Fig. 19
Wing conforming bungee (Fig. 18)
The buoyancy inflation system is what separates the Arma-
dillo apart from other side mount systems. The Armadillo is
specifically designed to provide more lift on the divers hips,
which displaces the weight of the cylinders. This results in
less weight on the shoulders and ensures a proper horizon-
tal swimming profile.
The wing conforming bungee is designed to increase or
decrease the amount of lift depending on what type of
exposure suit and buoyancy demands are needed. A looser
bungee system allows for more lift when wearing a wetsuit
and a tighter bungee system pulls the wings in for a more
streamlined system and less lift when wearing a dry suit.
The conforming bungee also helps to prevent a common
side mount problem called “angel wings.” Angel wings are
when the BCD rides up high on the divers back making the
appearance of wings. This greatly decreases the streamline
effects of the harness and adds unnecessary drag, wear and
tear, and creates additional snag problems. The Armadillo’s
conforming bungee prevents an excessive angel wing effect
by pulling the BCD tighter towards the diver’s body.
To tighten the conforming bungee:
1. Cut the bungee cord at the tie off location on the BCD.
2. Tighten the bungee cord by pulling it through the BCD.
3. Retie the bungee cord.
Conforming
bungee tie
loop
Butt pad and attachment handles (Fig. 19)
The Armadillo harness incorporates a single butt pad
sewn from heavy-duty nylon webbing. Two metal handles
are bolted to the butt pad to provide a sturdy attachment
location for the cylinder clips. The crotch strap is sewn
directly into the butt pad and provides the fifth strap in
the five-point harness system.
The metal attachment handles are designed to handle the
weight of cylinders while in the water. Cylinder neck clips
should be added if the cylinders are transported attached
to the harness out of the water. The clips assist with the
weight of the cylinders while out of the water.
Page 9
Fig. 18
Summary of Contents for Armadillo Sidemount
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