Our compact plate for PRISM head and basket

silent running · 30th December 2006, 16:23

Quote: (Originally Posted by jstovall)

Hey Andy, Our first thought about the plate was for travel purposes. The large black plate from SM didn't fit into any Carry-on luggage bag that didn't look conspicuous. We wanted to use a everyday Pilot type carry on bag. This design poped into my head one day when i was thinking about different ways to mount the tanks, because, Yes i don't like the velcro straps holding the tank on. We played with it a bit to get specs right for the cowling to still fit. Heck i paid for it, I want to use it-besides i look like a rock star when i am at the lake or on the boat.

Secondary was the protection factor for the head. Stefan had mentioned before about wanting to get something to protect the head and wings and bucket. We exchaged a couple of PM's about the cowling protecting the bucket somewhat, but there was nothing protecting the head. I discussed my idea with George a bit but haven't sat down and really mulled it over yet.

As you know the cowling does fit the tanks rather tight. And our specs are just a bit over stock set up, so the cowling fits really snug. On land there is a slight wobble to the tranks when on the unit, but once the cowling is placed, there is no noticable movement over using that black thing.

As far as using the tiger type attachment from the meg, It would be wounderful. Only draw back that i see i where are we going to mount. One wing and the tiger mount might work. One thing to consider is the amount of space we have under the cowling. Between bucket tiger mount then tank do we have enough space to be able to fit it all in. If we did this, i would want the wing centered on the tank to keep stress down, now we are in the way of grabbing that big bucket to take it off. All that silicone and tight fit, sometimes i really need to get a hold of it to pull it off. ( sounds kinky).

Could we mount it to the bucket? In all reality we probably could, but i don't like the idea of mounting all that weight on those pin heads holding the bucket on. Could we mount the base to the head, yea, but then tanks are secured higher up and less midlined. I would like to use a cam strap as well to secure the tanks using our wings like they are, but then you have a cam buckle that prevents the cowling from fitting properly.

If you know the dimensions of the tiger mount, or can get them, let us know so we can play with it. Any other ideas aree welcome.

Good idea, Since i am at work and can't look at the unit i have to go from memory. The cowling doesn't go any deeper than the back plate i believe. It mounts with the bottom flush against the plate, but will have to look.

As far as a handle goes, Although this might not be ideal, We took a piece of clear tubing we had laying around, put a 1in thick piece of cordure stap 13 in long through it and bolted on with the two top head bolts. Works really well. Not sure how much stress it puts on those bolt? Got this idea from Bozanic when we were going through training, how he did his.

I know i keep saying i'm goning to get it in the water to see how it fly's, I am going to sacrifice New years eve and take it out new years day early and get it wet. will update you then on how it feels.
Pleasure discussing this with you.

Thanks for all the details James. I thought about it some more and realized that the 90 was probably to make it more compact. The protection factor sounds good too. Glad to hear that the cover brings it all together and there's no movement with it on.

I'll look more at the tiger gear or for something similar. I can see what you
mean about the extra space that hardware would take up and not being much to spare. I guess the stock bands work fine, but I wonder what other mounting solutions there might be...

Glad you like the channel/lip idea for the cowling bottom. Having a slot for cowling bottom edge to rest in would be nice and keep it from moving around everytime it's picked up or set down, which also stretches out the bungees over time and makes things a little looser. Also guessing that with a channel at 90 to the bottom of the plate, it would make the unit lean back ever so slightly, a good thing since it's front heavy with all the CLs hoses, DSV when standing. It would be nice if it were more stable in that position-standing up-even for just the short time it's not strapped in to the boat rack, don doff.

As for the handle, the one you have looks good, but I have found that hard ones are actually easier on the hand as they distribute the weight more evenly, instead of putting more on the outer fingers like a soft one does. But anything will be better than the stock "handle".

Thanks again for listening, you guys have got the best looking set up I've seen so far.

**jstovall** · 30th December 2006, 17:53

Quote:

I guess the stock bands work fine, but I wonder what other mounting solutions there might be...

Been thinking about this as well and can't seem to make anything work.

Quote:

Thanks again for listening, you guys have got the best looking set up I've seen so far.

Thanks for the compliment. Nice shiny Thing means nothing if it doesn't work right. Will Let you know.

I am just thinking out loud. I wonder if a plate similar to this might work for other rebreathers i.e. Inspo/Evo, etc... I know they keep tanks along outside with scrubber basket between, but i am unsure of hose routing,--just not familiar with them. If any one with another rebreather than PRISM, thinks this set up might work with theirs, drop a line. If we can all travel easier with our units, keep them with us rather than check, i think we would all be happier.
Thanks again for the info, knowledge, and feedback.

James

dive2dive2000 · 30th December 2006, 19:52

Hi Guys,

I personally don't like tiger mounts they are too bulky and leave about a 2" space from tank to mount. G snaps are much more stream lined(IMHO) Ocycheq sells them Expedition Oxygen Analyzer. My friend dives a Boris and he has a g-snap with a quick release pin in it (very nice attachment gizmo

). I am not sure if these are even available on this side of the pond

decoweenie · 30th December 2006, 19:56

Quote: (Originally Posted by dive2dive2000)

I personally don't like tiger mounts they are too bulky and leave about a 2" space from tank to mount. G snaps are much more stream lined(IMHO)

I have never tried the Tiger-mounts.

So if anyone is unhappy and wants to exchange theirs for some of my G-snaps, contact me to discuss...

windymiller · 30th December 2006, 20:45

Quote: (Originally Posted by decoweenie)

I have never used the Tiger-mounts.

So if anyone is unhappy and wants to exchange a set of them with G-snaps, contact me to discuss...

want to sell your tiger mounts?

decoweenie · 30th December 2006, 20:47

Quote: (Originally Posted by windymiller)

want to sell your tiger mounts?

Sorry, I meant to say that I want a set to try...

windymiller · 30th December 2006, 22:29

Quote: (Originally Posted by decoweenie)

Sorry, I meant to say that I want a set to try...

oops!

**Steve** · 30th December 2006, 23:53

Quote: (Originally Posted by DeepBlueInnovation)

IMHO and with all due respect for what appears to be a most excellently designed backplate

I would suggest that competitive delivery times and even a reasonable level of customer service would be of some higher merit...

The PRISM boys get upset when you cite yet another example of SMI's poor customer treatment as you have just found out. Even though you were merely responding to an existing tangent started by Andy, this thread is a good one for Prism owners as it helps fix some of the products deficiencies.

I welcome you starting a thread detailing how things are going for you and your Prism.

**jstovall** · 31st December 2006, 02:22

Quote:

The PRISM boys get upset when you cite yet another example of SMI's poor customer treatment as you have just found out. Even though you were merely responding to an existing tangent started by Andy, this thread is a good one for Prism owners as it helps fix some of the products deficiencies.

Thank you Steve for posting on this thread. As I am still a novice in the world of rebreathers, and have not contributed to this site in the assistance of others because of my newness, I am not sure what your comments mean. Since you have quoted DBI about customer service and reasonable delivery times I can only assume you agree with those statements. I have only my personal experiences with SM to go on. I am not sure how much you have had the pleasure of dealing with them, but i have no complaints. I have never dealt with any other rebreather supplier, so my dealings with SM is all I am going on. SM have always been honest with me and prompt with all responses to questions. Before deposit was placed I was told of the wait to receive the unit, and in full knowledge of that time line I placed my deposit. I received my unit months earlier than quoted delivery date. When requesting spare part to keep in a spare parts kit, I received them with in days. So i am unsure about all the negativity made about SM and the PRISM Topaz.

I have learned so much from this forum, and learned a ton from many peoples postings--no matter which rebreather they dive or where they dive it. I am happy with my purchase, and I am happy with all I have learned. I know I have much more to learn, and hope to be able to contribute to all rebreather divers in their path to safe diving of this wonderful machine (the rebreather--regardless of brand).

I started this thread to gain knowledge about how experienced rebreather divers would look at a specific piece of equipment that i have made for my rebreather to ease travel. To assist me in seeing things I may not realize are affected by what i think is/was a good design to fit the type of diving/travel i will be doing with my rebreather. I fail to see how all the bashing that i have noticed on this site helps anyone or improve anyones safty or comfort diving their chosen rebreather. Before i purchased A PRISM, my freind Bill " Rig Diver" on this forum, was open and honest with what, how, and why rebreathers work. He dives an Insperation. I fully enjoyed his enthusiasm and passion for the reabreather world. And even though I did not chose the Insperation as my rebreather I respect him for his choice. So if you wish to classify me as a " PRISM Boy" thank you, I am pleased to dive my PRISM. I will treat all rebreather divers with respect and as an equal on the path to master this wonderful machine. The Boy becomes a Man eventually, and I hope to reach this goal. So, thank you for assisting me on my path.

James

**jstovall** · 31st December 2006, 11:42

Quote:

Other things I'd like to see would be some kind of channel on bottom of the plate, say 1 inch deep in which the bottom edge of the cowling could fit to keep it in place and stop it from slipping above and below the bottom of the plate.

I looked at the plate and bottom of the cowling. The cowling flap at the rear bottom is wider than the plate, so creating a channel, as is, wouldn't work. In addition cowling mounts flush to plate. We could move tank mounts forward a 1/2 or 1 inch, this would push the cowling in that far. Now i think if we cut out the cowling to leave two tabs at the edge of the plate, approx 1/2 inch in from the edge this might hold it in place, i just worry about them breaking off from a hard jolt.
I think if we just extend the end of the plate down 1-2 inches, this would keep the cowling from slipping below the plate. And I think we would have more material back there to work with for attachment points i.e. dry suit bottle bracket, loops of bungee/surg tube for lift/surface marker, butt plate for side mount, etc.
Another idea George had was to use 1 in angle of aly and weld to back of plate to give cowling something to sit on, I like it. We could even use it as an attachment point for the cowling and mabye get rid of the bungees.

30th December 2006, 16:23	#31 (permalink)
silent running Mature mouth breather Current Rebreather/s: Prism Topaz Other Rebreather/s: Join Date: Jun 2005 Location: U.S.A. Brooklyn, New York Posts: 1,740	Re: Our compact plate for PRISM head and basket Quote: (Originally Posted by jstovall) Hey Andy, Our first thought about the plate was for travel purposes. The large black plate from SM didn't fit into any Carry-on luggage bag that didn't look conspicuous. We wanted to use a everyday Pilot type carry on bag. This design poped into my head one day when i was thinking about different ways to mount the tanks, because, Yes i don't like the velcro straps holding the tank on. We played with it a bit to get specs right for the cowling to still fit. Heck i paid for it, I want to use it-besides i look like a rock star when i am at the lake or on the boat. Secondary was the protection factor for the head. Stefan had mentioned before about wanting to get something to protect the head and wings and bucket. We exchaged a couple of PM's about the cowling protecting the bucket somewhat, but there was nothing protecting the head. I discussed my idea with George a bit but haven't sat down and really mulled it over yet. As you know the cowling does fit the tanks rather tight. And our specs are just a bit over stock set up, so the cowling fits really snug. On land there is a slight wobble to the tranks when on the unit, but once the cowling is placed, there is no noticable movement over using that black thing. As far as using the tiger type attachment from the meg, It would be wounderful. Only draw back that i see i where are we going to mount. One wing and the tiger mount might work. One thing to consider is the amount of space we have under the cowling. Between bucket tiger mount then tank do we have enough space to be able to fit it all in. If we did this, i would want the wing centered on the tank to keep stress down, now we are in the way of grabbing that big bucket to take it off. All that silicone and tight fit, sometimes i really need to get a hold of it to pull it off. ( sounds kinky). Could we mount it to the bucket? In all reality we probably could, but i don't like the idea of mounting all that weight on those pin heads holding the bucket on. Could we mount the base to the head, yea, but then tanks are secured higher up and less midlined. I would like to use a cam strap as well to secure the tanks using our wings like they are, but then you have a cam buckle that prevents the cowling from fitting properly. If you know the dimensions of the tiger mount, or can get them, let us know so we can play with it. Any other ideas aree welcome. Good idea, Since i am at work and can't look at the unit i have to go from memory. The cowling doesn't go any deeper than the back plate i believe. It mounts with the bottom flush against the plate, but will have to look. As far as a handle goes, Although this might not be ideal, We took a piece of clear tubing we had laying around, put a 1in thick piece of cordure stap 13 in long through it and bolted on with the two top head bolts. Works really well. Not sure how much stress it puts on those bolt? Got this idea from Bozanic when we were going through training, how he did his. I know i keep saying i'm goning to get it in the water to see how it fly's, I am going to sacrifice New years eve and take it out new years day early and get it wet. will update you then on how it feels. Pleasure discussing this with you. Thanks for all the details James. I thought about it some more and realized that the 90 was probably to make it more compact. The protection factor sounds good too. Glad to hear that the cover brings it all together and there's no movement with it on. I'll look more at the tiger gear or for something similar. I can see what you mean about the extra space that hardware would take up and not being much to spare. I guess the stock bands work fine, but I wonder what other mounting solutions there might be... Glad you like the channel/lip idea for the cowling bottom. Having a slot for cowling bottom edge to rest in would be nice and keep it from moving around everytime it's picked up or set down, which also stretches out the bungees over time and makes things a little looser. Also guessing that with a channel at 90 to the bottom of the plate, it would make the unit lean back ever so slightly, a good thing since it's front heavy with all the CLs hoses, DSV when standing. It would be nice if it were more stable in that position-standing up-even for just the short time it's not strapped in to the boat rack, don doff. As for the handle, the one you have looks good, but I have found that hard ones are actually easier on the hand as they distribute the weight more evenly, instead of putting more on the outer fingers like a soft one does. But anything will be better than the stock "handle". Thanks again for listening, you guys have got the best looking set up I've seen so far.
(Offline)

30th December 2006, 17:53	#32 (permalink)
jstovall Supporting Member Current Rebreather/s: Prism Topaz Other Rebreather/s: Join Date: Apr 2006 Location: New Braunfels, TX Posts: 55	Re: Our compact plate for PRISM head and basket Quote: I guess the stock bands work fine, but I wonder what other mounting solutions there might be... Been thinking about this as well and can't seem to make anything work. Quote: Thanks again for listening, you guys have got the best looking set up I've seen so far. Thanks for the compliment. Nice shiny Thing means nothing if it doesn't work right. Will Let you know. I am just thinking out loud. I wonder if a plate similar to this might work for other rebreathers i.e. Inspo/Evo, etc... I know they keep tanks along outside with scrubber basket between, but i am unsure of hose routing,--just not familiar with them. If any one with another rebreather than PRISM, thinks this set up might work with theirs, drop a line. If we can all travel easier with our units, keep them with us rather than check, i think we would all be happier. Thanks again for the info, knowledge, and feedback. James
(Offline)

30th December 2006, 19:52	#33 (permalink)
dive2dive2000 PRISM DIVER & LUVIN IT! Current Rebreather/s: Prism Topaz Other Rebreather/s: Join Date: Feb 2005 Location: Long Island, NY Posts: 775	Re: Our compact plate for PRISM head and basket Hi Guys, I personally don't like tiger mounts they are too bulky and leave about a 2" space from tank to mount. G snaps are much more stream lined(IMHO) Ocycheq sells them Expedition Oxygen Analyzer. My friend dives a Boris and he has a g-snap with a quick release pin in it (very nice attachment gizmo). I am not sure if these are even available on this side of the pond __________________ Safe Diving, Martin "but what's the fun of getting what you need, instead of what you want?"
(Offline)

30th December 2006, 19:56	#34 (permalink)
decoweenie Crash Test Dummy Current Rebreather/s: Other CCR Other Rebreather/s: Other CCR Join Date: Feb 2005 Location: Cairo Posts: 5,509	Re: Our compact plate for PRISM head and basket Quote: (Originally Posted by dive2dive2000) I personally don't like tiger mounts they are too bulky and leave about a 2" space from tank to mount. G snaps are much more stream lined(IMHO) I have never tried the Tiger-mounts. So if anyone is unhappy and wants to exchange theirs for some of my G-snaps, contact me to discuss... __________________ "...after a while you get bored offering advice to a bull that like to keep butting the fence with its head rather than walking through the open gate..." - Rebreather World PM Last edited by decoweenie : 30th December 2006 at 20:48. Reason: more clear
(Offline)

30th December 2006, 20:45	#35 (permalink)
windymiller All The Gear, No Idea Current Rebreather/s: Inspiration Classic Evolution Megalodon Other Rebreather/s: Join Date: Oct 2005 Location: england Posts: 222	Re: Our compact plate for PRISM head and basket Quote: (Originally Posted by decoweenie) I have never used the Tiger-mounts. So if anyone is unhappy and wants to exchange a set of them with G-snaps, contact me to discuss... want to sell your tiger mounts?
(Online)

30th December 2006, 20:47	#36 (permalink)
decoweenie Crash Test Dummy Current Rebreather/s: Other CCR Other Rebreather/s: Other CCR Join Date: Feb 2005 Location: Cairo Posts: 5,509	Re: Our compact plate for PRISM head and basket Quote: (Originally Posted by windymiller) want to sell your tiger mounts? Sorry, I meant to say that I want a set to try... __________________ "...after a while you get bored offering advice to a bull that like to keep butting the fence with its head rather than walking through the open gate..." - Rebreather World PM
(Offline)

30th December 2006, 22:29	#37 (permalink)
windymiller All The Gear, No Idea Current Rebreather/s: Inspiration Classic Evolution Megalodon Other Rebreather/s: Join Date: Oct 2005 Location: england Posts: 222	Re: Our compact plate for PRISM head and basket Quote: (Originally Posted by decoweenie) Sorry, I meant to say that I want a set to try... oops!
(Online)

30th December 2006, 23:53	#38 (permalink)
Steve Ladies bring a plate Current Rebreather/s: Megalodon Home Build Other Rebreather/s: Not Bought Yet Inspiration Classic Sport Kiss Classic Kiss MK 15.X Home Build Join Date: Feb 2005 Location: Perth - Australia Posts: 1,041	Re: Our compact plate for PRISM head and basket Quote: (Originally Posted by DeepBlueInnovation) IMHO and with all due respect for what appears to be a most excellently designed backplate I would suggest that competitive delivery times and even a reasonable level of customer service would be of some higher merit... The PRISM boys get upset when you cite yet another example of SMI's poor customer treatment as you have just found out. Even though you were merely responding to an existing tangent started by Andy, this thread is a good one for Prism owners as it helps fix some of the products deficiencies. I welcome you starting a thread detailing how things are going for you and your Prism. __________________ WARNING: I contain occasional coarse language, extreme sexual references, nudity, and adult themes, which may offend some people - Usually churchy types.
(Offline)

31st December 2006, 02:22	#39 (permalink)
jstovall Supporting Member Current Rebreather/s: Prism Topaz Other Rebreather/s: Join Date: Apr 2006 Location: New Braunfels, TX Posts: 55	Re: Our compact plate for PRISM head and basket Quote: The PRISM boys get upset when you cite yet another example of SMI's poor customer treatment as you have just found out. Even though you were merely responding to an existing tangent started by Andy, this thread is a good one for Prism owners as it helps fix some of the products deficiencies. Thank you Steve for posting on this thread. As I am still a novice in the world of rebreathers, and have not contributed to this site in the assistance of others because of my newness, I am not sure what your comments mean. Since you have quoted DBI about customer service and reasonable delivery times I can only assume you agree with those statements. I have only my personal experiences with SM to go on. I am not sure how much you have had the pleasure of dealing with them, but i have no complaints. I have never dealt with any other rebreather supplier, so my dealings with SM is all I am going on. SM have always been honest with me and prompt with all responses to questions. Before deposit was placed I was told of the wait to receive the unit, and in full knowledge of that time line I placed my deposit. I received my unit months earlier than quoted delivery date. When requesting spare part to keep in a spare parts kit, I received them with in days. So i am unsure about all the negativity made about SM and the PRISM Topaz. I have learned so much from this forum, and learned a ton from many peoples postings--no matter which rebreather they dive or where they dive it. I am happy with my purchase, and I am happy with all I have learned. I know I have much more to learn, and hope to be able to contribute to all rebreather divers in their path to safe diving of this wonderful machine (the rebreather--regardless of brand). I started this thread to gain knowledge about how experienced rebreather divers would look at a specific piece of equipment that i have made for my rebreather to ease travel. To assist me in seeing things I may not realize are affected by what i think is/was a good design to fit the type of diving/travel i will be doing with my rebreather. I fail to see how all the bashing that i have noticed on this site helps anyone or improve anyones safty or comfort diving their chosen rebreather. Before i purchased A PRISM, my freind Bill " Rig Diver" on this forum, was open and honest with what, how, and why rebreathers work. He dives an Insperation. I fully enjoyed his enthusiasm and passion for the reabreather world. And even though I did not chose the Insperation as my rebreather I respect him for his choice. So if you wish to classify me as a " PRISM Boy" thank you, I am pleased to dive my PRISM. I will treat all rebreather divers with respect and as an equal on the path to master this wonderful machine. The Boy becomes a Man eventually, and I hope to reach this goal. So, thank you for assisting me on my path. James
(Offline)

31st December 2006, 11:42	#40 (permalink)
jstovall Supporting Member Current Rebreather/s: Prism Topaz Other Rebreather/s: Join Date: Apr 2006 Location: New Braunfels, TX Posts: 55	Re: Our compact plate for PRISM head and basket Quote: Other things I'd like to see would be some kind of channel on bottom of the plate, say 1 inch deep in which the bottom edge of the cowling could fit to keep it in place and stop it from slipping above and below the bottom of the plate. I looked at the plate and bottom of the cowling. The cowling flap at the rear bottom is wider than the plate, so creating a channel, as is, wouldn't work. In addition cowling mounts flush to plate. We could move tank mounts forward a 1/2 or 1 inch, this would push the cowling in that far. Now i think if we cut out the cowling to leave two tabs at the edge of the plate, approx 1/2 inch in from the edge this might hold it in place, i just worry about them breaking off from a hard jolt. I think if we just extend the end of the plate down 1-2 inches, this would keep the cowling from slipping below the plate. And I think we would have more material back there to work with for attachment points i.e. dry suit bottle bracket, loops of bungee/surg tube for lift/surface marker, butt plate for side mount, etc. Another idea George had was to use 1 in angle of aly and weld to back of plate to give cowling something to sit on, I like it. We could even use it as an attachment point for the cowling and mabye get rid of the bungees.
(Offline)

Thread Tools
Show Printable Version Email this Page
Display Modes
Linear Mode Switch to Hybrid Mode Switch to Threaded Mode