Rebreather Carbon Dioxide Scrubber Gauge

A Simple and accurate way to measure the actual remaining life of a carbon dioxide scrubber in a rebreather unit. Background and Technology The US Navy and Experimental Dive Unit (NEDU) has developed and patented a novel method of determining the actual remaining endurance of a CO2 scrubber. The gauge takes advantage of the exothermic reaction of the CO2 absorbent. A few temperature sensors inside the absorbent generate data that is easily converted to a reliable, repeatable gauge reading. The readings are independent of water temperature, diver work load, depth and previous use. Benefits Robust: Generates accurate readings independent of water temperature, depth, previous use or diver workload Simple: No field calibration necessary; can be made entirely of analog equipment or readily integrated Extended Safe Dive Time: Measuring Actual scrubber function allows for more complete use of absorbent without compromising safety Versatile: Retrofits into existing systems in minutes Status and Opportunity Available for License and Commercialization: One issued US Patent (6618687) and various pending and issued foreign filings under PCT/US02/32541 Diver tested prototype built based on temperature and verification data from over 1,500 hours with air and HeO2(MK16) and over 1,000 hours O2(MK25) Public presentation available; additional available information under non-disclosure agreement Potential Research & Development collaboration with Dr. Dan Warkander of the Navy Experimental Dive Unit