Design of Initiator for High Pressure Oxygen Cylinder

A world leading manufacturer and supplier of oxygen products for passenger and crew aircraft systems.

A worldwide leading manufacturer and supplier of aircraft cabin interior and oxygen products needed help developing a mechanism to release the flow of oxygen to two passenger masks. The company’s products provide “nose-to-tail” solutions for commercial and business jet aircraft markets.

Project Details

Client Challenge

The client needed assistance to design an initiator for a high pressure oxygen cylinder to rupture the sealing disc to release the flow of oxygen to two passenger masks. At a pressure of 3000psig, the initiator cylinder’s rotational movement required a 30 degree limitation. The overall length of the completed mechanism was set to be less than or equal to 1.25 inches. Brass was selected for the initiator’s body and lance material to ensure oxygen safety and compatibility.

Our Solution

We proposed six concepts for the lance mechanism of the high pressure oxygen cylinder. After a series of design reviews with the client, two concepts were selected. For the approved concept, we conducted a series of detailed calculations to prove the design. Given all the necessary parameters, the designer calculated forces involved were required to rupture the seal. Based on the calculated forces, we decided on the functioning dimensions for the individual components on behalf of the client.

Result