Patent Publication Number: US-11641893-B2

Title: Back support frame

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     The present application is a continuation in part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/295,178, filed Mar. 7, 2019 titled “Back Support Frame”, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 62/642,469, filed Mar. 13, 2018 and incorporates the disclosure of this application by reference. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (“SCBA”), which are utilized in the fire service industry typically consists of one SCBA frame/harness and a generally vertically oriented air bottle that is strapped onto the firefighters back and worn over his/her canvas turnouts. The standard SCBA design is somewhat similar to a standard SCUBA tank design. However, there is an obvious difference in the environment where these frames are used that impact users of the SCBA and the SCUBA frames. For example, while using a SCUBA tank, the human body is buoyant and is not subject to the stresses of gravity outside of water. However, when a firefighter uses a SCBA, the conditions and stresses on the firefighter can cause significant duress and injury. 
     Consistent use of the standard SCBA configuration can cause significant wear on the users back and spine. Specifically, injuries to the L4-L5 and L5-S1 have been reported with some frequency and can require surgery, which immobilize the firefighter and removes them from service. Presently, the standard SCBA restricts movement along the spine causing the lower back to function as the only hinge and fulcrum for movement, thus placing all the stress of the torso on the lower spine. 
     As such, an improved SCBA frame may be utilized that reduces injuries to firefighters to increase the quality of life that may be severely limited by the nature of a common injury attributed to firefighters by neuro surgeons and medical doctors. The current SCBA configuration contributes to and causes severe back injuries, L4, L5, S1 herniation&#39;s of the spine. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     An exemplary SCBA frame may comprise a frame having more than one plate coupled together via an attachment system. The attachment system allows the plates to move relative to one another. The SCBA frame mimics the shape of the wearer&#39;s back. The SCBA frame may be configured to receive more than one air cylinder and the cylinders may be connected by standard hoses. The SCBA frame may utilize vertical oriented or horizontally oriented SCBA bottles. The SCBA frame also may receive a standard SCBA harness, breathing apparatus, and waist attachment. 
     In various embodiments, the SCBA frame for mounting self-contained breathing apparatus bottles horizontally such that the frame can move or articulate with the back of a user. The SCBA frame may comprise an upper plate comprising a top edge, a bottom edge, and a pair of sides; an intermediate plate comprising a top edge, a bottom edge, and a pair of sides; a lower plate comprising a top edge, a bottom edge, and, a pair of side; a first attachment mechanism coupled to the bottom edge of the upper plate and a top edge of the intermediate plate; and a second attachment mechanism coupled to the bottom edge of the intermediate plate and the top edge of the lower plate; wherein the first and second attachment mechanisms allow the upper plate, intermediate plate, and lower plate to move about the horizontal axis and torsionally in line with the user&#39;s movement. The first attachment mechanism comprises a pair of attachment mechanisms located proximate the sides of the upper plate and intermediate plate. The frame may comprise first and second attachment mechanisms having a pair of attachment mechanisms are located proximate the sides of the upper plate, intermediate plate, and lower plate. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       A more complete understanding of the present invention may be derived by referring to the detailed description and claims when considered in connection with the following illustrative figures. In the following figures, like reference numbers refer to similar elements and steps throughout the figures. 
       Elements and steps in the figures are illustrated for simplicity and clarity and have not necessarily been rendered according to any particular sequence. For example, steps that may be performed concurrently or in a different order are illustrated in the figures to help to improve understanding of embodiments of the present technology. 
       The figures described are for illustration purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure in any way. Various aspects of the present invention may be more fully understood from the detailed description and the accompanying drawing figures, wherein: 
         FIG.  1    is a side view representatively illustrating a human body with the spine and the orientation of a portion of an SCBA frame thereon in accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present technology; 
         FIG.  2    is a side view representatively illustrating the SCBA frame and harness on a user in accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present technology; 
         FIG.  3    is a rear view representatively illustrating the SCBA frame, harness, and air cylinders on a user in accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present technology; 
         FIG.  4    is a rear perspective view representatively illustrating a SCBA frame and harness in accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present technology; 
         FIG.  5 A  is a rear perspective view representatively illustrating the SCBA frame in accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present technology; 
         FIG.  5 B  is a front perspective view representatively illustrating the SCBA frame in accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present technology 
         FIG.  6 A  is a rear view representatively illustrating the SCBA frame in accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present technology; 
         FIG.  6 B  is a side view representatively illustrating the SCBA frame in accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present technology 
         FIG.  7 A  is a rear view of a top mounting plate for the SCBA frame in accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present technology; 
         FIG.  7 B  is a bottom view of the top mounting plate of  FIG.  7 A  and an upper intermediate mounting plate for the SCBA frame in accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present technology; 
         FIG.  7 C  is a rear view of a lower mounting plate for the SCBA frame in accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present technology; 
         FIG.  7 D  is a bottom view of the lower mounting plate of  FIG.  7 C  and a lower intermediate mounting plate for the SCBA frame in accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present technology; 
         FIG.  7 E  is a rear view of the intermediate mounting plate for the SCBA frame in accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present technology; 
         FIG.  7 F  is an end view of an intermediate mounting plate of  FIG.  7 E  for the SCBA frame in accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present technology; 
         FIG.  8 A  is a side view representatively illustrating the SCBA frame and harness on a user where the user is kneeling in accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present technology; 
         FIG.  8 B  is a side view representatively illustrating the SCBA frame and harness on a user where the user is bent over in accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present technology; 
         FIG.  8 C  is a side view representatively illustrating the SCBA frame and harness on a user where the user is standing up in accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present technology; 
         FIG.  9    is an alternate embodiment of a mobility frame in accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present technology: 
         FIG.  10    is rear perspective view representatively illustrating an additional embodiment of an SCBA Frame and harness in accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present technology; 
         FIG.  11    is rear perspective view representatively illustrating the additional embodiment of an SCBA Frame, harness, and bottle in accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present technology; 
         FIG.  12    is a perspective view representatively illustrating a mounting bracket in accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present technology; 
         FIG.  13    is a perspective view representatively illustrating the mounting bracket and an upper flange in accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present technology; 
         FIG.  14    is a perspective view representatively illustrating the mounting bracket, the upper mounting bracket, and a strap in accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present technology; 
         FIG.  15    is a perspective view representatively illustrating the mounting bracket and a lower bottle bracket in accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present technology; 
         FIG.  16    is a side, cross-section, view representatively illustrating the mounting bracket and the lower mounting flange in accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present technology; 
         FIG.  17    is a front, perspective view of a coupling mechanism in accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present technology; and 
         FIG.  18    is a rear, perspective view of a coupling mechanism in accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present technology. 
     
    
    
     Elements and steps in the figures are illustrated for simplicity and clarity and have not necessarily been rendered according to any particular sequence. For example, steps that may be performed concurrently or in a different order are illustrated in the figures to help to improve understanding of embodiments of the present technology. 
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS 
     The present technology may be described in terms of functional block components and various processing steps. Such functional blocks may be realized by any number of components configured to perform the specified functions and achieve the various results. For example, the present technology may be used with a frame for SCBA product. The present technology may also be implemented with any suitable frame, which carries a load and is supported and/or worn by a user. In addition, the present technology may be practiced in conjunction with any number of materials and methods of manufacture and the system described is merely one exemplary application for the technology. 
     While exemplary embodiments are described herein in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the invention, it should be understood that other embodiments may be realized and that logical structural, material, and mechanical changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. This disclosure, its aspects and implementations, are not limited to the specific components or assembly procedures disclosed herein. Many additional components and assembly procedures known in the art consistent with the intended apparatus will become apparent for use with implementations of a SCBA frame and accompanying parts. Thus, the following descriptions are not intended as a limitation on the use or applicability of the invention, but instead, are provided merely to enable a full and complete description of exemplary embodiments. 
     Presently conventional SCBA apparatus including harnesses and bottles in the fire service consist of a rigid frame with a large generally vertically oriented air bottle that fits parallel to the spine, which splints the spine and hinders movement. As shown in  FIG.  1   , the spine of a user is not oriented generally vertical, rather it curves. Briefly, in accordance with exemplary embodiments, an outline of a SCBA frame is illustrated, which conforms to the orientation of the spine and allows for a more comfortable fit by a user. 
     As such, in various embodiments and shown in the  FIG.  2   , the present technology utilizes a SCBA frame  100  that may conform to the shape of the wearer&#39;s spine. 
     The SCBA frame  100  may maintain all National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) standards with any of the cylinders listed as being provided by the SCBA manufacturer. The SCBA frame  100  may be approved to NIOSH 42 CFR, Part 84 for chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear protection (CBRN) with 30-, 45-, 60-minute-rated service life. The SCBA frame  100  may be compliant with all requirements of the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) NFPA-1981, 2013 Edition “Standard on Open-Circuit Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus for Emergency Service”. 
     The SCBA frame  100  may be compliant with all requirements of the NFPA-1982, 2013 Edition “Standard on Personal Alert Safety Systems”, in that it will provide mounting points to be attached to the frame per individual manufactures. 
     The SCBA frame  100  may be compliant with the additional NFPA requirements and standards in scope and material utilized in the industry as prescribed in NFPA1981, NFPA 1986, NFPA 1500, NFPA 1852. The materials that may be utilized for the frame fabrication may include but are not limited to, various metal and steel alloys as well as hardened molded Plastic composites that meet the above requirements and are presently utilized in the industry for SCBAs in Fire Service. The specific composite material utilized can be dependent on the specific manufactures&#39; proprietary material utilized. 
     The SCBA frame  100  may be compatible with standard harness assemblies, which incorporate parachute-type, quick release buckles, and include shoulder and hip pads that are consistent with the industry standards and may be manufactured with Kevlar®. 
     In one embodiment, shown in  FIGS.  2  and  3   , the SCBA frame  100  may comprise mounting plates  102  that are coupled by attachment mechanisms  104 .  FIG.  2    shows the SCBA frame  100  attached to a user by a conventional harness  106 , which utilizes shoulder straps  108  and a waist belt  110 , and further comprises air cylinder brackets  112  coupled to the mounting plates  102 .  FIG.  3    shows the SCBA frame  100  with the conventional harness  106 , and the air cylinder brackets  112  that are configured to receive air cylinders  114 . 
     The SCBA industry already has smaller bottles 10 and 15-minute sizes that will each fit onto the mounting plates  102  and can be connected together by the current high-pressure hoses also utilized in the industry. The SCBA frame  100  may be designed to carry four cylinders  114 , valve assemblies, pressure reducing regulator assemblies, attachments for the industry standard Kevlar shoulder  108  and waist straps or belt  110 . The SCBA frame  100  may also include and have additional points for mounting different manufacture&#39;s specific attachments and accessories, as will be discussed below. It should be understood that while a 4 piece SCBA frame is described above, other configurations with more or less mounting plates. The SCBA frame has many industrial applications, such as, mining or any other use where a user may need a pack or item to carry material. 
     Referring now to  FIGS.  2 - 3   , in various embodiments, the SCBA frame  100  may comprise multiple generally rectangular mounting plates  102  that are coupled by attachment mechanisms  104 . In one embodiment, the SCBA frame  100  comprises four generally rectangular mounting plates  102  that are coupled by attachment mechanisms  104 . The attachment mechanism  104  allows the mounting plates  102  to move relative to one another and allows the SCBA frame  100  to conform to the shape of the user&#39;s back. The attachment mechanism  104  may allow the user to move along vertically, horizontally, and torsionally. 
     The mounting plates  102  will each be positioned to run horizontal and perpendicular to the spine and lay across the back from left to right. These mounting plates  102  are distinct and separate and couple together via the attachment mechanisms  104 . As shown in  FIG.  3   , the air cylinders  114  may then be attached to the SCBA frame  100  by an air cylinder bracket  112  or as otherwise described below. 
     As shown in  FIG.  6 A , in various embodiments the mounting plates  102  may comprise an upper mounting plate  116 , an upper intermediate mounting plate  118 , a lower intermediate mounting plate  120 , and a lower mounting plate  122 . 
     Referring now to  FIGS.  6 A and  7 A , the upper mounting plate may  116  comprise an upper edge  124  and a lower edge  126 . Each of the upper and lower edges  124 ,  126  may comprise a pair of slots  128 . The slots  128  may be used to connect various SCBA components. For example, the slots  128  on the upper edge  124  of the upper mounting plate may be used to connect the shoulder straps  108 . The upper mounting plate  116  may further comprise a central slot  130  that may also be used to connect the shoulder straps  108 . 
     Referring now to  FIG.  6 A , the upper intermediate mounting plate  118  may comprise an upper edge  132  and a lower edge  134 . Each of the upper and lower edges  132 ,  134  may comprise a pair of slots  136 . The slots  136  may be used to connect various SCBA components. 
     Referring now to  FIGS.  6 A and  7 E , the lower intermediate mounting plate  120  may comprise an upper edge  138  and a lower edge  140 . Each of the upper and lower edges  138 ,  140  may comprise a pair of slots  142 . The lower intermediate mounting plate may also comprise a pair of side slots  144  located proximate the sides of the lower intermediate mounting plate  120 . The slots  142  may be used to connect various SCBA components. For example the side slots  144  may be used to connect the waist straps or belt  110 . 
     Referring now to  FIGS.  6 A and  7 C , the lower mounting plate  122  may comprise an upper edge  146  and a lower edge  148 . Each of the upper and lower edges  146 ,  148  may comprise a pair of slots  150 . The lower intermediate mounting plate may also comprise a pair of side slots  152  located proximate the sides of the lower mounting plate  122 . The slots  150  may be used to connect various SCBA components. The slots  152  may be used to connect various SCBA components. 
     In various embodiments, the mounting plates  102  may comprise a plate with a removed center area  154 . In one embodiment, the center area  154  may be machined or punched out during manufacturing. The center area may be removed to reduce the weight of the SCBA frame  100 . 
     In various embodiments, and as shown in  FIG.  7 A , the upper corners of the upper mounting plate  116  may be removed to provide a slanted edged  156  from the sides of the upper mounting plate  116  to the upper edge  124  of the upper mounting plate  116 . 
     In various embodiments, and as shown in  FIG.  7 C , the lower corners of the lower mounting plate  122  may be removed to provide a slanted edged  158  from the sides of the lower mounting plate  122  to the lower edge  148  of the lower mounting plate  122 . 
     In various embodiments, and referring to  FIGS.  5 B,  7 B, and  7 D  the mounting plates  102  may comprise additional back supports. The back supports are configured to support the contour of the user&#39;s back laterally outwardly from the spine. The back supports may be welded to the mounting plates  102  or may be constructed integrally with the mounting plates  102  and bent in place during manufacture. 
     The upper mounting plate  116  may comprise upper outer back supports  160 . The upper intermediate mounting plate  118  may comprise upper intermediate back supports  162 . The lower intermediate mounting plate  120  may comprise lower intermediate outer back supports  165 . The lower mounting plate  122  may comprise lower outer back supports  167 . 
       FIG.  7 B  shows the bottom view of the upper mounting plate  116  and the upper intermediate mounting plate  118 . The back supports  160  and  162  are located outwardly from the vertical centerline proximate the ends of the plates  116 ,  118  and depend inwardly therefrom. The back supports  160 ,  162  may comprise an outer wall  164  and an inner wall  166 . The outer wall  164  depends outwardly from the ends of the plates  116 ,  118  and the inner wall  166  depends from the outer wall  164  inwardly to a front surface  168 . The inner wall  166  may be curved or straight. The  164  may include a vertical slot  169 , which may be utilize to attach the belt  110  or any other suitable SCBA or firefighting component. 
       FIG.  7 D  shows the bottom view of the lower mounting plate  122  and the lower intermediate mounting plate  124 . The back supports  165  and  167  are located outwardly from the vertical centerline proximate the ends of the plates  120 ,  122  and depend inwardly therefrom. The back supports may comprise an outer wall  170  and an inner wall  172 . The outer wall  170  depends outwardly from the ends of the plates  120 ,  122  and the inner wall  172  depends from the outer wall  170  inwardly to a front surface  174 . 
     The attachment mechanism  104  allows the mounting plates  102  to move relative to one another and allows the SCBA frame  100  to conform to the shape of the user&#39;s back. In various embodiments the attachment mechanisms may comprise cables, hinges, flanges or any other suitable fastening mechanism that allows the mounting plates  102  to move relative to one another to follow the contour of the user&#39;s back/spine while moving. The mounting plates  102  can be attached to one another by a single attachment mechanism  104  or multiple attachment mechanisms  104 . 
     In various embodiments, the attachment mechanism  104  may comprise a cable  176  affixed to the mounting plates  102  by any suitable method. The cable may comprise an industrial aircraft grade material. The cables  176  may connect the mounting plates  102  such that the mounting plates  102  are configured to move and conform to the user&#39;s spine/back while in use. 
     In various embodiments, shown in  FIGS.  5 A and  6 A , the attachment mechanism  104  may connect the upper mounting plate  116  to the upper intermediate mounting plate  118 , the upper intermediate mounting plate  118  to the lower intermediate mounting plate  120 , and the lower intermediate mounting plate  120  to the lower mounting plate  122 . 
     In one embodiment the attachment mechanism  104  may comprise a mounting block  178  and the cable  176 . The mounting block  178  may be welded or otherwise attached to the mounting plates  102  and oriented as shown in  FIGS.  5 A and  5 B . The cable  176  may be attached to the mounting block  178  by any known method. 
     In one embodiment, and referring to  FIGS.  5 A,  6 B,  7 B, and  7 D  the mounting block  178  may comprise and inner portion  180  and an outer portion  182 . One or both of the inner portion or outer portion may comprise a groove(s)  184  configured to receive the cables. The inner portion may be welded or otherwise affixed to the mounting plates  102 . The inner portion  180  may comprise threaded holes (not shown that may receive bolts  185  placed within holes located in the outer portion  182 . While a 4 bolt pattern is shown any suitable fastening method may be used. In one embodiment, the attachment mechanism may comprise a center screw  186 , which may be used to further attach the cable  176 . 
     In one embodiment, the groove  184  may comprise a circumference of ⅛ inch deep and extend through the mounting block  178 . In one embodiment, an industrial 3/16 aircraft grade metal cable is received within the groove  184  and the outer portion  182  is tightened onto the inner portion  180 . Once the outer portion  182  is tightened onto the inner portion  180  the center screw  186  may utilized to further clamp the cable. 
     In various embodiment, and referring to  FIGS.  4  and  5 A , the SCBA frame  100  may comprise an air cylinder attachment system  186  used to attach air cylinders  114 . The air cylinder attachment system  186  may comprise an upper flange  188  and a lower flange  190 . The upper flanges  188  depends outwardly from the upper edge of the mounting plates  102  and the lower flanges  190  depends outwardly from the lower edges of the mounting plates  102 . Each of the upper flanges  188  may comprise a central cutout  192 . Each of the lower flanges  190  may comprise a cutout  194  and/or at least one slot  196 . The central cutout  192  and the slots  194  are configured to allow for various straps  198  or other type of connectors to be used to attach the air cylinders, as shown in  FIGS.  3  and  4   . 
     Future developments in technology may present an opportunity for improvements in the design of the frame  100 . The SCBA bottle utilized for this design was a 3000-psi bottle with overall dimensions of 4⅜ inches in diameter and 16 inches long including the knob and gauge. The actual bottle was 13 inches long. The number of mounting plates  102  as presented is 4 plates for the SCBA frame  100  and also 4 plates for the other applications noted. The overall dimensions of the entire frame as well as the size and number of mounting plates  102  may also change. There may be as few as 3 mounting plates  102  and as many that can fit along the length of the pack, as the width of each plate may be manufactured narrower in the future. The key is that the SCBA frame  100  facilitates increased movement of the spine by that off additional points of movement over the present rigid frame designs that are currently utilized. The SCBA frame  100  design allows for the points of movement by that of the cable system attachment mechanism  104 . Hinges, Ball joints, springs, and any other material that will form a joint are contemplated and may be suitable for use. The cable system/attachment mechanism  104  allows for a move versatile joint that allows 360 degrees of movement and is of heavy enough gauge material to support axial loading of the pack and allows some “give” in not only the vertical axial loading but also lateral axial stresses. The cable system/attachment mechanism  104  may be centrally located or located at the ends of the mounting plates  102 . As shown in  FIGS.  8 A- 8 C , the user is allowed much more freedom of movement utilizing the SCBA frame  100  design. The SCBA frame  100  design moves with the user&#39;s back rather than being limited. 
     Although SCBA frame  100  design was initiated with respect to firefighting equipment it should be understood that this SCBA frame  100  design may benefit other people outside the Fire Service. As shown in  FIG.  9   , a mobility frame  200  may comprise any type of back frame utilized for hiking, hunting, back packing or even military operations can be improved with this concept of the Advance Spinal Mobility Frame. With some minor modifications, this mobility frame  200  design is fully applicable for a Back-Pack application. 
     The mobility frame  200  may comprise multiple generally rectangular mounting plates  202  that are coupled by attachment mechanisms  104 . In one embodiment, the mobility frame  200  comprises four generally rectangular mounting plates  202  that are coupled by attachment mechanisms  104 . The attachment mechanism  104  allows the mounting plates  202  to move relative to one another and allows the SCBA frame  100  to conform to the shape of the user&#39;s back. The attachment mechanism  104  may allow the user to move along vertically, horizontally, and torsionally. 
     The mounting plates  202  are similar to mounting plates  102  of but the SCBA air cylinder attachment system  186  have been removed. The mount plates  202  allow points (slot, cutouts, etc.) for securing the material and webbing that makes up the various back packs in the industry and it&#39;s done. The cable system/attachment mechanism  104  may be centrally located or located at the ends of the individual mounting plates  202 . The orientation of the cable system/attachment mechanism  104  and the mounting plates  202  would be the same regardless of whether the mobility frame  200  does or does not include the SCBA air cylinder attachment system  186 . 
     The width of the mobility frame  200  can be reduced to whatever the need of the pack manufacturing company may require. Many frames of the traditional one-piece vertical back pack frames are approximately 8 inches by 26 inches. The cable system/attachment mechanism  104 , slots and punch outs along with the lumbar attachments will not change. 
     Referring now to  FIGS.  10 - 11   , in various embodiments, an SCBA frame  300  that conforms with the user&#39;s spine but also utilizes a conventional SCBA bottle  302  in a vertical orientation. The SCBA frame  300  complies with all of the requirements discussed above in paragraphs 41-45 and is fabricated from the same material discussed above. The SCBA frame  300  also incorporates all of the functionality of the other embodiments discussed above. 
     In various embodiments, the SCBA frame  300  is similar to the SCBA frame discussed above but includes a bottle attachment system  304  for utilizing a conventional vertical SCBA bottle  302 . In various embodiments, SCBA frame  300  may comprise multiple generally rectangular mounting plates  306  that are coupled by attachment mechanisms  308 . 
     The attachment mechanism  308  are similar to the attachment mechanisms  104  discussed above. In one embodiment, the SCBA frame  300  comprises three generally rectangular mounting plates  306  that are coupled by attachment mechanisms  308 . As discussed above, the attachment mechanisms  308  allow the mounting plates  306  to move relative to one another and allows the SCBA frame  300  to conform to the shape of the user&#39;s back. The attachment mechanism  308  may allow the user to move along vertically, horizontally, and torsionally. 
     The mounting plates  306  will each be positioned to run horizontal and perpendicular to the spine and lay across the back from left to right. These mounting plates  306  are distinct and separate and coupled together via the attachment mechanisms  308 . As shown in  FIG.  11   , the bottle  302  may then be attached to the SCBA frame  300  by the bottle attachment system  304 . 
     As shown in  FIGS.  10 - 11   , in various embodiments, the mounting plates  306  may comprise an upper mounting plate  310 , an intermediate mounting plate  312 , and a lower mounting plate  314 . The upper mounting plate may  310  comprise an upper edge  316  and a lower edge  318 . The intermediate mounting plate  312  may comprise an upper edge  320  and a lower edge  322 . The lower mounting plate  314  may comprise an upper edge  324  and a lower edge  326 . The lower mounting plate may also comprise a pair of side slots  328  located proximate the sides of the lower mounting plate  314 . The slots  328  may be used to connect various SCBA components, including, for example, a waist belt  330 . 
     In various embodiments, as shown in  FIGS.  13 - 15   , the bottle attachment system  304  may comprise a pair of attachment mechanisms  332 , an upper mounting bracket  334 , and a lower mounting bracket  336 . 
     The attachment mechanisms  332 , shown in  FIG.  12   , may comprise an inner plate  338 , an outer plate  340 , and a damper  342 . In one embodiment, the pair of attachment mechanisms  332  are used to couple the upper mounting bracket  334  and the lower mounting bracket  336  to the frame  300 . In one embodiment, the upper mounting bracket  334  and the lower mounting bracket  336  may be couple directly to the SCBA frame  300 . 
     The inner and outer plates  338 ,  340  of the attachment mechanisms  332  are shown as generally rectangular plates but any suitable configuration may be contemplated. The inner and outer plates  338 ,  340  are coupled to one another by the damper  342 . In one embodiment, the damper  342  may comprise a plurality of springs  344  located adjacent the respective corners of the inner and outer plates  338 ,  340 . In other embodiments, the damper  342  may comprise an elastomeric material, or any other suitable dampening material. The damper  342  provides support for the bottle attachment system during use. 
     The attachment mechanisms  332  utilized the dampers  342  to allow the inner and outer plates  338 ,  340  to expand and contract with respect to one another. The expansion and contraction provides additional mobility to the user&#39;s spine, when a rigid vertical bottle is couple to the SCBA frame  300 . 
     The upper mounting bracket  334 , shown in  FIGS.  13  and  14   , is configured to mount an end  345  of the bottle  302  to the SCBA frame  300  while the lower mounting bracket  336  is configured to mount an opposite end  346  of the bottle  302  to the SCBA frame  300 . 
     The upper mounting bracket  334  may comprise first and second flanges  348 ,  350  and a strap  352 . The first flange  348  may be coupled to the upper attachment mechanism  332  adjacent a first side. The second flange  350  may be coupled to the upper attachment mechanism  332  adjacent a second side. While a nut and bolt attachment  353  configuration is shown any suitable attachment method may be contemplated such as, welding and the like. The first and second flanges  348 ,  350  also may be integral with the upper attachment mechanism  332 . 
     The first flange  348  may comprise an L-shaped bracket  354  and a vertically oriented rod  356  coupled to the L-shaped bracket  354 . The L-shaped bracket  354  includes a base  358  and an arm  360 , which projects outwardly at a generally 90 degree angle from the base  358 . The base  358  is coupled to the upper attachment mechanism  332  by the nut and bolt attachment  352 . 
     The second flange  350  may comprise an L-shaped bracket  362 , a vertically oriented rod  364  coupled to the L-shaped bracket  362 , and a strap clip  366 . The L-shaped bracket  362  includes a base  368  and an arm  370 , which projects outwardly at a generally 90 degree angle from the base  368 . The base  368  is coupled to the upper attachment mechanism  332  by the nut and bolt attachment  353 . The vertically oriented rod  364  is coupled to a pair of mounting flanges  372  located on the arm  370 . The strap clip  366  may be coupled to the vertically oriented rod  364  and contains a slot  374  that receives the strap  352 . 
     In use, as seen in  FIG.  10   , the strap  352  is mounted on the vertical rod  356  and then attached to the strap clip  362  to attach the bottle  302  to the upper mounting bracket  334  of the SCBA frame  300 . 
     In various embodiments, referring to  FIGS.  15  and  16   , the lower mounting bracket  336  will be discussed. The lower mounting bracket  336  may comprise a base  376  and a bottle bracket  380 . The bottle bracket  380  may be coupled to the base  376  and extends outwardly from the base  376  to accommodate the opposite end  346  of the bottle  302 . In one embodiment (not shown), the base  376  of the lower mounting bracket  336  may be coupled directly to the damper  342  on the attachment mechanisms  332  and the outer plate  340  may be removed. In one embodiment (not shown), the bottle bracket  380  of the lower mounting bracket  336  may be coupled directly to the outer plate  340  on the attachment mechanisms  332  and the base  376  may be removed. 
     In one embodiment, the bottle bracket  380  may be coupled to the base  376  and extends outwardly from the base  376  to accommodate a mounting portion on the opposite end  346  located on the bottle  302 . The mounting portion may be any portion of the opposite end  346  of the bottle configured to attach to the lower mounting bracket. 
     In one embodiment the bottle bracket  380  may be coupled to the base  376  and extends outwardly from the base  376  to accommodate a flange located on the bottle  302 . The bottle bracket  380  may comprise a pair of spaced apart arms  382  with a slanted plate  384  located therebetween. A biasing mechanism  386  may be coupled to an underside of the slanted plate  384  and configured to guide the flange of the bottle  302  into a retaining clip  388 . The retaining clip  388  receives the flange of the bottle  302  in a groove. The retaining clip  388  is configured to receive any type of flange from any available type of SCBA bottle  302 . Some manufacturers and types of SCBA bottles that are contemplated for use with the SCBA frame  300  include but are not limited to SCOTT AP50 and the AP75 models, Luxfer, Drager, Combyne, SCI, Worthington, MSA, and the like. 
     The lower mounting bracket  336  may further comprise a lower flange  390  and a mounting block  392 , which both support the slanted plate  384  and retaining clip  388  configuration when the bottle  302  is installed, as shown in  FIG.  11   . 
     Referring now to  FIGS.  17  and  18   , in various embodiments, a coupling mechanism  400  will be discussed. The coupling mechanism  400  functions similar to the attachment mechanism  104  discussed above and allows any of the mounting plates discussed above to move relative to one another and allows the SCBA frame to conform to the shape of the user&#39;s back. The coupling mechanism  400  may be used in lieu of or in conjunction with the attachment mechanism  104  to couple the mounting plates to one another, as discussed above. In various embodiments the coupling mechanisms  400  may comprise cables, hinges, flanges or any other suitable fastening mechanism that allows the mounting plates to move relative to one another to follow the contour of the user&#39;s back/spine while moving. The mounting plates can be attached to one another by a single coupling mechanism or multiple coupling mechanisms. 
     In various embodiments, the coupling mechanism  400  may comprise a cable  402  and a pair of cable mounting plates  404 . The cable  402  may comprise an industrial aircraft grade material. The coupling mechanism  400  and attachment mechanism  104  may be used to connect the various mounting plates described above. 
     The cable mounting plates  404  may be welded or otherwise attached to the mounting plates. In one embodiment the cable mounting plates  404  may be coupled to the mounting plates by a nut and bolt connection. The cable  402  may be attached to the cable mounting plates  404  by any known method. 
     In one embodiment, the cable mounting plates  404  be comprise a base  406  with a channel  408  located therein to receive the cable  402 . The base  406  may comprise threaded holes  410  that may receive bolts (not shown). While a 4 bolt pattern is shown any suitable fastening method may be used. 
     The cables  402  may comprise a pair of cable stops  412 , located at each end of the cable  402 . In operation, the cable  402  is sandwiched between the mounting plate and the channel  408  and the cable stops  412  serve to restrict movement of the cables  402  within the channels  408  once the cable mounting plates are coupled to the mounting plates on the SCBA frame. 
     The technology has been described with reference to specific exemplary embodiments. Various modifications and changes, however, may be made without departing from the scope of the present technology. The description and figures are to be regarded in an illustrative manner, rather than a restrictive one and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present technology. Accordingly, the scope of the technology should be determined by the generic embodiments described and their legal equivalents rather than by merely the specific examples described above. For example, the steps recited in any method or process embodiment may be executed in any order, unless otherwise expressly specified, and are not limited to the explicit order presented in the specific examples. Additionally, the components and/or elements recited in any apparatus embodiment may be assembled or otherwise operationally configured in a variety of permutations to produce substantially the same result as the present technology and are accordingly not limited to the specific configuration recited in the specific examples. Benefits, other advantages and solutions to problems have been described above with regard to particular embodiments; however, any benefit, advantage, solution to problems or any element that may cause any particular benefit, advantage or solution to occur or to become more pronounced are not to be construed as critical, required or essential features or components. 
     As used herein, the terms “comprises”, “comprising”, or any variation thereof, are intended to reference a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, composition or apparatus that comprises a list of elements does not include only those elements recited, but may also include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, composition or apparatus. Other combinations and/or modifications of the above-described structures, arrangements, applications, proportions, elements, materials or components used in the practice of the present technology, in addition to those not specifically recited, may be varied or otherwise particularly adapted to specific environments, manufacturing specifications, design parameters or other operating requirements without departing from the general principles of the same. 
     The present technology has been described above with reference to a preferred embodiment. However, changes and modifications may be made to the preferred embodiment without departing from the scope of the present technology. These and other changes or modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present technology, as expressed in the following claims.