When the first bottle of the EBSS is empty, what happens next?

When the first bottle of the Emergency Breathing Support System (EBSS) is empty, the system is designed to allow air to flow from the second cylinder after a momentary pause. This feature ensures that the user continues to receive a supply of breathable air without the need to manually switch over to the backup cylinder.

This automatic transition is crucial during emergency situations, as it enables the user to maintain their breathing supply without interruption, reducing the risk of panic or a dangerous situation arising from a sudden loss of air. The brief pause serves as an indication to the user that the first bottle is depleted, allowing them to remain aware of their air supply status without needing to focus on switching cylinders. This design enhances the overall efficacy and safety of the system during high-stress scenarios.

In contrast, other scenarios like the system shutting down automatically or requiring manual intervention would not provide the same seamless continuity of air supply, which can be critical in emergency situations. Additionally, the Vibralert signal is specifically designed to warn users of low air supply, not suppress it, ensuring that they are always alerted to their situation.