Personal protection system comprising medical protection garment with cover

Abstract

A surgical helmet (720) for use with a surgical protective garment (718) and a power source (826). The surgical helmet includes a protrusion (746) extending from the top beam (729) and configured to removably secure the surgical protective garment to the surgical helmet, and a protrusion (754) extending laterally from the protrusion to retain the surgical protective garment. The surgical helmet may also include a post (834) and the power source may include a plug (832), wherein the post and the plug include complementary features to allow the plug to rotate about the post without disrupting the electrical connection between the plug and the post.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the invention patent application with the application date of July 30, 2020, application number 202080068889.0, and invention name “Personal protection system including medical protective clothing with a hood”.

[0002] Related applications

[0003] This application claims priority to U.S. application No. 16 / 528,018, filed July 31, 2019, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application No. 16 / 257,668, filed January 25, 2019, and to U.S. provisional application No. 62 / 897,954, filed September 9, 2019, and U.S. provisional application No. 62 / 906,330, filed September 26, 2019, all of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Background Art

[0004] Personal protective systems are used during surgical procedures to provide a sterile barrier between the surgical staff and the patient. Specifically, conventional systems include a helmet supporting a gown or hood. This system is worn by the medical / surgical staff who wish to establish a sterile barrier. The gown or hood may include a transparent face shield. The helmet includes a ventilation unit containing a fan. The ventilation unit draws air through the gown / hood, circulating it around the wearer. This reduces both heat trapped within the gown / hood and the amount of CO2 that accumulates in this space. It is also known to attach a light to the helmet that can be used to illuminate the surgical site.

[0005] Conventional gowns or hoods have been configured to be removably attached to a helmet. This allows the gown / hood to be removed from the helmet and disposed of after a surgical procedure. Existing designs of gowns and hoods have included hooks and / or universal fasteners for attaching the gown / hood to the helmet. Therefore, a medical protective garment including an improved fastener for attaching the garment to the helmet could enhance the performance of a personal protective system. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The present disclosure generally relates to a medical protective garment comprising an assembly including a hood that can be configured to be attached to a surgical helmet, wherein the medical protective garment includes a hood that can be used to provide a barrier between an individual wearing the garment and the surrounding environment.

[0007] An exemplary configuration provides a medical protective garment comprising a shell configured to be attached to a surgical helmet, wherein the shell includes an attachment member that can be integral with the shell and configured to removably couple the shell to the surgical helmet. The attachment member can be configured to removably couple to the surgical helmet on the wearer's side of the microbial barrier established by the shell. The surgical helmet can include a helmet coupler assembly configured to cooperatively engage the attachment member to removably couple the shell to the surgical helmet. The helmet coupler assembly can also include a movable member configured to selectively engage a detector based at least in part on a position of the shell relative to the surgical helmet. The switch can be communicatively connected to a controller configured to control operational characteristics of peripheral devices of the surgical helmet.

[0008] In another exemplary configuration, a medical protective suit may include a shell configured to provide a microbial barrier between a medical environment and a wearer. The shell may be configured to be mounted on a surgical helmet, the surgical helmet including a hook at least partially positioned within an alignment channel and a chin bar. The chin bar may include at least two magnetic coupling members. The shell may include a first material configured to be mounted at least partially on the surgical helmet. The first material may include an opening configured to be positioned in front of the wearer's face when mounted on the surgical helmet. The shell may also include a transparent face shield positioned within the opening of the first material. The transparent face shield may include a first surface and an opposing second surface, an upper portion and a lower portion, and a first aperture in the transparent face shield configured to removably engage a protrusion of the surgical helmet to align the first material relative to the surgical helmet. The shell may also include a first attachment element and a second attachment element, wherein the first attachment element and the second attachment element may be secured to the lower portion of the transparent face shield on opposing lateral sides of the first aperture. Each of the first and second attachment elements may include a retaining feature configured to secure the first and second attachment elements to the transparent face shield. At least one of the first and second attachment elements may include a ferromagnetic material, wherein at least one of the first and second attachment elements defines a groove on the wearer side of the microbial barrier and is respectively configured to removably engage one of the magnetic coupling members on the surgical helmet.

[0009] In yet another exemplary configuration, a medical protective garment may include a shell configured to provide a microbial barrier between a medical environment and a wearer. The shell may be configured to be positioned over a surgical helmet including at least two magnetic coupling members. The shell may include a first material configured to be at least partially positioned over the surgical helmet. The first material may include an opening. The shell may also include a transparent face shield positioned within the opening of the first material. The transparent face shield may include a first surface and an opposing second surface, an upper portion and a lower portion, and a first coupler positioned on the wearer side of the first material to removably engage the surgical helmet. The shell may also include a first attachment element and a second attachment element. The first and second attachment elements may be secured to the lower portion of the transparent face shield. Each of the first and second attachment elements may also include a retaining feature configured to secure the first and second attachment elements to the transparent face shield. At least one of the first and second attachment elements may include a ferromagnetic material and define a groove on the wearer side of the microbial barrier. The groove may be configured to removably engage the magnetic coupling members on the surgical helmet.

[0010] In yet another exemplary configuration, a medical protective garment may include a shell configured to provide a microbial barrier between a medical environment and a wearer. The shell may be configured to be positioned over a surgical helmet including at least two magnetic coupling members. The shell may include a first material configured to be at least partially positioned over the surgical helmet. The first material may include an opening. The shell may further include a transparent face shield positioned within the opening of the first material. The transparent face shield may include an upper portion and a lower portion. The shell may further include a first coupler positioned on the wearer's side of the first material, the first coupler configured to removably engage the surgical helmet. The shell may further include a first attachment element and / or a second attachment element. The first and second attachment elements may be secured to the lower portion of the transparent face shield. Each of the first and second attachment elements may include a head including a distal surface and a proximal surface. Each of the first and second attachment elements may further include a post extending from the distal surface of the head. The post may include a distal portion and a proximal portion, wherein the proximal portion is configured to abut the distal surface of the head. The proximal portion may include a first size and the distal portion may include a second size, wherein the first size is larger than the second size. The head of each of the first and second attachment elements may further comprise a ferromagnetic material, and the proximal surface of each head may be configured to removably engage one of the magnetic coupling members on the surgical headgear.

[0011] In yet another exemplary configuration, a protective clothing system configured for use with a helmet can provide a barrier between the environment and the wearer. The helmet can include a protrusion at least partially disposed within an alignment channel, and a chin bar. The chin bar can include at least two magnetic coupling members. The protective clothing system can also include a medical protective suit comprising a shell configured to be at least partially disposed on the helmet. The shell can include an opening configured to be positioned in front of the wearer's face when at least partially disposed on the helmet. The medical protective suit can also include a transparent visor disposed within the opening of the shell. The transparent visor can include an upper portion and a lower portion. The medical protective suit can also include a tab located on the wearer's side of the shell, wherein the tab includes an outer edge for aligning the shell relative to the helmet through the alignment channel of the helmet. The tab can include a first aperture configured to removably engage the protrusion of the helmet to align the shell relative to the helmet. The medical protective suit can also include a first attachment element and a second attachment element secured to the lower portion of the transparent visor on opposite lateral sides of the first aperture. At least one of the first and second attachment elements comprises a ferromagnetic material and defines a coupling groove on the wearer side of the barrier.The first and second attachment elements and / or coupling grooves are configured to removably engage a magnetic coupling member on a helmet.

[0012] In yet another exemplary configuration, a protective clothing system configured for use with a helmet can provide a barrier between the environment and the wearer. The helmet can include a protrusion at least partially disposed within an alignment channel, and a chin bar. The chin bar can include at least two magnetic coupling members. The protective clothing system can include a medical protective garment comprising a shell configured to be at least partially disposed on the helmet. The shell can include an opening configured to be positioned in front of the wearer's face when at least partially disposed on the helmet. The protective clothing system can also include a transparent face shield disposed within the opening of the shell. The transparent face shield can include a first surface and an opposing second surface, as well as an upper portion and a lower portion. The protective clothing system can also include a tab on the wearer's side of the shell, the tab having an outer edge for aligning the shell relative to the helmet through the alignment channel of the helmet. The protective clothing system can also include a first aperture at least partially formed in the tab and configured to removably engage the protrusion of the helmet to align the shell relative to the helmet. The protective apparel system may further include a first attachment element and a second attachment element secured to the lower portion of the transparent visor on opposite lateral sides of the first aperture of the tab. Each of the first and second attachment elements may include a retention feature positioned closer to the second surface of the transparent visor than to the first surface. The first and second attachment elements may include a ferromagnetic material and define corresponding coupling grooves on the wearer side of the barrier. The first and second attachment elements and / or coupling grooves are configured to removably engage a magnetic coupling member on a helmet.

[0013] In yet another exemplary configuration, a surgical protective suit assembly can be configured for use with a surgical helmet comprising a magnetic coupling member disposed in a recess and a detector spaced apart from the coupling member. The surgical protective suit assembly can be configured to be at least partially disposed on the surgical helmet to provide a microbial barrier between the user and the medical environment. The surgical protective suit assembly can include a surgical fabric defining an opening and a transparent face shield disposed within the opening. The transparent face shield can include an upper portion, a lower portion, a first surface, and an opposing second surface. The surgical protective suit assembly can also include a first attachment element coupled to the lower portion of the transparent face shield. The first attachment element can include a ferromagnetic material. The first attachment element can define a proximal surface facing away from the transparent face shield, wherein the proximal surface can include a first point located on a longitudinal axis of the first attachment element and can define a first distance from the first surface of the transparent face shield. The proximal surface can also include a second point that can define a second distance from the first surface of the transparent face shield. The second point on the proximal surface can be spaced apart from the first point on the proximal surface, wherein the proximal surface is shaped such that the first distance is less than the second distance. The first attachment element may be configured to removably engage a coupling member on the surgical headgear and trigger the detector when the first attachment element is coupled to the coupling member.

[0014] In yet another exemplary configuration, a surgical protective suit assembly may be configured for use with a surgical helmet comprising a coupling member disposed in a recess and a Hall effect sensor spaced apart from the coupling member. The surgical protective suit assembly may be configured to be at least partially disposed on the surgical helmet and configured to provide a microbial barrier between the user and the medical environment. The surgical protective suit assembly may include a surgical fabric defining an opening and a transparent face shield disposed within the opening. The transparent face shield may include an upper portion, a lower portion, a first surface, and an opposing second surface. The surgical protective suit assembly may further include a first attachment element coupled to the lower portion of the transparent face shield. The first attachment element may define a proximal surface facing away from the transparent face shield. A first axis of the first attachment element may intersect the proximal surface. The proximal surface may be shaped such that a first point on the proximal surface located on the first axis defines a first distance from the first surface of the transparent face shield. A second point on the proximal surface may define a second distance from the first surface of the transparent face shield, wherein the second point on the proximal surface is spaced apart from the first point on the proximal surface, and the first distance is less than the second distance. The first attachment element may include a ferromagnetic material, wherein the first attachment element is configured to removably engage a coupling member on the surgical headgear.

[0015] In yet another exemplary configuration, a surgical protective suit assembly may be configured for use with a surgical helmet comprising a coupling member disposed in a recess and a Hall effect sensor spaced apart from the coupling member. The surgical protective suit assembly may be configured to be at least partially disposed on the surgical helmet and provide a microbial barrier between the user and the medical environment. The surgical protective suit assembly may include a surgical fabric defining an opening and a transparent face shield disposed within the opening. The transparent face shield may include an upper portion, a lower portion, a first surface, and an opposing second surface. The surgical protective suit assembly may further include a first attachment element coupled to the lower portion of the transparent face shield. The first attachment element may define a proximal surface facing away from the transparent face shield. The proximal surface may be shaped such that a first point on the proximal surface may define a first distance from the first surface of the transparent face shield. A second point on the proximal surface may define a second distance from the first surface of the transparent face shield. The proximal surface may be shaped such that the second point on the proximal surface may be spaced apart from the first point on the proximal surface, with the first distance being less than the second distance. The first attachment element may include a ferromagnetic material and may be configured to removably engage the coupling member on the surgical helmet.

[0016] In yet another exemplary configuration, a surgical protective suit assembly may be configured for use with a surgical helmet comprising a coupling member disposed in a recess and a detector spaced apart from the coupling member. The surgical protective suit assembly may be configured to be at least partially disposed on the surgical helmet and to provide a microbial barrier between the user and the medical environment. The surgical protective suit assembly may include a surgical fabric defining an opening and a transparent face shield disposed within the opening. The transparent face shield may include an upper portion, a lower portion, a first surface, and an opposing second surface. The surgical protective suit assembly may also include a first attachment element comprising a head comprising a ferromagnetic material and defining a proximal surface facing away from the transparent face shield. The proximal surface may be shaped such that a first portion of the proximal surface extends a first distance from the first surface of the transparent face shield, and a second portion of the proximal surface defines a second distance from the first surface of the transparent face shield. The proximal surface may be shaped such that the first distance is less than the second distance. The first attachment element may be configured to removably engage the coupling member on the surgical helmet.

[0017] In yet another exemplary configuration, a surgical protective suit assembly may be configured for use with a surgical helmet comprising a coupling member disposed in a recess and a detector spaced apart from the coupling member. The surgical protective suit assembly may be configured to be at least partially disposed on the surgical helmet and to provide a microbial barrier between the user and the medical environment. The surgical protective suit assembly may include a surgical fabric defining an opening and a transparent face shield disposed within the opening. The transparent face shield may include a first surface and an opposing second surface, and may be bisected by a midline. The surgical protective suit assembly may further include a first attachment element coupled to the transparent face shield. The first attachment element may include a head defining a proximal surface. A first point on the proximal surface located on an axis of the first attachment element may define a first distance from the first surface of the transparent face shield. A second point on the proximal surface may define a second distance from the first surface of the transparent face shield. The second point on the proximal surface may be spaced apart from the first point on the proximal surface, and the proximal surface may be shaped such that the first distance is less than the second distance. The first attachment element may be oriented relative to the transparent face shield such that the second point on the proximal surface is positioned further from the midline of the transparent face shield than the first point on the proximal surface.

[0018] In yet another exemplary configuration, a surgical protective suit assembly may be configured for use with a surgical helmet comprising a coupling member disposed in a recess and a detector spaced apart from the coupling member. The surgical protective suit assembly may be configured to be at least partially disposed on the surgical helmet and configured to provide a microbial barrier between a user and a medical environment. The surgical protective suit assembly may include a surgical fabric defining an opening and a transparent face shield disposed within the opening. The transparent face shield may include a first surface and an opposing second surface, and may be bisected by a midline. A first attachment element may be coupled to the transparent face shield. The first attachment element may include a head defining a proximal surface and an opposing distal surface. A first point on the proximal surface located on an axis of the first attachment element may define a first distance from the first surface of the transparent face shield. A second point on the proximal surface may define a second distance from the first surface of the transparent face shield. The second point on the proximal surface may be spaced apart from the first point on the proximal surface, and the proximal surface may be shaped such that the first distance is less than the second distance. The transparent face shield and the first attachment element may further include complementary features configured to prevent the first attachment element from rotating relative to the transparent face shield. The first attachment element can be oriented such that the second point on the proximal surface is positioned further away from a centerline of the transparent face shield than the first point on the proximal surface.

[0019] The surgical suit assembly can be configured such that the complementary features of the transparent face shield and the first attachment element can include an aperture on a lower portion of the transparent face shield and a post extending from a distal surface of the head. The aperture can have a first shape extending between a first surface and a second surface. The post can include a shape complementary to the first shape and can be configured to prevent the post from rotating within the aperture.

[0020] In yet another exemplary configuration, a surgical protective suit assembly may be configured for use with a surgical helmet comprising a coupling member disposed in a recess and a detector spaced apart from the coupling member. The surgical protective suit assembly may be configured to be at least partially disposed on the surgical helmet and to provide a microbial barrier between the user and the medical environment. The surgical protective suit assembly may include a surgical fabric defining an opening and a transparent face shield disposed within the opening. The transparent face shield may include a first surface and an opposing second surface and may be bisected by a midline. A first attachment element may be coupled to the transparent face shield. The first attachment element may include a head defining a proximal surface and an opposing distal surface. The surgical protective suit assembly may further include a device for preventing the first attachment element from rotating relative to the transparent face shield. A first point on the proximal surface located on an axis of the first attachment element may define a first distance from the first surface of the transparent face shield. A second point on the proximal surface may define a second distance from the first surface of the transparent face shield. The second point on the proximal surface may be spaced apart from the first point on the proximal surface, and the proximal surface may be shaped such that the first distance is less than the second distance. The first attachment element can be oriented such that the second point on the proximal surface is positioned further away from a centerline of the transparent face shield than the first point on the proximal surface.

[0021] The surgical gown assembly can be configured such that the means for preventing rotation of the first attachment element relative to the transparent face shield can include an aperture extending between the first surface and the second surface, and a post extending distally from the distal surface of the head. The post can be at least partially disposed within the aperture, and the post and aperture can include complementary features for preventing rotation of the post within the aperture.

[0022] In yet another exemplary configuration, a method of manufacturing a surgical protective suit assembly for use with a surgical helmet may include providing a fabric suitable for providing a microbial barrier, the fabric defining an opening and the fabric being shaped to contain at least a portion of a wearer's head, the fabric defining an environmental side and a wearer side. The method may also include providing a transparent face shield comprising an upper portion and an opposing lower portion. The method may also include forming a groove on a proximal surface of the head of a ferromagnetic attachment element. The method may also include attaching the ferromagnetic attachment element to the transparent face shield. The method may also include coupling the transparent face shield to the fabric such that the proximal surface of the ferromagnetic attachment element is positioned on the wearer's side of the fabric.

[0023] In yet another exemplary configuration, a method for reusing features of a surgical suit may include obtaining a used surgical suit comprising a surgical fabric defining an opening and a transparent face shield disposed within the opening. The transparent face shield may include an upper portion, a lower portion, a first surface, and an opposing second surface. The method may also include securing a first attachment element to the lower portion of the transparent face shield, wherein the first attachment element may include a ferromagnetic material and may define a coupling groove on a wearer's side of the surgical suit. The first attachment element may be configured to removably engage a magnetic coupling member on a helmet. The first attachment element may also include a head comprising a distal surface and a proximal surface, and a post extending distally from the distal surface of the head. The coupling groove may be formed on the proximal surface of the head. The method may also include disengaging the first attachment element from the transparent face shield. The method may also include discarding the surgical suit and the transparent face shield. The method may also include cleaning and / or disinfecting the first attachment element. The method may further include coupling the cleaned or sterilized first attachment element to a new surgical suit having a new face mask, such that upon subsequent use of the new surgical suit, the cleaned or sterilized first attachment element may be utilized to couple the new surgical suit to the helmet.

[0024] In yet another exemplary configuration, a surgical gown assembly can be configured for use with a surgical helmet including at least one coupling member. The surgical gown assembly can include a surgical fabric defining an opening and a transparent face shield disposed within the opening. The transparent face shield can include a first surface and an opposing second surface. A first attachment element can be coupled to the transparent face shield, the first attachment element including a proximal surface. An adapter member can be configured to removably couple with the first attachment element. The adapter member can include a proximal surface and an opposing distal surface. The adapter member can include a first point on the proximal surface of the adapter member and a second point on the proximal surface of the adapter member. The second point on the proximal surface of the adapter member can be spaced apart from the first point on the proximal surface of the adapter member. The distal surface of the adapter member can be configured to removably engage the proximal surface of the first attachment element. When the adapter member is coupled to the first attachment element, the first point on the proximal surface of the adapter member can define a first distance from the first surface of the transparent face shield. When the adapter member is coupled to the first attachment element, the second point on the proximal surface of the adapter member can define a second distance from the first surface of the transparent face shield. The proximal surface of the adapter member may be shaped such that the first distance is less than a second distance from the first surface of the transparent face shield.

[0025] In yet another exemplary configuration, a method of coupling a surgical gown including a first attachment element to a surgical helmet including a first coupling member may include providing an adapter member. The adapter member may include a proximal surface and an opposing distal surface. The adapter member may also include a first point on the proximal surface of the adapter member and a second point on the proximal surface of the adapter member. The second point on the proximal surface of the adapter member may be spaced apart from the first point on the proximal surface of the adapter member. When the adapter member is coupled to the first attachment element, the first point on the proximal surface of the adapter member may define a first distance from a first surface of a transparent face shield. When the adapter member is coupled to the first attachment element, the second point on the proximal surface of the adapter member may define a second distance from the first surface of the transparent face shield. The method may also include removably coupling the adapter member to the first coupling member of the surgical helmet. The method may also include removably coupling the adapter member to the first attachment element of the surgical gown.

[0026] In yet another exemplary configuration, a surgical protective suit assembly can be configured for use with a surgical helmet comprising a magnetic coupling member disposed in a recess and a Hall effect sensor spaced apart from the coupling member. The surgical protective suit assembly can be configured to be at least partially disposed on the surgical helmet to provide a microbial barrier between the user and the medical environment. The surgical protective suit assembly can include a surgical fabric defining an opening and a transparent face shield disposed within the opening. The transparent face shield can include an upper portion, a lower portion, a first surface, and an opposing second surface. A first attachment element can be coupled to the lower portion of the transparent face shield. The first attachment element can include a cylindrical head comprising a distal end and an opposing proximal end. The proximal end can define a proximal surface facing away from the transparent face shield. The proximal surface can include a first portion extending obliquely from a mid-plane of the cylindrical head in a proximal direction to a first edge. A second portion can extend obliquely from a mid-plane of the cylindrical head in a proximal direction to a second edge. The cylindrical head includes a ferromagnetic material, and the first attachment element may be configured to removably engage a coupling member on the surgical headgear and trigger the Hall effect sensor when the first attachment element is coupled to the coupling member.

[0027] In yet another exemplary configuration, a surgical protective suit assembly can be configured for use with a surgical helmet comprising a magnetic coupling member disposed in a groove and a Hall effect sensor spaced apart from the coupling member. The surgical protective suit assembly can be configured to be at least partially disposed on the surgical helmet to provide a microbial barrier between the user and the medical environment. The surgical protective suit assembly may include a surgical fabric defining an opening and a transparent face shield disposed within the opening. The transparent face shield may include an upper portion, a lower portion, a first surface, and an opposite second surface. A first attachment element may be coupled to the lower portion of the transparent face shield. The first attachment element may include a cylindrical head comprising a distal end and an opposite proximal end. The proximal end may define a proximal surface facing away from the transparent face shield. The proximal surface may include a planar surface (portion) having a first side and a second side. The first side (portion) may extend from the first side of the planar surface to the first edge at an angle in a proximal direction. The second side (portion) may extend from the second side of the planar surface to the second edge at an angle in a proximal direction. The planar surface may be perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The cylindrical head may include a ferromagnetic material, and the first attachment element may be configured to removably engage a coupling member on the surgical headgear and trigger the Hall effect sensor when the first attachment element is coupled to the coupling member.

[0028] In yet another exemplary configuration, a surgical protective suit assembly can be configured for use with a surgical helmet comprising a magnetic coupling member disposed in a recess and a Hall effect sensor spaced apart from the coupling member. The surgical protective suit assembly can be configured to be at least partially disposed on the surgical helmet to provide a microbial barrier between the user and the medical environment. The surgical protective suit assembly can include a surgical fabric defining an opening and a transparent face shield disposed within the opening. The transparent face shield can include an upper portion, a lower portion, a first surface, and an opposing second surface. A first attachment element can be coupled to the lower portion of the transparent face shield. The first attachment element can include a cylindrical head comprising a distal end having a distal surface and a proximal end having a proximal surface. The proximal surface can extend at an angled angle from a first edge of the cylindrical head to a second edge of the cylindrical head in a proximal direction. The first attachment element can be configured to removably engage the coupling member on the surgical helmet and trigger the Hall effect sensor when the first attachment element is coupled to the coupling member.

[0029] In yet another exemplary configuration, a surgical protective suit assembly can be configured for use with a surgical helmet comprising a magnetic coupling member disposed in a recess and a Hall effect sensor spaced apart from the coupling member. The surgical protective suit assembly can be configured to be at least partially disposed on the surgical helmet to provide a microbial barrier between the user and the medical environment. The surgical protective suit assembly can include a surgical fabric defining an opening and a transparent face shield disposed within the opening. The transparent face shield can include an upper portion, a lower portion, a first surface, and an opposing second surface. A first attachment element can be coupled to the lower portion of the transparent face shield. The first attachment element can include a cylindrical head comprising a hole extending along a longitudinal axis between a distal end and a proximal end. The cylindrical head can include a ferromagnetic material, and the first attachment element can be configured to removably engage the coupling member on the surgical helmet and trigger the Hall effect sensor when the first attachment element is coupled to the coupling member.

[0030] In yet another exemplary configuration, a surgical protective suit assembly can be configured for use with a surgical helmet comprising a magnetic coupling member disposed in a recess and a Hall effect sensor spaced apart from the coupling member. The surgical protective suit assembly can be configured to be at least partially disposed on the surgical helmet to provide a microbial barrier between the user and the medical environment. The surgical protective suit assembly can include a surgical fabric defining an opening and a transparent face shield disposed within the opening. The transparent face shield can include an upper portion, a lower portion, a first surface, and an opposing second surface. A first attachment element can be coupled to the lower portion of the transparent face shield. The first attachment element can include a cylindrical head comprising a hole extending along a longitudinal axis between a closed distal end and an open proximal end. The hole can include a mouth, and the mouth can taper circumferentially from the open proximal end toward the center of the hole. The cylindrical head can include a ferromagnetic material and can be configured to removably engage the coupling member on the surgical helmet and trigger the Hall effect sensor when the first attachment element is coupled to the coupling member.

[0031] In yet another exemplary configuration, a surgical garment system may include a surgical helmet. The surgical helmet may include a shell, a ventilation assembly coupled to the shell, and a power connector coupled to the shell. The power supply may be configured to be electrically connected to the ventilation assembly. The power connector may include a post. The system may also include a power supply comprising a battery, a wiring harness extending from the battery, and a plug coupled to the wiring harness opposite the battery. The plug may be configured to removably engage the power connector of the surgical helmet to supply power to the ventilation assembly. The post and the plug may be free of a key and a keyway, respectively, so that the post and the plug may be coupled in any radial orientation. The post and the plug may also include complementary retention features that allow the plug to rotate about the post without disrupting the electrical connection.

[0032] In yet another exemplary configuration, a surgical garment system may include a surgical helmet. The surgical helmet may include a shell, a ventilation assembly coupled to the shell, and a power connector disposed on the shell and electrically connected to the ventilation assembly. The power connector may also include a post. The system may also include a power supply comprising a battery, a wiring harness extending from the battery, and a plug coupled to the wiring harness opposite the battery. The plug may be configured to detachably engage the power connector of the surgical helmet to power the ventilation assembly. The post and the plug may include complementary retaining features that allow the plug to rotate around the post without destroying the electrical connection. The system may further include a surgical protective suit configured to be at least partially disposed on the surgical helmet to provide a microbial barrier between the medical environment and the wearer. The surgical garment may include a surgical fabric and a transparent face mask, the surgical fabric defining an opening configured to be positioned in front of the wearer's face when at least partially disposed on the surgical helmet, the transparent face mask being disposed within the opening of the surgical fabric.

[0033] In yet another exemplary configuration, a surgical garment system may include a surgical helmet. The surgical helmet may include a shell, a ventilation assembly coupled to the shell, and a power connector disposed on the shell and electrically connected to the ventilation assembly. The power connector may include a post defining an axis of rotation. The system may also include a power source comprising a battery, a wiring harness extending from the battery, and a plug coupled to the wiring harness opposite the battery. The plug may be configured to removably engage the power connector of the surgical helmet to supply power to the ventilation assembly, wherein the post and the plug include complementary retention features that allow the plug to be positioned in a first orientation relative to the axis of rotation and allow the plug to be rotated to a second orientation relative to the axis of rotation without disrupting the electrical connection between the post and the plug.

[0034] These and other configurations, features and advantages of the present disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art.The present disclosure is not intended to be limited to or by these configurations, embodiments, features and / or advantages. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0035] Referring now to the drawings, exemplary embodiments are shown in detail. Although the drawings represent illustrative embodiments and / or exemplary configurations, the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale, and certain features may be exaggerated to better illustrate and explain the innovative aspects of the exemplary configurations. Furthermore, the exemplary embodiments described herein are not intended to be exhaustive or otherwise restrictive or limited to the precise forms and configurations shown in the drawings and disclosed in the following detailed description.

[0036] Advantages of the present disclosure will be readily appreciated as they may be better understood by reference to the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0037] Figure 1is a perspective view of a first configuration of a surgical apparel system including a medical protective garment and a surgical helmet, with the surgical helmet shown in phantom.

[0038] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A perspective view of a surgical helmet with a surgical garment system.

[0039] Figure 3 is connected to Figure 1 A partial perspective view of a medical protective suit showing the chin bar of a surgical helmet.

[0040] Figure 4A yes Figure 1 A partial schematic top view of a first configuration of the headband of a surgical garment system in which the medical protective garment is coupled to a surgical helmet.

[0041] Figure 4B yes Figure 1 A partial schematic top view of a second configuration of the headband of the surgical garment system, in which the medical protective garment is coupled to the surgical helmet.

[0042] Figure 5 is a perspective view of a second configuration of a surgical apparel system including a medical protective garment and a surgical helmet, with the surgical helmet shown in phantom lines.

[0043] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 A perspective view of a surgical helmet with a surgical garment system.

[0044] Figure 7 is connected to Figure 5 A partial perspective view of a medical protective suit showing the chin bar of a surgical helmet.

[0045] Figure 8 yes Figure 5 A partial perspective view of an interior portion of a control housing of a surgical garment system, including a first configuration of coupling features.

[0046] Figure 9A yes Figure 8 A close-up cross-sectional view of a first state of a first configuration of a coupling feature.

[0047] Figure 9B yes Figure 8 A close-up cross-sectional view of a second state of a first configuration of a coupling feature, wherein the medical protective garment is coupled to a surgical helmet.

[0048] Figure 10A yes Figure 8 A close-up cross-sectional view of a first state of a second configuration of the coupling feature.

[0049] Figure 10B yes Figure 8A close-up cross-sectional view of a second state of a second configuration of the coupling feature.

[0050] Figure 11 yes Figure 8 A close-up cross-sectional view of the third configuration of the Joint feature.

[0051] Figure 12A yes Figure 8 A close-up cross-sectional view of a fourth configuration of the coupling feature.

[0052] Figure 12B yes Figure 8 A close-up cross-sectional view of a fifth configuration of the coupling feature.

[0053] Figure 13A is a perspective view of a third configuration of a surgical garment system including the medical protective garment of the first configuration having tabs extending from a transparent face shield, with a surgical helmet shown in phantom.

[0054] Figure 13B is a perspective view of a third configuration of a surgical garment system comprising an alternative configuration of a medical protective garment having tabs in a second configuration separate from a transparent face shield, with a surgical helmet shown in phantom.

[0055] Figure 14 yes Figure 13A and 13B A perspective view of a surgical helmet including an alignment channel and a coupling member in the chin bar.

[0056] Figure 15A yes Figure 14 A close-up perspective view of the alignment channel of a helmet.

[0057] Figure 15B yes Figure 14 A close-up top view of the alignment channels of the helmet.

[0058] Figure 16A yes Figure 14 A perspective view of one of the coupling members in the chin bar of a helmet, including a detector positioned adjacent to the coupling member.

[0059] Figure 16B yes Figure 16B A cross-sectional view of one of the connecting members.

[0060] Figure 17A yes Figure 14 A perspective view of a first configuration of a coupling member of a helmet.

[0061] Figure 17B yes Figure 14 A top view of a first configuration of a coupling member of a helmet.

[0062] Figure 18Ayes Figure 16A A perspective view of the front portion of a transparent face mask of a surgical garment system, including an aperture for attaching an attachment element to the transparent face mask.

[0063] Figure 18B yes Figure 13A A perspective view of the rear portion of a transparent face mask of a surgical garment system, including an attachment member coupled to the transparent face mask.

[0064] Figure 18C is connected to Figure 18B An enlarged view of one of the attachment members of the transparent face shield is shown.

[0065] Figure 18D is connected to Figure 13A and 13B A partial cross-sectional view of a first configuration of attachment elements of a transparent face mask to a medical protective garment of a surgical garment system.

[0066] Figure 19A yes Figure 13A and 13B A front view of a first configuration of the attachment element of a surgical shroud of a surgical garment system.

[0067] Figure 19B yes Figure 13A and 13B A front perspective view of a first configuration of attachment elements of a surgical garment system for a medical protective garment.

[0068] Figure 19C yes Figure 13A and 13B Rear perspective view of a first configuration of attachment elements of a medical protective garment of a surgical garment system.

[0069] Figure 20A is used to secure the attachment element to Figure 13A and 13B Rear perspective view of a transparent face mask retaining member of a surgical garment system.

[0070] Figure 20B is used to secure the attachment element to Figure 13A and 13B Rear view of the transparent face mask retaining member of the surgical garment system.

[0071] Figure 20C is used to secure the attachment element to Figure 13A and 13B A cross-sectional view of a transparent face mask retaining member of a surgical garment system.

[0072] Figure 20D is used to connect the attachment element to Figure 13A and 13BSide view of a transparent face mask retaining member of a surgical garment system.

[0073] Figure 21A yes Figure 13A A perspective view of a face mask of a medical protective suit positioned relative to a chin bar and top beam of a surgical helmet before coupling the face mask to the surgical helmet.

[0074] Figure 21B yes Figure 13A A perspective view of a face shield of a medical protective suit positioned relative to a chin bar and header of a surgical helmet as the face shield transitions to being coupled to the surgical helmet, including tabs positioned within alignment channels of the header of the surgical helmet.

[0075] Figure 21C is connected to the surgical helmet Figure 13A A perspective view of a face mask of a surgical garment system.

[0076] Figure 22A is connected to Figures 13A-16B The connecting components Figure 18D A partial cross-sectional view of a first configuration of an attachment member.

[0077] Figure 22B is a schematic diagram of the magnetic field surrounding the coupling member of the surgical helmet relative to a detector when the attachment element is positioned adjacent the coupling member.

[0078] Figure 22C is a schematic diagram of the magnetic field surrounding the coupling member of the surgical helmet relative to the detector in the absence of an attachment element.

[0079] Figure 23A is with Figure 13A and 13B A front view of a second configuration of attachment elements for use with a surgical garment system and a medical protective garment.

[0080] Figure 23B yes Figure 23A Front perspective view of a second configuration of the attachment element.

[0081] Figure 24A is with Figure 13A and 13B A front view of a third configuration of attachment elements of a surgical garment system for use with a medical protective garment.

[0082] Figure 24B yes Figure 24A Front perspective view of a third configuration of the attachment element.

[0083] Figure 25A is with Figure 13A and 13BA front view of a fourth configuration of attachment elements of a surgical garment system for use with a medical protective garment.

[0084] Figure 25B yes Figure 25A Front perspective view of a fourth configuration of the attachment element.

[0085] Figure 26A is with Figure 13A and 13B A front view of a fifth configuration of an attachment element for use with a medical protective garment of a surgical garment system, the attachment element including a magnetic material insert.

[0086] Figure 26B yes Figure 26A A cross-sectional view of a fifth configuration of the attachment element.

[0087] Figure 27A is with Figure 13A and 13B A front view of a sixth configuration of attachment elements of a surgical garment system for use with a medical protective garment.

[0088] Figure 27B yes Figure 27A Front perspective view of a sixth configuration of the attachment element.

[0089] Figure 28A is with Figure 13A and 13B A front view of a seventh configuration of attachment elements of a surgical garment system for use with a medical protective garment.

[0090] Figure 28B yes Figure 28A Front perspective view of a seventh configuration of the attachment element.

[0091] Figure 29A is a front perspective view of an eighth configuration of an attachment element coupled to Figure 13A and 13B The mask is part of the surgical garment system.

[0092] Figure 29B Is the part that is connected to the mask Figure 29A Front perspective view of an eighth configuration of the attachment element.

[0093] Figure 30 is with Figure 13A and 13B A schematic diagram of a ninth configuration of attachment elements and coupling members for use with a medical protective garment of a surgical garment system.

[0094] Figure 31 is with Figure 13A and 13BSchematic diagram of a tenth configuration of attachment elements and coupling members for use with a medical protective garment of a surgical garment system.

[0095] Figure 32 is with Figure 13A and 13B A schematic diagram of an eleventh configuration of attachment elements and coupling members for use with a surgical garment system of a medical protective garment.

[0096] Figure 33 is with Figure 13A and 13B A schematic diagram of a twelfth configuration of attachment elements and coupling members for use with a medical protective garment of a surgical garment system.

[0097] Figure 34 is a perspective view of another exemplary configuration of a medical protective garment for use with a surgical helmet.

[0098] Figure 35 is included Figure 34 A perspective view of a fourth configuration of a surgical apparel system comprising a medical protective garment and a surgical helmet, with the surgical helmet shown in phantom.

[0099] Figure 36 yes Figure 35 Exploded view of a surgical helmet.

[0100] Figure 37 is with Figure 13A and 13B A perspective view of a surgical helmet for use with a surgical garment system, the helmet including an alignment channel and a chin bar.

[0101] Figure 38A yes Figure 37 A partial cross-sectional view of a portion of a chin bar of a surgical helmet, the chin bar including an exemplary configuration of a coupling member and a detector positioned proximate the coupling member.

[0102] Figure 38B yes Figure 38A A cross-sectional view of an exemplary configuration of a chin bar and coupling member.

[0103] Figure 39A yes Figure 13A Rear view of the transparent face shield of the surgical protective garment of the surgical garment system, including attachment elements coupled to the transparent face shield.

[0104] Figure 39B is a partial cross-sectional view of the configuration of attachment elements of a surgical protective suit coupled to a transparent face mask.

[0105] Figure 40 It is connected to the surgical gown Figure 39A and 39BA partial cross-sectional view of an attachment element of the surgical gown coupled to Figure 37 A connecting member of a surgical helmet.

[0106] Figure 41A yes Figure 39A and 39B A front perspective view of a thirteenth configuration of an attachment element for a transparent face shield.

[0107] Figure 41B yes Figure 41A Side view of a thirteenth configuration of the attachment element.

[0108] Figure 42A yes Figure 39A and 39B A front perspective view of a fourteenth configuration of an attachment element for a transparent face shield.

[0109] Figure 42B yes Figure 42A Side view of a fourteenth configuration of the attachment element.

[0110] Figure 43A yes Figure 39A and 39B A front perspective view of a fifteenth configuration of an attachment element for a transparent face shield.

[0111] Figure 43B yes Figure 43A Side view of a fifteenth configuration of the attachment element.

[0112] Figure 44A yes Figure 39A and 39B A front perspective view of a sixteenth configuration of an attachment element for a transparent face shield.

[0113] Figure 44B yes Figure 44A Side view of a sixteenth configuration of the attachment element.

[0114] Figure 44C is connected to Figure 37 A partial cross-sectional view of a sixteenth configuration of the attachment element of the surgical gown to the coupling member of the surgical helmet.

[0115] Figure 45A yes Figure 39A and 39B A front perspective view of a seventeenth configuration of an attachment element for a transparent face shield.

[0116] Figure 45B yes Figure 45A Side view of a seventeenth configuration of the attachment element.

[0117] Figure 46A yes Figure 39A and 39BA front perspective view of an eighteenth configuration of an attachment element for a transparent face shield.

[0118] Figure 46B yes Figure 46A Side view of an eighteenth configuration of the attachment element.

[0119] Figure 47A yes Figure 39A and 39B A front perspective view of a nineteenth configuration of an attachment element for a transparent face shield.

[0120] Figure 47B yes Figure 47A Side view of a nineteenth configuration of the attachment element.

[0121] Figure 48A yes Figure 39A and 39B A front perspective view of a twentieth configuration of an attachment element of a transparent face shield.

[0122] Figure 48B yes Figure 48A A side view of a twentieth configuration of the attachment element.

[0123] Figure 49A yes Figure 39A and 39B A front perspective view of a twenty-first configuration of the attachment element of the transparent face shield.

[0124] Figure 49B yes Figure 49A A side view of a twenty-first configuration of the attachment element.

[0125] Figure 50A yes Figure 39A and 39B A front perspective view of twenty-second configurations of attachment elements for a transparent face shield.

[0126] Figure 50B yes Figure 50A A side view of a twenty-second configuration of an attachment element.

[0127] Figure 50C is connected to the transparent mask Figure 50A A partial cross-sectional view of a twenty-second configuration of an attachment element.

[0128] Figure 50D is connected to Figure 37 Connecting components of surgical helmets Figure 50A A partial cross-sectional view of a twenty-second configuration of an attachment element.

[0129] Figure 50E is connected to the transparent mask Figure 50A A partial cross-sectional view of a twenty-third configuration of an attachment element.

[0130] Figure 50F is connected to Figure 37 Connecting components of surgical helmets Figure 50E A partial cross-sectional view of a twenty-third configuration of an attachment element.

[0131] Figure 51A yes Figure 39A and 39B A front perspective view of a twenty-fourth configuration of the attachment element of the transparent face shield.

[0132] Figure 51B yes Figure 51A A side view of a twenty-fourth configuration of an attachment element.

[0133] Figure 51C yes Figure 51A and 51B A bottom view of a twenty-fourth configuration of an attachment element.

[0134] Figure 51D is connected to Figure 37 Connecting components of surgical helmets Figures 51A-51C A partial cross-sectional view of a twenty-fourth configuration of an attachment element.

[0135] Figure 52A is a perspective view of an arrangement of a transparent cover of a surgical protective suit, the transparent cover including shaped apertures for receiving attachment elements.

[0136] Figure 52B yes Figure 52A An enlarged perspective view of the shaped orifice of the transparent cover.

[0137] Figure 53 is a perspective view of an exemplary surgical helmet including a facial frame with coupling features.

[0138] Figure 54 yes Figure 53 A perspective view of the coupling features of the facial frame of a surgical helmet.

[0139] Figure 55 yes Figure 53 Front view of the coupling features of the facial frame of a surgical helmet.

[0140] Figure 56 yes Figure 55 A cross-sectional view of the joint feature.

[0141] Figure 57 Includes power inlet Figure 53 A perspective view of an exemplary surgical helmet.

[0142] Figure 58 yes Figure 57 A perspective view of a power inlet device.

[0143] Figure 59 yes Figure 57 Front view of the power inlet device.

[0144] Figure 60 yes Figure 57 A cross-sectional view of a power inlet device.

[0145] Figure 61 is a perspective view of an exemplary power supply including a battery, wiring harness, and plug.

[0146] Figure 62 yes Figure 61 view of a power plug.

[0147] Figure 63 is used to Figure 61 The power plug is connected to Figure 57 A perspective view of an exemplary post of a power inlet device for a surgical helmet.

[0148] Figure 64 is used to Figure 61 The power plug is connected to Figure 57 An alternative perspective view of an exemplary post for a power inlet device for a surgical helmet.

[0149] Figure 65 yes Figure 57 Exploded assembly diagram of the surgical helmet's power inlet device with post and plug.

[0150] Figure 66A is a perspective view of a plug of a power supply coupled to a power inlet device of a surgical helmet using a post, the plug positioned in a first orientation relative to the surgical helmet and / or the post.

[0151] Figure 66B is a perspective view of a plug of a power supply coupled to a power inlet device of a surgical helmet using a post, the plug positioned in a second orientation relative to the surgical helmet and / or the post. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0152] Maintaining a reliable barrier between the healthcare provider and the patient to prevent the exchange and / or transfer of particles or foreign matter during medical procedures or examinations is crucial. During medical and surgical procedures, healthcare providers may wear components known as surgical garment systems, such as Figure 1 The surgical garment system 10 is shown in FIG.

[0153] Thus, the surgical garment system 10 can include a surgical protective suit assembly comprising a surgical protective suit 12, which can also be referred to as a medical protective suit, configured to be attached to a surgical helmet 20. The surgical protective suit 12 is configured to provide a barrier, such as a microbial barrier, between the wearer and the surrounding environment. The barrier established by the surgical protective suit 12 can benefit both the wearer and the patient. The barrier provided by the surgical protective suit 12 can substantially eliminate the possibility that the wearer may come into contact with particles of fluid or solid matter that may be generated during a surgical procedure from the patient. During a surgical procedure, the barrier can substantially prevent any foreign particles emitted by the wearer from being transferred to the patient.

[0154] refer to Figure 1 The surgical protective suit 12 may include a surgical fabric 14, which may also be referred to as a shell, configured to cover a surgical helmet 20 and at least a portion of the wearer's head. Figure 1 As shown, the surgical protective garment 12 can be configured as a hood. It should be understood that a hood refers to a surgical protective garment 12 that covers the head when worn by the wearer and may only extend a short distance below the neck. However, although not shown in the figures, it is further contemplated that the surgical protective garment 12 can be configured as a gown, shirt, or jacket. It should be understood that a gown 12 refers to a surgical protective garment 12 that covers the head in the same manner as a hood when worn by the wearer and extends to at least the waist.

[0155] The surgical protective suit 12 can be made of any suitable surgical fabric 14 or combination of fabrics to help repel and / or absorb water, debris and other contaminants. The surgical fabric 14 can include multiple layers. One such layer can be a microporous membrane that allows gas to pass through the fabric while still maintaining a microbial barrier. In certain configurations, the surgical fabric 14 is a fabric that meets the ASTM F1670-98 standard for blood permeability and / or the ASTM F1671-97B standard for viral permeability. In a non-limiting example of a surgical fabric 14, the surgical fabric 14 of the surgical protective suit 12 has a pore size approximately in the range of 0.05 to 0.20 microns. However, other pore sizes are also contemplated for the surgical fabric 14.

[0156] It is further contemplated that the surgical gown 12 may be constructed from a variety of different fabrics that are interconnected to define a barrier. For example, the surgical gown 12 may be primarily constructed from a barrier surgical fabric 14 and a filter fabric 16. The filter fabric 16 may be more permeable and, therefore, more breathable than the barrier surgical fabric 14 described above. The filter fabric 16 may be positioned in an area where the risk of microbial particles penetrating the barrier is reduced, such as above or near the wearer's head, and may be configured to facilitate air circulation through the barrier. The barrier surgical fabric 14 may be attached to the filter fabric 16 using any suitable means, such as adhesives, stitching, welding, or a combination thereof.

[0157] like Figure 1 As shown, the surgical gown 12 may also include a face mask 18. The face mask 18 portion of the surgical gown 12 allows the wearer to see through the barrier provided by the surgical gown 12. The face mask 18 is generally a sheet-like structure and may have a thickness of approximately 1 mm or less. The face mask 18 may be mounted and / or attached to an opening or cutout formed in the surgical fabric 14 of the surgical gown 12. The surgical fabric 14 may be attached around the perimeter or edge of the face mask 18 by stitching, snaps, hooks and loops, adhesives, welding, or a combination thereof. The face mask 18 may be constructed of a transparent material such as polycarbonate. Sabic manufactures face masks under the trademark LEXAN TM One such polycarbonate is sold. The face shield 18 of the surgical gown 12 may also be tinted to protect the wearer's eyes from excessive exposure to bright light. In addition, the face shield 18 may be flexible so that the face shield 18 can be curved to accommodate different head sizes, as described below.

[0158] The mask 18 may also include an opening 56 near the top of the mask 18. The opening 56 may be generally rectangular in shape. Although not shown in the figures, it is also contemplated that the opening 56 may be configured as a circle, oval, square, or any similar polygonal shape. The opening 56 may also be located approximately centered between the opposing ends of the mask 18 and serve as an alignment element and / or centering feature. Additionally, the opening 56 may be positioned on the mask 18 above the point of attachment of the surgical fabric 14 to the mask 18 to ensure that the surgical fabric 14 covers the opening 56 to maintain the barrier provided by the surgical gown 12 between the wearer and the environment. For example, Figure 1 As shown, the surgical fabric 14 of the surgical gown 12 is attached to the top of the mask 18 at a location below the opening 56 of the mask 18 .

[0159] The surgical gown 12 may also include one or more attachment elements 58 positioned around the surgical gown 12. The attachment elements 58 may also be referred to as gown fasteners or second members. The attachment elements 58 are configured to releasably secure the surgical gown 12 to the surgical helmet 20. The attachment elements 58 may take any suitable form and may include, alone or in combination, metal studs, rivets, buttons, magnets, hooks and loops, snaps, or similar types of fasteners. Figure 1 As shown, the attachment element 58 can be mounted to the face mask 18 of the surgical gown 12 to extend inwardly from the wearer's side of the face mask 18. Although not shown in the figures, it is also contemplated that the attachment element 58 can be positioned at any other location or position about the surgical gown 12, including being mounted to the barrier surgical fabric 14 and / or the filtering fabric 16. The attachment element 58 can be mounted to the face mask 18 and / or fabrics 14 / 16 by adhesive, rivets, snaps, similar mounting devices, or combinations thereof.

[0160] Reference again Figure 1 and 2 , describes in detail an example configuration of a surgical garment system 10. The system may include a surgical protective suit 12 and a surgical helmet 20. The surgical protective suit 12 may be configured as a hood or gown to be placed over the surgical helmet 20. Figure 1 In the hood configuration shown, the surgical gown 12 can be positioned over a surgical helmet 20 and configured to surround the surgical helmet 20, and accordingly surround the head of the person wearing the present surgical garment system 10, thereby covering the face and back of the wearer's head. Alternatively, if the surgical gown 12 is configured as a gown, the gown can be positioned over the surgical helmet 20 and configured to surround the surgical helmet 20, and accordingly surround the head, arms, shoulders, and torso of the person wearing the present surgical garment system 10. In order to place the surgical gown 12 on the surgical helmet 20, the surgical gown 12 is typically turned over when the face mask 18 is aligned and attached to the surgical helmet 20 in the manner described below. Once the face mask 18 is positioned relative to the surgical helmet 20, the remainder of the surgical fabric 14 is typically pulled over the wearer's head to cover the exposed parts of the surgical helmet 20 and the wearer's head.

[0161] refer to Figure 2 , illustrates an example configuration of a surgical helmet 20 that may be used as part of a surgical garment system 10. Figure 2The surgical helmet 20 in FIG. 1 includes a headband 22. The headband 22 can be configured to wrap around the wearer's head and support the surgical helmet 20. The headband 22 can be constructed of a generally flexible or pliable material, allowing the headband 22 to conform to the general shape of the wearer's head. The headband 22 can include a headband control assembly 38 configured to adjust the size / shape of the headband 22. The headband control assembly 38 can include a control member 39 that can be manipulated by the wearer to adjust the size of the headband 22. For example, Figure 2 As shown, the control member 39 may include a rotatable knob or lever. When the wearer rotates the control member 39 in one direction, the headband control assembly 38 may be configured to reduce the size, i.e., the circumference, of the headband 22. Alternatively, when the wearer rotates the control member 39 in the opposite direction, the headband control assembly 38 may be configured to increase the size, i.e., the circumference, of the headband 22. This allows the headband 22 of the surgical helmet 20 to be adjusted and / or customized to fit securely on a particular individual's head, regardless of the size and / or shape of that individual's head.

[0162] The surgical helmet 20 also includes a shell 32 supported by and positioned above the headband 22. The shell 32 can be configured in an arcuate shape to fit over the head of the individual wearing the personal protective system 10. Other helmet designs are also contemplated. Various portions of the shell 32 can be formed to define a void or open interior space. For example, the shell 32 can include a central void. The central void can be positioned toward the rear of the shell 32. An air intake opening or aperture can be provided on the top of the shell 32 to provide access to the central void. The shell 32 can also include additional voids, such as a front void near the front of the shell 32 and a rear void near the rear of the shell 32. These additional voids can be configured to form a duct-like structure or channel within the shell 32. These additional voids can even be interconnected to the central void.

[0163] The surgical helmet 20 may include one or more powered peripheral devices 30, including but not limited to ventilation assemblies, lights, cameras, microphones or other communication devices, cooling devices, or combinations thereof. These devices may be mounted and / or attached to the surgical helmet 20 at various locations and orientations relative to the surgical helmet 20. Each peripheral device 30 may be configured to receive commands that affect the operating state of the corresponding peripheral device. For example, each peripheral device 30 may receive an on / off command. Alternatively, the peripheral device 30 may receive commands to change one or more settings of the peripheral device 30. This configuration allows the wearer of the surgical helmet 20 to control the operating state of each peripheral device 30 during a surgical procedure. In one specific example, when the peripheral device is a ventilation assembly 30, the ventilation assembly 30 may be configured to receive various commands to control the activation of the fan in the ventilation assembly 30 and / or adjust the fan speed. Alternatively, when the peripheral device is a cooling device 30, the cooling device 30 may be configured to receive commands to control the intensity of the cooling output provided by the cooling belt. When the peripheral device is a microphone 30, the microphone 30 may be configured to receive commands to control the volume of the sound signal generated by the microphone. When the peripheral device is a lamp 30 , the lamp 30 may be configured to receive commands that control the direction and / or intensity of the emitted light. Of course the peripheral device 30 may be configured to respond to other types of commands that control the operation of the peripheral device 30 .

[0164] Wearing the surgical garment system 10 including the surgical gown 12 on the wearer's head will inevitably lead to the accumulation of carbon dioxide and an increase in temperature within the surgical gown 12 due to the wearer's normal breathing. The increase in temperature under the surgical gown 12 can also cause water vapor to accumulate on the wearer and / or the mask 18, thereby obstructing the wearer's vision. To prevent these undesirable effects, the surgical helmet 20 of the surgical garment system 10 can be configured to attach and / or contain one or more of the above-mentioned peripheral devices 30, such as ventilation components, cooling devices, etc. Certain features of the surgical helmet 20, peripheral device 30, and surgical protective suit 12 may be found in one or more of the following U.S. Patents, which are incorporated herein by reference: 6,481,019; 6,622,311; 6,973,677; 7,735,156; 7,752,682; 8,234,722; 8,282,234; 8,407,818; 8,819,869; and 9,173,437.

[0165] Figure 2The vent assembly 30 shown in FIG is one example of a peripheral device 30 that may be incorporated into the surgical helmet 20 of the surgical garment system 10. Although the vent assembly 30 is shown as an integral component of the surgical helmet 20, it should be understood that each of the other peripheral devices 30 described above may be an integral component of the surgical helmet 20 or may be removably coupled to the surgical helmet 20. Figure 2 The surgical helmet 20 shown includes a vent assembly 30 positioned within a central void of a shell 32. The vent assembly 30 may include fan blades, an impeller, a propeller, a fan wheel, or a similar blade mechanism configured to cause air to move. The blades may be coupled to a motor that is configured to rotate the blades when energized by a power source. When the blades are actuated, the vent assembly 30 is configured to draw air into the central void of the shell 32 through an air intake opening on the top of the shell 32. Additional voids of the shell 32 may be connected to the central void and serve as ducts for dispersing the air drawn into the central void.

[0166] The exemplary ventilation assembly 30 may include a front bellows 36 extending forward from a front void at the front of the shell 32 and connected to a front nozzle 40. The front nozzle 40 may be mounted to the front of the headband 22. The ventilation assembly 30 may also include a rear bellows 34 extending from a rear void at the rear of the shell 32 to a rear nozzle (not shown). The rear nozzle may be mounted to the back of the headband 22. When the ventilation assembly 30 of the surgical helmet 20 is activated, a fan draws air through the surgical suit 12 into an opening at the top of the shell 32 and disperses the air outward through the additional voids. For example, the ventilation assembly 30 may be configured to draw air through the filter fabric 16 of the surgical suit 12. The air is then discharged through the front bellows 36 and the rear bellows 34, respectively. The air flowing through the front bellows 36 is discharged through the front nozzle 40 in front of the wearer's face. The air discharged through the front nozzle 40 may be discharged against the mask 18 and / or onto the wearer's face. The air flowing through the rear bellows 34 is discharged through the rear nozzle. The rear nozzle is positioned to open below the headband 22. The air discharged from the rear nozzle can be discharged against the back of the wearer's neck.

[0167] The front nozzle 40 of the surgical helmet 20 can include a block 42. The block 42 is that portion of the front nozzle 40 that is mounted to, or is integral with, the headband 22. In the illustrated form of the system 10, the block 42 is mounted to a strap 44 that is part of the headband 22.

[0168] The front nozzle 40 may be further configured to include a protrusion 46. The protrusion 46 protrudes upward from the front edge of the front nozzle 40. Figure 2As shown, a protrusion 46 protrudes outwardly from the top surface of the front nozzle 40. As described in detail below, the protrusion 46 can be used to attach and / or secure the surgical gown 12 to the surgical helmet 20. In other configurations, the protrusion 46 can extend other portions of the surgical helmet 20, such as the top beam 29 of the face frame, or the outer shell 32 of the surgical helmet 20.

[0169] The surgical helmet 20 may include a chin bar 24 extending downward from the front of the headband 22. The chin bar 24 may include a first post 26A and a second post 26B. Each of the first post 26A and the second post 26B may include a first end 27A, 27B that is connected to opposite sides of the strap 44 of the headband 22. The first and second posts 26A, 26B may be configured to be coupled to the headband 22 via the first ends 27A, 27B and extend from opposite sides of the headband 22. The chin bar 24 may be constructed of a generally flexible or pliable material.

[0170] The beam 28 extends between the opposing free ends of the posts 26A, 26B. The chin bar 24 is formed so that the beam 28 is positioned slightly forward and below the chin of a person wearing the surgical helmet 20. The beam 28 can bend outward from the free ends of the posts 26A, 26B. The chin bar 24 can extend outward from the headband 22 so that when the surgical helmet 20 is secured to the wearer's head, the chin bar 24 is positioned in front of and generally surrounds the wearer's face.

[0171] A plurality of coupling members 48, such as magnets, hooks and loops, metal rivets, snaps, or similar types of fasteners, can be mounted to the chin bar 24 and configured to align and / or attach to the face mask 18 of the surgical gown 12. Each coupling member 48 can be positioned on the chin bar 24 proximate the opposing free ends of the posts 26A, 26B and / or adjacent opposing ends of the beam 28. Alternatively, the coupling members 48 of the surgical helmet 20 can be arranged or configured in any suitable manner to cooperate with the complementary attachment elements 58 of the face mask 18, as described above, to releasably secure the surgical gown 12 to the surgical helmet 20. For example, the protrusion 46 extending from the front nozzle 40 can be replaced with a coupling member 48 configured to cooperate with the complementary attachment elements 58 on the surgical gown 12.

[0172] As mentioned above, now refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2In one configuration of the system 10, the mask 18 can include an opening 56 near the top edge of the mask 18. The opening 56 in the mask 18 can be configured to receive a protrusion 46 that protrudes from the front nozzle 40 of the surgical helmet 20 or from another portion of the surgical helmet. The opening 56 and the protrusion 46 can be configured to releasably secure the mask 18 and / or the surgical gown 12 to the surgical helmet 20. In addition, the opening 56 and the protrusion 46 can serve as alignment features configured to align the mask 18 with the surgical helmet 20, thereby positioning the mask 18 in front of the wearer's face when the system 10 is worn. Although not shown in the figures, it should be understood that it is contemplated that the mask 18 can include additional openings 56, and the surgical helmet 20 can be configured to include additional protrusions 46 correspondingly arranged relative to the openings 56 of the mask 18. For example, the plurality of protrusions 46 may extend from the headband 22 and / or the front nozzle 40 , and the mask 18 may be configured to include complementary openings 56 that releasably engage the plurality of protrusions 46 when the surgical gown 12 is attached to the surgical helmet 20 .

[0173] Additionally, as described above, the mask 18 and / or surgical fabric 14 may include a plurality of attachment elements 58 disposed about the surgical gown 12. Figure 1 and 3 In the example configuration of the surgical gown 12 illustrated in FIG, the attachment elements 58 of the surgical gown 12 can be arranged and / or positioned on the mask 18 such that when the protrusions 46 of the surgical helmet 20 are positioned in the openings 56 of the mask 18 and the mask 18 is flexed about the chin bar 24 and the straps 44 of the headband 22, each of the gown attachment elements 58 abuts and latches to a complementary magnet or other suitable coupling member 48 on the surgical helmet 20. Figure 1 The example configuration of the system 10 is shown in FIG. Figure 3 18 and chin bar 24, the surgical gown 12 includes an opening 56 near the top of the mask 18, and a plurality of attachment elements 58 are positioned around the periphery of the mask 18. The attachment elements 58 can be spaced around the periphery of the mask 18 to matingly engage complementary magnets 48 on the chin bar 24 of the surgical helmet 20. Although the surgical gown 12 is shown as including the opening 56, it is also contemplated that in some configurations, the opening 56 is not required. Alternatively, the attachment elements 58 can also be configured to couple and / or align the mask 18 with the surgical helmet 20.

[0174] In operation, once the openings 56 on the face mask 18 are positioned over the protrusions 46 on the surgical helmet 20, the face mask 18 can be flexed about the surgical helmet 20 and / or the chin bar 24 so that the attachment elements 58 spaced around the perimeter of the face mask 18 matingly engage with the complementary coupling members 48 on the chin bar 24 of the surgical helmet 20. The size of the face mask 18, and the spacing and / or position of the attachment elements 58 on the surgical suit 12 can be varied to change the curvature and / or shape of the face mask 18 when attached to the surgical helmet 20. For example, the attachment elements 58 on the surgical suit 12 can be spaced more closely together to reduce the curvature of the face mask 18 when attached to the surgical helmet 20. Alternatively, the attachment elements 58 on the surgical suit 12 can be spaced further apart to increase the curvature of the face mask 18 when attached to the surgical helmet 20. Additionally, as Figure 3 As shown, the coupling member 48 of the chin bar 24 can be part of a protrusion 47 configured to space the face mask 18 a defined distance from the chin bar 24 and / or the surgical headgear 20. The dimensions of the protrusion 47 can be similarly adaptable to manipulate the curvature or arc of the face mask 18. Changing the curvature of the face mask 18 can help reduce glare or provide expanded / contracted peripheral vision through the face mask 18. Although not shown in the figures, it should be understood that alternative configurations for securing the surgical suit 12 and / or face mask 18 to the surgical headgear 20 are also contemplated. For example, in one alternative configuration, the face mask 18 may not include a rectangular opening 56, but rather include a plurality of attachment elements 58, such as rivets or magnets, spaced around the face mask 18 and / or the surgical suit 12 and configured to couple to complementary magnets or similar coupling members 48 spaced around the surgical headgear 20. For example, the complementary magnets or similar coupling members 48 can be secured to the shell 32, the headband 22, and / or the chin bar 24. The surgical gown 12 and the surgical headgear 20 of the surgical apparel system 10 described above are typically removably coupled to allow disposal of the surgical gown 12 and reuse of the surgical headgear 20 after surgery or examination.

[0175] refer to Figure 4A and 4B , illustrating example configurations of the system 10 including different mask 18 curvatures. Figure 4A and 4BA top cross-sectional view of a portion of the surgical headgear 20 is shown, including the headband 22, strap 44, headband control assembly 38, headband control member 39, first ends 27A, 27B of posts 26A, 26B of the chin bar 24, and protrusion 47 extending from first ends 27A, 27B. The face shield 18 is coupled to the headband 22 at first ends 27A, 27B of posts 26A, 26B. Because posts 26A, 26B are coupled to the headband 22 opposite the housing 32, and because headband 22 can have a variety of shapes and sizes, the contour and / or curvature of the face shield 18 can change as the headband 22 is adjusted. This "dynamic" adjustment can improve the usability of the face shield 18. For example, it can allow the contour and / or curvature of the face shield 18 to adapt to be more optimally positioned relative to the wearer's face. Although not shown in the figures, it is also contemplated that the mask may include an array of attachment elements 58 extending across the top of the mask 18 that are configured to couple the mask 18 to the headband 22 and / or strap 44. In such a configuration, the headband 22 and / or strap may include an array of fasteners or coupling members configured to couple with the array of attachment elements 58 on the mask 18. Similarly, this configuration allows the contour of the mask 18 to change as the headband 22 is adjusted.

[0176] Figure 4A and 4B The illustration of FIG can be useful to illustrate the concept of a dynamic curvature mask, but should not be construed as limiting in any way, i.e., the headband 22 and mask 18 may be understood to operate in different ways than described below. Figure 4A and 4B , which bisects the headband 22 and the face mask 18 of the surgical helmet 20, is illustrated. A center point C is positioned along the center axis M1 near the center of the generally circular or elliptical headband 22. A second line can be configured to extend between the center point C and an intersection point P, which is positioned near the intersection of the face mask 18 and the protrusions 47 of the first ends 27A, 27B of the chin bar 24.

[0177] refer to Figure 4A , the headband control member 39 of the headband control assembly 38 can be set to a first position to define a first circumference and / or shape of the headband 22, and a second line extending between the center point C and the intersection point P intersects the central axis M1 at a first angle θ1. Figure 4BThe control member 39 of the headband control assembly 38 can be set to a second position to define a second circumference and / or shape of the headband 22 that is greater than or less than the first circumference and / or shape. A second line extending between the center point C and the intersection point P intersects the central axis M1 at a second angle θ2. Assuming the length of the mask 18 remains substantially constant, by manipulating the control member 39 of the headband control assembly 38 to increase or decrease the size, i.e., circumference, of the headband 22 to fit a particular wearer's head, the curvature and / or angle of the mask 18 will be manipulated by the change in the size and / or shape of the headband 22. For example, if the size and / or circumference of the headband 22 is reduced, the intersection angle θ may increase, which may reduce the radius of the arc of the mask 18 and / or generally increase the curvature and / or angle of the mask 18. Alternatively, if the circumference of the headband 22 is increased, the intersection angle θ may decrease, which in some cases may increase the radius of the arc of the mask 18 and / or generally flatten the curvature of the mask 18. The arc and / or curvature of the mask 18 is therefore dynamic and is defined at least in part by the size and / or shape of the headband 22. As described above, the chin bar 24 can be generally constructed of a flexible and / or pliable material to allow components of the chin bar 24 to flex, bend, twist, and / or rotate as needed in response to the size and / or shape of the headband 22.

[0178] The curvature and / or arc of the mask 18 may also be modified or adjusted by the size and / or shape of the attachment elements 58 of the mask 18 and / or the corresponding coupling members 48 of the surgical headgear 20 .

[0179] refer to Figure 5 , showing an alternative configuration of a surgical garment system 110. It should be understood that various configurations of the surgical garment system 110 may include similar elements, which may be identified by reference numerals increased by 100. It should be understood that those elements including reference numerals increased by 100 may have the same features as described above. The surgical garment system 110 may include a surgical protective suit assembly, which includes a surgical protective suit 112, which may also be referred to as a medical protective suit, which is configured to be attached to a surgical helmet 120. As described above, the surgical protective suit 112 may be configured to provide a barrier, such as a microbial barrier, between the wearer and the surrounding environment. The barrier established by the surgical protective suit 112 can benefit both the wearer and the patient. The barrier provided by the surgical protective suit 112 can substantially eliminate the possibility that the wearer may come into contact with particles of fluid or solid matter from the patient that may be generated during the surgical procedure. During the surgical procedure, the barrier can substantially prevent any foreign particles emitted by the wearer from being transferred to the patient.

[0180] refer to Figure 5, the surgical protective suit 112 may include a fabric 114, which may also be referred to as a shell, that is configured to cover at least a portion of the surgical helmet 120 and the wearer's head. The surgical protective suit 112 may be configured as a shield, a gown, or other similar medical protective suit, as described above with respect to the first configuration of the surgical garment system 10. The surgical protective suit 112 may also include a face mask 118 and one or more attachment elements 158 positioned around the surgical protective suit 112. The attachment element 158 may also be referred to as a second component. The attachment element 158 may be configured to serve as an alignment element and / or a centering feature. In addition, the attachment element 158 may be positioned on the face mask 118 above the attachment point of the fabric 114 to the face mask 118 to ensure that the fabric 114 covers the attachment element 158 to maintain the barrier between the wearer and the environment provided by the surgical protective suit 112. The attachment element 158 may be configured to be composed of one of a ferromagnetic material or a magnetic material. It should be understood that the surgical suit 112 and all of its components may be similarly configured and / or have the aforementioned features described above with respect to the surgical suit 12 .

[0181] Reference again Figure 5 and 6 , describes in detail an example configuration of a surgical garment system 110. The system 110 may include a surgical protective suit 112 and a surgical helmet 120. Similar to the above-described system 10, Figure 5 and 6 The configuration of system 110 illustrated in FIG. 1 may include one or more peripheral devices, such as a ventilation assembly.

[0182] Figure 6 The vent assembly 130 shown in FIG is one example of a peripheral device 130 that may be incorporated into the surgical helmet 120 of the surgical garment system 110. Although the vent assembly 130 is shown as an integral component of the surgical helmet 120, it should be understood that each of the other peripheral devices 130 described above may be an integral component of the surgical helmet 120 or may be removably coupled to the surgical helmet 120. Figure 6 The surgical helmet 120 shown includes a vent assembly 130 positioned within a central void of a shell 132. The vent assembly 130 may include fan blades, an impeller, a propeller, a fan wheel, or a similar blade mechanism configured to cause air to move. The blades may be coupled to a motor configured to rotate the blades when energized by a power source. When the blades are actuated, the vent assembly 130 is configured to draw air into the central void of the shell 132 through an air intake opening at the top of the shell 132. Additional voids in the shell 132 may be connected to the central void and serve as ducts for dispersing the air drawn into the central void.

[0183] The exemplary ventilation assembly 130 may include a front bellows 136 that extends forward from a front gap in the front portion of the shell 132 and is connected to a front nozzle (not shown). The front nozzle can be mounted to the front of the headband 122. The ventilation assembly 130 may also include a rear bellows 134 that extends from a rear gap in the rear portion of the shell 132 to a rear nozzle (not shown). The rear nozzle can be mounted to the back of the headband 122. When the ventilation assembly 130 of the surgical helmet 120 is actuated, the fan draws air through the surgical protective suit 112 into the opening at the top of the shell 132 and disperses the air outward through the additional gap. For example, the ventilation assembly 130 may be configured to draw air through the filter fabric 116 of the surgical protective suit 112. The air is then discharged through the front bellows 136 and the rear bellows 134, respectively.

[0184] The surgical helmet 120 can also include a control housing 150 that can be located on the front face of the helmet 20 and coupled to the front bellows 136 opposite the vent assembly 130 as shown. It is also contemplated that the control housing 150 can be positioned on or within the chin bar 124. For example, the control housing 150 can be positioned within the chin bar 124 relative to one or more of the coupling members 148. The control housing 150 can include a coupling feature 146 configured to engage with at least one of the attachment elements 158. The coupling feature 146 can also be referred to as a helmet coupler because the coupling feature 146 can generally be configured to couple and / or attach an item, such as a surgical gown 112, to the surgical helmet 120. The control housing 150 can be coupled to a header 129 that extends across the front of the surgical helmet 120 from opposite sides of the control housing 150.

[0185] The surgical helmet 120 may include a chin bar 124 extending downward from the front of the surgical helmet 120. The chin bar 124 may include a first column 126A and a second column 126B. Each of the first column 126A and the second column 126B may include a first end 127A, 127B coupled to opposite sides of the surgical helmet 120. The first and second columns 126A, 126B may be configured to be coupled to a top beam 129 extending from the control housing 150 via the first ends 127A, 127B and configured to extend from opposite sides of the surgical helmet 120. For example, Figure 6 As shown, the first ends 127A, 127B can be connected to opposite ends of a top beam 129 extending from the control housing 150. The chin bar 124 can be constructed of a generally flexible or pliable material.

[0186] A bottom beam 128 can extend between the opposing free ends of the posts 126A, 126B of the chin bar 124. The chin bar 124 can be formed so that the bottom beam 128 is positioned below and slightly forward of the chin of a person wearing the surgical helmet 120. The bottom beam 128 can bend outward from the free ends of the posts 126A, 126B. The chin bar 124 can extend outward from the top beam 129 so that when the surgical helmet 120 is secured to the wearer's head, the chin bar 124 is positioned in front of and substantially surrounds the wearer's face.

[0187] A plurality of coupling members 148, such as magnets, hooks and loops, metal rivets, snaps, or similar types of fasteners, can be mounted to the chin bar 124 and configured to align and / or attach to the face mask 118 of the surgical gown 112. Each coupling member 148 can be positioned on the chin bar 124 proximate opposing free ends of posts 126A, 126B and / or adjacent opposing ends of the base beam 128. Alternatively, the coupling members 148 of the surgical helmet 120 can be arranged or otherwise configured in any suitable manner to cooperate with complementary attachment elements 158 of the face mask 118, as described above, to releasably secure the surgical gown 112 to the surgical helmet 120.

[0188] refer to Figure 7 , illustrates a partial perspective view of a surgical suit 112 coupled to a chin bar 124 and a control housing 150 of a surgical helmet 120. The surgical suit 112 includes a plurality of attachment elements 158 positioned around the periphery of the mask 118. For example, Figure 7 As shown, the mask 118 includes a pair of attachment elements 158 positioned on opposite ends of a lower portion of the mask 118, and each attachment element is configured to couple with a corresponding coupling member 148 on the chin bar 124. The mask 118 also includes an attachment element 158 positioned near the center of the top of the mask 118 and configured to couple with the coupling feature 146 of the control housing 150.

[0189] refer to Figure 8 , showing Figure 5 and 6 A partial perspective view of an interior portion of a control housing 150 of a surgical garment system 110. Disposed at least partially within the control housing 150 is a portion of the coupling feature 146 of the surgical helmet 120. Figure 8 Although not shown, other components of the surgical helmet 120 and the peripheral devices 130 can be at least partially disposed within or mounted to the control housing 150. For example, a light can be mounted to an exterior surface of the control housing 150 or another portion of the surgical helmet 120. Memory devices, circuit boards, or other electronic components used in the operation of the surgical helmet 120 and / or the peripheral devices 130 can also be at least partially disposed within the control housing 150.

[0190] Figure 9A and 9B Each of the drawings is a close-up cross-sectional view of a first configuration of the coupling feature 146. More specifically, Figure 9A 1 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a first configuration of coupling features in a first state, ie, when the attachment element 158 of the surgical suit 112 is not coupled to the coupling feature 146 of the surgical helmet 120. Alternatively, Figure 9B A cross-sectional view is illustrated of the first configuration of the coupling feature in a second state, ie, when the surgical suit 112 is coupled to the coupling feature 146 .

[0191] The first configuration of the coupling feature 146 may include a distal surface 147 configured to removably engage an attachment element 158 of the surgical gown 112. The distal surface 147 may be configured in any number of shapes that are configured to at least partially engage a corresponding attachment element 158 of the surgical gown 112. For example, the distal surface 147 may be configured as a generally flat surface that is configured to engage an attachment element 158 of the surgical gown 112 that includes a flat head rivet. Alternatively, the distal surface 147 may be curved, domed, rounded, and / or hemispherical and configured to matingly engage a complementary shaped attachment element 158. Although Figure 9A and 9B The distal surface 147 is shown as generally formed as a concave or inwardly directed hemispherical shape, but it is also contemplated that the distal surface 147 can be formed as a convex or outwardly protruding hemispherical shape, a semi-cylindrical shape, or other similar shape. For example, the distal surface 147 can be curved, arched, or rounded in a manner that protrudes outwardly from the outer surface of the control housing 150 to form a convex distal surface 147. The corresponding attachment element 158 of the surgical protective suit 112 can include a concave surface that is configured to matingly engage the convex distal surface 147 of the coupling feature 146.

[0192] The helmet may include an enclosure 152 configured to define a void space. The enclosure 152 may be generally configured in a cylindrical or tubular shape. Alternatively, the enclosure 152 may be generally configured in a rectangular or similar polygonal shape. Figure 9A and 9B As shown, the capsule 152 is generally configured as a cylinder, with the distal surface 147 forming a portion of the distal end of the capsule 152 .

[0193] The void space defined by the enclosure 152 may be divided into one or more regions. Figure 9A and 9BAs shown, the capsule 152 may be divided by a first line 160 to define a first region 162 and a second region 164 of void space. The first region 162 may be positioned on the side of the first line 160 such that the first region 162 is generally proximal to the surgical helmet 120 and distal to the distal surface 147. Conversely, the second region 164 may be positioned on the side of the first line 160 such that the second region 164 is generally distal to the surgical helmet 120 and proximal to the distal surface 147.

[0194] The coupling feature 146, which is at least partially disposed within the control housing 150 of the surgical helmet 120, may also include a first member 154 movably disposed within the enclosure 152. The first member 154 may be configured to move within the void space defined by the enclosure 152. For example, the first member 154 and the enclosure 152 may be configured such that the first member 154 is movable between a first region 162 and a second region 164 of the void space defined by the enclosure 152. The first member 154 may be comprised of one of a ferromagnetic material or a magnetic material, and the attachment element 158 may be comprised of the other of a ferromagnetic material or a magnetic material. For example, the first member 154 may include a magnetic material and the attachment element 158 may include a ferromagnetic material. Alternatively, the first member 154 may include a ferromagnetic material and the attachment element 158 may include a magnetic material. In either configuration, the first member 154 and the attachment element 158 can be configured such that the attachment element 158 and the first member 154 can be magnetically attracted to each other when the attachment element 158 is positioned proximate the distal surface 147. For example, when the attachment element 158 is positioned proximate the distal surface 147 of the coupling feature 146, the magnetic force between the first member 154 and the attachment element 158 can be used to attach and / or couple the surgical coverall 112 to the surgical helmet 120.

[0195] The first member 154 and the enclosure 152 may be sized and / or shaped to allow the first member to slideably move within the enclosure 152. For example, Figure 9A and 9B As shown, the first member 154 can be shaped like a circular or polygonal disk that is configured to match the shape defined by the lateral surfaces of the enclosure 152. The first member 154 can also include opposing front and rear facing surfaces. For example, Figure 9A and 9BAs shown, the opposite forward and rearward surfaces are flat. Alternatively, although not shown in the figures, the opposite forward and rearward surfaces of the first member 154 can correspond to the distal surface 147 of the capsule 152. For example, the forward surface of the first member 154 can be shaped concave or hemispherical to correspond to the shape of the distal surface 147. The rearward surface of the first member 154 can be flat. Alternatively, if the distal surface 147 is shaped convex, the forward surface of the first member 154 can be shaped convex or hemispherical to correspond to the shape of the distal surface 147. The rearward surface of the first member 154 can be flat.

[0196] The coupling feature 146 may further include a detector 170, such as a mechanical switch, disposed at least partially within the void space defined by the enclosure 152 and positioned proximate the first region 162. Alternatively, the detector 170 may be positioned proximate the second region 164. It is also contemplated that the detector 170 may be positioned proximate and / or outside the perimeter defined by the enclosure 152. The detector 170 may also include a toggle member 172 movable between a first position and a second position. Figure 9A and 9B 14. As shown, the toggle member 172 is configured to extend through a surface of the capsule 152 opposite the distal surface 147. In this configuration, the toggle member 172 can be configured to move proximally and distally relative to the distal surface 147 and generally parallel to the longitudinal axis defined by the toggle member 172. Although not shown in the figures, it is contemplated that the detector 170 can be positioned adjacent a lateral surface of the capsule 152. In such a configuration, the toggle member 172 can be configured to extend through the lateral surface of the capsule 152 such that the toggle member 172 is at least partially disposed within the capsule 152, while the detector 170 can be positioned outside the perimeter defined by the capsule 152. The detector 170 can be positioned adjacent the lateral surface such that the toggle member 172 is at least partially disposed within the first region 162 or the second region 164 of the void space defined by the capsule 152. In this configuration, the toggle member 172 can be configured to move proximally and distally relative to the distal surface 147 and generally perpendicular to a longitudinal axis defined by the toggle member 172. The detector 170 can also include a biasing member, such as a spring, configured to move the toggle member 172 and / or maintain it in the second position without an additional force being applied to the toggle member 172. The detector 170 can be configured to detect a position of the toggle member 172 and output a signal based at least in part on the position of the toggle member 172.

[0197] In operation, the first member 154 can be configured to operatively and / or slidingly engage the toggle member 172 of the detector 170 to move the toggle member 172 between a first position and a second position. Figure 9A As shown, when the first member 154 is in the first region 162 of the void space, the first member 154 can be configured to engage the toggle member 172 and overcome the force of the biasing member to move the toggle member 172 and / or maintain it in the first position. Figure 9B As shown, when the first member 154 is in the second region 164 of the void space, the first member 154 can be configured to disengage from the toggle member 172, thereby allowing the biasing member of the toggle member 172 to move the toggle member 172 and / or maintain it in the second position. As described above, the detector 170 can be configured to detect the position of the toggle member 172 and output a signal based on the toggle member 172 being in the first position and / or the second position. In other words, the detector 170 is configured to determine whether the toggle member 172 is in the first position or the second position, which corresponds to whether the surgical gown 112 is coupled to the surgical helmet 120.

[0198] The coupling feature 146 may also include a third member 156 positioned proximate to the detector 170 and / or the toggle member 172. The third member 156 may be configured as a disc positioned on the distal end of the toggle member 172 or as a ring configured to surround at least a portion of the toggle member 172. Figure 9A and 9B As shown, the third member 156 can be configured as a loop, ring, or similar circular shape positioned adjacent to a wall or surface of the capsule 152 opposite the distal surface 147. The third member 156 can surround at least a portion of the toggle member 172 and / or the detector 170, or can be adjacent to the toggle member 172 or the detector 170. Figure 9A and 9B The third member 156 shown in the figures is shown as being at least partially disposed within the enclosure 152, but it is also contemplated that the third member 156 can be positioned outside the enclosure 152. In addition, the surface of the enclosure 152 opposite the distal surface 147 can be configured as the third member 156. For example, the surface of the enclosure 152 opposite the distal surface 147 can be integrally formed with the third member 156. The third member 156 can be constructed of a ferromagnetic material or another of a magnetic material such that the third member 156 and the first member 154 can be magnetically attracted to each other. The magnetic attraction between the first member 154 and the third member 156 should provide sufficient force to overcome the biasing member of the toggle member 172. For example, without applying any additional force to the first member 154, the magnetic attraction between the first member 154 and the third member 156 should be sufficient to allow the first member 154 to move the toggle member 172 and / or maintain it in the first position, as shown. Figure 9A shown.

[0199] Furthermore, the magnetic attraction between the attachment element 158 and the first member 154 should be sufficient to overcome the magnetic attraction between the first member 154 and the third member 156. When the attachment element 158 and the third member 156 each comprise ferromagnetic materials, the attachment element 158 and the third member 156 can be configured to comprise different magnetic masses. For example, in order to make the magnetic attraction between the first member 154 and the attachment element 158 greater than the magnetic attraction between the first member 154 and the third member 156, the attachment element 158 can be configured to comprise a larger magnetic mass than the third member 156. Alternatively, when the attachment element 158 and the third member 156 each comprise magnetic materials, the attachment element 158 and the third member 156 can be configured to comprise magnetic fields of different strengths. For example, to make the magnetic attraction between the first member 154 and the attachment element 158 greater than the magnetic attraction between the first member 154 and the third member 156 , the attachment element 158 can employ a stronger magnetic field than the third member 156 so that the attachment element 158 can pull the first member 154 away from the third member 156 .

[0200] In operation, such as Figure 9B As shown, when the attachment element 158 is positioned adjacent to the distal surface 147 of the coupling feature 146, the magnetic attraction force generated between the first member 154 and the attachment element 158 should be sufficient to overcome the magnetic attraction force between the first member 154 and the third member 156. The magnetic attraction force between the first member 154 and the attachment element 158 should overcome the magnetic attraction force between the first member 154 and the third member 156, thereby moving the first member 154 from the first region 162 of the void space to the second region 164. This should allow the toggle member 172 to move from the second position to the first position, i.e., moving the first member 154 and the toggle member 172 from the second position to the first position. Figure 9A Move the configuration shown to Figure 9B This position change is detected by a detector 170. The detector 170 can communicate with a controller 180 on the surgical helmet 120, which communicates with the peripheral device 130. The operation of the controller 180 will be described in detail below.

[0201] exist Figure 10A and 10B Each of the drawings is a close-up cross-sectional view of a second configuration of the coupling feature 246. More specifically, Figure 10A 1 and 2 illustrate a cross-sectional view of the second configuration of the coupling feature 246 in a first state, ie, when the surgical suit 112 is not coupled to the coupling feature 246. Alternatively, Figure 10B A cross-sectional view illustrating the second configuration of the coupling feature 246 in a second state, ie, when the surgical suit 112 is coupled to the coupling feature 246 .

[0202] The second configuration of the coupling feature 246 may include a distal surface 247 configured to removably engage an attachment element 158. The distal surface 247 may be configured in any number of shapes configured to engage a corresponding attachment element 158 of the surgical gown 112. For example, the distal surface 247 may be configured as a generally flat surface configured to engage an attachment element 158 comprising a flat head rivet of the surgical gown 112. Alternatively, the distal surface 247 may be curved, domed, rounded, and / or hemispherical in shape and configured to matingly engage an oppositely shaped attachment element 158. Although Figure 10A and 10B The distal surface 247 is shown in FIG. 2 as being generally formed as a concave hemispherical shape, but it is also contemplated that the distal surface 247 may be formed as a convex hemispherical shape or other similar shape.

[0203] The coupling feature 246 also includes a capsule 252 configured to define a void space. The distal surface 247 may include all or a portion of at least one surface of the capsule 252. The capsule 252 may generally be configured in a cylindrical or tubular shape. Alternatively, the capsule 252 may be configured in a generally rectangular or similar polygonal shape. Figure 10A and 10B As shown, the capsule 252 is configured generally cylindrically, with the distal surface 247 forming a portion of the distal end of the capsule 252 .

[0204] The void space defined by the enclosure 252 may be divided into one or more regions. Figure 10A and 10B As shown, the capsule 252 may be divided by a first line 260 to define a first region 262 and a second region 264 of void space. The first region 262 may be positioned on the side of the first line 260 such that the first region 262 is generally proximal to the surgical helmet 120 and distal to the distal surface 247. Conversely, the second region 264 may be positioned on the side of the first line 260 such that the second region 264 is generally distal to the surgical helmet 120 and proximal to the distal surface 247.

[0205] The coupling feature 246 positioned within the control housing 150 of the surgical helmet 120 may also include a first member 254 movably disposed within the enclosure 252. The first member 254 may be configured to move within the void space defined by the enclosure 252. For example, the first member 254 and the enclosure 252 may be configured such that the first member 254 is movable between a first region 262 and a second region 264 of the void space defined by the enclosure 252. The first member 254 may be comprised of one of a ferromagnetic material or a magnetic material, and the attachment element 158 may be comprised of the other of the ferromagnetic material or the magnetic material. For example, the first member 254 may include a magnetic material and the attachment element 158 may include a ferromagnetic material. Alternatively, the first member 254 may include a ferromagnetic material and the attachment element 158 may include a magnetic material. In either configuration, the first member 254 and the attachment element 158 can be configured such that when the attachment element 158 is positioned proximate the distal surface 247, the attachment element 158 and the first member 254 can be magnetically attracted to each other. For example, when the attachment element 158 is positioned proximate the distal surface 247 of the coupling feature 246, the magnetic force between the first member 254 and the attachment element 158 can be used to attach and / or couple the surgical gown 112 to the surgical helmet 120. The size and / or shape of the first member 254 can be designed similarly to that described above with respect to the first member 154.

[0206] The coupling feature 246 may also include a third member 256 positioned proximate a surface of the capsule 252 opposite the distal surface 247. For example, the surface of the capsule 252 opposite the distal surface 247 may be integrally formed with the third member 256. Figure 10A and 10B The third member 256 shown in is shown as being at least partially disposed within the enclosure 252, but it is also contemplated that the third member 256 can be located outside the enclosure 252. The third member 256 can be constructed of a ferromagnetic material or another magnetic material such that the third member 256 and the first member 254 can be magnetically attracted to each other. The magnetic attraction between the first member 254 and the third member 256 should provide sufficient force to move the first member 254 and / or retain it in the first region 262 of the void space without an additional force being applied to the first member 254. For example, the attraction between the first member 254 and the third member 256 should retain the first member 254 in the first region 262 of the void space without an additional force being applied to the first member 254, as shown in FIG. Figure 10A As shown in .

[0207] Alternatively, the magnetic attraction between the attachment element 158 and the first member 254 should be sufficient to overcome the magnetic attraction between the first member 254 and the third member 256. When the attachment element 158 and the third member 256 each comprise ferromagnetic materials, the attachment element 158 and the third member 256 can be configured to comprise different magnetic masses. For example, to make the magnetic attraction between the first member 254 and the attachment element 158 greater than the magnetic attraction between the first member 254 and the third member 256, the attachment element 158 can be configured to comprise a larger magnetic mass than the third member 256. Alternatively, when the attachment element 158 and the third member 256 each comprise magnetic materials, the attachment element 158 and the third member 256 can be configured to comprise different magnetic fields. For example, to make the magnetic attraction between the first member 254 and the attachment element 158 greater than the magnetic attraction between the first member 254 and the third member 256, the attachment element 158 can present a stronger magnetic field than the third member 25.

[0208] In operation, such as Figure 10B As shown, when the attachment element 158 is positioned adjacent to the distal surface 247 of the coupling feature 246, the magnetic attraction force generated between the first member 254 and the attachment element 158 should be sufficient to overcome the magnetic attraction force between the first member 254 and the third member 256. When the attachment element 158 is positioned adjacent to the distal surface 247, the magnetic attraction force between the first member 254 and the attachment element 158 should overcome the magnetic attraction force between the first member 254 and the third member 256, thereby moving the first member 254 from the first region 262 to the second region 264 of the void space.

[0209] The coupling feature 246 may also include a detector 270 positioned adjacent to the enclosure 252 and configured to detect the position of the first member 254. For example, the detector 270 may include a near-field detector, a radar, an optical sensor, a Hall effect sensor, or the like. The detector 270 may be positioned near or adjacent to the enclosure 252. The detector may be located within the enclosure 252 or outside the perimeter defined by the enclosure 252. For example, Figure 10A and 10BAs shown, the detector 270 can be positioned adjacent to the lateral surface of the enclosure 252 and proximate to the second region 264 of the void space. Alternatively, the detector 270 can be positioned adjacent to the lateral surface of the enclosure 252 and proximate to the first region 262 of the void space. It is further contemplated that the detector 270 need not be attached or coupled to the enclosure 252. For example, the detector 270 can be radially spaced from the lateral surface of the enclosure 252. When the detector 270 is configured as a near-field detector, such as a Hall effect sensor, it is contemplated that the detector 270 can be positioned anywhere within and / or proximate to the control housing 150, which would allow the detector 270 to detect and / or identify the movement and / or position of the first member 254 within the enclosure 252. Although not shown in the figures, it is also contemplated that the detector 270 can be positioned adjacent to a surface of the enclosure 252 opposite the distal surface 247 and / or proximate to the third member 256.

[0210] However, depending on the type of sensor used, the positioning of detector 270 can provide operational advantages. For example, if detector 270 is configured as a Hall effect sensor configured to determine whether first member 254 is positioned in first region 262 or second region 264 of void space, positioning the Hall effect sensor adjacent to a lateral surface of enclosure 252 can allow the Hall effect sensor to more accurately detect whether first member 254 is positioned in first region 262 or second region 264. In an example configuration in which first member 254 includes coupling features 246 of magnetic material, a magnetic field will be established around the outer surface of first member 254. Coupling features 246 are configured such that at least one outer surface of first member 254 is slidably movable adjacent to a lateral surface of enclosure 252. By positioning detector 270 (i.e., a Hall effect sensor) adjacent to a lateral surface of enclosure 252, the Hall effect sensor can more accurately detect subtle changes in the magnetic field surrounding first member 254 that occur when first member 254 is positioned in first region 262 or second region 264. For example, a Hall effect sensor may be positioned near first region 262, adjacent to a lateral surface of enclosure 252. In this configuration, when first member 254 is in first region 262, the Hall effect sensor is likely to detect the magnetic field generated by first member 254. Alternatively, when first member 254 is in second region 264, the Hall effect sensor may detect the absence of the magnetic field. Based on the presence or absence of the magnetic field, the detector may be configured to generate a signal indicating the position of first member 254. In another example, the Hall effect sensor may be positioned near second region 264, adjacent to a lateral surface of enclosure 252. In this configuration, when first member 254 is in second region 264, the Hall effect sensor is likely to detect the magnetic field generated by first member 254. Alternatively, when first member 254 is in first region 262, the Hall effect sensor is likely to detect the absence of the magnetic field. Based on the presence or absence of the magnetic field, detector 270, i.e., a Hall effect sensor, may also be configured to generate a signal indicating the position of first member 254.

[0211] In yet another configuration, as described above, detector 270, i.e., a Hall effect sensor, can be positioned on or near the surface of enclosure 252 opposite distal surface 247. In such a configuration where first member 254 comprises a magnetic material, the Hall effect sensor is likely to detect the magnetic field generated by first member 254 when first member 254 is in first region 262. Alternatively, the Hall effect sensor is likely to detect the absence of a magnetic field when first member 254 is in second region 264. Based on the presence or absence of a magnetic field, detector 270 can be configured to generate a signal indicating the position of first member 254. In the aforementioned configuration where first member 254 comprises a ferromagnetic material and third member 256 comprises a magnetic material, the Hall effect sensor is likely to detect the magnetic field generated by third member 256. In such a configuration, the magnetic field generated by third member 256 is likely to vary based on the position of first member 254 relative to third member 256. For example, when first member 254 is positioned in first region 262 and proximate to third member 256, the third member is likely to generate a first magnetic field. Alternatively, when first member 254 is located in second region 264 and away from third member 256 , third member 256 is likely to generate a second magnetic field. Detector 270 may be configured to detect whether third member 256 is surrounded by the first magnetic field or the second magnetic field.

[0212] In operation, the first member 254 can be configured to operatively and / or slidingly move between the first region 262 and the second region 264 of the void space. Figure 10A As shown, the first member 254 can be positioned in the first region 262 of the void space. Alternatively, as shown Figure 10B As shown, first member 254 can be positioned in second region 264 of the void space. In the above example, detector 270 can be configured as a near-field sensor, such as a Hall effect sensor. When first member 254 moves between first region 262 and second region 264, the characteristics of the magnetic field around first member 254 may change, and detector 270 can be configured to detect or identify the position of first member 254 based at least in part on the detected magnetic field.

[0213] Alternatively, detector 270 can be configured as an optical sensor, wherein a lateral surface of capsule 252 includes an orifice and / or a transparent window. The orifice and / or transparent window can be positioned in the lateral surface of capsule 252, proximate to first region 262 or second region 264 of the void space. The optical sensor can be positioned adjacent to capsule 252 so that the optical sensor is aligned with the orifice and / or transparent window, thereby allowing the optical sensor to view at least a portion of the void space within capsule 252. For example, if the orifice or window on capsule 252 is positioned to allow the optical sensor to observe a portion of second region 264 of the void space, the optical sensor can be configured to detect the presence or absence of first member 254 in second region 264. The optical sensor can then be configured to output a signal identifying the presence or absence of first member 254 in second region 264. In certain configurations, an emitter may need to be positioned relative to the optical sensor. In such a configuration, the emitter can generate a signal to be received and / or detected by the optical sensor. The emitter and optical sensor can be positioned relative to each other so that the first member 254 can be configured to suppress and / or block signals from the emitter to the optical sensor when the first member 254 is located in the first region 262 or the second region 264. The optical sensor can then be configured to generate a signal indicating whether the first member 254 is located in the first region 262 or the second region 264 based on the receipt or failure to receive a signal from the emitter. For example, the emitter and optical sensor can be positioned relative to each other so that when the first member 254 is located in the first region 262, the first member 254 can suppress and / or block signals from the emitter to the optical sensor. In this configuration, the optical sensor can be configured to generate a signal indicating that the first member 254 is in the first region 262 when the optical sensor fails to receive a signal from the emitter. Alternatively, when the optical sensor receives a signal from the emitter, the optical sensor can generate a signal indicating that the first member 254 is in the second region 262. The optical sensor and emitter may be similarly configured to identify the position of the first member 254 if the optical sensor and emitter are positioned such that the first member 254 may suppress and / or block signals from the emitter to the optical sensor when the first member 254 is in the second region 264 .

[0214] As described above with respect to various configurations of the detector 270 of the coupling feature 246, the detector 270 can be configured to detect movement and / or position of the first member 254. The detector 270 can communicate with a controller 180 on the helmet 120, which communicates with the peripheral device 130. The detector 270 can be further configured to transmit a signal to the controller 180 based at least in part on the position and / or movement of the first member 254. The operation of the controller 180 will be described in detail below.

[0215] Figure 11 , is a close-up cross-sectional view of a third configuration of the coupling feature 346. The coupling feature 346 can be at least partially disposed within the control housing 150 of the surgical helmet 120. The third configuration of the coupling feature 346 can include a first member 354 including a distal surface 347 configured to removably couple with one of the attachment elements 158 of the surgical suit 112. The distal surface 347 of the first member 354 can be at least partially recessed within the control housing 150 of the surgical helmet 120. For example, Figure 11 As shown, the distal surface 347 can be formed generally into a concave hemispherical shape. It is also contemplated that the distal surface 347 can be formed into a convex hemispherical shape or other similar curved shape that is configured to receive a complementary shaped attachment element 158 of the surgical gown 112. Although Figure 11 The distal surface 347 is shown as being generally formed as a concave or inwardly directed hemispherical shape, but it is also contemplated that the distal surface 347 may be formed as a convex or outwardly protruding hemispherical, semi-cylindrical, or other similar shape. For example, the distal surface 347 may be curved, arched, or rounded in a manner that protrudes outwardly from the outer surface of the control housing 150 to form a convex distal surface 347. The corresponding attachment element 158 of the surgical suit 112 may include a concave surface that is configured to matingly engage the convex distal surface 347 of the coupling feature 346. The distal surface 347 of the first member 354 may also be configured as a generally flat, circular shape.

[0216] The first member 354 and (by extension) distal surface 347 of the coupling feature 346 can be made of another of a ferromagnetic material or a magnetic material. For example, the first member 354 can include a magnetic material and the attachment element 158 can include a ferromagnetic material. Alternatively, the first member 354 can include a ferromagnetic material and the attachment element 158 can include a magnetic material. In either configuration, the first member 354 and the corresponding attachment element 158 can be configured so that the first member 354 and the attachment element 158 can be magnetically attracted to each other. The magnetic attraction between the first member 354 and the attachment element 158 should provide sufficient force for detachably coupling the surgical protective suit 112 to the surgical helmet 120. As described above, the distal surface 347 of the first member 354 can be configured into a hemispherical or similar curved shape to improve the retention force between the first member 354 and the attachment element 158 when coupled.

[0217] The coupling feature 346 may further include a detector 370, such as a mechanical switch, disposed at least partially within the control housing 150. The detector 370 may be positioned adjacent to the first member 354 and proximate to the distal surface 347. The detector 370 may further include a toggle member 372 movable between a first position and a second position. The toggle member 372 may include a biasing member, such as a spring, configured to move the toggle member 372 and / or maintain it in the second position without applying an additional force to the toggle member 372. The detector 370 may be configured to detect a position of the toggle member 372 and output a signal based at least in part on the position of the toggle member 372.

[0218] In operation, the attachment element 158 of the surgical suit 112 can be configured to operatively engage the toggle member 372 of the detector 370 to move the toggle member 372 between a first position and a second position. For example, when the attachment element 158 is positioned adjacent to the distal surface 347 of the first member 354, the attachment element 158 can be configured to engage the toggle member 372. The attractive force between the first member 354 and the attachment element 158 can be sufficient to overcome the force of the biasing member to move the toggle member 372 and / or maintain it in the first position while the attachment element 158 is coupled to the coupling feature 364. Alternatively, when the attachment element 158 is not positioned adjacent to the distal surface 347 of the first member 354, the biasing member of the toggle member 372 can move the toggle member 372 and / or maintain it in the second position. As described above, the detector 370 can be configured to detect the position of the toggle member 372. The detector 370 can communicate with the controller 180 on the helmet 120, which is in communication with the peripheral device 130. The operation of the controller 180 will be described in detail below. The detector 370 can be configured to transmit a signal to the controller 180 based at least in part on whether the toggle member 372 is in the first position and / or the second position.

[0219] Figure 12A , is a close-up cross-sectional view of a fourth configuration of the coupling feature 446. The coupling feature 446 can be at least partially disposed within the control housing 150 of the surgical helmet 120. The fourth configuration of the coupling feature 446 can include a first member 454 including a distal surface 447 configured to removably couple with one of the attachment elements 158 of the surgical suit 112. The distal surface 447 of the coupling feature 446 can be at least partially recessed within the control housing 150 of the surgical helmet 120. For example, Figure 12A As shown, the distal surface 447 can be formed generally as a concave hemispherical shape. It is also contemplated that the distal surface 447 can be formed as a convex hemispherical shape or other similar curved shape configured to receive the complementary attachment element 158 of the surgical gown 112. Although Figure 12AWhile the distal surface 447 is shown as being generally concave or inwardly directed hemispherical, it is contemplated that the distal surface 447 may be formed as a convex or outwardly protruding hemispherical, semi-cylindrical, or other similar shape. For example, the distal surface 447 may be curved, arched, or rounded in such a manner that it protrudes outwardly from the outer surface of the control housing 150 to form a convex distal surface 447. The corresponding attachment element 158 of the surgical suit 112 may include a concave surface configured to matingly engage the convex distal surface 447 of the coupling feature 146. The distal surface 447 of the first member 454 may also be configured as a generally flat, circular shape.

[0220] The first member 454 and (by extension) distal surface 447 of the coupling feature 446 can be made of a ferromagnetic material or another magnetic material. For example, the first member 454 can include a magnetic material and the attachment element 158 can include a ferromagnetic material. Alternatively, the first member 454 can include a ferromagnetic material and the attachment element 158 can include a magnetic material. In either configuration, the first member 454 and the attachment element 158 can be configured so that the first member 454 and the attachment element 158 can be magnetically attracted to each other. The magnetic attraction between the first member 454 and the attachment element 158 should provide sufficient force to detachably couple the surgical protective suit 112 to the surgical helmet 120. As described above, the distal surface 447 of the first member 454 can be configured into a hemispherical or similar curved shape, in part to improve the retention force between the first member 454 and the attachment element 158 when coupled together. The hemispherical or similarly curved distal surface 447 of the first member 454 may also be used to align the attachment element 158 with the center of the first member 454 .

[0221] Alternatively, refer to Figure 12B , showing a close-up cross-sectional view of a fifth configuration of the coupling feature 546. The distal surface 547 of the first member 554 can define an orifice. The first member 554 can include the distal surface 547. The first member 554 of the coupling feature 546 and (by extension) the distal surface 547 can be constructed of one of a ferromagnetic material or a magnetic material. Conversely, at least a portion of the attachment element 558 of the mask 118 can include the other of a ferromagnetic material or a magnetic material. For example, the first member 554 can include a magnetic material and the attachment element 558 can include a ferromagnetic material. Alternatively, the first member 554 can include a ferromagnetic material and the attachment element 558 can include a magnetic material. In either configuration, the first member 554 and the attachment element 558 can be configured such that the first member 554 and the attachment element 558 can be magnetically attracted to each other.

[0222] The distal surface 547 can further define an orifice positioned adjacent to the center of the substantially flat distal surface 547, thereby imparting an annular shape to the first member 554. The orifice can define an orifice axis relative to the first member 554. The first member 554 can also include a lateral axis substantially perpendicular to the orifice axis. The first member 554 can also include a lateral surface 549 oriented substantially parallel to the lateral axis of the first member 554. In this configuration of the coupling feature 546, the attachment element 558 can be configured to include a protrusion 562 extending from the base 560. The protrusion 562 can be comprised of a ferromagnetic material or another magnetic material. Alternatively, the protrusion 562 can be comprised of a plastic, polymeric material, or other non-magnetic material. For example, the protrusion 562 can be comprised of a polymeric material, and the base 560 of the attachment element 558 can be comprised of a magnetic material and configured to generate magnetic attraction with the first member 554 of the coupling feature 546. In yet another configuration, protrusion 562 can be constructed from a combination of magnetic and non-magnetic materials. For example, the inner portion of protrusion 562 can be constructed from a magnetic material, and the outer surface of the magnetic material can be coated with a non-magnetic material, such as a plastic polymer. The inner portion of protrusion 562, including the magnetic material, can be magnetically attracted to first member 554 of coupling feature 546.

[0223] The protrusion 562 of the attachment element 558 can be configured to matingly engage the aperture of the distal surface 547 of the first member 554, wherein the aperture of the distal surface 547 can be configured to receive the protrusion 562 of the attachment element 558. The aperture can also be configured to align and / or position the attachment element 558 relative to the coupling feature 546 and / or with the center of the first member 554.

[0224] In the fourth and fifth configurations of the coupling features 446, 546 described above, the coupling features 446, 546 may further include a detector 470, 570, such as a near-field sensor or a Hall-effect sensor, disposed at least partially within the control housing 150. The detectors 470, 570 may be positioned adjacent to a lateral surface of the respective first member 454, 554 and proximate to the distal surface 447, 547. The detectors 470, 570 may be configured to detect changes in the magnetic field surrounding the first member 454, 554 generated by the presence or absence of the attachment element 158, 558 of the surgical suit 112 adjacent to the distal surface 447, 547. For example, if the detectors 470, 570 are configured as Hall-effect sensors, the detectors 470, 570 may be configured to determine whether the attachment element 158, 558 is positioned adjacent to the distal surface 447, 547 of the first member 454, 554 based on the magnetic field surrounding the first member 454, 554. By placing the Hall effect sensor adjacent to a lateral surface of the first member 454, 554 and introducing an alignment feature into the distal surface 447, 547 to align the center of the attachment element 158, 558 with the center of the first member 454, 554, the Hall effect sensor may be able to more accurately detect subtle changes in the magnetic field surrounding the first member 454, 554 resulting from the presence or absence of the attachment element 158, 558 positioned adjacent to the distal surface 447, 547. Furthermore, when the detector 470, 570 is configured as a near-field detector (e.g., a Hall effect sensor), it is contemplated that the detector 470, 570 may be positioned anywhere within and / or proximate to the control housing 150, which would allow the detector 470, 570 to detect and / or identify changes in the magnetic field surrounding the first member 454, 554. Although not shown in the figures, it is also contemplated that the detector 470 , 570 may be positioned adjacent to the distal surface 447 , 547 and / or proximate to the first member 454 , 554 .

[0225] In operation, the attachment elements 158, 558 of the surgical coverall 112 can be configured to be removably coupled to the first member 454, 554 such that the attachment elements 158, 558 can be positioned adjacent to the distal surfaces 447, 547 when the surgical coverall 112 is coupled to the surgical helmet 120. For example, when the attachment elements 158, 558 are positioned adjacent to the distal surfaces 447, 547 of the first member 454, 554, a third magnetic field can surround the first member 454, 554. The detectors 470, 570 can be configured to detect the third magnetic field. Alternatively, when the attachment elements 158, 558 are not positioned adjacent to the distal surfaces 447, 547 of the first member 454, 554, a fourth magnetic field can surround the first member 454, 554. The detectors 470, 570 can be similarly configured to detect the fourth magnetic field. As described above, the detectors 470, 570 can communicate with the controller 180 on the surgical helmet 120, which is in communication with the peripheral device 130. The detectors 470, 570 can be configured to transmit a signal to the controller 180 indicating the presence or absence of the surgical suit 112 based on whether the detectors 470, 570 detect the third magnetic field or the fourth magnetic field. The operation of the controller 180 will be described in detail below.

[0226] Each of the various configurations of the surgical garment system 110 described above can further include an energy source 182. Since each of the various configurations of the systems 10, 110 described above can include an energy source 182, Figure 8 1 , a general schematic representation of an energy source 182 in communication with the controller 180 is illustrated in dashed lines. The energy source 182 can be configured to connect or interconnect with the system 10, 110 and / or the surgical helmet 20, 120. The energy source 182, such as a battery, can be configured to be portable. The energy source 182 can be rechargeable and / or replaceable, such that the energy sources 182 of the systems 10, 110 can be interchanged or replaced.

[0227] Each of the various configurations of the surgical garment system 110 described above may also include an energy sensor 186 in communication with the controller 180 and / or the energy source 182. Since each of the various configurations of the systems 10, 110 described above may include an energy sensor 186, Figure 8Schematic representation of an energy sensor 186 in communication with the controller 180 and the energy source 182 is illustrated in dashed lines. The energy sensor 186 can be configured to detect characteristics of the energy source 182. The characteristics of the energy source detected by the energy sensor 186 may include, but are not limited to, remaining power level or charge, state of charge, voltage, capacity, health, current draw, or similar characteristics associated with the energy source 182. The energy sensor 186 can be further configured to generate or produce an energy signal based on the detected characteristics. The energy sensor 186 can also be configured to transmit the energy signal to the controller 180. The energy sensor 186 can be configured to transmit the energy signal to the controller 180 based on a default or user-defined threshold. For example, the energy sensor 186 can be configured to detect the remaining charge of the energy source 182, where the threshold is defined as fifteen percent (15%) remaining charge. In this configuration, the energy sensor 186 can be configured to transmit the energy signal to the controller 180 when the remaining charge reaches and / or drops below fifteen percent (15%) remaining charge. The energy sensor 186 can also be configured to generate energy signals for multiple different thresholds. For example, in the above configuration, the energy sensor 186 can also be configured to generate multiple energy signals based on the remaining charge of the energy source 182. In operation, the energy sensor 186 can be configured to generate a first energy signal when the energy source 182 reaches and / or drops below 50% of the remaining charge, a second energy signal when the energy source 182 reaches and / or drops below 25% of the remaining charge, and / or a third energy signal when the energy source 182 reaches and / or drops below 10% of the remaining charge. In this configuration, the first, second, and / or third energy signals generated by the energy sensor 186 and transmitted to the controller 180 can indicate the remaining charge of the energy source 182.

[0228] Controller 180 can be configured to generate a signal that can be transmitted to a user display (e.g., an LCD screen, a digital display, or multiple lights), where the user display is configured to display an indicia indicating the remaining charge. For example, when the user display includes an LCD screen, the LCD screen can be configured to display "50%," "25%," and so on, indicating the remaining charge. Alternatively, when the user display includes multiple lights, each light can include a different color, with each color representing a different level of remaining charge in energy source 182. For example, the user display can include a yellow light, an orange light, and a red light, and controller 180 can be configured to transmit a signal to the user display to illuminate the yellow light when the remaining charge reaches and / or drops below 50%. Controller 180 can also be configured to transmit a signal to the user display to illuminate the orange light when the remaining charge reaches and / or drops below 25%. Controller 180 can also be configured to transmit a signal to the user display to illuminate the red light when the remaining charge reaches and / or drops below 10%. Based on which light is illuminated, the user can determine the approximate remaining charge of energy source 182. The remaining charge can also be delivered using a loudspeaker.

[0229] Each of the various configurations of the coupling features 146, 246, 346, 446, 546 described above includes a detector 170, 270, 370, 470, 570 configured to detect a characteristic of the coupling features 146, 246, 346, 446, 546 that can be used to identify whether the surgical coverall 112 is coupled to the surgical helmet 120. The detectors 170, 270, 370, 470, 570 can be further configured to output a signal based on the detected characteristic to indicate whether the surgical coverall 112 is coupled to the surgical helmet 120. For example, the detectors 170, 270, 370, 470, 570 can be configured to detect and / or determine when the surgical coverall 112 is coupled to the surgical helmet 120 and output a signal indicating that the surgical coverall 112 is coupled to the surgical helmet 120 or that the surgical coverall 112 is not present on the surgical helmet 120. In one exemplary configuration, the detectors 170, 270, 370, 470, 570 may be configured to output the signal when the surgical coverall 112 is coupled to the surgical helmet 120. In another exemplary configuration, the detectors 170, 270, 370, 470, 570 may be configured to output the signal when the surgical coverall 112 is not present on the surgical helmet 120 or the surgical coverall 112 is detached from the surgical helmet 120. In yet another exemplary configuration, the detectors 170, 270, 370, 470, 570 may be configured to output a first signal when the surgical coverall 112 is coupled to the surgical helmet 120 and to output a second signal when the surgical coverall 112 is not present on the surgical helmet 120 or the surgical coverall 112 is detached from the surgical helmet 120.

[0230] In each of the embodiments and / or configurations of the coupling features 146, 246, 346, 446, 546 described above, the detectors 170, 270, 370, 470, 570 can communicate with the controller 180. The controller 180 can also communicate with one or more of the peripheral devices 130 of the surgical helmet 120 described above. It should be understood that the controller 180 can be positioned anywhere on the surgical helmet 120. For example, the controller 180 can be positioned within the control housing 150 and adjacent to the detectors 170, 270, 370, 470, 570. Alternatively, the controller 180 can be positioned within a void in the housing 132 of the surgical helmet 120.

[0231] The controller 180 can be configured to transmit operating commands to the detectors 170, 270, 370, 470, 570 and to receive signals from the detectors 170, 270, 370, 470, 570 related to characteristics of the signals detected by the detectors 170, 270, 370, 470, 570. The controller 180 can also be connected to one or more peripheral devices 130 of the surgical helmet 120, such as the ventilation assembly 130, wherein the controller 180 is configured to transmit operating commands to or from the ventilation assembly 130 or other peripheral devices 130 based on the signals received from the detectors 170, 270, 370, 470, 570. For example, the controller 180 can be configured to adjust the amount of power delivered to the ventilation system 130 to control the speed of the fan blades. It is further contemplated that two separate controllers may also be used.

[0232] Regardless of the configuration of the coupling features 146, 246, 346, 446, 546, the detectors 170, 270, 370, 470, 570 can be configured to transmit a signal to the controller 180 based on the presence, absence, and / or change in a characteristic detected by the detectors 170, 270, 370, 470, 570. For example, the detectors 170, 370 of the first configuration of the coupling feature 146 and / or the third configuration of the coupling feature 346 can be configured to detect the presence or absence of the surgical gown 112 based on the position of the toggle members 172, 372. Alternatively, the detectors 270, 470, 570 of the second configuration of the coupling feature 246 and / or the fourth configuration of the coupling feature 446 and / or the fifth configuration of the coupling feature 546 can be configured to detect the presence or absence of the surgical gown 112 based on a change in the magnetic field around the first members 254, 454, 554 of the coupling features 246, 446, 546. The controller 180 may be configured to transmit commands or adjust operating characteristics of the peripheral device 130 based on signals received from the detectors 170 , 270 , 370 , 470 , 570 .

[0233] In one configuration, the controller 180 can be configured to interpret the signals received from the detectors 170, 270, 370, 470, 570 and control the transfer of energy from the energy source to the peripheral device 130. For example, if the controller 180 determines that the surgical gown 112 is not present on the surgical helmet 120 based on the signals received from the detectors 170, 270, 370, 470, 570 or the absence of signals from the detectors 170, 270, 370, 470, 570, the controller 180 can be configured to prevent energy from being transferred from the energy source to the peripheral device 130. One disadvantage of operating the system 110 that is eliminated by this feature is that the peripheral device 130 may generate unnecessary noise when it is not serving a useful purpose. A second disadvantage that can be eliminated by preventing the activation of the peripheral device 130 before the surgical gown 112 is attached to the surgical helmet 120 is the reduction of the charge in the energy source 182 when activation of the peripheral device 130 is not required. Alternatively, if the controller 180 determines that the surgical suit 112 is coupled to the surgical helmet 120 based on a signal received from the detector 170, 270, 370, 470, 570 or the absence of a signal from the detector 170, 270, 370, 470, 570, the controller 180 can be configured to allow energy to be transferred to the peripheral device 130. Alternatively, the controller 180 can control the operation of the peripheral device 130 based on the signal received from the detector 170, 270, 370, 470, 570.

[0234] The surgical garment system 110 may also include a memory device 184 coupled to the surgical helmet 120 and in communication with the controller 180. The memory device 184 may be located within or on any portion of the surgical helmet 120. For example, the memory device 184 may be located within the control housing 150. Alternatively, the memory device 184 may be located within the housing 132 of the surgical helmet 120. The memory device 184 may be configured to store data related to the operation of the peripheral devices 130. For example, the memory device 184 may store operating conditions associated with each peripheral device 130, such as operating conditions based on the various types of surgical gowns 112 that may be attached to the surgical helmet 120. The operating conditions stored on the memory device 184 may include maximum and / or minimum operating speeds for the peripheral devices 130 of the surgical helmet 120 for each type of surgical gown 112. For example, the memory device 184 may store different operating fan speeds for gowns and hoods. The memory device 184 may also be configured to store operating instructions or programming steps configured for execution by the controller 180. The memory device 184 may also store personal user settings or preferences for operating one or more of the peripheral devices 130. For example, the user settings stored on the memory device 184 may include the most recent fan speed of the ventilation assembly selected by the individual user wearing the surgical helmet 120.

[0235] In each of the various embodiments and / or configurations of the surgical garment system 110 and coupling features 146, 246, 346, 446, 546 described above, the system 110 may include additional features and / or components configured to operate in communication with the controller 180 to prevent operation of the surgical helmet 120 and / or any peripheral devices 130 of the surgical helmet 120 based on defined characteristics. For example, the controller 180 may be configured to prevent operation of the peripheral devices 130 before the surgical coverall 112 has been installed on the surgical helmet 120. Alternatively, the controller 180 may be configured to prevent operation of the peripheral devices 130 if a previously used or incompatible surgical coverall 112 is coupled to the surgical helmet 120.

[0236] refer to Figure 13A and 13B , shows an alternative configuration of a surgical garment system 610. It should be understood that the various configurations of surgical garment system 610 can include elements similar to those of the system described above and identified by reference numerals increased by 100. It should be understood that those elements including reference numerals increased by 100 can have the same and / or similar features as those described above.

[0237] A third configuration of the surgical garment system 610 can include a surgical protective suit assembly comprising a surgical protective suit 612 configured to be attached to a surgical helmet 620. As described above, the surgical protective suit 612 can provide a barrier, such as a microbial barrier, between the wearer and the surrounding environment. The barrier established by the surgical protective suit 612 can benefit both the wearer and the patient. The barrier provided by the surgical protective suit 612 can substantially eliminate the possibility that the wearer may be exposed to fluid or solid matter particles from the patient that may be generated during the surgical procedure. During the surgical procedure, the barrier can substantially prevent any foreign particles emitted by the wearer from being transferred to the patient.

[0238] refer to Figure 13A 、 13B 14, the surgical protective suit 612 may include a fabric 614 configured to cover at least a portion of the surgical helmet 620 and the wearer's head. The surgical protective suit 612 may be configured as a hood, gown, or other similar medical protective garment, similar to any of the configurations of the surgical apparel systems 10 and 110 described above. The surgical protective suit 612 may also include a face mask 618, also known as a transparent face mask, and one or more attachment elements 658 positioned around the surgical protective suit 612. The attachment elements 658 may also be referred to as second members or protective suit fasteners. The attachment elements 658 may serve as alignment elements configured to removably couple the surgical protective suit 612 to the surgical helmet 620. In addition, the attachment elements 658 may be positioned proximate to the outer periphery of the face mask 618 so that the fabric 614 covers the attachment elements 658. This may be used to ensure that the fabric 614 covers the attachment elements 658 to maintain the barrier provided by the surgical protective suit 612 between the wearer and the environment.

[0239] The attachment element 658 may comprise a ferromagnetic material. In other words, the attachment element may comprise iron, nickel, cobalt, gadolinium, dysprosium, or alloys thereof, or combinations thereof. In certain configurations, it will be appreciated that the attachment element may comprise a material, i.e., atoms, that is attracted to the magnetic field presented by the magnetic material positioned on the helmet. It is envisioned that in certain embodiments, the entire attachment element 658 may be comprised of a ferromagnetic material. It is also envisioned that the attachment element 658 may comprise both a ferromagnetic material and a diamagnetic material. For example, the attachment element 658 may comprise a diamagnetic material that has been coated with a ferromagnetic material. Alternatively, the attachment element 658 may be formed of a ferromagnetic material as a core and then coated with a plastic or similar non-magnetic coating that is configured to provide a sterile and / or wear-resistant surface. Other arrangements of diamagnetic and magnetic materials are contemplated for the attachment element 658. It will be appreciated that the surgical suit 612 and all of its components may be similarly configured and / or include features of the surgical suits 12, 112 described above.

[0240] The surgical gown 612 may also include tabs 655A, 655B. The tabs 655A, 655B may be disposed on the wearer's side or the interior of the surgical gown 612. The tabs 655A, 655B may include a pair of opposing edges 643A, 643B and define openings 656A, 656B. Figure 13A As shown, tab 655A can be formed as part of face mask 618. Tab 655A can define at least a portion of opening 656A, a portion of which is also defined by face mask 618. It is also contemplated that opening 656A can be formed entirely within or defined within tab 655A.

[0241] Alternatively, as Figure 13B As shown, tab 655B can be formed separately from face mask 618. In this configuration, tab 655B can be directly coupled to the inner surface of fabric 14 of surgical gown 612. Tab 655B can be formed from a plastic similar to that of face mask 618 and can be coupled to surgical gown 612 via epoxy, glue, or a similar adhesive. Alternatively, tab 655B can be formed from a fabric similar to fabric 614 of surgical gown 612, wherein tab 655B can be sewn or coupled to surgical gown 612 via an adhesive. Additionally, opening 656B can be completely defined by tab 655B.

[0242] Reference again Figure 13A 、 13B and 14, describe in detail an exemplary configuration of a surgical garment system 610. The system 610 may include a surgical protective suit 612 and a surgical helmet 620. Similar to the above-mentioned systems 10 and 110, Figure 13A 、 13B The configuration of the system 610 shown in FIG. 14 may include one or more peripheral devices 630 , such as a ventilation assembly.

[0243] Figure 14 The vent assembly 630 shown in FIG is one example of a peripheral device 630 that may be incorporated into the surgical helmet 620 of the surgical garment system 610. Although the vent assembly 630 is shown as an integral component of the surgical helmet 620, it should be understood that each of the other peripheral devices 130 described above may be an integral component of the surgical helmet 620 or may be removably coupled to the surgical helmet 620. Figure 14The surgical helmet 620 shown includes a vent assembly 630 positioned within a void in a shell 632. The vent assembly 630 may include fan blades, an impeller, a propeller, a fan wheel, or a similar blade mechanism configured to cause air to move. The blades may be coupled to a motor configured to rotate the blades when energized by a power source. When the blades are actuated, the vent assembly 630 is configured to draw air into the void in the shell 632 through an air intake opening on the top of the shell 632. Additional voids in the shell 632 may be connected to this void and serve as a duct for distributing the air drawn into the void to the wearer.

[0244] refer to Figure 14 、 15A 15B, the surgical helmet 620 may include a top beam 629 positioned forward of the outer shell 632 of the surgical helmet 620 and configured to extend across the front of the surgical helmet 620. The top beam 629 may also include a recess. The recess of the top beam 629 may include a pair of laterally spaced sidewalls 639A, 639B and a proximal surface 637 positioned proximal to the distal surface 631 of the top beam 629. The sidewalls 639A, 639B and the proximal surface 637 may define an alignment channel 645, wherein the alignment channel 645 is configured to receive tabs 655A, 655B provided on the interior of the surgical gown 612 to align and / or orient the surgical gown 612 relative to the surgical helmet 620. As described above, the tab 655A may be integrally formed with the face shield 618 and configured to extend therefrom. Alternatively, the tabs 655B can be formed separately from the mask 618, wherein the tabs 655B are configured to be coupled to the fabric 614 on the interior of the surgical gown 612. However, other configurations are also contemplated. The distance between the spaced-apart sidewalls 639A, 639B of the alignment channel 645 should be greater than the width of the tabs 655A, 655B to allow the tabs 655A, 655B to be positioned between the spaced-apart sidewalls 639A, 639B.

[0245] The top beam 629 may also include a coupling feature 646 configured to removably engage the mask 618 and / or the surgical gown 612. The coupling feature 646 may include a protrusion, a magnetic member, a ferromagnetic member, a hook and loop, or a similar coupling mechanism configured to releasably engage the opening 656 in the tabs 655A, 655B to align and / or couple the surgical gown 612 to the surgical helmet 620. For example, Figure 15A and 15B As shown, the coupling feature 646 is implemented as a protrusion 646 extending from the alignment channel 645 of the top beam 629. Here, the top beam 629 includes the alignment channel 645 described above, and the coupling feature 646 can be at least partially disposed within the alignment channel 645, as shown in FIG. Figure 14 、 15A15B . The coupling feature 646 can be positioned within the alignment channel 645 such that the top of the uppermost surface of the coupling feature 646 is disposed or otherwise positioned below the top of the alignment channel 645 and / or the top surface of the top beam 629. The combination of the spaced-apart sidewalls 639A, 639B of the coupling feature 646 of the alignment channel 645 can be used to align and / or orient the face mask 618 and / or the surgical gown 612 relative to the surgical helmet 620. More specifically, the spaced-apart sidewalls 639A, 639B of the alignment channel 645 can be used to guide the tabs 655A, 655B such that the openings 656 on the tabs 655A, 655B are directed into engagement with the coupling feature 646 as the surgical gown 612 is placed over the surgical helmet 620.

[0246] The surgical helmet 620 may include a chin bar 624 extending downwardly from a front portion of the surgical helmet 620. The chin bar 624 may include a first column 626A and a second column 626B. The first and second columns 626A, 626B may be coupled to a top beam 629, wherein the top beam 629 is configured to extend across the front of the surgical helmet 620. For example, Figure 14 As shown, first and second posts 626A, 626B can be connected to opposite ends of the top beam 129. The chin bar 624 can be constructed of a generally flexible or pliable material.

[0247] The chin bar 624 may also include a bottom beam 628 that may extend between the opposing free ends of the posts 626A, 626B. The chin bar 624 is formed so that the bottom beam 628 is positioned below and slightly forward of the chin of the person wearing the surgical helmet 620. The bottom beam 628 may curve outward from the free ends of the posts 626A, 626B. The chin bar 624 may extend outward from the top beam 629 so that when the surgical helmet 620 is secured to the wearer's head, the chin bar 624 is positioned in front of and generally surrounds the wearer's face. In summary, the combination of the top beam 629, posts 626A, 626B, and bottom beam 628 may be referred to as a face frame because, when the surgical helmet is positioned over the wearer's face, they generally define an opening positioned in front of the wearer's face.

[0248] A plurality of coupling members 648 can be mounted to or within the chin bar 624. The coupling members 648 include a magnetic material and are configured to align and / or attach the face mask 618 of the surgical gown 612 to the surgical helmet 620. Each coupling member 648 can be positioned on the chin bar 624 proximate opposing posts 626A, 626B and / or adjacent opposing ends of the base beam 628. Alternatively, the coupling members 648 of the surgical helmet 620 can be arranged or configured in any suitable manner to cooperate with complementary attachment elements 658 of the surgical gown 612 to releasably secure the surgical gown 612 to the surgical helmet 620. For example, as Figure 14 As shown, coupling members 648 can be positioned on the chin bar 624 at opposite ends of the base beam 628, proximate where each of the posts 626A, 626B connects to the base beam 628. Figure 14 The exemplary configuration of the surgical helmet 620 shown in FIG2 utilizes two coupling members 648, but it is contemplated that the surgical helmet 620 may be configured such that the chin bar 624 includes a single coupling member 648, or in other configurations, three or more coupling members 648 may be spaced around the chin bar 624 and / or the top beam 629. It is contemplated that other types of coupling members 648 may be used in place of and / or in addition to those comprising magnetic materials, such as hook-and-loop fasteners, snaps, coupling members comprising ferromagnetic materials, or similar types of fasteners. Other configurations are also contemplated.

[0249] refer to Figure 16A and 16B , showing different views of an exemplary configuration of a coupling member 648 positioned within a chin bar 624. The coupling member 648 may include a distal surface 647. The chin bar 624 may include a recess 627 configured to receive the coupling feature 648. For example, Figure 16A and 16B As shown, the coupling member 648 can be positioned within the recess of the chin bar 624 such that the distal surface 647 of the coupling member 648 is positioned proximal to the distal surface 625 of the chin bar 624 .

[0250] The coupling member 648 can include one of a ferromagnetic material or a magnetic material. This can include the coupling member 648 being formed or constructed from a ferromagnetic material or a magnetic material. It is also contemplated that only a portion of the coupling member 648 includes a ferromagnetic material or a magnetic material. For example, the coupling member 648 can be an injection molded plastic and coated with a ferromagnetic material or a magnetic material. Alternatively, the coupling member 648 can be formed from a ferromagnetic material or a magnetic material and then coated with a plastic or similar coating to provide a sterile and / or wear-resistant surface. It is also contemplated that the magnet can be "overmolded" with a plastic material to define the coupling member 648. Typically, the coupling member 648 can include one of a ferromagnetic material or a magnetic material relative to the attachment element 658 of the surgical protective suit 612 so as to generate a magnetic attraction between the coupling member 648 and the attachment element 658 to couple the surgical protective suit 612 to the surgical helmet 620.

[0251] The surgical helmet 620 may also include a controller or processor (not shown), which may be disposed on or within the chin bar 624 or top beam 629 of the surgical helmet 620. Alternatively, the controller may be located at any suitable location within the surgical helmet 620. For example, the controller may be located within the bottom beam 628 of the chin bar 624. The controller may communicate with one or more detectors 670, such as Hall effect sensors, located within the chin bar 624 and adjacent to the coupling member 648. The detectors 670 may be configured to detect characteristics of the coupling member 648. For example, where the detectors 670 are Hall effect sensors, the detectors 670 may be configured to detect any changes in the magnetic field surrounding the coupling member 648. In operation, the detectors 670 may be configured to detect changes in the magnetic field surrounding the coupling member 648 resulting from the presence or absence of the attachment element 658 of the surgical gown 612 positioned adjacent to the coupling member 648.

[0252] Although Figure 16A and 16B Only a portion of the chin bar 624 is shown including a single coupling member 648, but as described above, the chin bar 624 can include more than one coupling member 648. Similarly, the chin bar can include more than one detector 670. It is contemplated that the surgical helmet 620 can include a single detector 670 positioned adjacent to the single coupling member 648. It is also contemplated that in configurations of the surgical helmet 620 including multiple coupling members 648, the surgical helmet 620 can include a single detector 670 positioned adjacent to one of the multiple coupling members 648. Alternatively, the detector 670 can be positioned adjacent to two or more of the coupling members 648. Using multiple detectors can provide redundancy in the event that the detector 670 becomes damaged.

[0253] Figure 16BA partial cross-sectional view of a coupling member 648 disposed within a recess 627 of the chin bar 624 is shown. The recess 627 in the chin bar 624 can define a first dimension D1, such as a diameter. The coupling member 648 can generally be sized to fit within the dimension D1 of the aperture on the chin bar 624. Furthermore, a periphery 653 of the distal surface 647 and a periphery 651 of the proximal surface 657 of the coupling member 648 can define an Axis-A that passes through a center C1 of the proximal surface 657 and a center C2 of the distal surface 647 of the coupling member 648. A transverse plane can be oriented parallel to Axis-A and extend through the proximal and distal surfaces 657, 647 of the coupling member 648, defining opposing lateral halves of the coupling member 648. In configurations where the coupling member 648 comprises a magnetic material, the transverse plane can define a division between opposing magnetic poles of the magnetic material.

[0254] In addition, if Figure 16A and 16B As shown, the distal surface 647 of the coupling member 648 can include a generally curved shape. For example, the distal surface 647 can include a generally convex surface. Alternatively, the distal surface 647 can include a generally convex or polyaxial surface, such that the distal surface includes a generally rounded surface extending outward from the center of the coupling member 648. Although Figure 16A and 16B 648. Although not shown, it is contemplated that the distal surface 647 of the coupling member 648 may include a concave surface. Various exemplary configurations of the coupling member 648 including concave or convex surfaces will be described in greater detail below.

[0255] refer to Figure 17A and 17B , illustrating an exemplary configuration of the coupling member 648. The coupling member 648 may include a generally circular cross-sectional shape having opposing proximal surfaces 657 and distal surfaces 647. As described above, the distal surface 647 may have a curved shape. The coupling member 648 may also include one or more dimples 649A, 649B on the distal surface 647. The dimples 649A, 649B may be configured as grooves, recesses, orifices, cutouts, or the like. Figure 17A and 17BAs shown, the coupling member 648 can include a single dimple or a pair of dimples 649A, 649B. It is also contemplated that the coupling member 648 can include more than two dimples 649A, 649B. The dimples 649A, 649B can serve as structural and / or visual alignment features for positioning the coupling member 648 relative to the chin bar 624 and / or the detector 670. For example, in a configuration where the coupling member 648 includes a magnetic material, the dimples 649A, 649B or other indicators can provide a visual identifier regarding the orientation and / or position of the magnetic poles of the coupling member 648. It will be appreciated that such a configuration facilitates improved manufacturability because the coupling member 648 can be easily and accurately positioned within the recess of the chin bar 624 such that the magnetic poles of the coupling member 648 are properly oriented relative to the detector 670.

[0256] refer to Figure 17B , the coupling member 648 may further define a lateral axis, Axis-L1, which is configured to intersect Axis-A of the coupling member 648. The lateral axis Axis-L1 may also be oriented substantially perpendicular to Axis-A of the coupling member 648. For example, the lateral axis Axis-L1 may be oriented in a substantially horizontal direction to define two opposing lateral halves of the coupling member 648. The coupling member 648 may have a first magnetic pole P1 and an opposing second magnetic pole P2 defined by the two opposing lateral halves of the coupling member 648 separated by the lateral axis Axis-L1. For example, one lateral half of the coupling member 648 may define a volume representing the first magnetic pole P1, and the opposing lateral half of the coupling member 648 may define a volume representing the second magnetic pole P2.

[0257] Alternatively, it is contemplated that each pole P1, P2 of the magnetic material may be represented by a single point. The point defining each pole P1, P2 may be defined as the point within the respective lateral halves of the coupling member 648 at which the magnetic moment of the respective pole P1, P2 is the strongest. For example, the opposing poles P1, P2 of the magnetic material of the coupling member 648 may be defined as a single point within said opposing lateral halves of the coupling member 648. In this exemplary configuration, it is contemplated that the first pole P1 and the second pole P2 may be positioned within their respective lateral halves of the coupling member 648 such that the point defining each pole P1, P2 is further from the periphery of the coupling member than from the most distal point of the distal surface 647 (at Figure 16B It is also contemplated that each of the magnetic poles P1, P2 may be positioned within the lateral half of their respective coupling member 648 such that the point defining each magnetic pole P1, P2 is closer to the detector 670 than to the extreme point C2 of the distal surface 647.

[0258] refer to Figure 18A 、 18B, 18C and 18D, show detailed views of exemplary configurations of a face mask 618A for use with a surgical gown 612. Similar to the face masks 18, 118 described above, the face mask 618A may include that portion of the surgical gown 612 that allows the wearer to see through the barrier provided by the surgical gown 612. The face mask 618A is generally a sheet-like structure and may have a thickness of approximately 1 mm or less. The face mask 618A may be mounted and / or attached to an opening or cutout formed in a surgical fabric 614 of the surgical gown 612. The surgical fabric 614 may be attached to the periphery or edge of the face mask 618A by stitching, snaps, hooks and loops, adhesives, welding, or a combination thereof. The face mask 618A may be constructed of a transparent material such as polycarbonate. Sabic markets its face mask 618A under the trademark LEXAN TM One such polycarbonate is sold. The face shield 618A of the surgical suit 612 may also be tinted to protect the wearer's eyes from excessive exposure to bright light. In addition, the face shield 618A may be flexible so that the face shield 618A can be bent to accommodate different head sizes, as will be described below.

[0259] The mask 618A may also include the Figure 13A The protrusion 655A described in the surgical protective suit 612 of the face mask 618A. The protrusion 655A can extend from the top portion of the mask 618A and can define at least a portion of the opening 656. The opening 656 can be generally rectangular. Although not shown in the figures, it is further contemplated that the opening 656 can be configured as a circle, an oval, a square, or any similar polygonal shape. The opening 656 can also be centrally located between the opposite ends of the mask 618A and serve as an alignment element configured to interact with the alignment channel 645 of the helmet 620 described above. In addition, the opening 656 can be positioned above the attachment point of the surgical fabric 614 on the mask 618A to the mask 618A to ensure that the surgical fabric 614 covers the opening 656 to maintain the barrier provided by the surgical protective suit 612 between the wearer and the environment. Although in Figures 18A-18D Not shown, but as previously referenced Figure 13B As discussed, tab 655B can be formed separately from mask 618B and coupled directly to the interior of surgical gown 612. In addition to being formed separately from mask 618B, tab 655B can include all the same or similar features of tab 655A formed as part of mask 618A. Mask 618A can also include one or more apertures 619 positioned in a bottom portion of mask 618A and configured for coupling attachment element 658A to mask 618A.

[0260] like Figures 18B-18DAs shown, the attachment element 658A may include a head 660. The head 660 may define a second dimension D2, wherein the second dimension D2 is smaller than the first dimension D1 of the aperture on the chin bar 624 (e.g., Figure 16B 660 is configured to extend into and out of the chin bar 624 when coupled to the coupling member 648. The head 660 of the attachment element 658A may further define a distal surface 665 and an opposing proximal surface 659. The head 660 may further define a recess 661A. The head 660 may define a recessed surface 674A positioned distally from the proximal surface 659 of the head 660. The head 660 may further include a rim 663 that may be at least partially defined by the proximal surface 659 of the head 660. The rim 663 may at least partially surround the recess 661A. The recess 661A may increase the surface area contact between the attachment element 658A and the coupling member 648 when the two are coupled together. The increase in surface area contact can increase the strength and / or force of the magnetic coupling between the attachment element 658A and the coupling member 648, increasing the force required to disengage the attachment element 658A from the coupling member 648. This can reduce accidental or undesirable disengagement of the attachment element 658A and the coupling member 648 during use of the surgical gown 612 and the surgical helmet 620. The size and / or shape of the groove 661A can also allow the attachment element 658A and the coupling member 648 to interact at different angles, as will be described in more detail below.

[0261] Recess 661A can be defined as a setback, location, or space, such as a pit, compartment, or alcove. Generally, recess 661A can refer to a void in material or the absence of material. In the context of the attachment element 658A described above, recess 661A can refer to a void in material or the absence of material on the head 660. The size and shape of the void representing recess 661A on the head 660 of the attachment element 658A can be defined by the recessed surface 674A. However, recess 661A is not limited to being formed by a single component, such as the head 660 of the attachment element 658A. Any combination of components that define a void in material or the absence of material can be considered to be recess 661A. For example, in one configuration, the void representing recess 661A can be defined by the combination of the head 660 and the post 667. In yet another configuration, the void representing recess 661A can be defined by the combination of the head 660 and the mask 618, as will be discussed below with respect to FIG. Figure 28A and 28B Various exemplary configurations of the attachment member 658A and the groove 661A are described in greater detail below.

[0262] In one exemplary configuration, the recess 661A can be formed in and completely defined by the head 660 of the attachment element 658A. However, as described above, alternative configurations are contemplated. The recess 661A can removably receive at least a portion of the protruding surface 647 of the coupling member 648 to removably couple the surgical gown 612 to the surgical helmet 620. The recess 661A can be formed in a variety of shapes and sizes, as will be discussed in more detail below.

[0263] The attachment element 658A may also include a post 667 extending distally from a distal surface 665 of the attachment element 658A. The post 667 may include a proximal portion 669 and a distal portion 671, wherein the proximal portion 669 includes a third dimension D3 and the distal portion 671 includes a fourth dimension D4. The post 667 may be configured such that the third dimension D3 of the proximal portion 669 is greater than the fourth dimension D4 of the distal portion 671, thereby forming a shoulder. The distal portion 671 of the post 667 should be configured to fit within the aperture 619 of the mask 618A to facilitate coupling the attachment element 658A to the mask 618A.

[0264] In a post 667 configuration in which the third dimension D3 of the proximal portion 669 is greater than the fourth dimension D4 of the distal portion 671, the shoulder formed by the proximal portion 669 of the post 667 is intended to space the head 660 of the attachment element 658A a distance D5 from the mask 618. The shoulder can be used to space the attachment element 658A from the mask 618 to allow the mask 618 to flex relative to the distal surface 665 of the attachment element 658A. This flexibility enables a more secure attachment between the attachment element 658A and the coupling member 648 because the mask 618 can flex without loosening the attachment element 658A from its attachment to the coupling member 648.

[0265] Although Figure 18D The exemplary configuration of the attachment element 658A shown in includes a post 667 and wherein the third dimension D3 of the proximal portion 669 is greater than the fourth dimension D4 of the distal portion 671, but it is contemplated that the post 667 may comprise a single uniform size configured to fit within the orifice 619 of the mask 618A.

[0266] Still refer to Figure 18D , the attachment element 658A can be coupled to the mask 618 via a retaining feature 673. The retaining feature 673 can take the form of a cap or similar fastener configured to engage the distal end of the post 667. For example, Figure 18D As shown, the post 667 can be inserted through the aperture 619 of the mask and a retention feature 673 can be applied to the distal end of the post 667 to secure the attachment element 658A to the mask 618.

[0267] refer to Figure 19A 、 19B 19C , which illustrate a detailed view of another configuration of attachment element 658A. Similar to attachment element 658 described above, the first configuration of attachment element 658A includes a head 660 having a distal surface 665 and an opposing proximal surface 659. The recess 661A of attachment element 658A may include a generally concave shape that curves inward to define a void or absence of material in the head 660 of attachment element 658A. The size and / or shape of recess 661A may be defined by the concave surface 674A of head 660. Furthermore, the size and / or shape of recess 661A may be defined relative to the size and / or shape of protruding surface 647 of coupling member 648. It is contemplated that the depth and / or radius of recess 661A may vary to allow recess 661A to matingly receive protruding surface 647 of coupling member 648 when coupled together. For example, it is contemplated that recess 661A defines a void space comprising at least ten percent (10%) of the volume defined by protruding surface 647 of coupling member 648 to allow at least a portion of protruding surface 647 to be disposed within recess 661A of attachment element 658A. However, it is contemplated that recess 661A may define a void space comprising twenty percent (20%), thirty percent (30%), or more of the volume defined by protruding surface 647.

[0268] In an exemplary configuration of the attachment element 658A, it is contemplated that the recess 661A may define a void space that allows the protruding surface 647 to be positioned a distance within the recess 661A of the attachment element 658A. For example, the recess 661A may define a space that allows the distal-most point of the protruding surface 647 (at Figure 16B 658A) is positioned in the void space distal to the proximal surface 659 of the head 660. Specifically, the protruding surface 647 can be positioned within the groove 661A of the attachment element 658A so that the distalmost point of the protruding surface 647 (at Figure 16B 65) is positioned at least one millimeter (1-mm) distal to the proximal surface 659 of the head 660. However, it is contemplated that the distal-most point of the protruding surface 647 (at Figure 16B The proximal surface 659 (shown as C2) can be positioned two millimeters (2-mm), three millimeters (3-mm), four millimeters (4-mm), or more distal to the proximal surface 659 of the head 660.

[0269] In another exemplary configuration of the attachment element 658A, the recess 661A can define a void space that allows the volume of the protruding surface 647 to be positioned within the recess 661A of the attachment element 658A. For example, the recess 661A can define a void space that allows at least ten percent (10%) of the protruding surface 647 to be positioned distally of the proximal surface 659 of the head 660. However, it is contemplated that the protruding surface 647 can be positioned within the recess 661A of the attachment element 658A such that twenty percent (20%), thirty percent (30%), or more of the protruding surface 647 is positioned distally of the proximal surface 659 of the head 660. These different dimensions ensure a secure coupling of the surgical gown 612 to the surgical helmet 620 that resists lateral and axial forces that could disengage the attachment element 658A from the coupling member 648. Additional exemplary configurations of the recess 661A of the attachment element 658A will be described in greater detail below.

[0270] refer to Figure 20A 、 20B , 20C and 20D, show detailed views of exemplary configurations of the retention feature 673. The retention feature 673 may include an aperture 675 extending at least partially through the retention feature 673. The aperture 675 of the retention feature 673 may be defined by one or more tabs 677. The tabs 677 may be sized to define the aperture 675 so that the aperture 675 creates a friction fit with the distal portion 671 of the post 667 when the distal portion 671 of the post 667 is inserted through the aperture 675 to couple the attachment element 658A to the mask 618. For example, returning to reference Figure 18D The distal portion 671 of the post 667 can be inserted through the aperture 619 in the mask 618, and the retention feature 673 can be coupled to the attachment element 658A by inserting the distal portion 671 of the post 667 into the aperture 675 of the retention feature 673.

[0271] Although not shown, it is contemplated that the attachment element 658A can also be coupled to the mask 618 by inserting a post 667 through an aperture 619 in the mask 618 and stamping the distal end of the post 667 extending beyond the distal surface of the mask 618A to form a flange on the side of the mask 618A opposite the head 660 of the attachment element 658A. The flange can abut the surface of the mask 618 and serve as a retention feature 673 for the attachment element 658A.

[0272] In configurations where the mask 618 does not include an aperture, it is also contemplated that the attachment element 658A can be coupled to the mask 618 by glue, epoxy, sealant, or other similar adhesive. It is further contemplated that the attachment element 658A can be welded or mechanically attached to the mask 618 in another manner. Figure 28A and 28BAn exemplary configuration in which attachment element 1358 is secured to fabric 614 or mask 618 with adhesive is shown in FIG.

[0273] Alternatively, the attachment element 658A may be coupled to the mask 618 by inserting the post 667 through the aperture 619 on the mask 618 and applying adhesive to the post 667 on the distal side of the mask 618 to secure the attachment element 658A to the mask 618 .

[0274] refer to Figures 21A-21C , shows perspective views of various stages of coupling the face mask 618A and (by extension) the surgical gown 612 to the surgical helmet 620. As described above, the surgical gown 612 may include tabs 655A, 655B defining the opening 656. Figure 13A and 21A -21C, the tab 655A can be formed as part of the mask 618A. Alternatively, the tab 655B can be a separate component that is separately coupled to the surgical gown 612, such as Figure 13B As shown. The top beam 629 includes a pair of laterally spaced sidewalls 639A, 639B and a proximal surface 637 of the surgical helmet 620 that defines an alignment channel 645. A protrusion 646 may extend from the proximal surface 639. The mask 618 includes a plurality of attachment members 658A (not visible) secured to the periphery of the mask 618 by retention features 673.

[0275] When the tabs 655A are formed as part of the face mask 618A, in order to couple the surgical gown 612 to the surgical helmet 620, the face mask 618A can be positioned so that the opening 656 on the tabs 655A is above the alignment channel 645 and the protrusion 646 (see FIG. Figure 21A ). The tab 655A, and by extension, the face shield 618A, can then be lowered onto the surgical helmet 620 such that at least a portion of the tab 655A is positioned within the alignment channel 645 between the pair of laterally spaced sidewalls 639A, 639B. The tab 655A should be positioned within the alignment channel 645 such that the protrusion 646 is disposed within the opening 656 of the tab 655A (see FIG. Figure 21B ). The lower portion of the mask 618A including the attachment element 658A can then be manipulated to couple the attachment element 658A to the complementary coupling member 648 positioned on the chin bar 624 (see Figure 21B and 21C ). For example, once tab 655A is positioned within alignment channel 645 and protrusion 646 is disposed within opening 656 of tab 655A, mask 618 can be pivoted about protrusion 646 to position attachment element 658A adjacent complementary coupling member 648. This is one example of a method of coupling surgical gown 612 to a surgical helmet.

[0276] Alternatively, when the tab 655B is formed independently of the mask 618B (see Figure 13B 646 .

[0277] refer to Figure 22A , shows a partial cross-sectional view of the attachment element 658A of the surgical suit 612 coupled to the coupling member 648 of the chin bar 624. The coupling member 648 is positioned in a recess of the chin bar 624. The coupling member 648 includes a protruding surface 647 that is positioned proximal to the distal surface 625 of the chin bar 624.

[0278] The protruding surface 647 of the coupling member 648 can extend at least partially into the void defined by the recess 661A of the attachment element 658A. The complementary shapes of the protruding surface 647 of the coupling member 648 and the recessed surface 674A of the attachment element 658A can be configured to slide into contact when the surgical gown 612 is coupled to the surgical helmet 620. Alternatively, it is contemplated that a void space or gap can exist between all or part of the protruding surface 647 and the recessed surface 674A. For example, the protruding surface 647 can include a sharp point with a small radius, and the recessed surface 674A can include a concave shape with a larger radius relative to the radius of the protruding surface 647. In this configuration, the point or apex of the protruding surface 647 can contact a portion of the recessed surface 674A, while the remaining portion of the protruding surface 647 has a gap between it and the recessed surface 674A.

[0279] The complementary shapes of the protruding surfaces 647 of the coupling members 648 and the recesses 661A of the attachment elements 658A can allow the attachment elements 658A to pivot about the coupling members 648 and remain coupled to the coupling members 648 at different angles. This can allow the mask 618 to have additional degrees of freedom of movement and / or positioning when being manipulated or flexed to couple the attachment elements 658A to corresponding coupling members 648, such as during the removal of one or more membrane layers from the mask 618. Furthermore, the complementary shapes of the protruding surfaces 647 of the coupling members 648 and the recesses 661A of the attachment elements 658A are designed to facilitate and / or maintain contact between the surgical gown 612 and the surgical helmet 620 during medical procedures. By adding curvature to the complementary groove 661A of the attachment element 658A of the coupling member 648 and / or the surgical protective suit 612, when the coupling member 648 and / or the attachment element 658A are matched and placed in shear force, the force is transferred to the physical material constituting the coupling member 648 and / or the attachment element 658A, thereby increasing the holding or retaining force. Additional holding force is provided by the curved and / or concave surfaces because these surfaces can pivot at positions where the best magnetic holding force is provided by the interaction of the magnetic material with the ferromagnetic material. Therefore, by allowing the attachment element 658A to rotate relative to the coupling member 648, the force (moment arm) generated by shear is dissipated. Because of the increase in surface area of contact or close proximity caused by the curved and flat surfaces, additional holding force is provided.

[0280] To couple the surgical gown 612 to the surgical helmet 620, in certain configurations, at least a portion of the head 660 of the attachment element 658A can be at least partially disposed within the recess 627 of the chin bar 624 such that the recess 661 of the attachment element 658A contacts the protruding surface 647 of the coupling member 648. It is contemplated that the proximal surface 659 of the head 660 can be disposed within the recess 627 of the chin bar 624 such that the proximal surface 659 of the head 660 is positioned at least two millimeters (2-mm) proximal to the distal surface 625 of the chin bar 624. It is further contemplated that the proximal surface 659 of the head 660 can be positioned three millimeters (3-mm) or more proximal to the distal surface 625 of the chin bar 624. It is also contemplated that if the attachment element 658A is coupled to the coupling member 648 at an angle, as permitted by the complementary surfaces 647, 674 of the respective attachment element 658A and coupling member 648, the portion of the head 660 of the attachment element 658A that is disposed within the recess 627 of the chin bar 624 can be defined as the percentage of the head 660 disposed within the recess 627. For example, at least ten percent (10%) of the volume of the head 660 of the attachment element 658A can be disposed within the recess 627 of the chin bar 624. Because the attachment element 658A is at least partially within the recess 627, the amount of force required to disengage the attachment element 658A from the coupling member 648 is greater. This is because the sidewalls of the recess 627 on the chin bar 624 can provide additional resistance to disengagement of the coupling member 648 and the attachment element 658A. For example, the sidewalls of the groove 627 on the chin bar 624 can prevent the attachment element 658A from sliding off the coupling member 648. This may be particularly the case if shear or lateral forces are applied to the mask 618. For example, when the mask 618 includes multiple removable layers for clearing debris from the mask 618, the mask 618 and (by extension) the attachment element 658A can be subjected to shear or lateral forces. The sidewalls of the groove 627 on the chin bar 624 can prevent any lateral movement of the attachment element 658A relative to the coupling member 648. This can be achieved by configuring the dimension D1 of the groove 627 on the chin bar 624 to be at least slightly larger than the dimension D2 of the head 660 of the attachment element 658A. This can prevent the attachment element 658A from sliding laterally a distance sufficient to disengage the head 660 of the attachment element 658A from the coupling member 648.

[0281] As described above, coupling member 648 includes one of a ferromagnetic material or a magnetic material and attachment element 658A includes the other of a ferromagnetic material or a magnetic material, such that coupling member 648 and attachment element 658A can be magnetically attracted to each other. In the illustrated configuration, coupling member 648 can include a magnetic material, so that a magnetic field can emanate from or otherwise be generated by coupling member 648. When coupling member 648 is coupled to attachment element 658A, when a component including a ferromagnetic material is placed adjacent thereto, the magnetic field surrounding the component including the magnetic material will be altered.

[0282] The detector 670 positioned adjacent to the coupling member 648 can include a Hall effect sensor configured to detect a change in a magnetic field, indicating that the surgical coverall 612 is coupled to the surgical helmet 620. For example, when the coupling member 648 comprises a magnetic material and the attachment element 658A comprises a ferromagnetic material, the detector 670 can detect a first magnetic field configuration surrounding the coupling member 648 when the attachment element 658A is separated from the coupling member 648. Then, when the attachment element 658A is adjacent to the coupling member 648, the detector 670 can detect a second magnetic field configuration surrounding the coupling member 648, indicating that the surgical coverall 612 is coupled to the surgical helmet 620. Alternatively, where the coupling member 648 comprises a ferromagnetic material and the attachment element 658A comprises a magnetic material, the detector 670 can detect the absence of a magnetic field surrounding the coupling member 648 when the attachment element 658A is separated from the coupling member 648. Then, when the attachment element 658A is adjacent to the coupling member 648, the detector 670 can detect the presence of the magnetic field, indicating that the surgical suit 612 is coupled to the surgical helmet 620. As described above, the controller can be configured to transmit operational commands to the detector 670 and to receive a signal from the detector 670 related to the characteristic detected by the detector 670. The signal can be based on the presence, absence, and / or change in the characteristic detected by the detector 670, which can be related to the presence or absence of the surgical suit 612 coupled to the surgical helmet 620. The controller can also be connected to one or more peripheral devices 630 of the surgical helmet 620, such as the ventilation assembly 630, wherein the controller is configured to transmit operational commands to or from the ventilation assembly 630 or other peripheral devices 630 based on the signal received from the detector 670. For example, the controller can be configured to adjust the amount of power transmitted to the ventilation system 630 to control the speed of the fan blades.

[0283] refer to Figure 22B and 22C , a schematic diagram showing a magnetic field surrounding a coupling member 648 comprising a magnetic material. Figure 22B6 shows an exemplary magnetic field surrounding the coupling member 648 when the attachment element 658A is separated from the coupling member 648 or when the attachment element 658A is not present on the coupling member 648. As described above, the detector 670 can detect the first magnetic field configuration. In contrast, Figure 22C An exemplary magnetic field around the coupling member 648 is shown when the attachment element 658A is positioned adjacent to the coupling member 648. As described above, the detector 670 can detect the second magnetic field configuration. Based on the magnetic field detected by the detector 670, the detector 670 can generate a signal indicating whether the surgical suit 612 is coupled to the surgical helmet 620.

[0284] refer to Figure 23A and 23B , shows a detailed view of a second configuration of the attachment element 658B. Similar to the attachment element 658 described above, the second configuration of the attachment element 658B includes a head 660 having a distal surface 665 and an opposing proximal surface 659. The head 660 may include a concave surface 674B that defines a groove 661B. The concave surface 674B that defines the groove 661B of the attachment element 658B may be formed such that the concave surface 674B has a multi-faceted shape. The concave surface 674B of the head 660 may include two or more faces that cooperate to define the groove 661B. It is contemplated that the number of faces of the multi-faceted groove 661B may vary to allow the groove 661B to matingly receive the protruding surface 647 of the coupling member 648 when coupled together.

[0285] refer to Figure 24A and 24B , shows a detailed view of a third configuration of the attachment element 658C. Similar to the attachment element 658 described above, the third configuration of the attachment element 658C includes a head 660 having a distal surface 665 and an opposing proximal surface 659. The head 660 may include a recessed surface 674C defining a recess 661C. The recess 661C of the attachment element 658C includes a cylindrical shape. It is contemplated that the depth and / or diameter of the cylindrical shape of the recess 661C may vary to allow the recess 661C to matingly receive the protruding surface 647 of the coupling member 648 when coupled together. Although Figure 24A and 24B The surface 674C of the groove 661C shown in FIG. 6 comprises a flat surface, but it is contemplated that the concave surface 674C defining the groove 661C can exhibit an arcuate shape.

[0286] refer to Figure 25A and 25B, shows a detailed view of a fourth configuration of the attachment element 658D. Similar to the attachment element 658 described above, the fourth configuration of the attachment element 658D includes a head 660 having a distal surface 665 and an opposing proximal surface 659. The head 660 may include a concave surface 674D defining a groove 661D. The groove 661D of the attachment element 658D includes a bowl-like shape with a flat surface. The flat surface can be positioned near the center and / or apex of the groove 661D. It is contemplated that the depth and / or radius of the curved portion of the bowl-shaped groove 661D can vary to allow the groove 661D to matingly receive the protruding surface 647 of the coupling member 648 when coupled together.

[0287] refer to Figure 26A and 26B , shows a detailed view of a fifth configuration of the attachment element 658E. Similar to the attachment element 658 described above, the fifth configuration of the attachment element 658E includes a head 660 having a distal surface 665 and an opposing proximal surface 659. The head 660 can include a concave surface 674E defining a recess 661E. The head 660 can also include a rim 663 at least partially surrounding the recess 661E. The recess 661E of the attachment element 658E can include a generally concave shape. Figure 26A and 26B The radius of curvature and / or depth of the groove 661E shown in FIG is not intended to be limiting. It is contemplated that the depth and / or radius of the groove 661E may vary to allow the groove to cooperatively receive the protruding surface 647 of the coupling member when coupled together.

[0288] As described above, the attachment element 658 includes both ferromagnetic and diamagnetic materials. At least a portion of the head 660 and / or the attachment element 658E may include diamagnetic material, and then the head 660 and / or the attachment element 658 may be coated with a ferromagnetic material configured to interact with the coupling member 648, which includes a magnetic material. Alternatively, the head 660 of the attachment element 658E may include diamagnetic material and further include ferromagnetic material disposed within the diamagnetic material of the head 660. Figure 26A and 26B The fifth configuration of the attachment element 658E shown in FIG is an example configuration of such an attachment element 658E. The attachment element 658E may also include a plurality of inserts 633 spaced around a rim 663 surrounding a groove 661E. The head 660 of the attachment element 658 may be formed of a diamagnetic material. The inserts 633 may then include a ferromagnetic material and be at least partially disposed within the head 660. The ferromagnetic material of the inserts 633 may be configured to interact with the coupling member 648 via magnetic attraction. Figure 26A and 26BThe positions and orientations of the inserts 633 shown in the figure are intended to serve as exemplary configurations only. It is contemplated that the number of inserts 633 may be increased or decreased as needed to generate the necessary magnetic force between the coupling member 648 and the attachment element 658E. One or more inserts 633 may be positioned on or within the proximal surface 659 and / or rim 663 of the head 660. The inserts 633 may also be positioned and / or at least partially disposed within the recessed surface 674E of the head 660 of the attachment element 658E. Additionally, while Figure 26A and 26B 65. In the embodiment of the present invention, the insert 633 is shown as being positioned within the proximal surface 659 and / or the rim 663 and within the recessed surface 674E of the head 660, but it is contemplated that the insert 633 may be positioned only within the proximal surface 659 and / or the rim 663, or only within the recessed surface 674E. Furthermore, while at least a portion of the insert 633 is illustrated as forming a portion of the proximal surface 659, the rim 663, and / or the recessed surface 674E, it is also contemplated that the insert 633 may be positioned so as to be completely disposed within and / or surrounded by the head 660. Alternatively, when the coupling member 648 comprises a ferromagnetic material, it is contemplated that the head 660 may comprise a diamagnetic material and the insert 633 may comprise a magnetic material configured to interact with the coupling member 648 via magnetic attraction.

[0289] refer to Figure 27A and 27B , shows a detailed view of a sixth configuration of an attachment element 758. Similar to the attachment element 658 described above, the fifth configuration of the attachment element 758 includes a head 760 having a distal surface 765 and an opposing proximal surface 759. However, unlike the previously described attachment element 658, the head 760 of the attachment element 758 can be configured as a ring, washer, or similar shape that defines an aperture through the head 760. The attachment element 758 can also include a post 767 having a proximal portion 769. The proximal portion 769 can be coupled to the distal surface 765 of the head 760. The proximal portion 769 of the post 767 can include an arch, U-shape, or similar curved shape, with opposite ends coupled to the distal surface 765 of the head 760. The combination of the head 760 and the proximal portion 769 of the post 767 can define a recess 761 of the attachment element 758 for receiving the protruding surface 647 of the coupling member 648. It is contemplated that the depth and / or radius of the head 760 may vary to allow the groove 761 to matingly receive the protruding surface 647 of the coupling member 648 when coupled thereto.

[0290] refer to Figure 28A and 28B, illustrates a detailed view of a seventh configuration of the attachment element 858. Similar to the attachment element 658 described above, the sixth configuration of the attachment element 858 includes a head 860 having proximal surfaces 859A, 859B. However, unlike the previously described attachment elements 658, 758, the head 860 of the attachment element 858 may include an arch, U-shape, or similar curved shape, with opposite ends terminating in the proximal surfaces 859A, 859B. The head 860 of the attachment element 858 may include two legs 863A, 863B that define a recess 861 of the attachment element 858 configured to receive the protruding surface 647 of the coupling member 648. Thus, even if the attachment element 858 does not include a surface that surrounds the recess 861 360 degrees, the attachment element 858 may still define the recess 861. It is contemplated that the depth and / or radius of the legs 863A, 863B of the head 860 may vary to allow the groove 861 to matingly receive the protruding surface 647 of the coupling member 648 when coupled thereto.

[0291] refer to Figure 29A and 29B , a detailed view of an eighth configuration of the attachment element 958 is shown. Similar to the attachment elements 658, 758, 858 described above, the seventh configuration of the attachment element 958 includes a head 960A, 960B having a distal surface 965 and an opposing proximal surface 959. However, unlike the previously described attachment elements, the attachment element 958 can be configured without a post. The head 960A, 960B of the attachment element 958 can include two or more arcuate segments that at least partially define an annular or circular-like shape to define the recess 961 of the head 960. Although Figure 29A and 29B The head 960A, 960B of the attachment element 958 in FIG. 6 includes two head portions 960A, 960B, but it is contemplated that the head 960A, 960B may be configured as a solid ring or similar polygonal shape defining an aperture therethrough. Alternatively, it is also contemplated that the head 960A, 960B may be configured as more than two portions configured and / or arranged to define a ring or similar polygonal shape defining a recess 961 that engages with the mask 618.

[0292] because Figure 29A and 29BThe exemplary configuration of the attachment element 958 shown in does not include a post, so each portion of the head 960A, 960B can be directly coupled to the mask 618. For example, the distal surfaces 965A, 965B can be directly coupled to the mask 618 using epoxy, glue, sealant, or a similar adhesive. However, it should be understood that it is contemplated that each portion of the head 960A, 960B can include a post configured for coupling each portion of the head 960A, 960B to the mask 618 via corresponding orifices positioned to orient the portions of the head 960A, 960B in a similar configuration, as shown. Figure 29A and 29B shown.

[0293] In this configuration, the combination of the portions of the head 960A, 960B and the mask 618 and / or surgical gown 612 can cooperate to define a recess 961 of the attachment element 958 configured to receive the protruding surface 647 of the coupling member 648. It is contemplated that the depth and / or radius of the portions of the head 960A, 960B of the attachment element 958 can vary to allow the recess 961 to matingly receive the protruding surface 647 of the coupling member 648 when coupled together.

[0294] The previously described configurations of coupling members 648 and attachment elements 658, 758, 858, 958 include coupling members 648 having protruding surfaces 647 and attachment elements 658, 758, 858, 958, 961 having recesses 661, 761, 861. However, the reverse relationship between the coupling members and attachment elements is contemplated. Figure 30 , shows a partial schematic diagram of a ninth configuration in which an attachment element 1058 is coupled to a coupling member 1048. The attachment element 1058 can include a head 1060 including a proximal surface 1059 and an opposite distal surface 1065. The proximal surface 1059 can be configured to include a generally convex, hemispherical, or similarly curved shape. The attachment element 1058 can also include a post 1067 extending distally from the distal surface 1065 of the head 1060. The post 1067 can include a proximal portion 1069 and a distal portion 1071. As described above, the proximal portion 1069 and the distal portion 1071 can include different sizes. For example, the post 1067 can be configured such that the proximal portion 1069 includes a larger size than the distal portion 1071, thereby forming a shoulder. At least the distal portion 1071 of the post 1067 should fit within the aperture 619 of the mask 618 to couple the attachment element 1058 to the mask 618. Figure 30The exemplary configuration of the attachment element 1058 shown in FIG includes a post 1067 in which the proximal portion 1069 comprises a larger size than the distal portion 1071, but it is contemplated that the post 1067 may comprise a single uniform size configured to fit within the aperture 619 of the mask 618. The distal portion of the post 1067 may also include a retaining feature 1073 configured to couple the attachment element 1058 to the mask 618. The retaining feature 1073 may comprise a nut, a cap, a friction fit, or a similar fastener. Alternatively, the distal end of the distal portion 1071 may be mushroom-shaped to define the retaining feature 1073.

[0295] The coupling member 1048 can include a distal surface 1047 , wherein the distal surface 1047 comprises a concave or similarly curved shape configured to define a groove 1061 to receive a proximal surface 1059 of the attachment element 1048 .

[0296] refer to Figure 31 , shows a partial schematic diagram of a tenth configuration of an attachment element 1158 coupled to a coupling member 1148. Attachment element 1158 may include a head 1160 comprising a proximal surface 1159 and an opposing distal surface 1165. Proximal surface 1159 may have a generally convex shape including a flat portion 1161. Proximal surface 1159 may be configured such that flat portion 1161 is positioned proximal to the apex of convex proximal surface 1159. Attachment element 1158 may also include a post 1167 extending distally from distal surface 1165 of head 1160. The post may include a proximal portion 1169 and a distal portion 1171. As described above, proximal portion 1169 and distal portion 1171 may comprise different dimensions. For example, post 1167 may be configured such that proximal portion 1169 comprises a larger dimension than distal portion 1171, thereby forming a shoulder. At least the distal portion 1171 of the post 1167 should be configured to fit within the aperture 619 of the mask 618 to couple the attachment element 1158 to the mask 618. Figure 31 The exemplary configuration of the attachment element 1158 shown in FIG includes a post 1167, and the proximal portion 1169 includes a larger size than the distal portion 1171, but it is contemplated that the post 1167 may include a single uniform size configured to fit within the aperture 619 of the mask 618. The distal portion of the post 1167 may also include a retaining feature 1173 configured to couple the attachment element 1158 to the mask 618. The retaining feature 1173 may include a nut, a cap, a friction fit, or a similar fastener. Alternatively, the distal end of the distal portion 1171 may be mushroom-shaped to define the retaining feature 1173.

[0297] The coupling member 1148 may include a distal surface 1147 , wherein the distal surface 1147 includes a concave or similarly curved shape configured to define a groove 1161 to receive the proximal surface 1159 of the attachment element 1148 .

[0298] refer to Figure 32 , a partial schematic diagram of an eleventh configuration of an attachment element 1258 coupled to a coupling member 1248 is shown. Attachment element 1258 may include a head 1260 including a proximal surface 1259 and an opposing distal surface 1265. Proximal surface 1259 may have a generally convex, hemispherical, or similarly curved shape. Attachment element 1258 may also include a post 1267 extending distally from distal surface 1265 of head 1260. Figure 32 The exemplary configuration of the attachment element 1258 shown in FIG includes a post 1267 comprising a single uniform size configured to fit within the orifice 619 of the mask 618. However, as described above, the post 1267 may include a proximal portion and a distal portion, wherein the proximal portion may include a different size than the distal portion, thereby forming a shoulder.

[0299] As described above, the distal portion of the post 1267 can also include a retaining feature 1273 configured to couple the attachment element 1258 to the mask 618. The retaining feature 1273 can include a nut, a cap, a friction fit, or a similar fastener. Alternatively, the distal end of the distal portion 1271 can be mushroom-shaped to define the retaining feature 1273.

[0300] In at least one embodiment, the coupling member 1248 can comprise a distal surface 1247 , wherein the distal surface 1247 comprises a concave or similarly curved shape configured to define a recess for receiving a proximal surface 1259 of the attachment element 1248 .

[0301] refer to Figure 33 , shows a partial schematic diagram of a twelfth configuration of an attachment element 1358 coupled to a coupling member 1348. Attachment element 1358 may include a head 1360 comprising a proximal surface 1359 and an opposing distal surface 1365. Proximal surface 1359 may have a generally convex shape including a plurality of flat portions 1361A, 1361B. Proximal surface 1359 may be configured such that at least one of the flat portions 1361B is positioned near the apex of convex proximal surface 1359. Another flat portion 1361A may be positioned at the periphery of head 1360 near the intersection of proximal surface 1359 and distal surface 1365. Attachment element 1358 may also include a post 1367 extending distally from distal surface 1365 of head 1360. Figure 33The exemplary configuration of the attachment element 1358 shown in FIG includes a post 1367 comprising a single uniform size configured to fit within the orifice 619 of the mask 618. However, as described above, the post 1367 can include a proximal portion and a distal portion, wherein the proximal portion can include a different size than the distal portion, thereby forming a shoulder. The distal portion of the post 1367 can also include a retaining feature 1373, which is configured to couple the attachment element 1358 to the mask 618. The retaining feature 1373 can include a nut, a cap, a friction fit, or a similar fastener. Alternatively, the distal end of the distal portion 1371 can be mushroom-shaped to define the retaining feature 1373.

[0302] Coupling member 1348 may include a distal surface 1347 , wherein distal surface 1347 includes a concave or curved-like shape configured to define a groove 1361 for receiving a proximal surface 1359 of an attachment element 1358 .

[0303] exist Figures 30-33 In each of the various configurations shown, the attachment element 1058, 1158, 1258, 1358 includes a proximal surface 1059, 1159, 1259, 1359 having a generally convex, hemispherical, or similarly curved shape, and the complementary coupling member 1048, 1148, 1248, 1348 includes a distal surface 1047, 1147, 1247, 1347 having a concave or similarly curved shape. Similar to the configurations of attachment elements and coupling members described above, Figures 30-33 The shapes of the attachment elements 1058, 1158, 1258, 1358 and coupling members 1048, 1148, 1248, 1348 allow the attachment elements 1058, 1158, 1258, 1358 to pivot or rotate relative to the coupling members 1048, 1148, 1248, 1348. This also allows the attachment elements 1058, 1158, 1258, 1358 to be coupled to the coupling members 1048, 1148, 1248, 1348 at different angles without reducing the strength of the magnetic bond between the attachment elements 1058, 1158, 1258, 1358 and the coupling members 1048, 1148, 1248, 1348. This may increase the amount of force required to disengage the attachment elements 1058 , 1158 , 1258 , 1358 from the coupling members 1048 , 1148 , 1248 , 1348 .

[0304] Method of operating any of the above surgical garment systems:

[0305] A method of operating a surgical garment system 110 can include providing a surgical garment system 110, 610 in any of the configurations described above. For example, the method can include providing a surgical helmet 120, 620 configured to be worn on an individual's head, and a surgical gown 112, 612 configured to be removably coupled to the surgical helmet 120, 620 to provide a microbial barrier between the medical environment and the wearer. The surgical helmet 120, 620 can include one or more peripheral devices 130, 630 configured to facilitate the performance of the individual wearing the surgical helmet 120, 620 during a surgical procedure. The surgical helmet 120, 620 can also include a detector 170, 270, 370, 470, 570, 670 configured to detect coupling of the surgical gown 112, 612 to the surgical helmet 120, 620 and transmit a signal based at least in part on the presence or absence of the surgical gown 112, 612 coupled to the surgical helmet 120, 620. The controller 180, 680 may also be coupled to the surgical helmet 120, 620 and configured to communicate with the detectors 170, 270, 370, 470, 570, 670 and / or the peripheral devices 130, 630. The system 110, 610 may also include a portable energy source 182 that is removably interconnected with the surgical helmet 120, 620. The portable energy source 182 may be configured to communicate with the controller 180.

[0306] The method may also include attaching or coupling a portable energy source 182 to the system 110, 610. For example, an energy source 182, such as a battery pack, may be coupled to a battery receiver of the surgical helmet 120, 620 or otherwise placed in electrical communication with the surgical helmet 120, 620.

[0307] Another step in the method can include detecting and / or determining whether the surgical coverall 112, 612 is coupled to the surgical helmet 120, 620 using the detector 170, 270, 370, 470, 570, 670. This can be accomplished using any of the various configurations of the detectors 170, 270, 370, 470, 570, 670 described above, or other configurations not specifically described herein. For example, the presence or absence of the surgical coverall 112 coupled to the surgical helmet 120 can be determined using a first configuration of the detector 170, wherein the first member 154 is configured to selectively engage the toggle member 172 of the detector 170 based at least in part on the proximity of the attachment element 158 to the distal surface 147 of the coupling feature 146. Alternatively, the presence or absence of the surgical coverall 112 coupled to the surgical helmet 120 can be detected using a second configuration of the detector 270, wherein the first member 254 is configured to selectively move between the first region and the second region based at least in part on the proximity of the attachment element 158 to the distal surface 247 of the coupling feature 246. In yet another example, the presence or absence of the surgical coverall 612 coupled to the surgical helmet 620 can be detected using one of various combinations of attachment elements and coupling members with the detector 670, wherein the detector 670 is configured to sense or detect changes in the magnetic field around the coupling members 648, 748, 848, 948, 1048 based on the proximity of the attachment elements 658, 758, 858, 958, 1058, 1158, 1258, 1358 to the coupling members 648, 748, 848, 948, 1048.

[0308] The method may further include controlling an operating characteristic of the peripheral device 130, 630 based at least in part on whether the detector 170, 270, 370, 470, 570, 670 indicates that the surgical suit 112, 612 is coupled to the surgical helmet 120, 620. The controller 180 may be configured to selectively control one or more operating characteristics of the peripheral device 130, 630. The controller 180 may be configured to control, for example, enable, power transfer to and / or from the energy source 182 to the peripheral device 130, 630. In other words, the controller 180 may control whether the peripheral device 130, 630 may be activated. It may also include controlling the maximum and / or minimum operating speed of the peripheral device 130, 630. For example, the controller 180 can be configured to prevent the transmission of energy and / or limit the amount of energy transmitted to the peripheral device 130, 630 (e.g., by limiting the voltage) before the detector 170, 270, 370, 470, 570, 670 indicates that the surgical suit 112, 612 is connected to the surgical helmet 120, 620.

[0309] As described above, the surgical helmet 120, 620 of the system 110, 610 may also include a memory device 184 coupled to the surgical helmet 120, 620 and in communication with the controller 180. The memory device 184 may be configured to store data related to the operation of the peripheral devices 130, 630. The data on the memory device 184 may include the current operating settings of the peripheral devices, such as fan speed, cooling intensity, and / or illuminated lights. The data on the memory device 184 may also include maximum and minimum operating conditions for each peripheral device 130, 630 of the surgical helmet 120, 620.

[0310] As described above, the system 110, 610 may also include an energy sensor 186 in communication with the controller 180 and / or the energy source 182. The energy sensor 186 may be configured to detect characteristics of the energy source 182 and transmit an energy signal to the controller 180 based on the detected characteristics of the energy source 182. For example, the energy sensor 186 may be configured to transmit an energy signal to the controller 180 when the remaining power drops below a threshold. The threshold may be set by the controller 180 or may be set by a user. For example, the energy sensor 186 may be configured to transmit an energy signal to the controller 180 when the remaining power level drops below 15 percent (%).

[0311] The method may also include coupling the surgical coverall 112, 612 to the surgical helmet 120, 620 such that the surgical coverall 112, 612 is at least partially disposed over the surgical helmet 120, 620. The surgical coverall 112, 612 may be coupled to the surgical helmet 120, 620 using any configuration of the attachment elements 158, 558, 658, 758, 858, 958, 1058, 1158, 1258, 1358, coupling members 148, 648, 748, 848, 948, 1048, and coupling features 146, 246, 346, 446, 546 described above, or other features not specifically described. This may include placing the attachment elements 158, 558, 658, 758, 858, 958, 1058, 1158, 1258, 1358 of the surgical suit 112, 612 adjacent to the coupling members 148, 648, 748, 848, 948, 1048 and / or the coupling features 146, 246, 346, 446, 546 of the surgical helmet 120, 620.

[0312] After connecting energy source 182 to system 110, 610, the method may further include transmitting an energy signal from energy sensor 186 to controller 180, the energy signal indicating a characteristic of energy source 182, such as the remaining power level of energy source 182. The method may then include storing at least one user setting for peripheral device 130, 630 based on the energy signal. For example, controller 180 may be configured to store at least one user setting for peripheral device 130, 630 based on the energy signal, such as each time an occurrence of the energy signal indicates that the remaining power level decreases by 10 percent (%) increments. Alternatively, controller 180 may be configured to store at least one user setting for peripheral device 130, 630 when the energy signal indicates that the remaining power level has dropped below a threshold (e.g., when the remaining power decreases by 15 percent (%)). Controller 180 may be configured to store the current user setting for peripheral device 130, 630 on memory device 184. More generally, this feature allows user settings for peripheral device 130, 630 to be stored before the battery enters a low-power state or ceases to operate.

[0313] The method may further include replacing the energy source 182 with the second energy source 182 while the surgical coverall 112, 612 is coupled to the surgical helmet 120, 620. Once the second energy source 182 is connected to the system 110, 610, the controller 180 may be configured to provide a signal 182 to the peripheral device 130 based on the user settings for the peripheral device 130, 630 (e.g., the most recently stored user settings) from the memory device 184. The controller 180 may also be configured to restart the peripheral device 130, 630 based on the most recently stored user settings after replacing the energy source 182. This may depend on a signal from the detector 170, 670 indicating that the surgical coverall 112, 612 remained coupled to the surgical helmet 120, 620 while the energy source 182 was replaced, i.e., the controller did not receive a signal from the detector indicating that the coverall was disconnected from the surgical helmet 120, 620 while the first or second energy source was communicating with the controller. For example, if a user is operating a peripheral device 130, 630, such as operating the ventilation assembly at a third fan speed setting, the controller 180 can be configured to restart the ventilation assembly 130, 630 at the third fan speed setting after connecting the second energy source 182. This configuration of the system can further include a capacitor or auxiliary backup energy source in communication with the detector 170, 270, 370, 470, 570, 670 and configured to temporarily power the detector 170, 270, 370, 470, 570, 670 when the energy source 182 is disconnected. This will allow the detector 170, 270, 370, 470, 570, 670 to continue detecting characteristics indicating whether the surgical protective suit 112, 612 remains coupled to the surgical helmet 120, 620.

[0314] The method may also include deleting user settings of the peripheral device 130 stored on the memory device 184 when the detector 170, 270, 370, 470, 570, 670 indicates that the surgical coverall 112, 612 is separated from or absent from the surgical helmet 120, 620 and / or the energy source 182, or a subsequent energy source 182, is disconnected from the system 110, 610. Once both the surgical coverall 112, 612 and the energy source 182 have been removed from the surgical helmet 120, 620, the stored user settings related to the operation of the peripheral device 130, 630 may be cleared from the memory device 184 and the peripheral device 130, 630 may be reset to its default settings.

[0315] In another exemplary configuration, the method may further include storing user settings for the peripheral devices 130, 630 on the memory device 184 and detaching the surgical suit 112, 612 from the surgical helmet 120, 620 while the energy source 182 is in communication with the controller 180. If the detector 170, 270, 370, 470, 570, 670 determines that the surgical suit 112, 612 is detached from the surgical helmet 120, 620, the controller 180 may stop supplying power to the peripheral devices 130, 630. After the first surgical suit 112, 612 is removed, the second surgical suit 112, 612 may be coupled to the surgical helmet 120, 620 while the energy source 182 remains in communication with the controller 180. The controller 180 may be configured to transfer the most recently stored user settings from the memory device 184 to the peripheral devices 130, 630 after the second surgical suit 112, 612 is coupled to the surgical helmet 120, 620. In doing so, the controller 180 may be configured to restart the peripheral device 130 , 630 based on the settings most recently stored before the first surgical suit 112 , 612 was removed.

[0316] The method may also include deleting user settings of the peripheral devices 130, 630 stored on the memory device 184 when the detector 170, 270, 370, 470, 570, 670 indicates to the controller 180 that the surgical suit 112, 612 is separated from the surgical helmet 120, 620 and the energy source 182 is disconnected from the surgical helmet 120, 620. This may restore or reset the peripheral devices 130, 630 to their default settings.

[0317] In yet another exemplary configuration, the system may include a memory device 184 configured to store data related to one or more configurations of the surgical suit 112, 612. The method may include identifying one of a plurality of configurations of the surgical suit 112, 612 coupled to the surgical helmet 120, 620 using the detector 170, 270, 370, 470, 570, 670, transmitting the identified configuration of the surgical suit to the controller 180, and transmitting a command related to at least one operational characteristic of the peripheral device 130, 630 based at least in part on the identified configuration of the surgical suit 112, 612. For example, the controller 180 may be configured to control the operational characteristic of the peripheral device 130, 630 based on the thickness or density of the fabric 114 / 116, 614 / 616 of the surgical suit 112, 612 coupled to the surgical helmet 120, 620. This may include increasing the speed of the peripheral device 130 , 630 , such as the ventilation assembly 130 , 630 , when the surgical suit 112 , 612 including the denser filtering fabric 116 , 616 material is coupled to the surgical helmet 120 , 620 .

[0318] In another exemplary method of operating the system 110, 610, the method can include coupling the surgical coverall 112, 612 to the surgical helmet 120, 620 such that the surgical coverall 112, 612 is at least partially disposed on the surgical helmet 120, 620. The method can also include receiving a signal from a detector 170, 270, 370, 470, 570, 670 indicating that the surgical coverall 112, 612 is coupled to the surgical helmet 120, 620, and delaying the transmission of power from the energy source 182 to the peripheral device 130, 630 for a defined first time period after receiving the signal from the detector 170, 270, 370, 470, 570, 670. In other words, the controller 180 is configured to transmit power to the peripheral device 130, 630 only after the surgical coverall 112, 612 has been coupled to the helmet 120, 620 and the first time period has elapsed. The length of the first period can be adjusted based on user preferences or based on the expected amount of time required to complete a task before power is transmitted to the peripheral devices 130, 630. For example, the controller 180 can be configured to delay the transmission of power from the energy source 182 to the peripheral devices 130, 630 by 5 seconds after a signal from the detector 170, 270, 370, 470, 570, 670 indicates that the surgical suit 112, 612 is coupled to the surgical helmet 120, 612. This can allow the wearer additional time to properly fit and / or adjust the surgical suit 112, 612 before the peripheral devices 130, 630 (e.g., ventilation components) begin operating. This can prevent the circulation of microorganisms in the operating room before appropriate sterile barriers are in place.

[0319] The method may also include separating the surgical suit 112, 612 from the surgical helmet 120, 620. The method may include receiving a signal from the detector 170, 270, 370, 470, 570, 670 indicating that the surgical suit 112, 612 is separated from the surgical helmet 120, 620, and continuing to transmit power to the peripheral device 130, 630 for a defined second time period after receiving the signal from the detector 170, 270, 370, 470, 570, 670. For example, the controller 180 may be configured to continue transmitting power from the energy source 182 to the peripheral device 130, 630 for five seconds after receiving the signal from the detector 170, 270, 370, 470, 570, 670 indicating that the surgical suit 112, 612 is separated from the surgical helmet 120, 620. This may allow operation of peripheral devices 130 , 630 , such as ventilation components, to be briefly continued after the surgical suit 112 , 612 is removed to clear any debris from the peripheral devices 130 , 630 .

[0320] Other features, components and / or subassemblies may be incorporated or combined with any of the surgical garment systems 10, 110, 610 described above. Figure 34 、 35 36 and 36 for use with a surgical garment system and are described below with respect to universal system 1410. It should be understood that any components and / or features of universal system 1410 described below may be incorporated and / or combined with surgical garment systems 10, 110, 610 described above.

[0321] The system 1410 may further include a transceiver 1490 coupled to the surgical helmet 1420 and in communication with the controller 1480. The controller 1480 may be operably coupled to the transceiver 1490 and configured to transmit data therebetween.

[0322] The system 1410 may also include an electromagnetic tag 1492 attached to the surgical suit 1412 or medical protective suit. For example, the electromagnetic tag 1492 may include an RFID tag, or a similar tag configured to contain identifying information associated with the specific surgical suit 1412. The electromagnetic tag 1492 may be positioned anywhere on the surgical suit 1412. For example, the electromagnetic tag 1492 may be attached to the filter fabric 1416 of the surgical suit 1412. Alternatively, the electromagnetic tag 1492 may be attached to the surgical fabric 1414 of the surgical suit 1412, or may be attached to the control housing of the surgical suit 1412. In one configuration, the tag 1492 may be attached to the surgical suit 1412 on the wearer's side to reduce the possibility of introducing non-sterile or contaminated items on the environmental side of the barrier defined by the surgical suit 1412. Alternatively, it is also contemplated that the tag 1492 may be attached to the surgical suit 1412 on the environmental side of the barrier defined by the surgical suit 1412.

[0323] The electromagnetic tag 1492 can be configured to transmit or otherwise communicate information, including information related to a particular surgical suit 1412, to a transceiver 1490 coupled to the surgical helmet 1420. In one exemplary configuration, the electromagnetic tag 1492 can be configured to activate upon receiving a signal, such as a data transmission request, from the transceiver 1490. Upon activation of the electromagnetic tag 1492, the electromagnetic tag 1492 can transmit a signal back to the transceiver 1490 that includes data related to the surgical suit 1412 associated with the electromagnetic tag 1492. In this configuration, the transceiver 1490 can be configured to actively broadcast a signal requesting a data transmission. This signal can be broadcast from the transceiver 1490 over a defined distance, and when the electromagnetic tag 1492 is within the defined distance of the transceiver 1490, the electromagnetic tag 1492 can be configured to transmit a return signal that includes data related to the surgical suit 1412. In an exemplary configuration, the electromagnetic tag 1492 can be positioned on the surgical gown 1412 such that the electromagnetic tag 1492 can be positioned in close proximity to the transceiver 1490 when the surgical gown 1412 is attached to the surgical helmet 1420. This arrangement can allow data to be transmitted from the electromagnetic tag 1492 to the transceiver 1490 when the surgical gown 1412 and the surgical helmet 1420 are coupled to one another. For example, an exemplary arrangement of the electromagnetic tag 1492 and the transceiver 1490 can include the electromagnetic tag 1492 attached to the filtering fabric 1416 while the transceiver 1490 is enclosed in the housing 1432 of the surgical helmet 1420.

[0324] As described above, the electromagnetic tag 1492 can be configured to store data and / or identifiers associated with the surgical gown 1412, such as a serial number identifying a particular surgical gown 1412. The electromagnetic tag 1492 can also be configured to store information identifying the type of surgical gown 1412 associated with the electromagnetic tag 1492. The electromagnetic tag 1492 can also store data on operating parameters of the peripheral device 1430 for the surgical helmet 1420 that best suits the operation of the peripheral device 1430 based on the characteristics of the particular surgical gown 1412 attached to the surgical helmet 1420, such as the size of the surgical gown 1412, the type of fabric, whether the surgical gown 1412 is a hood or gown, etc.

[0325] The transceiver 1490 of the helmet 1420 can be operably connected to the controller 1480, wherein the transceiver 1490 is configured to transmit data and / or information received from the electromagnetic tag 1492 to the controller 1480. As described above, the information received from the electromagnetic tag 1492 can be related to an identifier of the personal surgical suit 1412. The controller 1480 is also connected to one or more peripheral devices 1430 of the surgical helmet 1420 and can be configured to transmit operational commands to the peripheral devices 1430 based at least in part on the information related to the surgical suit 1412 received from the transceiver 1490. For example, the controller 1480 can be configured such that only after the surgical suit 1412 is mounted on the surgical helmet 1420, as confirmed by the transceiver 1490 identifying the electromagnetic tag 1492 of the surgical suit 1412, does the controller 1480 generate an operational command to activate the peripheral devices 1430 of the surgical helmet 1420. In other words, controller 1480 can be prevented from generating operating commands for one or more of peripheral devices 1430 and / or from transmitting energy to one or more of peripheral devices 1430 until transceiver 1490 transmits a signal corresponding to an appropriate identifier read on surgical coverall 1412. Because transceiver 1490 reads electromagnetic tag 1492 as soon as surgical coverall 1412 is placed near surgical helmet 1420, this eliminates the disadvantages associated with providing surgical garment system 1410 with vent assembly 1430 or other peripheral devices 1430 that are activated before surgical coverall 1412 is placed on surgical helmet 1420. As described above with respect to the functionality of coupling features 146, 246, 346, 446, this eliminates one disadvantage of vent assembly 1430 generating noise when it is not serving a useful purpose. A second disadvantage that may be eliminated by preventing actuation of the peripheral device 1430 prior to mounting the surgical suit 1412 to the surgical helmet 1420 is the drop in charge in the energy source 182 when actuation of the peripheral device 1430 is not required.

[0326] In another exemplary configuration, a wearable surgical suit 1412, also referred to as a medical protective suit, is configured for use with a surgical helmet 1420. The suit 1412 may further include an electromagnetic tag 1492 configured to store data associated with the suit 1412. The electromagnetic tag 1492 may be configured to exchange data with a transceiver 1490 of the surgical helmet 1420, also referred to as an electromagnetic reader, when the electromagnetic tag 1492 and the transceiver 1490 are within a specified proximity relative to each other. The data stored on the electromagnetic tag 1492 associated with the surgical suit 1412 may include an identifier specific to the suit 1412. Operation of the peripheral devices 1430 of the surgical helmet 1420 may be based at least in part on the stored identifier. The data stored on the electromagnetic tag 1492 associated with the surgical suit 1412 may further include usage data indicating whether the surgical suit 1412 has been previously coupled to the surgical helmet 1420. The usage data may also indicate how many times the surgical suit 1412 has been previously coupled to the surgical helmet 1420. The data stored on the electromagnetic tag 1492 related to the surgical suit 1412 may also include authentication data indicating whether the surgical suit 1412 is compatible with the surgical helmet 1420. This authentication data may include the dimensions of the surgical suit 1412, the suit type, the suit manufacturer, and the like. The stored data related to the surgical suit 1412 may also include operational data, including data for generating operational commands for the peripheral devices 1430 of the surgical helmet 1420 based at least in part on the operational data. The operational data may include specific operational modes for the peripheral devices 1430 of the surgical helmet 1420 based on the characteristics of the surgical suit 1412. For example, the operational data stored on the electromagnetic tag 1492 related to a particular surgical suit 1412 may include minimum and maximum setting information for each peripheral device 1430 based on the characteristics of the surgical suit 1412. The stored data associated with the surgical suit 1412 may also include an identifier, wherein the identifier is used to identify and / or track the use of the surgical suit 1412. For example, the identifier may include a serial number specific to the surgical suit 1412, so that the use and location of the surgical suit 1412 can be tracked. If the usage data associated with the surgical suit 1412 indicates that the use of a particular surgical suit 1412 has exceeded a predetermined or threshold number of uses, such as a single use, the controller 1480 may prevent operation of the peripheral device 1430. Alternatively, the controller 1480 may be configured to allow a particular type of surgical suit 1412 to be worn multiple times, such as three times, before the controller 1480 is configured to prevent operation of the peripheral device 1430.

[0327] In another exemplary configuration, the surgical garment system 1410 may include a surgical helmet 1420 worn on the wearer's head. The surgical helmet 1420 may include a peripheral device 1430 and a transceiver 1490. The system 1410 may also include a surgical protective suit 1412, which may also be referred to as a medical protective suit, including a surgical fabric 214 / 216 or shell configured to be at least partially disposed on the surgical helmet 1420 to provide a microbial barrier between the medical environment and the wearer. An electromagnetic tag 1492 may be coupled to the surgical protective suit 1412, wherein the electromagnetic tag 1492 may be configured to store an identifier associated with the surgical protective suit 1412. An antenna may be operably coupled to the transceiver 1490 and configured to communicate with the electromagnetic tag 1492 to receive an identifier associated with the surgical protective suit 1412. The surgical garment system 1410 may also include a controller 1480, which is operably coupled to the peripheral device 1430 and the transceiver 1490. Controller 1480 can be configured to transmit an operational command to peripheral device 1430 based at least in part on an identifier associated with surgical coverall 1412. Electromagnetic tag 1492 can be configured to store and transmit usage data of surgical coverall 1412, and controller 1480 can be configured to determine whether surgical coverall 1412 has been previously worn with surgical helmet 1420. Controller 1480 can be configured to prevent activation of peripheral device 1430 if surgical coverall 1412 has been previously worn, based at least in part on the stored usage data. Electromagnetic tag 1492 can also be configured to store authentication data for surgical coverall 1412, and controller 1480 can be configured to determine whether surgical coverall 1412 is compatible with surgical helmet 1420. Controller 1480 can be configured to prevent activation of peripheral device 1430 if surgical coverall 1412 is not compatible with surgical helmet 1420, based at least in part on the stored authentication data. When the identifier is associated with the type of surgical suit 1412, the controller 1480 can be configured to determine an operating mode of (generate operating commands for) the peripheral device 1430 based at least in part on the type of surgical suit 1412 attached to the surgical helmet 1420. For example, the controller 1480 can be configured to increase or decrease power output to the peripheral device 1430 based at least in part on the type of surgical suit 1412 attached to the surgical helmet 1420. In an exemplary configuration where the peripheral device 1430 is a ventilation assembly, the controller 1480 can be configured to increase power output to the ventilation assembly when the type of surgical suit 1412 includes thicker fabric 1414 / 1416 and / or is larger in size (suggesting a larger volume of space beneath the surgical suit 1412).

[0328] The transceiver 1490 can also be coupled to the memory device 184 of the surgical helmet 1420. The memory device 184 can be configured to store data received from the electromagnetic tag 1492 of the surgical coverall 1412. The information stored on the memory device 184 can be used to identify when a previously worn surgical coverall 1412 has been reattached to the surgical helmet 1420. For example, the surgical coverall 1412 can be attached to the surgical helmet 1420 by the wearer. The memory device 184 can be configured to store data received from the electromagnetic tag 1492 of the surgical coverall 1412, such as a serial number, identifier, model number, coverall characteristics, or similar information, for later use. The data stored in the memory device 184 can be used to prevent the operation of the peripheral device 1430 if the previously worn surgical coverall 1412 is reattached to the surgical helmet 1420 at a later point in time. For example, in operation, when surgical coverall 1412 is attached to surgical helmet 1420 and transceiver 1490 receives data from electromagnetic tag 1492 of surgical coverall 1412, memory device 184 will store the data. This data may include a serial number or other identifying feature. If the wearer attempts to reattach the same surgical coverall 1412 to surgical helmet 1420, when transceiver 1490 receives data from electromagnetic tag 1492, memory device 184 will already contain the same data. When transceiver 1490 transmits the data from memory device 184 to controller 1480, controller 1480 can be configured to recognize a second entry of data from surgical coverall 1412. Upon recognizing a second entry of data from surgical coverall 1412, controller 1480 can be configured to block operation of peripheral device 1430 until a new surgical coverall 1412 is attached to surgical helmet 1420.

[0329] The energy source or power supply 182 of the system 1410 may be exhausted during the medical procedure, which may lead to false positive identification of the reused surgical suit 1412 when the system is restarted. For example, if the energy source 182 (e.g., battery) for the system 1410 is exhausted in the middle of the procedure, when a new battery is attached and a new signal is transmitted from the electromagnetic tag 1492 to the transceiver 1490, the memory 184 may show that the attached surgical suit 1412 has been used previously. As described above, in this case, the controller 1480 can be configured to prevent the peripheral device 1430 from operating. In order to prevent the peripheral device 1430 from not working based on the false positive identification of the surgical suit 1412, the system 1410 may also include a capacitor operably connected to the controller 1480 and configured to store energy. The controller 1480 can be configured to identify that the energy source 182 of the system 1410 has recently been removed if the capacitor is currently storing energy. Based on the identification that the energy source 182 was recently removed, the controller 1480 can be configured to allow operation of the peripheral device 1430 even if data from the memory device 184 indicates that the surgical coverall 1412 was previously worn. The controller 1480 can also be configured to allow operation of the peripheral device 1430 even if data from the memory device 184 indicates that the surgical coverall 1412 was previously worn based on the amount of time between the first instance in which the surgical coverall 1412 was identified as being attached to the surgical helmet 1420 and the second instance in which the surgical coverall 1412 was identified as being attached to the surgical helmet 1420. For example, if the controller 1480 identifies that the time between the first instance in which the surgical coverall 1412 was attached and the second instance in which the surgical coverall 1412 was attached was less than two hours, the controller 1480 can be configured to allow operation of the peripheral device 1430, whereas if the amount of time between the first instance and the second instance is greater than two hours, the controller can prevent operation of the peripheral device 1430 with the surgical coverall 1412 being worn. However, this amount of time may be configured as reasonably appropriate based on the use of the surgical suit 1412 in a given industry, such as 1 hour, 24 hours, etc.

[0330] Other configurations of the system 1410 may have different subassemblies for ensuring that the peripheral device 1430 (e.g., the ventilation assembly) can be activated only when the surgical coverall 1412 is attached to the surgical helmet 1420. For example, it should be understood that the surgical helmet 1420 may include additional and / or alternative coverall detectors in addition to the detectors 170, 270, 370, 470, 570, 670 described above. The coverall detector may include a pressure sensor, a load sensor, or a similar type of sensor configured to detect the attachment of the surgical coverall 1412 to the surgical helmet 1420. For example, the chin bar 1424 may include a coverall detector in the form of a pressure sensor configured to detect the attachment of the surgical coverall 1412 to the surgical helmet 1420.

[0331] In another exemplary configuration of the system 1410, the system 1410 can be configured such that once the energy source 182 is attached to the surgical helmet 1420, the controller 1480 can activate the peripheral device 1430 for a predetermined period of time. This can allow the controller 1480 to complete a status check and confirm that the peripheral device 1430 is functioning properly. Once the controller 1480 has completed the status check, the controller 1480 can be configured to prevent any further actuation of the peripheral device 1430 until the controller 1480 receives a signal from the suit detector indicating that the surgical suit 1412 has been attached to the surgical helmet 1420. When the controller 1480 receives a signal from the suit detector indicating that the surgical suit 1412 has been attached to the surgical helmet 1420, the controller 1480 can be configured to generate an operating command to allow energy to be transferred from the energy source 182 to the peripheral device 1430.

[0332] For example, in operation, a wearer may place a surgical helmet 1420 including a peripheral device 1430 (e.g., a ventilation assembly) on their head and attach an energy source 182 to the surgical helmet 1420. The controller 1480 may then activate the ventilation assembly 1430 to confirm that the ventilation assembly 1430 is functioning properly. The controller 1480 may then deactivate the ventilation assembly 1430. Next, the wearer may attach a surgical protective suit 1412 to the surgical helmet 1420. The attachment of the surgical protective suit 1412 to the surgical helmet 1420 may be detected by a pressure sensor, switch, or transceiver 1490, or similar detector as described above, configured to detect the presence of an RFID tag 1492 or other electromagnetic tag on the surgical protective suit 1412. The detector may then send a signal to the controller 1480 to confirm that the surgical protective suit 1412 has been attached to the surgical helmet 1420. The controller 1480 may then activate the ventilation assembly 1430.

[0333] In yet another configuration of system 1410, surgical suit 1412 and surgical helmet 1420 can each include complementary conductors. When surgical suit 1412 is mounted on surgical helmet 1420, the conductors integral with surgical suit 1412 close the connection between surgical suit 1412 and surgical helmet 1420. For example, the conductors of surgical suit 1412 can be integrally formed with face mask 1418, and complementary conductors can be included in chin bar 1424, such that the circuit is closed once the conductors of face mask 1418 engage with the conductors in chin bar 1424. These conductors can further communicate with the magnets / ferromagnetic elements of attachment element 1458 and / or corresponding coupling members 1448 of chin bar 1424. The suit detector can be configured to sense the closure of the circuit between attachment element 1458 of face mask 1418 and surgical helmet 1420. In response to detecting this change in the circuit state, the protective clothing detector can generate a signal to the controller 1480 indicating that the circuit is in a closed state and ready to be actuated. In some configurations, when the controller 1480 receives this signal, the controller 1480 can only generate an operating command signal that causes the peripheral device 1430 to actuate.

[0334] It should be understood that in some configurations of the system 1410, removing the surgical protective suit 1412 from the surgical helmet 1420 may result in the reopening of the circuit between the attachment elements 1458 on the surgical protective suit 1412 and the surgical helmet 1420, respectively. In response to detecting the reopening of the circuit, the protective suit detector can generate a signal to the controller 1480 indicating that the system 1410 is in a disconnected state. In response to receiving the signal from the protective suit detector, the controller 1480 can be configured to return the peripheral devices 1430 of the surgical helmet 1420 to the off state. Therefore, another feature of these configurations of the system 1410 is that when the surgical protective suit 1412 is removed from the surgical helmet 1420 and the peripheral devices 1430, such as the ventilation assembly, are no longer needed, the peripheral devices 1430 are automatically shut down or deactivated. Similar operating modes may also be considered for the other protective suit detector components described above.

[0335] In some versions of the surgical garment system 1410, the controller 1480 can regulate whether other peripheral devices 1430 are activated based on whether the surgical protective suit 1412 is detected / fitted to the surgical helmet 1420. Thus, the controller 1480 can inhibit activation of one or more of the light assembly, the communication unit, or the cooling straps based on whether the appropriate surgical protective suit 1412 is mounted to the surgical helmet 1420.

[0336] The above is not directed to a particular configuration of surgical garment system 10, 110, 610, 1410. It should be understood that individual features of different configurations of system 10, 110, 610, 1410 can be combined to construct alternative configurations of system 10, 110, 610, 1410.

[0337] Furthermore, while surgical garment systems 10, 110, 610, 1410 are generally intended to provide a barrier between a healthcare practitioner and a patient during a medical or surgical procedure, their use is not limited thereto. Within the scope of the present disclosure, surgical garment systems 10, 110, 610, 1410 may be used in other applications where it is desirable to provide a barrier between an individual and the surrounding environment. Another application where it may be desirable to use systems 10, 110, 610, 1410 is where it is desirable to provide a barrier between an individual and hazardous materials in the environment in which the individual is working.

[0338] Other configurations of surgical apparel systems include surgical protective garments for use with surgical helmets, the surgical protective garments including attachment elements for coupling the surgical protective garment to the surgical helmet. In describing the system, it should be understood that features and / or structures having the same reference numerals and / or the same last two digits can have the same features and / or functions as the features and / or functions of the helmets, protective garments, and / or systems described above.

[0339] refer to Figure 37 , shows an exemplary configuration of a surgical helmet, such as that described above Figure 14-17B The surgical helmet 620 may include a top beam 629 positioned forward of the outer shell 632 of the surgical helmet 620 and configured to extend across the front of the surgical helmet 620. The top beam 629 may also include a groove. The groove of the top beam 629 may include a pair of laterally spaced sidewalls and a proximal surface positioned proximal to the distal surface of the top beam 629. The sidewalls and proximal surface may define an alignment channel 645, wherein the alignment channel 645 is configured to receive a tab 655 disposed within the surgical gown 612 to align and / or orient the surgical gown 612 relative to the surgical helmet 620. As described above, the tab 655 may be integrally formed with the face mask 618 and configured to extend therefrom. Alternatively, the tab 655 may be formed separately from the face mask 618, wherein the tab 655 is configured to couple to the fabric 614 within the surgical gown 612. However, other configurations are also contemplated. The spaced-apart sidewalls of the alignment channel 645 should be spaced apart by a distance greater than the width of the tab 655 to allow the tab 655 to be positioned within the alignment channel 645 .

[0340] The top beam 629 may also include a coupling feature 646 configured to removably engage the face mask 618 and / or the surgical gown 612. The coupling feature 646 may include a protrusion, a magnetic member, a ferromagnetic member, a hook and loop, or a similar coupling mechanism configured to releasably engage the tab 655 to align and / or couple the surgical gown 612 to the surgical helmet 620. For example, the coupling feature 646 may be implemented as a protrusion 646 extending from the alignment channel 645 of the top beam 629. Here, the top beam 629 includes the alignment channel 645 as described above, and the coupling feature 646 may be at least partially disposed within the alignment channel 645. The coupling feature 646 may be positioned within the alignment channel 645 such that the top of the uppermost surface of the coupling feature 646 is disposed or otherwise positioned below the top of the alignment channel 645 and / or the top surface of the top beam 629. The combination of the spaced-apart sidewalls of the alignment channel 645 and the coupling features 646 can be used to align and / or orient the face mask 618 and / or the surgical gown 612 relative to the surgical helmet 620. More specifically, the spaced-apart sidewalls of the alignment channel 645 can be used to guide the tabs 655 so that the openings 656 therein are directed into engagement with the coupling features 646 when the surgical gown 612 is placed on the surgical helmet 620.

[0341] The surgical helmet 620 may include a chin bar 624 extending downwardly from a front portion of the surgical helmet 620. The chin bar 624 may include a first column 626A and a second column 626B. The first and second columns 626A, 626B may be coupled to a top beam 629, wherein the top beam 629 is configured to extend across the front of the surgical helmet 620. For example, Figure 37 As shown, the first and second posts 626A, 626B can be connected to opposite ends of the top beam 629. The chin bar 624 can be constructed of a generally flexible or pliable material.

[0342] The chin bar 624 may also include a bottom beam 628 that may extend between the opposing free ends of the posts 626A, 626B. The chin bar 624 is formed so that the bottom beam 628 is positioned below and slightly forward of the chin of the person wearing the surgical helmet 620. The bottom beam 628 may curve outward from the free ends of the posts 626A, 626B. The chin bar 624 may extend outward from the top beam 629 so that when the surgical helmet 620 is secured to the wearer's head, the chin bar 624 is positioned in front of and generally surrounds the wearer's face. In summary, the combination of the top beam 629, posts 626A, 626B, and bottom beam 628 may be referred to as a face frame because they generally define an opening positioned in front of the wearer's face when the surgical helmet 620 is positioned on the wearer's head.

[0343] A plurality of coupling members 648 can be mounted to or within the chin bar 624. The coupling members 648 include a magnetic material and are configured to align and / or attach the face mask 618 of the surgical gown 612 to the surgical helmet 620. Each coupling member 648 can be positioned on the chin bar 624 proximate opposing posts 626A, 626B and / or opposite ends of the base beam 628. Alternatively, the coupling members 648 of the surgical helmet 620 can be arranged or configured in any suitable manner to cooperate with complementary attachment elements 658 of the surgical gown 612 to releasably secure the surgical gown 612 to the surgical helmet 620. For example, as Figures 37 to 38B As shown, the coupling members 648 can be positioned at opposite ends of the base beam 628 on the chin bar 624, near where each post 626A, 626B connects to the base beam 628. Figure 37 The exemplary configuration of the surgical helmet 620 shown in FIG2 uses two coupling members 648, but it is contemplated that the surgical helmet 620 can be configured such that the chin bar 624 includes a single coupling member 648, or in other configurations, three or more coupling members 648 can be spaced around the chin bar 624 and / or the top beam 629. It is contemplated that other types of coupling members 648 can be used in place of and / or in addition to those comprising magnetic materials, such as hook-and-loop fasteners, snaps, coupling members comprising ferromagnetic materials, or similar types of fasteners. Other configurations are also contemplated.

[0344] refer to Figure 38A and 38B , shows an exemplary configuration of a coupling member 648 positioned within a chin bar 624. The coupling member 648 may include a distal surface 647. The chin bar 624 may include a recess 627 configured to receive the coupling feature 648. For example, Figure 38A and 38B As shown, the coupling member 648 can be positioned within the recess of the chin bar 624 such that the distal surface 647 of the coupling member 648 is positioned proximal to the distal surface 625 of the chin bar 624 .

[0345] The coupling member 648 may comprise one of a ferromagnetic material or a magnetic material. This may include a coupling member 648 formed or constructed from a ferromagnetic material or a magnetic material. It is also contemplated that only a portion of the coupling member 648 comprises a ferromagnetic material or a magnetic material. For example, the coupling member 648 may be an injection molded plastic and coated with a ferromagnetic material or a magnetic material. Alternatively, the coupling member 648 may be formed from a ferromagnetic material or a magnetic material and then coated with a plastic or similar coating to provide a sterile and / or wear-resistant surface. It is also contemplated that a magnet may be "overmolded" with a plastic material to define the coupling member 648. Typically, the coupling member 648 may comprise another of a ferromagnetic material or a magnetic material relative to one of the attachment elements 658 of the surgical protective suit 612 so as to generate magnetic attraction between the coupling member 648 and the attachment element 658 to couple the surgical protective suit 612 to the surgical helmet 620.

[0346] The surgical helmet 620 may also include a controller or processor (not shown) that may be disposed on or within the chin bar 624 or top beam 629 of the surgical helmet 620. Alternatively, the controller may be located at any suitable location within the surgical helmet 620. For example, the controller may be located in the bottom beam 628 of the chin bar 624. The controller may communicate with one or more detectors 670, such as Hall effect sensors. Figure 37 and 38A As shown in FIG, the detector 670 can be positioned within the chin bar 624 and adjacent to the coupling member 648. The detector 670 can be configured to detect characteristics of the coupling member 648. For example, where the detector 670 is a Hall effect sensor, the detector 670 can be configured to detect any changes in the magnetic field around the coupling member 648. In operation, the detector 670 can be configured to detect changes in the magnetic field around the coupling member 648 resulting from the presence or absence of the attachment element 658 of the surgical suit 612 positioned adjacent to the coupling member 648. For example, Figure 37 and 38A As shown, the detector 670 may be positioned adjacent the coupling member 648 and on a lateral side of the base beam 628 .

[0347] Although Figure 38A and 38BOnly a portion of the chin bar 624 is shown including a single coupling member 648, but as described above, the chin bar 624 can include more than one coupling member 648. Similarly, the chin bar can include more than one detector 670. It is contemplated that the surgical helmet 620 can include a single detector 670 positioned adjacent to the single coupling member 648. It is also contemplated that in configurations of the surgical helmet 620 including multiple coupling members 648, the surgical helmet 620 can include a single detector 670 positioned adjacent to one of the multiple coupling members 648. Alternatively, the detector 670 can be positioned adjacent to two or more of the coupling members 648. Using multiple detectors can provide redundancy in the event that the detector 670 becomes damaged.

[0348] Figure 38B A partial cross-sectional view of a coupling member 648 disposed within a recess 627 of the chin bar 624 is shown. The recess 627 in the chin bar 624 can define a first dimension D1, such as a diameter. The coupling member 648 can generally be sized to fit within the dimension D1 of the aperture in the chin bar 624. Furthermore, a periphery 653 of the distal surface 647 and a periphery 651 of the proximal surface 657 of the coupling member 648 can define an Axis-A that passes through a center C1 of the proximal surface 657 and a center C2 of the distal surface 647 of the coupling member 648. A transverse plane can be oriented parallel to Axis-A and extend through the proximal and distal surfaces 657, 647 of the coupling member 648, defining opposing lateral halves of the coupling member 648. In configurations where the coupling member 648 comprises a magnetic material, the transverse plane can define a division between opposing magnetic poles of the magnetic material.

[0349] In addition, if Figure 38B As shown, the distal surface 647 of the coupling member 648 may include a generally curved shape. For example, the distal surface 647 may include a generally convex surface. Alternatively, the distal surface 647 may include a generally convex or multi-axial surface such that the distal surface includes a generally circular surface extending outward from the center of the coupling member 648. Although not shown in FIG. Figure 38B 648, but it is contemplated that the distal surface 647 of the coupling member 648 may include a concave surface. Various exemplary configurations of coupling members 648 including concave or convex surfaces will be described in greater detail below.

[0350] It is also contemplated that the coupling member 648 may include one or more dimples. The dimples may serve as structural and / or visual alignment features for positioning the coupling member 648 relative to the chin bar 624 and / or the detector 670. For example, in a configuration where the coupling member 648 includes a magnetic material, the dimples or other indicators may provide a visual identifier regarding the orientation and / or position of the magnetic poles of the coupling member 648. It will be appreciated that such a configuration may facilitate improved manufacturability, as the coupling member 648 may be easily and accurately positioned within the recesses of the chin bar 624 such that the magnetic poles of the coupling member 648 are properly oriented relative to the detector 670.

[0351] refer to Figure 39A and 39B , shows an exemplary configuration of the transparent face shield 618 of the surgical gown described above. The surgical gown 612 may further include a tab 655. The tab 655 may be disposed on the wearer's side or interior of the surgical gown. The tab 655 may include a pair of opposite edges and define an opening 656. Figure 39A As shown, tab 655 can be formed as part of face mask 618. Tab 655 can define at least a portion of opening 656, a portion of which is also defined by face mask 618. It is also contemplated that opening 656 can be formed or defined entirely within tab 655. Although not shown, it is also contemplated that tab 655, including opening 656, can be a separate component from transparent face mask 618. In certain configurations of transparent cover 618 and / or surgical gown 612, tab 655 can also be omitted.

[0352] The surgical gown 612 may also include one or more attachment elements 658. Attachment elements 658 may also be referred to as second members or gown fasteners. Attachment elements 658 may be coupled to the transparent face shield 618. Attachment elements 658 may serve as alignment elements configured to removably couple the surgical gown 612 to the surgical helmet 620. Furthermore, attachment elements 658 may be positioned proximate to the outer periphery of the transparent face shield 618 so that the fabric covers the attachment elements 658. This may be used to ensure that the fabric covers the attachment elements 658 to maintain the barrier provided by the surgical gown 612 between the wearer and the environment. Although not shown, it is also contemplated that attachment elements 658 may be coupled to the surgical fabric 614 of the surgical gown 612, rather than to the transparent face shield 618. Attachment elements 658 would still function in the same manner to removably couple the surgical gown 612 to the surgical helmet 620.

[0353] Attachment element 658 may comprise a ferromagnetic material capable of generating magnetic attraction and / or coupling with magnetic materials. For example, attachment element 658 may be fabricated from AISI 1006 low-carbon steel, which comprises approximately 99% iron. Alternatively, it is contemplated that attachment element 658 may be fabricated from other suitable materials, such as metal alloys comprising iron, nickel, cobalt, carbon, gadolinium, dysprosium, alloys thereof, or combinations thereof. However, regardless of the specific alloy composition of attachment element 658, attachment element 658 should contain a sufficient weight of at least one ferromagnetic material capable of generating magnetic attraction with magnetic materials. For example, the alloy of attachment element 658 may comprise a composition comprising at least 75% iron. More specifically, attachment element 658 may comprise a composition comprising at least 85% iron. Even more specifically, attachment element 658 may comprise a composition comprising at least 95% iron. Even more specifically, attachment element 658 may comprise a composition comprising at least 98% iron or more.

[0354] In certain configurations, it will be appreciated that the attachment element 658 may comprise a material, i.e., atoms, that is attracted to the magnetic field presented by the magnetic material positioned on the helmet 620. It is contemplated that in certain configurations, the entire attachment element 658 may be composed of a ferromagnetic material. It is also contemplated that the attachment element 658 may comprise both ferromagnetic and diamagnetic materials. For example, the attachment element 658 may comprise a diamagnetic material that has been coated with a ferromagnetic material. Alternatively, the attachment element 658 may be formed with a ferromagnetic material as a core and then coated with a plastic or similar non-magnetic coating configured to provide a sterile and / or wear-resistant surface. Other arrangements of diamagnetic and magnetic materials for the attachment element 658 are also contemplated. It is also contemplated that the attachment element 658 may be formed of a magnetic material. As described above, the coupling member 648 of the surgical helmet 620 may comprise a magnetic material. When the attachment element 658 is formed of a magnetic material, the coupling member 648 may be formed of a ferromagnetic material that is magnetically attracted to the attachment element 658. Alternatively, it is also contemplated that both the coupling member 648 and the attachment element 658 are formed of magnetic materials. In this configuration, the coupling member 648 and the attachment element 658 can be oriented so that the polarity of each magnetic material is opposite to allow the two magnetic materials to form a magnetic connection. In any of these configurations of the coupling member 648 and the attachment element 658, placing the attachment element 658 near the coupling member 648 can be configured to trigger a detector 670, such as a Hall effect sensor as described above. It should be understood that the surgical suit 612 and all of its components can be similarly configured and / or include features of the surgical suits 12, 112, 612 described above.

[0355] like Figure 39BAs shown, attachment element 658 can be coupled to transparent face shield 618. Transparent face shield 618 includes a first surface 621 and an opposing second surface 623. First surface 621 is positioned proximal to the user on the wearer side of the barrier formed by surgical gown 612, while second surface 623 is positioned distal to the user on the environmental side of the barrier. Attachment element 658 can include a head 660. Head 660 can define a dimension that is smaller than the dimension of recess 627 on chin bar 624, such that head 660 is dimensioned to be inserted into the aperture of chin bar 624 when coupled to coupling member 648. Head 660 of attachment element 658 can also define a distal surface 665 and an opposing proximal surface 659. Proximal surface 659 of head 660 can further define recess 661. A first point 662 can be located on proximal surface 659 of head 660. First point 662 can be located at the center of proximal surface 659. Alternatively, the first point 662 can be located on the proximal surface 659 where it intersects the first axis (Axis-E of the attachment element 658). The first axis Axis-E can also be the longitudinal axis of the attachment element 658. The second points 664A, 664B can also be located on the proximal surface 659 of the head 660. Figure 39BAs shown, the proximal surface 659 can include a plurality of second points 664A, 664B spaced about the proximal surface 659. Generally, the second points 664A, 664B can be positioned on the proximal surface 659 such that they are spaced apart from the first point 662 on the proximal surface 659. For example, where the proximal surface 659 of the head 660 includes a generally circular profile, the first point 662 can be positioned at the center of the proximal surface 659, and each of the one or more second points 664A, 664B can be radially spaced apart from the first point 662. Furthermore, the first point 662 can define a first distance D6 from the first surface 621 of the transparent face shield 618, and the second points 664A, 664B can define a second distance D7 from the first surface 621 of the transparent face shield 618. The proximal surface 659 of the head 660 can be shaped such that a first distance D6 defined by the first point 662 is less than a second distance D7 defined by the second points 664A, 664B, defining a recess 661 in the proximal surface 659. For example, an exemplary configuration of the attachment element 658 can include a head 660 having a diameter of approximately ten (10) millimeters and a height of approximately three (3) millimeters. The recess 661 can be approximately centrally located on the proximal surface 659 of the head 660 and include a concave shape. The recess 661 can have a diameter of approximately eight (8) millimeters and a depth of approximately one and a half (1.5) millimeters into the head 660. The shape of the proximal surface 659 can be configured such that a portion of the proximal surface 659 of the head 660, including the second points 664A, 664B, can be at least partially disposed within the recess 627 of the chin bar 624 when the surgical gown 612 is coupled to the surgical helmet 620. For example, when the surgical suit 612 is coupled to the surgical helmet 620 , the portion of the proximal surface 659 of the head 660 including the second points 664A, 664B can be positioned at least two millimeters (2-mm) proximal to the distal surface 625 of the chin bar 624 .

[0356] The head 660 of the attachment element 658 is formed from at least 50, 75, 85, or 90 wt.% of a metal alloy that includes at least 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 95, or 99 wt.% of a ferromagnetic material that can be magnetically attracted to the coupling member 648 that includes a magnet. It is also contemplated that the head 660 of the attachment element 658 includes at least 70, 80, or 90 wt.% of a ferritic or martensitic stainless steel or other steel that can be attracted to a magnet and sufficient to retain the surgical gown 612 to the surgical helmet 620. It is further contemplated that the head 660 of the attachment element 658 includes at least 0.5, 0.6, 0.7, 0.8, 0.9, 1, 1.2, 1.4, 1.5, or 1.8 g of a ferromagnetic material that can be magnetically attracted to the coupling member 648 that includes a magnet. Examples of suitable ferromagnetic materials may include iron, nickel, cobalt, carbon, gadolinium, dysprosium, or alloys thereof, or some combination thereof.

[0357] refer to Figure 40 , the head 660 can also include a rim 663, which can be at least partially defined by the proximal surface 659 of the head 660. The rim 663 can at least partially surround the groove 661. When coupled together, the groove 661 can increase the surface area contact between the attachment element 658 and the coupling member 648. The increase in surface area contact can increase the strength and / or force of the magnetic bond between the attachment element 658 and the coupling member 648, which can increase the force required to separate the attachment element 658 and the coupling member 648. This can reduce accidental or unintentional separation of the attachment element 658 and the coupling member 648 during use of the surgical gown and surgical helmet 620. The size and / or shape of the groove 661 can also allow the attachment element 658 and the coupling member 648 to interact at different angles.

[0358] Recess 661 can be defined as a recessed portion, section, or space, such as a pit, compartment, or alcove. Generally, recess 661 can refer to a void or absence of material. In the context of the attachment element 658 described above, recess 661 can refer to a void or absence of material in the head 660. The size and shape of the void representing recess 661 on the head 660 of the attachment element 658 can be defined by the proximal surface 659. However, recess 661 is not limited to being formed by a single component (e.g., the head 660 of the attachment element 658). Any combination of components defining a void or absence of material can be considered recess 661. For example, in one configuration, the void representing recess 661 can be defined by the combination of the head 660 and the post 667. In yet another configuration, the void representing recess 661 can be defined by the combination of the head 660 and the mask 618. Various exemplary configurations of the proximal surface 659 of the attachment member 658, such as recess 661, will be described in more detail below.

[0359] The attachment element 658 may also include a post 667 extending distally from the distal surface 665 of the attachment element 658. The post 667 may include a proximal portion 669 and a distal portion 671. As described above, the proximal portion 669 of the post 667 may include a third dimension D3 and the distal portion 671 may include a fourth dimension D4. The post 667 may be configured such that the third dimension D3 of the proximal portion 669 is greater than the fourth dimension D4 of the distal portion 671, thereby forming a shoulder. The distal portion 671 of the post 667 should be configured to fit within the aperture 619 of the mask 618 to facilitate coupling of the attachment element 658 to the mask 618.

[0360] In a configuration of the post 667 where the third dimension D3 of the proximal portion 669 is greater than the fourth dimension D4 of the distal portion 671, the shoulder formed by the proximal portion 669 of the post 667 is intended to space the head 660 of the attachment element 658 from the mask 618. This shoulder can be used to space the head 660 from the mask 618 to allow the mask 618 to flex relative to the distal surface 665 of the head 660. This flexibility makes the attachment between the attachment element 658 and the coupling member 648 more secure because the mask 618 can flex without loosening the attachment element 658A from its attachment to the coupling member 648. For example, an exemplary configuration of the post 667 can extend approximately three (3) millimeters from the distal surface 665 of the head 660. The distal portion 671 of the post 667 can include a diameter of approximately three (3) millimeters and a length of approximately two to two and a half (2-2.5) millimeters. The proximal portion 669 of the post 667 may include a diameter of approximately five (5) millimeters and a length of approximately one-half (0.5) millimeter.

[0361] refer to Figure 39B , the attachment element 658 can be coupled to the mask 618 via a retaining feature 673. The retaining feature 673 can take the form of a cap or similar fastener that is configured to engage the distal end of the post 667. For example, Figure 39B 618. As shown, the post 667 can be inserted through the aperture 619 of the face shield, and a retention feature 673 can be applied to the distal end of the post 667 to secure the attachment element 658 to the face shield 618. Although not shown in the figures, it is contemplated that the attachment element 658 can be coupled to the transparent face shield 618 in other ways. For example, the post 667 and / or the head 660 of the attachment element 658 can be coupled to the transparent face shield 618 via epoxy, glue, or a similar type of adhesive. Alternatively, it is also contemplated that the post 667 can be shaped so that the distal portion 671 of the post 667 can be deformed or pressed after the post 667 has been inserted through the aperture 619 in the transparent face shield 618 to secure the attachment element 658 to the transparent face shield 618.

[0362] refer to Figure 40 , shows a partial cross-sectional view of an attachment element 658 of a surgical gown coupled to a coupling member 648 of a chin bar 624. The coupling member 648 is positioned in a recess of the chin bar 624. The coupling member 648 includes a protruding surface 647 that is positioned proximal to the distal surface 625 of the chin bar 624.

[0363] The protruding surface 647 of the coupling member 648 can extend at least partially into a recess 661 defined by the proximal surface 659 of the attachment element 658. The complementary shapes of the protruding surface 647 of the coupling member 648 and the proximal surface 659 of the attachment element 658 can be configured to slide into contact when the surgical gown 612 is coupled to the surgical helmet 620. Alternatively, it is contemplated that a void space or gap can exist between all or a portion of the protruding surface 647 and the proximal surface 659. For example, the protruding surface 647 can include a sharp point with a small radius and the proximal surface 659 can include a concave shape with a larger radius relative to the radius of the protruding surface 647. In this configuration, the point or apex of the protruding surface 647 can contact a portion of the proximal surface 659 while leaving a gap between the other portions of the protruding surface 647 and the proximal surface 659.

[0364] The complementary shapes of the protruding surface 647 of the coupling member 648 and the proximal surface 659 of the attachment element 658 can allow the attachment element 658 to pivot about the coupling member 648 and remain coupled to the coupling member 648 at different angles. This can allow the mask 618 additional degrees of freedom of movement and / or positioning for coupling the attachment element 658 to the corresponding coupling member 648 as it is manipulated or flexed, such as during the removal of one or more membrane layers from the mask 618. Furthermore, the complementary shapes of the protruding surface 647 of the coupling member 648 and the proximal surface 659 of the attachment element 658 are designed to facilitate and / or maintain contact of the surgical gown 612 with the surgical helmet 620 during a medical procedure. By adding curvature to the complementary proximal surfaces 659 of the attachment elements 658 of the coupling member 648 and / or the surgical protective suit 612, when the coupling member 648 and / or the attachment element 658 are fitted and placed in shear, forces are transferred into the physical material constituting the coupling member 648 and / or the attachment element 658, thereby increasing the holding force or retaining force. Additional holding force is provided by the curved and / or concave surfaces because these surfaces can pivot at positions where the best magnetic holding force is provided by the interaction of the magnetic material with the ferromagnetic material. Thus, by allowing the attachment element 658 to rotate relative to the coupling member 648, the forces (moment arms) generated by shear are dissipated. Additional holding force is provided because of the increase in surface area of contact or close proximity caused by the curved and flat surfaces.

[0365] To couple the surgical gown 612 to the surgical helmet 620, in certain configurations, at least a portion of the head 660 of the attachment element 658 can be at least partially disposed within the recess 627 of the chin bar 624 such that the proximal surface 659 of the attachment element 648 contacts the protruding surface 647 of the coupling member 648. It is contemplated that a portion of the proximal surface 659 of the head 660 can be disposed within the recess 627 of the chin bar 624 such that the proximal surface 659 of the head 660 is positioned at least two millimeters (2-mm) proximal to the distal surface 625 of the chin bar 624. It is further contemplated that the proximal surface 659 of the head 660 can be positioned three millimeters (3-mm) or more proximal to the distal surface 625 of the chin bar 624. It is also contemplated that if the attachment element 658 is coupled to the coupling member 648 at an angle, as permitted by the complementary surfaces 647, 659 of the respective attachment element 658 and coupling member 648, the portion of the head 660 of the attachment element 658 that is disposed within the recess 627 of the chin bar 624 can be defined as the percentage of the head 660 disposed within the recess 627. For example, at least ten percent (10%), 20%, 30%, 40%, or 50% of the volume of the head 660 of the attachment element 658 can be disposed within the recess 627 of the chin bar 624. Furthermore, the coupling member 648 can be exposed in the chin bar 624 such that the coupling member 648 can be placed in contact with the attachment element 658.

[0366] As described above, coupling member 648 includes one of a ferromagnetic material or a magnetic material and attachment element 658 includes the other of a ferromagnetic material or a magnetic material, such that coupling member 648 and attachment element 658 can be magnetically attracted to each other. In the illustrated configuration, coupling member 648 can include a magnetic material, and thus a magnetic field can emanate from or otherwise be generated by coupling member 648. When coupling member 648 is coupled to attachment element 658, when a component including ferromagnetic material is placed adjacent to a component including magnetic material, the magnetic field surrounding the component including magnetic material will be altered.

[0367] like Figure 40As shown, the detector 670 can be positioned adjacent to the coupling member 648. The detector 670 can include a Hall effect sensor configured to detect a change in a magnetic field, indicating that the surgical coverall 612 is coupled to the surgical helmet 620. For example, when the coupling member 648 includes a magnetic material and the attachment element 658 includes a ferromagnetic material, the detector 670 can detect a first magnetic field level surrounding the coupling member 648 when the attachment element 658 is separated from the coupling member 648. Then, when the attachment element 658 is adjacent to the coupling member 648, the detector 670 can detect a second magnetic field level surrounding the coupling member 648, indicating that the surgical coverall 612 is coupled to the surgical helmet 620. Alternatively, when the coupling member 648 includes a ferromagnetic material and the attachment element 658 includes a magnetic material, the detector 670 can detect the absence of a magnetic field surrounding the coupling member 648 when the attachment element 658 is separated from the coupling member 648. The detector 670 can then detect the presence of a magnetic field when the attachment element 658 is adjacent to the coupling member 648, indicating that the surgical suit 612 is coupled to the surgical helmet 620. As described above, the controller can be configured to transmi...

Claims

1. A surgical protective garment for providing a microbial barrier between a medical environment and a wearer, the surgical protective garment comprising: a first material defining a shield having an opening; A transparent mask is provided in the opening of the shield, the transparent mask comprising: a first surface and an opposing second surface defining a thickness of the transparent face shield; an aperture defined in the transparent face shield, the aperture extending between the first surface and the second surface; a first attachment element coupled to the transparent face shield, the first attachment element comprising: a head having a proximal surface and an opposing distal surface; a retention feature having a proximal surface and a distal surface; and a post extending between a proximal surface of the retention feature and a distal surface of the head; and wherein the post comprises a length greater than a thickness of the transparent face shield such that when the post is positioned within the aperture of the transparent face shield, the proximal surface of the retention feature is spaced apart from the second surface of the transparent face shield and the distal surface of the head is spaced apart from the first surface of the transparent face shield.

2. The surgical protective suit according to claim 1, wherein: The first attachment element further includes an aperture defined in the proximal surface and extending through the head to the distal surface, and Wherein, the first attachment element is coupled to the transparent face shield.

3. The surgical protective suit according to claim 1, wherein: The head of the first attachment element is disposed on the first surface of the transparent mask.

4. The surgical protective suit according to claim 1, wherein: The inner diameter of the aperture of the transparent mask is at least one millimeter (1 mm) larger than the outer diameter of the post.

5. A surgical protective garment for providing a microbial barrier between a medical environment and a wearer, the surgical protective garment comprising: a first material defining a shield having an opening; A transparent mask is provided in the opening of the shield, the transparent mask comprising: a first surface and an opposing second surface defining a thickness of the transparent face shield; an aperture defined in the transparent face shield, the aperture extending between the first surface and the second surface; a first attachment element coupled to the transparent face shield, the first attachment element comprising: a head having a proximal surface and an opposing distal surface; a retention feature having a proximal surface and a distal surface; and a post extending between a proximal surface of the retention feature and a distal surface of the head; and The outer diameter of the post is sized relative to the inner diameter of the aperture of the transparent face shield so that the post can pivot relative to the first surface of the face shield when the post is positioned within the aperture of the transparent face shield.

6. The surgical protective suit according to claim 5, wherein: The first attachment element further includes an aperture defined in the proximal surface and extending through the head to the distal surface, and Wherein, the first attachment element is coupled to the transparent face shield.

7. The surgical protective suit according to claim 5, wherein: The head of the first attachment element is disposed on the first surface of the transparent mask.

8. The surgical protective suit according to claim 5, wherein: The inner diameter of the aperture of the transparent mask is at least one millimeter (1 mm) larger than the outer diameter of the post.

9. A surgical coverall assembly for use with a surgical helmet worn by a user, wherein the surgical helmet includes an attachment feature and at least one coupling member, the surgical coverall assembly being configured to be at least partially disposed on the surgical helmet and configured to provide a microbial barrier between the user and a medical environment, the surgical coverall assembly comprising: Surgical fabric defining an opening, a transparent face shield disposed within the opening, the transparent face shield comprising an upper portion, a lower portion, a first surface, and an opposing second surface; a first aperture in the upper portion of the transparent face shield configured to removably engage an attachment feature of the surgical helmet to align the transparent face shield relative to the surgical helmet; a first attachment element secured to the lower portion of the transparent visor; wherein the first attachment element includes a retaining feature, and the retaining feature is closer to the second surface of the transparent face shield than to the first surface; wherein the first attachment element comprises a magnetic material; and wherein the first attachment element defines a coupling groove on the wearer side of the microbial barrier, the coupling groove being configured to removably engage one of the at least one coupling members on the surgical helmet.

10. A surgical garment system for providing a microbial barrier between a medical environment and a wearer, the system comprising: A surgical helmet comprising at least two magnetic coupling members and a protrusion; a surgical protective garment configured to be disposed at least partially over a surgical helmet, the surgical protective garment comprising an opening; A transparent face mask disposed within the opening of the surgical suit, the transparent face mask comprising: a first surface and an opposing second surface; an upper portion and a lower portion; a first aperture formed in the upper portion of the transparent face shield, the first aperture configured to removably engage the protrusion of the surgical helmet; a first attachment element and a second attachment element, the first attachment element and the second attachment element being secured to the lower portion of the transparent face shield; wherein each of the first attachment element and the second attachment element comprises a ferromagnetic material; wherein each of the first attachment element and the second attachment element defines a respective coupling groove on the wearer side of the microbial barrier and is configured to removably engage a magnetic coupling member on the surgical helmet, the coupling groove being shaped to resist disengagement of the surgical shield from the surgical helmet.

11. A surgical gown assembly for use with a surgical helmet, the surgical helmet comprising a magnetic coupling member disposed in a recess and a Hall effect sensor spaced apart from the coupling member, the surgical gown assembly being configured to be disposed at least partially on the surgical helmet to provide a microbial barrier between a user and a medical environment, the surgical gown assembly comprising: a surgical fabric defining an opening; a transparent face shield disposed within the opening, the transparent face shield comprising an upper portion, a lower portion, a first surface, and an opposing second surface; a first attachment element coupled to the surgical fabric, the first attachment element comprising: ferromagnetic or magnetic materials; the first attachment element defining a proximal surface facing away from the fabric, the proximal surface including a first point defining a first distance from a surface of the surgical fabric; the proximal surface comprising a second point defining a second distance from the surface of the surgical fabric, wherein the second point on the proximal surface is spaced apart from the first point on the proximal surface; wherein the proximal surface is shaped such that the first distance is less than the second distance; and Wherein, the first attachment element is configured to removably engage a coupling member on the surgical helmet and trigger the Hall effect sensor when the first attachment element is coupled to the coupling member.

12. A surgical gown assembly for use with a surgical helmet, the surgical helmet comprising a magnetic coupling member disposed in a recess and a Hall effect sensor spaced apart from the coupling member, the surgical gown assembly being configured to be disposed at least partially on the surgical helmet to provide a microbial barrier between a user and a medical environment, the surgical gown assembly comprising: a surgical fabric defining an opening; a transparent face shield disposed within the opening, the transparent face shield comprising an upper portion, a lower portion, a first surface, and an opposing second surface; a first attachment element coupled to the surgical fabric, the first attachment element comprising: ferromagnetic or magnetic materials; The first attachment element has any shape described by the drawings and description, including Figures 18, 19, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51; Wherein, the first attachment element is configured to removably engage a coupling member on the surgical helmet and trigger the Hall effect sensor when the first attachment element is coupled to the coupling member.

13. A surgical gown assembly for use with a surgical helmet, the surgical helmet comprising a magnetic coupling member disposed in a recess and a Hall effect sensor spaced apart from the coupling member, the surgical gown assembly being configured to be disposed at least partially on the surgical helmet to provide a microbial barrier between a user and a medical environment, the surgical gown assembly comprising: a surgical fabric defining an opening; a transparent face shield disposed within the opening, the transparent face shield comprising an upper portion, a lower portion, a first surface, and an opposing second surface; a first attachment element coupled to the lower portion of the transparent face shield, the first attachment element comprising: a head defining a bore extending along the longitudinal axis between a distal end and a proximal end; wherein the head portion comprises a ferromagnetic material; and Wherein, the first attachment element is configured to removably engage a coupling member on the surgical helmet and trigger the Hall effect sensor when the first attachment element is coupled to the coupling member.

14. A surgical gown assembly for use with a surgical helmet, the surgical helmet comprising a magnetic coupling member disposed in a recess and a Hall effect sensor spaced apart from the coupling member, the surgical gown assembly being configured to be disposed at least partially on the surgical helmet to provide a microbial barrier between a user and a medical environment, the surgical gown assembly comprising: a surgical fabric defining an opening; a transparent face shield disposed within the opening, the transparent face shield comprising an upper portion, a lower portion, a first surface, and an opposing second surface; a first attachment element coupled to the lower portion of the transparent face shield, the first attachment element comprising: a head defining a bore extending along the longitudinal axis between a closed distal end and an open proximal end; wherein the hole includes a mouth portion, the mouth portion gradually tapering from the proximal end of the opening toward the center of the hole; wherein the head portion comprises a ferromagnetic material; and Wherein, the first attachment element is configured to removably engage a coupling member on the surgical helmet and trigger the Hall effect sensor when the first attachment element is coupled to the coupling member.

15. A surgical gown assembly for use with a surgical helmet, the surgical helmet comprising a magnetic coupling member disposed in a recess and a Hall effect sensor spaced apart from the coupling member, the surgical gown assembly being configured to be disposed at least partially on the surgical helmet to provide a microbial barrier between a user and a medical environment, the surgical gown assembly comprising: a surgical fabric defining an opening; a transparent face shield disposed within the opening, the transparent face shield comprising an upper portion, a lower portion, a first surface, and an opposing second surface; a first attachment element coupled to the lower portion of the transparent face shield, the first attachment element comprising: a head including a distal end having a distal surface and a proximal end having a proximal surface; wherein the proximal surface extends from a first edge of the head to a second edge of the head at an angle in a proximal direction; and Wherein, the first attachment element is configured to removably engage a coupling member on the surgical helmet and trigger the Hall effect sensor when the first attachment element is coupled to the coupling member.

16. A surgical gown assembly for use with a surgical helmet, the surgical helmet comprising a coupling member disposed in a recess and a Hall effect sensor spaced apart from the coupling member, the surgical gown assembly being configured to be at least partially disposed on the surgical helmet to provide a microbial barrier between a user and a medical environment, the surgical gown assembly comprising: a surgical fabric defining an opening; a transparent face shield disposed within the opening, the transparent face shield comprising an upper portion, a lower portion, a first surface, and an opposing second surface; a first attachment element coupled to the lower portion of the transparent face shield, the first attachment element comprising: A head comprising a distal end and an opposite proximal end; wherein the proximal end defines a proximal surface facing away from the transparent face shield, the proximal surface comprising: a first portion extending in a proximal direction at an angle from a median plane of the head to a first edge; and a second portion extending obliquely and angled proximally from the median plane of the head to a second edge; wherein the head portion comprises a ferromagnetic material; and Wherein, the first attachment element is configured to removably engage a coupling member on the surgical helmet and trigger the Hall effect sensor when the first attachment element is coupled to the coupling member.

17. A surgical gown assembly for use with a surgical helmet, the surgical helmet comprising a magnetic coupling member disposed in a recess and a Hall effect sensor spaced apart from the coupling member, the surgical gown assembly being configured to be disposed at least partially on the surgical helmet to provide a microbial barrier between a user and a medical environment, the surgical gown assembly comprising: a surgical fabric defining an opening; a transparent face shield disposed within the opening, the transparent face shield comprising an upper portion, a lower portion, a first surface, and an opposing second surface; a first attachment element coupled to the lower portion of the transparent face shield, the first attachment element comprising: A head comprising a distal end and an opposite proximal end; wherein the proximal end defines a proximal surface facing away from the transparent face shield, the proximal surface comprising: a planar surface having a first side and a second side; a first face extending obliquely and angled proximally from the first side of the planar surface to a first edge; a second face extending obliquely from the second side of the planar surface in the proximal direction at an angle to a second edge; wherein the planar surface is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis; wherein the head portion comprises a ferromagnetic material; and Wherein, the first attachment element is configured to removably engage a coupling member on the surgical helmet and trigger the Hall effect sensor when the first attachment element is coupled to the coupling member.

18. A surgical gown assembly for use with a surgical helmet, the surgical helmet comprising a coupling member, the surgical gown assembly comprising: a surgical fabric defining an opening; a transparent face mask disposed within the opening, the transparent face mask comprising a first surface and an opposing second surface; a first attachment element coupled to the transparent face shield, the first attachment element defining a proximal surface; an adapter member configured to removably couple with the first attachment element, the adapter member comprising: a proximal surface and an opposing distal surface; a first point on the proximal surface of the adapter member; a second point on the proximal surface of the adapter member; wherein the second point on the proximal surface of the adapter member is spaced apart from the first point on the proximal surface of the adapter member; and wherein the distal surface of the adapter member is configured to removably engage the proximal surface of the first attachment element; wherein, when the adapter member is coupled to the first attachment element, the first point on the proximal surface of the adapter member defines a first distance from the first surface of the transparent face shield; wherein, when the adapter member is coupled to the first attachment element, the second point on the proximal surface of the adapter member defines a second distance from the first surface of the transparent face shield; Wherein, the proximal surface of the adapter member is shaped such that the first distance is smaller than a second distance from the first surface of the transparent face shield.

19. A surgical gown assembly for use with a surgical helmet, the surgical helmet comprising a coupling member disposed in a recess and a detector spaced apart from the coupling member, the surgical gown assembly being configured to be at least partially disposed on the surgical helmet and configured to provide a microbial barrier between a user and a medical environment, the surgical gown assembly comprising: a surgical fabric defining an opening; a transparent face mask disposed within the opening, the transparent face mask comprising a first surface and an opposing second surface and bisected by a midline; a first attachment element coupled to the transparent face shield, the first attachment element comprising: a head defining a proximal surface and an opposing distal surface; The surgical gown assembly includes means for preventing rotation of the first attachment element relative to the transparent face shield; a first point on the proximal surface defining a first distance from the first surface of the transparent face shield; a second point on the proximal surface defining a second distance from the first surface of the transparent face shield; wherein the second point on the proximal surface is spaced apart from the first point on the proximal surface; wherein the proximal surface is shaped such that the first distance is less than the second distance; wherein the first attachment element is oriented such that the second point on the proximal surface is positioned further away from the midline of the transparent face shield than the first point on the proximal surface.

20. A surgical gown assembly for use with a surgical helmet, the surgical helmet comprising a coupling member disposed in a recess and a detector spaced apart from the coupling member, the surgical gown assembly being configured to be at least partially disposed on the surgical helmet and configured to provide a microbial barrier between a user and a medical environment, the surgical gown assembly comprising: a surgical fabric defining an opening; a transparent face mask disposed within the opening, the transparent face mask comprising a first surface and an opposing second surface and bisected by a midline; a first attachment element coupled to the transparent face shield, the first attachment element comprising: a head defining a proximal surface and an opposing distal surface; a first point on the proximal surface defining a first distance from the first surface of the transparent face shield; a second point on the proximal surface defining a second distance from the first surface of the transparent face shield; wherein the second point on the proximal surface is spaced apart from the first point on the proximal surface; wherein the proximal surface is shaped such that the first distance is less than the second distance; wherein the transparent face shield and the first attachment element include complementary features configured to prevent the first attachment element from rotating relative to the transparent face shield; and wherein the first attachment element is oriented such that the second point on the proximal surface is positioned further away from the midline of the transparent face shield than the first point on the proximal surface.

21. A surgical gown assembly for use with a surgical helmet, the surgical helmet comprising a coupling member disposed in a recess and a detector spaced apart from the coupling member, the surgical gown assembly being configured to be at least partially disposed on the surgical helmet and configured to provide a microbial barrier between a user and a medical environment, the surgical gown assembly comprising: a surgical fabric defining an opening; a transparent face mask disposed within the opening, the transparent face mask comprising a first surface and an opposing second surface and bisected by a midline; a first attachment element coupled to the transparent face shield, the first attachment element comprising: a head defining a proximal surface; a first point on the proximal surface that lies on the axis of the first attachment element and defines a first distance from the first surface of the transparent face shield; a second point on the proximal surface defining a second distance from the first surface of the transparent face shield; wherein the second point on the proximal surface is spaced apart from the first point on the proximal surface; wherein the proximal surface is shaped such that the first distance is less than the second distance; wherein the first attachment element is oriented such that the second point on the proximal surface is positioned further away from the midline of the transparent face shield than the first point on the proximal surface.

22. A surgical gown assembly for use with a surgical helmet, the surgical helmet comprising a coupling member disposed in a recess and a detector spaced apart from the coupling member, the surgical gown assembly being configured to be at least partially disposed on the surgical helmet and configured to provide a microbial barrier between a user and a medical environment, the surgical gown assembly comprising: a surgical fabric defining an opening; a transparent face shield disposed within the opening, the transparent face shield comprising an upper portion, a lower portion, a first surface, and an opposing second surface; a first attachment element comprising a head defining a proximal surface facing away from the transparent face shield; wherein the proximal surface is shaped such that a first portion of the proximal surface extends a first distance from the first surface of the transparent face shield and a second portion of the proximal surface extends a second distance from the first surface of the transparent face shield; wherein the first distance is smaller than the second distance; and Wherein, the first attachment element is configured to removably engage a coupling member on the surgical helmet.

23. A surgical gown assembly for use with a surgical helmet, the surgical helmet comprising a coupling member disposed in a recess and a Hall effect sensor spaced apart from the coupling member, the surgical gown assembly being configured to be at least partially disposed on the surgical helmet and configured to provide a microbial barrier between a user and a medical environment, the surgical gown assembly comprising: a surgical fabric defining an opening; a transparent face shield disposed within the opening, the transparent face shield comprising an upper portion, a lower portion, a first surface, and an opposing second surface; a first attachment element coupled to the lower portion of the transparent face shield, the first attachment element defining a proximal surface facing away from the transparent face shield; a first axis of the first attachment element intersecting the proximal surface; wherein the proximal surface is shaped such that a first point on the proximal surface located on the first axis defines a first distance from the first surface of the transparent face shield, and such that a second point on the proximal surface defines a second distance from the first surface of the transparent face shield; wherein the second point on the proximal surface is spaced apart from the first point on the proximal surface, and the first distance is less than the second distance; wherein the first attachment element comprises a ferromagnetic material; and Wherein, the first attachment element is configured to removably engage a coupling member on the surgical helmet.

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