Method and device for the autonomous production, preparation, and supply of breathing gas to divers at extreme depths

摘要

The invention relates to a fully closed circuit-pendulum-storage system wherein a given amount of a ready to breathe gas mixture made of various inert gases including hydrogen and oxygen is continuously conveyed between two highly pressurized gas containers. Initially, the required breathing gas leaves the pressurized gas container and reaches the circuit at a constant dosage according to the overdosing principle. The circuit consists of an inhalation bag, a diving helmet, an exhalation bag and a single or double pack CO₂ absorption filter. At a depth of 0-100 m a mixture of oxygen, nitrogen and helium is used as a breathing gas. At a depth of 100-700 m a given amount of hydrogen is mixed therewith according to the wishes of the diver, whereby the oxygen content should not exceed 3 vol. %. When the diver emerges from a depth of over 100 m, the hydrogen is removed from the breathing gas and from the circuit by means of palladium membrane diffusion or catalytic water conversion. The removal of hydrogen is controlled by hydrogen detectors. At this point only, the oxygen content can exceed 3 vol %.