Patent ID: 6523539
Filing Date: 2003-02-25
Classification: A62B,F16L

Abstract:
In a supplemental gas assembly including a mask adapted to fit over at least the nose and mouth of a wearer, a flexible hose operably coupled with said mask and source of supplemental gas and having a relaxed length, and a stowage box adapted to receive at least a portion of said mask and hose when the latter are not in use by said wearer, the improvement which comprises using as said hose a length-expandable hose which, when said wearer grasps said mask and pulls the mask from said box, will inflate and axially expand to a deployed length greater than said relaxed length, said length-expandable hose comprising an inflatable inner tube and an exterior sheath which restricts the radial expansion of said inner tube while allowing said axial expansion during said hose inflation.