Mission:
Provides aircrews with a mobile, personal supplemental breathing oxygen system for high-altitude missions that is compatible with Army UH-60 and CH-47 flight helmets and survival vests.

Description:
The Portable Helicopter Oxygen Delivery System (PHODS) is a Soldier-worn portable oxygen system that delivers compressed oxygen from a lightweight oxygen bottle attached to the Air Warrior vest. The system provides oxygen via a nasal cannula, up to 18,000 feet, and via a mask at altitudes above 18,000 feet. PHODS provides supplemental oxygen without restricting movement in and around the aircraft. The system uses a battery-powered pulse-demand oxygen regulator unit that automatically provides on-demand oxygen regulated to altitude based on detected barometric pressure. The PHODS regulator includes algorithms to detect and react to the Aviator’s breathing patterns to ensure that the user is receiving the proper oxygen flow based on individual physiological constraints.

The Soldier-worn PHODS components weigh six pounds, compared with the legacy Helicopter Oxygen System (HOS), which weighed more than 100 pounds. PHODS also improves mission capability. Each individual system is replaceable if there is a mechanical issue. Mechanical problems with the HOS meant the aircraft could not execute high altitude operations.

PHODS is supporting a mobile oxygen generating/recharge station that is provided to designated units. The station combines the high pressure and variable flow rate available from an oxygen cylinder with the oxygen generation and replenishment of an oxygen concentrator. By connecting an empty oxygen cylinder, it will automatically refill. These mobile stations are easily transported to battlefield locations.