System and method to prevent the transmission of pathogenic entities between the multiple users of second stage regulators

摘要

A mouthpiece for use with breathing devices of the type used by scuba divers is provided. The mouthpiece includes-at least one no-return valve to allow exhalation directly into the ambient environment. Additional no-return valves can be incorporated into the inhalation pathway to prevent fluids from flowing back into the regulator housing. In one embodiment, an inlet no-return valve is located in the respiratory port tube of the regulator. In other embodiments, an inlet no-return valve is located in the mouthpiece itself. The disclosed invention keeps the interior spaces of the regulator clean and dry even when the regulator is not in place, thus extending regulator life and preventing a dangerous and irritating free-flow condition from occurring due to icing during cold water use. Saliva and expired air with its attendant moistures and pathogenic entities are prevented from entering the regulator housing. The mouthpiece is easily detachable and can be sanitized between uses, making it particularly well suited for rental and instructional purposes. The mouthpiece can be variously constructed to differentiate common-use mouthpieces from those owned individually.