Measurement and modeling of oxygen content in a demand constant mass ratio injection rebreather

Mechanical semi-closed rebreathers do not need oxygen sensors for their functions, thereby reducing the complexity of the system. However, testing and modeling are necessary in order to determine operational limits as well as the decompression obligation and to avoid hyperoxia and hypoxia. Two models for predicting the oxygen fraction in a demand constant mass ratio injection (DCMRI) rebreather for underwater use were compiled and compared. The model validity was tested with an IS-MIX, Interspiro AB rebreather using a metabolic simulator connected to a breathing machine inside a water-filled pressure chamber. The testing schedule ranged from 0.5-liter (L) to 3-liter tidal volumes, breathing frequencies from five to 25 breaths/minute and oxygen consumptions from 0.5 L/minute to 4 L/minute. Tests were carried out at surface and pressure profiles ranging to 920 kPa(a) (81 meters of sea water, 266 feet of sea water). The root mean squared error (RMSE) of the single-compartment model was 2.4 percent-units of oxygen for the surface test with the 30% dosage setting but was otherwise below 1% unit. For the multicompartment model the RMSE was below 1% unit of oxygen for all tests. It is believed that these models will aid divers in operational settings and may constitute a helpful tool when developing semi-closed rebreathing apparatuses.