relative to diver 102. For example, second stage regulator system 110 could deliver breathing gas usually through mouthpiece 112 to diver 102 at an ambient air pressure equal to that surrounding diver 102 at any given depth while under water. It should be understood that the ambient air pressure could be any suitable pressure.

Mouthpiece 112 could be any suitable device used by diver 102 to grip with his/her mouth and provide a generally watertight seal. Mouthpiece 112 could be made of rubber, silicone, plastic, polymer, durable material, other suitable materials, or any combination thereof. In one embodiment, mouthpiece 112 could include a short flattened-oval tube that goes in between the lips. Mouthpiece 112 could also include one or more flanges that could fit between the lips and the teeth and gums (see flanges 402a and 402b in FIGS. 4A and 4B). Mouthpiece 112 could be an independent piece or be part of a full-face diving mask or mask 114. Although a particular mouthpiece 112 is shown and described herein, it should be understood that any suitable shape, size, or configuration for mouthpiece 112 could be used in accordance with the present disclosure.

Mask 114 could include a protective plate made of tempered glass, plastic, polymer, durable material, other suitable materials, or any combination thereof configured to protect the eyes of diver 102. Mask 114 could also include a frame made of rubber, silicone, durable material, other suitable materials, or any combination thereof to create a watertight seal with the face of diver 102. A strap (not shown in FIG. 1) could be fitted to the head of diver 102 to generally keep mask 114 in a desired position.

In one embodiment, mask 114 could be designed to allow diver 102 to exhale or inhale through his/her nose into or from mask 114 when desired. In one embodiment, mask 114 could be part of a full-face diving mask that seals the face of diver 102 from the water and could include an integrated mouthpiece 112. Although a particular mask 114 is shown and described herein, it should be understood that any suitable shape, size, or configuration for mask 114 could be used in accordance with the present disclosure.

In one embodiment, system 100, mouthpiece 112, mask 114, or any suitable combination thereof could be configured to allow exhaled air from diver 102 to enter the surrounding water or used to inflate BCD 104, depending on the desired action of diver 102. Although particular configurations of system 100, mouthpiece 112, and mask 114 are shown and described herein, it should be understood that any suitable shape, size, or configuration for system 100, mouthpiece 112, and mask 114 could be used in accordance with the present disclosure.

FIG. 2 is an exemplary illustration of system 200 generally used to control a buoyancy compensation device such as, for example, BCD 104 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. It should be understood that system 200 shown in FIG. 2 is for illustrative purposes only and that any other suitable system or subsystem could be used in conjunction with or in lieu of system 200 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

System 200, like system 100 described above, could include BCD 104, gas source 106, first stage regulator system 108, second stage regulator system 110, and mouthpiece 112 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. In addition, system 200 could include clamp system 202, valve system 204, and gauge system 206 associated with first stage regulator system 108. System 200 could further include valve system 208 and actuator 210 associated with second stage regulator system 110.

In one embodiment, system 200 could further include a system of connectors and hoses connecting first stage regulator system 108 to second stage regulator system 110. For example, system 200 could include BCD hose 212, supply hose 214, distal connector 216, proximal connector 218, BCD connector 220, first stage connector 222, second stage connector 224, and release actuator 226 (sometimes referred to as a BCD quick dump exhaust valve).

Clamp system 202 and valve system 204 could be associated with first stage regulator system 108 and could be connected to an opening of gas source 106 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Clamp system 202 could be any suitable system capable of mounting or otherwise connecting to an opening of gas source 106. Although a particular configuration of clamp system 202 is shown and described herein, it should be understood that any suitable shape, size, or configuration for clamp system 202 could be used in accordance with the present disclosure.

In one embodiment, valve system 204 could be associated with first stage regulator system 108 and could be any suitable system having a control mechanism such as a valve, regulator, knob, lever, handle, other suitable device, or any combination thereof capable of controlling the amount, pressure, and supply of breathing gas and oxygen made available to second stage regulator system 110. Although a particular configuration of valve system 204 is shown and described herein, it should be understood that any suitable shape, size, or configuration for valve system 204 could be used in accordance with the present disclosure.

In one embodiment, gauge system 206 could be associated with first stage regulator system 108 and could be any suitable system for measuring, calculating, or displaying the gas pressure of gas released from gas source 106. Gauge system 206 could include a submersible pressure gauge (SPG), an analog system, a digital system, other suitable gauge, or any combination thereof for displaying the gas pressure of gas released from gas source 106. Although a particular configuration of gauge system 206 is shown and described herein, it should be understood that any suitable shape, size, or configuration for gauge system 206 could be used in accordance with the present disclosure.

In one embodiment, valve system 208 could be associated with second stage regulator system 110 and could be any suitable system having a control mechanism such as a valve, regulator, knob, lever, handle, other suitable device, or any combination thereof capable of controlling the amount, pressure, and supply of breathing gas and oxygen made available to diver 102. Although a particular configuration of valve system 208 is shown and described herein, it should be understood that any suitable shape, size, or configuration for valve system 208 could be used in accordance with the present disclosure.

Actuator 210 could be associated with valve system 208 and could generally aid in controlling aspects of system 200, mouthpiece 112, and BCD 104 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. For example, actuator 210 could selectively control system 200 and could be configured to allow exhaled air from diver 102 to enter the surrounding water through second stage regulator system 110 or to inflate BCD 104 while under water when desired. In one embodiment, when actuator 210 is positioned in a neutral or non-engaged position (as later shown in FIG. 4A and described in the description accompanying FIG. 4A herein), system 200 could be configured to allow exhaled air from diver 102 to enter the surrounding water through second stage regulator system 110. On the other hand, when actuator 210 is positioned in an engaged position (as later shown in FIG. 4B and described in the description accompanying FIG. 4B herein), system 200 could be configured to allow exhaled air from diver 102 to inflate BCD 104.

Actuator 210 could include a valve, poppet valve, push button, switch, key, toggle, knob, lever, arm, handle, dial, operator, controller, other suitable actuators, or any combination thereof. Although a particular configuration of actuator 210 is shown and described herein, it should be understood that any suitable shape, size, or configuration for actuator 210 could be used in accordance with the present disclosure.

BCD hose 212 could be configured to direct, carry, communicate, convey, or otherwise transport air generally from mouthpiece 112 to BCD 104 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Similarly, supply hose 214 could be configured to direct, carry, communicate, convey, or otherwise transport air generally from first stage regulator system 108 to second stage regulator system 110 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

BCD hose 212 and supply hose 214 could be made of nylon, polyurethane, polyethylene, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), synthetic rubber, natural rubber, plastic, stainless steel, metal, polymer, other suitable materials, or any combination thereof. Although particular configurations of BCD hose 212 and supply hose 214 are shown and described herein, it should be understood that any suitable shape, size, or configuration for BCD hose 212 and supply hose 214 could be used in accordance with the present disclosure.

Distal connector 216 and proximal connector 218 could generally be mated with or configured to connect or otherwise join BCD hose 212 to mouthpiece 112 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. At one end, proximal connector 218 could be configured to mate with or retrofit a common or universal connection or fitting typically associated with conventional SCUBA diving mouthpieces or with, for example, mouthpiece 112. For example, distal connector 216 and proximal connector 218 could include one or more quick connecters, hose connectors, universal connectors, quick connect couplings, quick disconnect couplings, air transfer couplings, compression couplings, other suitable couplings, fittings, fasteners, or connectors, or any combination thereof.

Although particular configurations of distal connector 216 and proximal connector 218 are shown and described herein, it should be understood that any suitable shape, size, or configuration for distal connector 216 and proximal connector 218 could be used in accordance with the present disclosure.

BCD connector 220 could generally be mated with or configured to connect or otherwise join BCD 104 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. In one embodiment, BCD connector 220 could include one or more elbow connectors (as generally shown in FIG. 2), quick connecters, hose connectors, universal connectors, quick connect couplings, quick disconnect couplings, air transfer couplings, compression couplings, other suitable couplings, fittings, fasteners, or connectors, or any combination thereof. Although particular configurations of BCD connector 220 are shown and described herein, it should be understood that any suitable shape, size, or configuration for BCD connector 220 could be used in accordance with the present disclosure.

First stage connector 222 could generally be mated with or configured to connect or otherwise join first stage regulator system 108 to supply hose 214 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. At one end, first stage connector 222 could be configured to mate with or retrofit a common or universal connection or fitting typically associated with conventional SCUBA diving first stage regulator systems or with, for example, first stage regulator system 108. For example, first stage connector 222 could include one or more quick connecters, hose connectors, universal connectors, quick connect couplings, quick disconnect couplings, air transfer couplings, compression couplings, other suitable couplings, fittings, fasteners, or connectors, or any combination thereof. Although a particular configuration of first stage connector 222 is shown and described herein, it should be understood that any suitable shape, size, or configuration for first stage connector 222 could be used in accordance with the present disclosure.

Second stage connector 224 could generally be mated with or configured to connect or otherwise join supply hose 214 to second stage regulator system 110 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. At one end, second stage connector 224 could be configured to mate with or retrofit a common or universal connection or fitting typically associated with conventional SCUBA diving second stage regulators or with, for example, a connection associated with second stage regulator system 110. For example, second stage connector 224 could include one or more quick connecters, hose connectors, universal connectors, quick connect couplings, quick disconnect couplings, air transfer couplings, compression couplings, other suitable couplings, fittings, fasteners, or connectors, or any combination thereof. Although a particular configuration of second stage connector 224 is shown and described herein, it should be understood that any suitable shape, size, or configuration for second stage connector 224 could be used in accordance with the present disclosure.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 2, release actuator 226 could generally aid in controlling the deflation of BCD 104. When release actuator 226 remains in a neutral position, BCD 104 remains airtight. However, when release actuator 226 is engaged, BCD 104 deflates and releases air into the ambient surroundings. Although release actuator 226 is shown to be located in a particular position on BCD 104, release actuator 226 could be included in a number of other suitable locations on BCD 104.

Release actuator 226 could include a valve, poppet valve, push button, switch, key, toggle, knob, lever, arm, handle, dial, operator, controller, other suitable actuators, or any combination thereof. Although a particular configuration of release actuator 226 is shown and described herein, it should be understood that any suitable shape, size, or configuration for release actuator 226 could be used in accordance with the present disclosure.

Diver 102 could retrofit his/her conventional SCUBA diving equipment system with one or more portions of system 200 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. For example, diver 102 could replace his/her conventional mouthpiece with mouthpiece 112, valve system 208, and actuator 210. In particular, as shown in FIG. 2, valve system 208 could be connected on one side to a conventional second stage regulator system 110 and on another side to a conventional BCD hose 212. The resulting system could provide an easily retrofitted, cost-effective, and efficient system of controlling BCD 104.

FIG. 3 is an exemplary illustration of a buoyancy control system 300 having a secondary or auxiliary system 300a according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. It should be understood that system 300 and auxiliary system 300a shown in FIG. 3 are for illustrative purposes only and that any other suitable system or subsystem could be used in conjunction with or in lieu of system 300 or auxiliary system 300a according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

System 300 could generally include elements of system 200 shown in FIG. 2 and described in the description accompanying FIG. 2 herein. Auxiliary system 300a could include, for example, auxiliary mouthpiece 302, automatic inflator actuator 304, auxiliary BCD hose 306, auxiliary supply hose 308, y-connector 310, primary valve 312, auxiliary valve 314, and deflator actuator 316 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Although particular configurations of system 300 and auxiliary system 300a are shown and described herein, it should be understood that any suitable shape, size, or configuration for system 300 and auxiliary system 300a could be used in accordance with the present disclosure.

As shown in FIG. 3, auxiliary system 300a provides a secondary method for inflating or deflating BCD 104. In particular, automatic inflator actuator 304 can be depressed in order to automatically inflate BCD 104 using gas expelled from gas source 106 through auxiliary supply hose 308. Alternatively, auxiliary mouthpiece 302 can be used to manually exhale air from either diver 102 or a second diver into the BCD 104 and thereby inflate BCD 104. Deflator actuator 316, in turn, can be depressed to release gas from BCD 104 and thereby controllably deflate BCD 104. In this manner, auxiliary system 300a can be used as a back-up or supplemental method for controlling inflation and deflation of BCD 104. It should be understood that auxiliary system 300a could be used by a second diver to control BCD 104 when diver 102 is unable to do so. In still another example, system 300 and auxiliary system 300a could be used simultaneously by diver 102 and a second diver.

Although auxiliary mouthpiece 302 is shown without a connection to a second stage regulator in FIG. 3, it should be understood that, in one embodiment, a separate second stage regulator system (sometimes referred to as an octopus; not shown in FIG. 3) could be connected to mouthpiece 302. This separate second stage regulator system could allow diver 102 or a second diver to have a back-up or supplemental method for breathing gas delivered from gas source 106.

In another embodiment having a separate second stage regulator system, auxiliary system 300a could also include a mouthpiece, a valve system, and an actuator similar to mouthpiece 112, valve system 208 and actuator 210 depicted in FIG. 2 to selectively control system 300 and to allow a diver (either diver 102 or another diver) to breathe gas delivered from gas source 106 and immediately exhale such breathed gas into and inflate BCD 104 when desired.

Auxiliary BCD hose 306 and auxiliary supply hose 308 could be configured similarly to BCD hose 212 and supply hose 214, respectively, shown in FIG. 2 and described in conjunction with the description accompanying FIG. 2 herein according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. In one embodiment, if auxiliary mouthpiece 302 were to include a connection to a separate second stage regulator system (not shown in FIG. 3), then auxiliary supply hose 308 could be configured to direct, carry, communicate, convey, or otherwise transport air generally from first stage regulator system 108 to such second stage regulator system. Although particular configurations of auxiliary BCD hose 306 and auxiliary supply hose 308 are shown and described herein, it should be understood that any suitable shape, size, or configuration for auxiliary BCD hose 306 and auxiliary supply hose 308 could be used in accordance with the present disclosure.

In one embodiment, Y-connector 310 could generally be a part of, mated with, or configured to connect or otherwise join with BCD connector 220 on a distal end. On a proximate end, Y-connector 310 could have one or more couplings to BCD hose 212 and auxiliary BCD hose 306 as shown in FIG. 3 and include one or more quick connecters, hose connectors, universal connectors, quick connect couplings, quick disconnect couplings, air transfer couplings, compression couplings, other suitable couplings, fittings, fasteners, or connectors, or any combination thereof. Although a particular configuration of Y-connector 310 is shown and described herein, it should be understood that any suitable shape, size, or configuration for Y-connector 310 could be used in accordance with the present disclosure.

The coupling between Y-connector 310 and BCD hose 212 could include primary valve 312 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Primary valve 312 could be configured to selectively control the amount of air passing through primary valve 312. Similarly, the coupling between Y-connector 310 and auxiliary BCD hose 306 could include auxiliary valve 314 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Auxiliary valve 314 could be configured to selectively control the amount of air passing through auxiliary valve 314.

Primary valve 312 and auxiliary valve 314 could include a valve, poppet valve, push button, switch, key, toggle, knob, lever, arm, handle, dial, operator, controller, other suitable actuators, or any combination thereof. Although particular configurations of primary valve 312 and auxiliary valve 314 are shown and described herein, it should be understood that any suitable shape, size, or configuration for primary valve 312 and auxiliary valve 314 could be used in accordance with the present disclosure.

Automatic inflator actuator 304 could generally be configured to automatically inflate BCD 104 when desired using a power inflator, blower, pump, pressurizer, motorized mechanism, other suitable device, or any combination thereof.

Diver 102 could retrofit his/her conventional SCUBA diving equipment system with one or more portions of system 300 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. For example, diver 102 could replace his/her conventional mouthpiece with mouthpiece 112, valve system 208, and actuator 210. Accordingly, system 300 could provide an easily retrofitted, cost-effective, and efficient system of controlling BCD 104.

FIG. 4A is an exemplary cross-sectional view of mouthpiece system 400a generally compatible with, for example, systems 100, 200, and 300 shown in FIGS. 1, 2, and 3, respectively, having actuator 210 in a non-engaged position according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. It should be understood that system 400a shown in FIG. 4A is for illustrative purposes only and that any other suitable system or subsystem could be used in conjunction with or in lieu of system 400a according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

System 400a could include mouthpiece flanges 402a and 402b (collectively referred to herein as mouthpiece flanges 402), mouthpiece orifices 404a and 404b (collectively referred to herein as mouthpiece orifices 404), and housing 406 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. System 400a could also include, for example, spring 408, elongated structure 410, diverter mechanism 412, end guide 414a, and block piece 414b associated with actuator 210. System 400a could further include, for example, passageway 416, valve 417a, flanges 417b and 417c, passageway 418, valve 420, flanges 424a and 424b (collectively referred to herein as flanges 424), and outputs 426a and 426b (collectively referred to herein as outputs 426).

In one embodiment, mouthpiece flanges 402 could include one or more flange-like structures that could fit between the lips and the teeth and gums to generally aid diver 102 in gripping or otherwise maintaining the relative position of mouthpiece 112. Mouthpiece flanges 402 could be made of any suitable material or materials including, for example, any material or combination of materials used to make mouthpiece 112. Although a particular configuration of mouthpiece flanges 402 is shown and described herein, it should be understood that any suitable shape, size, or configuration for mouthpiece flanges 402 could be used in accordance with the present disclosure.

Mouthpiece orifice 404 could generally include a passageway to transfer, carry, convey, communicate, or otherwise facilitate the flow of air between mouthpiece 112, second stage regulator system 110, and BCD 104 within housing 406 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Although a particular configuration of mouthpiece orifice 404 is shown and described herein, it should be understood that any suitable shape, size, or configuration for orifice 404 could be used in accordance with the present disclosure.

Housing 406 could comprise elongated body 406a having flange areas 406b and 406c. Housing 406, elongated body 406a, and flange areas 406b and 406c could be made of any suitable material or materials including, for example, any material or combination of materials used to make mouthpiece 112. Although a particular configuration of housing 406 is shown and described herein, it should be understood that any suitable shape, size, or configuration for housing 406 could be used in accordance with the present disclosure.

Spring 408 could be disposed within flange area 406c. Actuator 210 could be disposed proximate to spring 408 and elongated structure 410. Spring 408 could include any suitable tension bearing mechanism allowing actuator 210 to function as generally described herein. When actuator 210 is in a generally non-engaged position as shown in FIG. 4A, spring 408 could be in a generally uncompressed state and positioned in an area proximate to flange area 406c at one end of housing 406. Spring 408 could be made of any suitable material or combination of materials. Although a particular configuration of spring 408 is shown and described herein, it should be understood that any suitable shape, size, or configuration for spring 408 could be used in accordance with the present disclosure.

Elongated structure 410 could include diverter mechanism 412 and end guide 414a as generally shown in FIG. 4A according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Elongated structure 410 could generally be configured for lateral movement within elongated body 406a. Diverter mechanism 412 and end guide 414a could be configured to guide such lateral movement within elongated body 406a. In one example, diverter mechanism 412 could aid in maintaining a position of elongated body 406a relative to mouthpiece orifice 404b and could direct the flow of air to a desired location. When, for example, actuator 210 is in a generally non-engaged position (as shown in FIG. 4A), diverter mechanism 412 allows the flow of air between mouthpiece 112 and second stage regulator system 110 (via second stage connector 224). In another example, end guide 414a could aid in maintaining a position of elongated structure 410 and diverter mechanism 412 to assist in maintaining sealable contact between diverter mechanism 412 and elongated body 406a.

End guide 414a and block piece 414b could be made of any suitable material or combination of materials. Although a particular configuration of end guide 414a and block piece 414b is shown and described herein, it should be understood that any suitable shape, size, or configuration for end guide 414a and block piece 414b could be used in accordance with the present disclosure.

Passageway 416 could facilitate an air passage between mouthpiece 112 and BCD 104 when actuator 210 is in an engaged position as later shown in FIG. 4B and described in the description accompanying FIG. 4B. Although a particular configuration of passageway 416 is shown and described herein, it should be understood that any suitable shape, size, or configuration for passageway 416 could be used in accordance with the present disclosure.

Valve 417a could be disposed proximate to passageway 416 as shown in FIG. 4A according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Valve 417a could include any suitable control mechanism such as a valve, poppet valve, one-way valve, regulator, knob, lever, handle, other suitable device, or any combination thereof capable of controlling the amount, pressure, or supply of expelled breathing gas and oxygen transferred to BCD 104 as shown and described in FIG. 4B and the description accompanying FIG. 4B. In one embodiment, valve 417a could include an elongated body situated between flanges 417b and 417c and disposed to generally sealably fit passageway 416. Valve 417a could operate to be unidirectional and allow air to flow into BCD 104, but restrict the flow of air from BCD 104 back to passageway 416. Although a particular configuration of valve 417a and flanges 417b and 417c is shown and described herein, it should be understood that any suitable shape, size, or configuration for valve 417a and flanges 417b and 417c could be used in accordance with the present disclosure.

Passageway 418 could facilitate an air passage between second stage regulator system 110 and mouthpiece 112 when actuator 210 is in a non-engaged position as shown in FIG. 4A. For example, in one embodiment, gas from gas source 106 could flow from second stage regulator system 110 through passageway 418 and mouthpiece orifice 404 to diver 102. Although a particular configuration of passageway 418 is shown and described herein, it should be understood that any suitable shape, size, or configuration for passageway 418 could be used in accordance with the present disclosure.

Valve 420 could be disposed proximate to second stage connector 224 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Valve 420 could include any suitable control mechanism such as a valve, poppet valve, one-way valve, regulator, knob, lever, handle, other suitable device, or any combination thereof capable of controlling the amount, pressure, or supply of breathing gas and oxygen made available to diver 102 from second stage regulator system 110. In one embodiment, valve 420 could include an elongated body situated between flanges 424a and 424b and disposed to generally sealably fit passageway 418. Although a particular configuration of valve 420 and flanges 424 is shown and described herein, it should be understood that any suitable shape, size, or configuration for valve 420 and flanges 424 could be used in accordance with the present disclosure.

Outputs 426a and 426b (collectively referred to herein as outputs 426) generally provide an outlet for expelled air from mouthpiece 112 to the ambient environment. In one embodiment, when actuator 210 is in a non-engaged position, as generally shown in FIG. 4A, diver 102 could exhale air into the surrounding environment when under water through outputs 426. Outputs 426 could be any suitable structure configured to release air exhaled from diver 102 into the surrounding environment. Although a particular configuration of outputs 426 is shown and described herein, it should be understood that any suitable shape, size, or configuration for outputs 426 could be used in accordance with the present disclosure.

FIG. 4B is an exemplary cross-sectional view of mouthpiece system 400b generally compatible with, for example, systems 100, 200, and 300 shown in FIGS. 1, 2, and 3, respectively, having actuator 210 in an engaged position according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. It should be understood that system 400b shown in FIG. 4B is for illustrative purposes only and that any other suitable system or subsystem could be used in conjunction with or in lieu of system 400b according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

System 400b generally includes the same elements as system 400a shown in FIG. 4A and described in the description accompanying FIG. 4A. System 400b shown in FIG. 4B, however, illustrates actuator 210 generally in an engaged position. In one embodiment, when actuator 210 is in an engaged position, system 400b provides diver 102 the ability to exhale air from mouthpiece 112 to BCD 104. For example, when actuator 210 is in an engaged position, spring 408 is in a compressed position and diverter mechanism 412 allows the flow of air between mouthpiece 112 and BCD 104 through passageway 416.

Valve 417a could allow a unidirectional flow of air from passageway 416 to BCD 104, while restricting the flow of air from BCD 104 into passageway 416. In one embodiment, when actuator 210 is in an engaged position, diver 102 generally does not have the ability to exhale air to outputs 426, or receive air from second stage regulator system 110.

Accordingly, it should be understood that systems 400a and 400b could generally be operated similarly to system 200 as shown in FIG. 2 and described in conjunction with the description accompanying FIG. 2 herein. In one embodiment, when actuator 210 is in a non-engaged position (as shown in FIG. 4A), system 200 could operate and allow diver 102 to inhale air provided by second stage regulator system 110 and to exhale air from mouthpiece 112 to outputs 426. On the other hand, when actuator 210 is in an engaged position (as shown in FIG. 4B), system 200 could operate and allow diver 102 to temporarily end the supply of air from second stage regulator system 110 and exhale air from mouthpiece 112 to BCD 104 in a unidirectional manner.

FIGS. 5A and 5B are exemplary illustrations of connector systems 500a and 500b, respectively, that could be used in, for example, systems 100, 200, and 300. It should be understood that connector systems 500a and 500b (collectively, referred to herein as connector systems 500) shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B are for illustrative purposes only and that any other suitable system or subsystem could be used in conjunction with or in lieu of connector systems 500a and 500b according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

Connector system 500a could include male connector 502, connection 504, and female connector 506 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. System 500a could be retrofitted, used in conjunction with, or in lieu of connectors found in existing SCUBA diving equipment. For example, one or more of male connector 502, connection 504, and female connector 506 could be retrofitted, used in conjunction with, or in lieu of any of the connectors used in systems 200 or 300 shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, respectively.

Male connector 502, connection 504, and female connector 506 could include one or more quick connectors, hose connectors, universal connectors, quick connect couplings, quick disconnect couplings, air transfer couplings, compression couplings, other suitable couplings, fittings, fasteners, or connectors, or any combination thereof. Although a particular configuration of connector system 500a is shown and described herein, it should be understood that any suitable shape, size, or configuration for connector system 500a could be used in accordance with the present disclosure. It should also be understood that connecter system 500a could be used in conjunction with any suitably shaped, sized, or configured hose such as, for example, BCD hose 212 shown in FIG. 2.

Connector system 500b could include male connector 508, connection 510, and female connector 512 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. System 500b could be retrofitted, used in conjunction with, or in lieu of connectors found in existing SCUBA diving equipment. For example, one or more of male connector 508, connection 510, and female connector 512 could be retrofitted, used in conjunction with, or in lieu of any of the connectors used in systems 200 or 300 shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, respectively.

Male connector 508, connection 510, and female connector 512 could include one or more quick connectors, hose connectors, universal connectors, quick connect couplings, quick disconnect couplings, air transfer couplings, compression couplings, other suitable couplings, fittings, fasteners, or connectors, or any combination thereof. Although a particular configuration of connector system 500b is shown and described herein, it should be understood that any suitable shape, size, or configuration for connector system 500b could be used in accordance with the present disclosure. It should also be understood that connecter system 500b could be used in conjunction with any suitably shaped, sized, or configured hose such as, for example, supply hose 214 shown in FIG. 2.

Diver 102 could retrofit his/her conventional SCUBA diving equipment system with one or more portions of systems 200 or 300 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. For example, diver 102 could use connector systems 500a, 500b, or both to replace his/her conventional mouthpiece with mouthpiece 112. The resulting system could provide an easily retrofitted, cost-effective, and efficient system of controlling BCD 104.

FIG. 6 is a somewhat simplified flow diagram illustrating method 600 of controlling a buoyancy compensation device (BCD) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. It should be understood that method 600 shown in FIG. 6 is for illustrative purposes only and that any other suitable method or sub-method could be used in conjunction with or in lieu of method 600 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. It should also be understood that the steps of method 600 could be performed in any suitable order or manner in accordance with the present disclosure.

In step 602, a diver such as, for example, diver 102 shown in FIG. 1, could use and properly wear a SCUBA diving system such as, for example, system 200 shown in FIG. 2. Diver 102 could begin the dive and enter the water. In one embodiment, diver 102 could retain very little to no air in his/her BCD such as, for example, BCD 104 shown in FIG. 2, to descend to the desired depth.

In step 604, diver 102 could continue with his/her dive and determine whether to use system 200 to change his or her rate of ascent or descent. For example, to generally change the rate of ascent or descent, diver 102 could selectively control the amount of air in BCD 102. For example, to generally increase the relative rate of ascent in the water, BCD 104 could be expanded in volume (thereby increasing its water displacement and making diver 102 more buoyant). Conversely, to generally decrease the relative rate of the diver's descent in the water, BCD 104 could be decreased in volume (thereby decreasing its water displacement and making diver 102 less buoyant).

If in step 604, diver 102 determines that he/she desires to increase his/her relative rate of ascent from his/her current disposition (i.e., to increase rate of ascent or decrease rate of descent), then in step 606, diver 102 could use a controller such as, for example, actuator 210 to increase the relative rate of ascent by engaging actuator 210. By engaging actuator 210, diver 102 could exhale air from mouthpiece 112 to BCD 104. BCD 104, in turn, could expand in volume (thereby increasing its water displacement and making diver 102 more buoyant). Accordingly, diver 102 could selectively increase his/her relative rate of ascent by controlling the amount of air exhaled into BCD 104. When the desired inflation of BCD 104 is achieved, diver 102 simply disengages actuator 210 so that any air exhaled from diver 102 is no longer capable of being directed into BCD 104 in step 610.

If, on the other hand, in step 604, diver 102 determines that he/she desires to increase his/her relative rate of descent from his/her current disposition (i.e., to decrease rate of ascent or increase rate of descent), then in step 608, diver 102 could engage a controller such as, for example, release actuator 226, to selectively release air from BCD 104 and decrease the volume of BCD 104 (thereby reducing its water displacement and making diver 102 less buoyant). Accordingly, diver 102 could selectively increase his/her rate of descent by controlling the amount of air maintained in BCD 104. When the desired inflation of BCD 104 is achieved, diver 102 simply disengages release actuator 226 to stop the release of air from BCD 104 in step 610.

After step 610 is complete in either scenario described herein above, diver 102 could determine whether the dive should continue in step 612. If the diver desires to continue the dive, method 600 could continue by repeating step 604. Otherwise, the dive comes to an end in step 614 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Accordingly, method 600 provides an efficient system and method of controlling BCD 104 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 7 is a somewhat simplified flow diagram illustrating method 700 of controlling a buoyancy compensation device (BCD) using an auxiliary system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. It should be understood that method 700 shown in FIG. 7 is for illustrative purposes only and that any other suitable method or sub-method could be used in conjunction with or in lieu of method 700 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. It should also be understood that the steps of method 700 could be performed in any suitable order or manner in accordance with the present disclosure.

In step 702, a diver such as, for example, diver 102 shown in FIG. 1, could use and properly wear a SCUBA diving system such as, for example, system 300 shown in FIG. 3. Diver 102 could begin the dive and enter the water. In one embodiment, diver 102 could retain very little to no air in his/her BCD such as, for example, BCD 104 shown in FIG. 3, to descend to the desired depth.

While the dive is under way, method 700 could include diver 102 or any other diver determining whether his/her SCUBA diving equipment is not working correctly or determines that an exigent circumstance exists in step 704.

If diver 102 or a second diver determines that his/her SCUBA diving equipment is not working correctly or determines that an exigent circumstance exists, method 700 continues in step 706. Otherwise, diver 102 and the second diver continue on with the dive in step 714.

In step 706, diver 102 or the second diver determines whether to change his/her relative rate of ascent or descent by using system 300. For example, to generally change the relative rate of ascent or descent, diver 102 could selectively control the amount of air in BCD 102. In one embodiment, BCD 104 could be expanded in volume (thereby increasing its water displacement and making diver 102 more buoyant) to increase the relative rate of the diver's ascent in the water. Conversely, BCD 104 could be decreased in volume (thereby decreasing its water displacement and making diver 102 less buoyant) to decrease the relative rate of the diver's descent in the water.

If in step 706, diver 102 determines that he/she desires to increase his/her relative rate of descent, then in step 708, diver 102 could engage a controller such as, for example, release actuator 226 to selectively release air from BCD 104 and decrease the volume of BCD 104 (thereby reducing its water displacement and making diver 102 less buoyant). Accordingly, diver 102 could selectively increase his/her relative rate of descent by controlling the amount of air maintained in BCD 104. Diver 102 simply disengages release actuator 226 to stop the release of air from BCD 104 in step 712.

If, however, in step 706 diver 102 or the second diver determines that his/her relative rate of ascent needs to be increased, then in step 710, diver 102 could use a controller such as, for example, actuator 210 to increase the relative rate of ascent by engaging actuator 210. By engaging actuator 210, diver 102 or the second diver could exhale air from mouthpiece 112 to BCD 104. In another embodiment, diver 102 or the second diver could use automatic inflator such as, for example, the inflator operated by automatic inflator actuator 304 shown in FIG. 3 to inflate BCD 104.

Regardless of whether diver 102 or the second diver inflates BCD 104 manually or using automatic inflator actuator 304, BCD 104, in turn, could expand in volume (thereby increasing its water displacement and making diver 102 more buoyant). Accordingly, diver 102 could selectively increase his/her relative rate of ascent by controlling the amount of air directed into BCD 104. When the desired rate of ascent is achieved, diver 102 simply disengages actuator 210 so that air exhaled from diver 102 no longer is capable of being directed into BCD 104 or, in the other case, disengage automatic inflator actuator 316, in step 712.

After step 712 is complete in either scenario described herein above, diver 102 could determine whether the dive should continue in step 714. If the diver desires to continue the dive, method 700 could continue by repeating step 704. Otherwise, the dive could come to an end in step 716 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Accordingly, method 700 provides an efficient system and method of controlling BCD 104 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

It may be advantageous to set forth definitions of certain words and phrases used in this patent document. The term “couple” and its derivatives refer to any direct or indirect communication between two or more elements, whether or not those elements are in physical contact with one another. The terms “include” and “comprise,” as well as derivatives thereof, mean inclusion without limitation. The term “or” is inclusive, meaning and/or. The phrases “associated with” and “associated therewith,” as well as derivatives thereof, may mean to include, be included within, interconnect with, contain, be contained within, connect to or with, couple to or with, be communicable with, cooperate with, interleave, juxtapose, be proximate to, be bound to or with, have, have a property of, or the like.

While this disclosure has described certain embodiments and generally associated methods, alterations and permutations of these embodiments and methods will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, the above description of example embodiments does not define or constrain this disclosure. Other changes, substitutions, and alterations are also possible without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure, as defined by the following claims.

SYSTEM OF CONTROLLING BUOYANCY COMPENSATION DEVICES

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