Personal protection system and method

Abstract

The protective headgear system includes a cover, a flow restrictor, an air mover, a filter, and one or more flow directors, the cover includes a substantially transparent face shield and a sheet sealingly coupled to the face shield around a periphery of the cover, the sheet including a substantially forward portion including a first sheet material configured to act as a substantial barrier to the passage of air and a substantially rearward portion including a second sheet material configured to filter contaminants from the air, and one or more seams between the first sheet material and the second sheet material, the flow restrictor configured to significantly create a flow barrier to provide an interior volume between the cover and the neck of the user, the air mover configured to draw a portion of exterior air into the interior volume, the filter is coupled to the cover, and the one or more flow directors configured to direct interior air, including at least a portion of exhaled air, to the second sheet material.

Description

[Background technology]

[0001] [Background of the invention] [Field of the Invention]

[0002]

[0001] The field of the invention generally relates to personal protection systems, including but not limited to personal environmental protection systems. Personal protection systems often include a headgear structure worn by an individual to protect against particulate matter. Personal protection systems may provide filtered air to a user. The field may relate to life-saving devices, apparatus or methods, including medical devices. The field may relate to respirators and respirator devices, such as respirator devices for medical purposes, including devices having filter elements. Summary of the Invention

[0003]

[0002] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, there is provided a protective headgear system including a cover, a flow restrictor, an air mover, a filter, and one or more flow directors, the cover configured to cover a head of a user, the cover including a substantially transparent face shield having a perimeter and a sheet sealingly joined to the face shield about the perimeter of the cover, the sheet including a substantially forward portion including a first sheet material configured to act as a substantial barrier to the passage of air, and a substantially rearward portion including a second sheet material configured to filter contaminants from the air. the sheet further comprising a rear portion of the sheet, the sheet further comprising one or more seams between the first sheet material and the second sheet material, the flow restrictor configured to significantly create a flow barrier to provide an interior volume between the cover and the neck of the user, the air mover configured to draw a portion of the exterior air into the interior volume, the filter coupled to the cover and configured to filter the air drawn by the air mover, and the one or more flow directors configured to direct interior air, including at least a portion of exhaled air from the user, to the second sheet material at the rear portion of the sheet.

[0004]

[0003] In another embodiment of the present disclosure, a protective headgear system includes a support configured to engage a user's head and a cover configured to be coupled to the support and cover the user's head, the cover including a substantially transparent face shield and a sheet material sealingly coupled to the face shield, the cover further including a first portion on the sheet material configured to filter contaminants from the air, a second portion at an upper edge of the sheet material configured to substantially circumscribe and engage the support to minimize air flow from between the cover and the support, and a third portion including a flow restrictor configured to significantly create a flow barrier between the cover and the user's neck, the cover providing an internal volume configured to isolate air supplied to the user.

[0005]

[0004] In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, a protective headgear system includes a cover configured to cover a user's head, the cover including a substantially transparent face shield and a sheet material sealingly joined to the face shield, the sheet material including at least a portion configured to filter contaminants from the air, the cover providing an interior volume configured to isolate air supplied to a user, an input blower configured to draw air into the interior volume of the cover, and an output blower configured to draw air from the interior volume of the cover through at least a portion of the sheet material, the input blower and the output blower configured to be individually controlled.

[0006]

[0005] In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, a protective headgear system includes a cover configured to cover a user's head, the cover including a substantially transparent face shield and a sheet material sealingly bonded to the face shield, the sheet material configured to filter contaminants from the air, the cover providing an interior volume configured to isolate air supplied to the user, a volume of open space of at least 500 cubic centimeters adjacent to the user's face when the cover is placed on the user's head with the face shield in front of the user's face, and a blower configured to draw air into the interior volume of the cover and / or draw air out of the interior volume of the cover through the sheet material.

[0007]

[0006] In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, a protective headgear system includes a cover configured to cover a user's head, the cover including a substantially transparent face shield and a sheet material sealingly bonded to the face shield, the sheet material configured to filter contaminants from the air, the cover providing an internal volume configured to isolate air supplied to the user, a blower configured to draw air into the internal volume of the cover and to draw air from the internal volume of the cover through the sheet material, and an exit orifice coupled to and downstream of the sheet material, the exit orifice having an adjustable flow resistance.

[0008]

[0007] In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, a protective headgear system includes a cover configured to cover a user's head, the cover including a substantially transparent face shield and a sheet material sealingly joined to the face shield, the sheet material including at least a portion configured to filter contaminants from the air, the cover providing an internal volume configured to isolate air supplied to the user, an outlet filter configured to filter air exiting the cover, and a blower configured to draw air into the internal volume of the cover, the cover including one or more channels configured to direct air toward the outlet filter.

[0009]

[0008] In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, a protective headgear system includes a support configured to engage a user's head, a cover configured to be coupled to the support and cover the user's head, a substantially transparent face shield, and a sheet material sealingly coupled to the face shield, the sheet material including at least a portion configured to filter contaminants from the air, the cover providing an internal volume configured to isolate air supplied to the user, an outlet filter configured to filter air exiting the cover, and a blower configured to draw air into the internal volume of the cover, the support including one or more channels configured to direct air toward the outlet filter.

[0010]

[0009] In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, a protective headgear system includes a cover configured to cover a user's head, the cover including fabric, a first layer configured to cover a rear portion of the user's head, and a second layer at least partially covering the first layer, and a cover configured to cover at least a lower portion of the user's face, wherein neither the first layer nor the second layer covers the user's ear canals, allowing free access to in-ear earphones or earplugs.

[0011]

[0010] In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, a protective headgear system includes a cover configured to cover a user's head, the cover including a substantially transparent face shield and a sheet material sealingly bonded to the face shield, the sheet material including at least one filtering portion configured to filter contaminants from the gas, the cover providing an internal volume isolated from external air, a blower configured to draw a portion of the external air into the internal volume of the cover, a filter coupled to the cover and configured to filter the drawn air, and one or more channels carried by the cover and configured to direct internal air in the internal volume including at least a portion of the exhaled air from the user toward the filtering portion of the sheet material.

[0012]

[0011] In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, a protective headgear system includes a cover configured to cover a user's head, the cover including a substantially transparent face shield and a sheet material sealingly bonded to the face shield, the sheet material including at least one filtering portion configured to filter contaminants from the gas, the cover providing an internal volume isolated from external air, a blower configured to draw a portion of the external air into the internal volume of the cover, a filter coupled to the cover and configured to filter the drawn air, and one or more directors carried by the cover and configured to direct internal air in the internal volume including at least a portion of the exhaled air from the user toward the filtering portion of the sheet material. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0013] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is an exploded view of a hood assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the hood assembly. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a front view of the hood assembly. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a rear view of the hood assembly. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a left side view of the hood assembly. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a right side view of the hood assembly. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a front view of a filter assembly of a hood assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the filter assembly. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is an exploded view of the filter assembly. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a detailed plan view of the filter assembly. [Figure 11]FIG. 11 is a top view of a face shield of a hood assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the face shield. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a neck tie assembly of a hood assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a front view of a hood assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a detailed view of the hood assembly taken within circle 15 of FIG. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a perspective view of the center hook of the hood assembly. [Figure 17] 17 is a side view of the center hook of FIG. [Figure 18] 18 is a face shield and center hook of a hood assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is a perspective view of the hood assembly. [Figure 20] FIG. 20 is a left side view of the hood assembly. [Figure 21] FIG. 21 is a view of the rear sheet material of the hood assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 22] FIG. 22 is a side view of a hood assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 23] FIG. 23 is a side view of a hood assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 24] FIG. 24 is a side view of a hood assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 25] FIG. 25 is a side view of a hood assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 26] FIG. 26 is a side view of a hood assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 27] FIG. 27 is a side view of a hood assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 28]FIG. 28 is a first perspective view of a first bonnet assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 29] 29 is a second perspective view of the first bonnet assembly of FIG. 28. FIG. [Diagram 30] FIG. 30 is a perspective view of a second bonnet assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 31] FIG. 31 is a side view of a bonnet assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 32] FIG. 32 is a perspective view of a hood assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 33] FIG. 33 is a perspective view of the hood assembly of FIGS. 1-13 in an unsecured state on a user. [Diagram 34] FIG. 34 is a perspective view of the hood assembly of FIG. 33 secured to a user. [Diagram 35] FIG. 35 is a perspective view of the bonnet assembly of FIG. 31 worn by a user. [Diagram 36] FIG. 36 is a perspective view of the hood assembly of FIG. 32 worn by a user. [Figure 37] FIG. 37 is a detailed view of the hood assembly of FIGS. 33-34 on the head of a user. [Figure 38] 38 is a cross-sectional view of a first alternative embodiment of the hood assembly of FIG. 37. FIG. [Figure 39] 39 is a cross-sectional view of a second alternative embodiment of the hood assembly of FIG. 37. FIG. [Diagram 40] 40 is a cross-sectional view of a third alternative embodiment of the hood assembly of FIG. [Diagram 41] FIG. 41 is a detailed view of the bonnet assembly of FIG. 35 on the head of a user. [Diagram 42] 42 is a cross-sectional view of a first alternative embodiment of the hood assembly of FIG. 41. FIG. [Diagram 43] 43 is a cross-sectional view of a second alternative embodiment of the hood assembly of FIG. [Diagram 44] 44 is a cross-sectional view of a third alternative embodiment of the hood assembly of FIG. [Diagram 45] FIG. 45 is a detailed view of the hood assembly of FIG. 36 on the user's head. [Figure 46] 46 is a cross-sectional view of a first alternative embodiment of the hood assembly of FIG. 45. FIG. [Figure 47] 47 is a cross-sectional view of a second alternative embodiment of the hood assembly of FIG. 45. FIG. [Figure 48] 48 is a cross-sectional view of a third alternative embodiment of the hood assembly of FIG. 45. FIG. [Figure 49] FIG. 49 is a rear view of a hood assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 50] FIG. 50 is a rear view of a hood assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 51] FIG. 51 is a rear view of a hood assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 52] FIG. 52 is a rear view of a hood assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 53] FIG. 53 is a detailed view of the bonnet assembly on a user's head according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 54] FIG. 54 is a cross-sectional view of the bonnet assembly of FIG. 53 taken along line 54. [Figure 55] FIG. 55 is an adjustment mechanism for the bonnet assembly of FIG. 53 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 56A] FIG. 56A illustrates the adjustable filter of the bonnet assembly of FIG. 53 in a first adjustment state. [Figure 56B] FIG. 56B illustrates the adjustable filter of the bonnet assembly of FIG. 53 in a first adjustment state. [Figure 57] FIG. 57 is a detailed view of the bonnet assembly on a user's head according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 58]FIG. 58 is an adjustment mechanism for the bonnet assembly of FIG. 57 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 59] FIG. 59 illustrates the bonnet assembly of FIG. 57 in a first adjustment state. [Figure 60] FIG. 60 illustrates the bonnet assembly of FIG. 57 in a second adjustment state. [Figure 61] FIG. 61 is a detailed view of the bonnet assembly on a user's head according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 62] 62 is a cross-sectional view of the bonnet assembly of FIG. 61. FIG. [Figure 63] FIG. 63 is a first operating condition of the bonnet assembly of FIG. [Figure 64] FIG. 64 is a first operating condition of the bonnet assembly of FIG.

[0014] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF ILLUSTRATED EMBODIMENTS

[0015]

[0077] Several types of air flow, filtration and protection systems are known in the art and are currently available on the market for use in surgical areas, "clean room" environments, or hazardous / contaminated environments.

[0016]

[0078] Some of the existing systems include hoods, gowns, filters, etc. In some cases, the air filter is integrated into the helmet structure. Known units often include an external air source, such as a gas cylinder, an airline, etc., connected to the helmet structure by tubes, hoses, etc. Air from the surrounding environment can be filtered and supplied to the helmet interior by the system. Some currently available lens / face seal combinations, sometimes known as loose-fit hoods, are expensive to manufacture due to the geometry required to attach the face seal to a lens that is curved in a plane perpendicular to the seal relative to the wearer's face / head. Some embodiments disclosed herein include various configurations that provide a space within a cover or barrier around the user's head, allowing for controlled flow of filtered air into the space. Some embodiments disclosed herein include various configurations that provide a space within a cover or barrier around the user's head, allowing for controlled flow of filtered air out of the space. Filtration of air brought into the space can be done with the primary goal of providing a safe, clean, healthy, comfortable, and visually clear environment for the user. Filtration of air removed from a space may be performed with the primary purpose of providing a safe, clean, and healthful environment for persons other than the occupant who may occupy the same general work area temporarily or continuously / successively.

[0017]

[0079] The systems described herein can also be utilized for general medical or general laboratory applications, as well as surgical, medical procedure, or dental applications. The systems can include PAPR (powered air purifying respirator) systems that include motorized blowers, but can also include non-powered systems that include physical or acoustic protection systems such as those used in construction work or airport or orbital communications and / or protection. The systems described herein can also be utilized for general PPE (personal protective equipment).

[0018]

[0080] 1-6 and 19-21 illustrate a hood assembly 100 configured to protect a user against external infectious vectors, including viruses such as the SARS-CoV-2 virus that is the basis of COVID-19. In some embodiments, the hood assembly 100 may be further configured to protect others from the user, for example, if the user is personally carrying a contagious virus or other spreadable vector. This may be of high concern if the vector has potentially dangerous or deadly consequences for a particular human subject and / or if the vector is particularly contagious, for example, by small liquid particles or droplets through the air. The transparent face shield 102 is sealably attached at its perimeter 104 to the front sheet 106 around the perimeter 110 of the front sheet 106 and holes 108, for example, at seams 109 (see FIGS. 19-20). The transparent face shield 102 allows the user to clearly see their surroundings while wearing the hood assembly 100. The seam 109 may include adhesives, epoxies, hot melts, or heat and / or pressure bonds and / or seals. The front sheet 106 is attached to the rear sheet 106 by a seam 114 (or hem) between the left and right side edges 116, 118 of the front sheet 112 and the left and right side edges 120, 122 of the rear sheet 112. The seam 114 may be formed by many different methods, including but not limited to adhesives, epoxies, hot melts, sewing, fasteners, pins, hook and loop (Velcro®), snaps, buttons, clasps, or other methods that allow for a close fit between the edges (116, 120 or 118, 122) without significant gaps or openings. In some embodiments, the seam 114 includes an airtight seal. In some embodiments, the seam 114 does not include a seal, but rather includes a barrier to the passage of air that is at least as effective as the material of the front sheet 106 and / or rear sheet 112. In some embodiments, the material of the front sheet 106 and / or the rear sheet 112 may comprise a woven or tightly woven fabric.

[0019]

[0081] In some embodiments, the front sheet 106 and / or the rear sheet 112 may comprise a breathable soft composite material, such as, for example, a Type 4 composite material according to AAMI PB70 and / or EN13795 standards. In some embodiments, the front sheet 106 and / or the rear sheet 112 may comprise a meltblown polypropylene material. The material for the front sheet 106 and / or the rear sheet 112 may, in some embodiments, comprise a three-layer laminate including a film held between two layers of a plastic nonwoven. Bi-layer materials are also possible, such as a material including a film layer and a plastic nonwoven. In some embodiments, one or more of the nonwoven layers may comprise cellulose. In some embodiments, the nonwoven layer may comprise a spun material, such as spunbond high density polyethylene (e.g., Tyvek®, a trademark of DuPont de Nemours, Inc.). In one embodiment, spunbond meltblown spunbond, commonly known as SMS, can be used, comprising a trilaminate nonwoven with a top layer of spunbond polypropylene, a middle layer of meltblown polypropylene, and a bottom layer of spunbond polypropylene, In other embodiments, one or more of the nonwoven layers may be replaced with a woven layer.

[0020]

[0082] In some embodiments, the face shield 102 can comprise a sheet comprising polyethylene terephthalate glycol (PETG), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), or other polyester or polyester copolymer, or acrylic, or polycarbonate, or other highly transparent polymer, thereby providing a relatively thin yet durable barrier that does not significantly impede the user's vision. In some embodiments, the face shield 102 used with the hood assembly 100 can be configured to substantially control the user's breathing environment through air filtration, inflow (intake), and / or outflow (exhaust), and in any embodiment, can utilize operating elements for air filtration, inflow, and / or outflow. In use, the face shield 102 has a permanent concave shape toward the user and a permanent convex shape away from the user. In some embodiments, the face shield 102 can comprise a flat, flexible sheet that can be manufactured by die cutting or other rapid processes that allow for improved mass production and reduced costs. The face shield 102 is flexible and can conform to various curves, such as those required to engage a helmet or support configured to engage the user's head. In some embodiments, the face shield 102 can comprise polycarbonate having a thickness between about 0.010 inches and about 0.020 inches, or between about 0.012 inches and about 0.018 inches, or between about 0.014 inches and about 0.016 inches. In some embodiments, the face shield 102 can comprise PET having a thickness between about 0.004 inches and about 0.012 inches, or between about 0.006 inches and about 0.010 inches, or between about 0.007 inches and about 0.009 inches.

[0021]

[0083] The front sheet 106 and the rear sheet 112 are attached to the inlet filter 124 with a lower edge 132 of the inlet filter 124 by a seam 126 (or hem) between an upper edge 128 of the front sheet 106 and an upper edge 130 of the rear sheet 112. The seam 126 may be formed by a number of different methods, including adhesives, epoxies, hot melts, sewing, fasteners, pins, hook and loop (Velcro®), snaps, buttons, clasps, or other methods that allow for a close fit between the edges (128, 132 or 130, 132) without significant gaps or openings. In some embodiments, the seam 126 comprises an airtight seal. In some embodiments, the seam 126 does not comprise a seal, but rather a barrier to the passage of air that is at least as effective as the material of the front sheet 106, rear sheet 112, and / or inlet filter 124. In some embodiments, the filter 124 may comprise a meltblown polypropylene material or filter media.

[0022]

[0084] The hood assembly 100 is configured to be set over the head of a user. The front tail 134 and / or the back tail 136 can be tucked into a gown or other body covering garment (not shown). In some configurations of use, the tails 134, 136 are not tucked. In other configurations of use, both tails 134, 136 are tucked and a portion of the central region of the hood assembly 100 is also tucked. The user may select a larger or oversized hood assembly 100, for example, to tuck in more. In other embodiments, the underside 138 of the front tail 134 and / or the underside 140 of the back tail 136 may include adhesive, hook and loop, or other fastening elements for fastening (permanently or removably) to an exterior portion of a gown or other body covering garment (not shown). An elongated coupling portion 142 having a first end 144 and a second end 146 is configured to secure the hood assembly 100 to the user, for example, around the neck of the user. The coupling 142 may be secured, fastened, and / or tied around the hood assembly 100. In some embodiments, the coupling 142 may be adjusted to at least partially control the amount of air that may enter the interior of the hood assembly 100 at a particular time (i.e., the inlet flow rate). In some embodiments, the coupling 142 may be adjusted to at least partially adjust the total interior volume of the interior 143 of the hood assembly 100. A variety of different hood assembly 100 sizes may also be provided. In some embodiments, the interior volume of the interior 143 of the hood assembly 100 is desirably sized such that, when worn on a user, at least 500 cubic centimeters of volume of space is adjacent to the user's face. Adjacent to the face may include directly in front of the face, directly on either or both sides of the face, and / or directly above or below the face. A volume of 500 cc or more provides comfort and ensures that intake and exhaust air can move freely and accommodate the flow path of the system. The front sheet 106 includes a left loop 148 and a right loop 150 extending from a left side 152 and a right side 154 of the front sheet 106, respectively.A first end 144 of the coupling portion 142 is configured to be inserted through a hole 156 in the left loop 148 and a second end 146 of the coupling portion 142 is configured to be inserted through a hole 158 in the right loop 150. Referring to Figure 13, the snap 142 can be secured by mating the female snap 176 with one of the male snaps 178 AD located at different lengths of the snap 142 such that the securing of the snaps 176, 178 is appropriate for users of different sizes. Alternatively, the coupling portion 1442 can simply be secured to itself.

[0023]

[0085] 7-10, the inlet filter 124 includes a top convex portion 160 and an inner concave portion 162. In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 1-2 and 9-10, the inlet filter 124 may be double-sided with a first sheet of filter material 164 secured to a second sheet of filter material 166 by a ribbon 168 connecting them at their edges along the top. Thus, while the first sheet 164 and the second sheet 166 may be identical to one another (e.g., cut from the same pattern, from the same base material), they may be attached together to form a contour that precisely matches the user's head shape. In the figures, the first sheet 164 represents the left side and the second sheet 166 represents the right side. The sheets 164, 166 and ribbon 168 may be connected by any method, including but not limited to adhesives, epoxies, welding, hot melt, sewing, fasteners, pins, hook and loop (Velcro®), snaps, buttons, clasps, or other methods. In some embodiments, the sheets 164, 166 may be directly connected to each other without the use of ribbon 168. Referring to FIG. 10, the overall length L of the inlet filter 124 may be between about 14.50 cm and about 21.75 cm, or between about 16.25 cm and about 20.00 cm. The overall height H of the inlet filter 124 may be between about 7.50 cm and about 11.50 cm, or between about 8.50 cm and about 10.50 cm. The upper radius of curvature R may vary between about 6.75 cm and about 18.75 cm, or between about 8.00 cm and about 16.00 cm. The radius of curvature R of the front portion 145 or the rear portion 147 may be toward the lower end of the range, and the radius of curvature R near the central portion 149 may be closer to the middle or upper portion of the range. In other embodiments, the inlet filter 124 may comprise a single sheet of filter material, or may comprise three or more sheets. The face shield 102, as shown in Figures 11-12 and 14-15, can include a number of holes 170, 172, 174 which are described in more detail in the alternative embodiment of Figures 16-18.

[0024]

[0086] 16-18, a hook 509 configured to be carried on a helmet or head support 16 (FIG. 18) includes a proximal hole 559 configured to attach the hook 509 to the head support 16. The hook 509 can be configured to fit over a fastener on the head support 16, to screw over a fastener on the head support 16, to slide over a fastener on the head support 16, or to be bonded to the head support 16 with an adhesive or epoxy. The hook 509 allows a face shield 518 to be removably secured to the head support 16. The holes 512, 514, 516 are carried on the upper portion 28 of the face shield 518 on opposite sides of the lower leg 26. The face shield has a left side 513 and a right side 511. The hook 509 includes a circular shape having a first circular section 555 having a diameter smaller than the maximum gap g1 of the first section 501 of the hole 512. The hook 509 further comprises a second circular section 557 having a diameter smaller than the gap g3 of the second section 503 of the hole 512. The diameter of the first circular section 555 is larger than the gap g3 of the second section 503 of the hole 512. Thus, the hook 509 maintains a lock / unlock function with the hole 512 of the face shield 518. The holes 514, 516, each having a width W3 and a gap g2, are configured to lock to a lateral or side hook (not shown) of the head support 16 when the hole 512 is locked to the hook 509, and the locking causes the holes 514, 516 to be oriented above the lateral or side hook. In some embodiments, the lateral or side hook may be configured to engage against a lower edge 548 (and / or an upper edge) of the hole 514. Other embodiments of holes and hooks may be utilized, such as those described in commonly owned international application publication WO2021 / 183984 A1 to PABBAN DEVELOPMENT, INC. et al., published on September 16, 2021, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety herein for all purposes.

[0025]

[0087] Airflow within the interior of the hood assembly 100 can be optimized in several ways. FIGS. 22-27 each illustrate six different embodiments of the hood assemblies 100A-F, where at least a portion of the rear sheet 112 functions as an outflow filter to filter the outflow of air from the interior 200 of the hood assemblies 100A-F. "(200)" is intended to represent the interior of the interior of the front sheet 106 and the rear sheet 112. In some embodiments, only a portion of the rear sheet 112 is the filter material. In some embodiments, substantially all of the rear sheet 112 is the filter material. FIGS. 22-27 are shown without being worn by a user, and thus are not shown in a configuration for use with the joint 142 tied to enclose the interior space. The hood assembly 100A in FIG. 22 includes a fan 202 carried below the inlet filter 124 configured to draw air (arrows) through the inlet filter 124 to filter and capture incoming undesirable particles or vectors (e.g., potentially infectious viruses or bacteria). Although the term "fan" is used herein, any type of blower or air mover can be used provided that equivalent or acceptable performance is achieved. The orientation of the fan 202 is at least partially angled rearward to effectively push air out of the rear sheet 112. For example, the angle of the fan central axis 201 relative to the vertical axis 203 of the hood assembly 100A can be between about 0.5° and about 70°, or between about 5° and about 60°, or between about 10° and about 55°, or between about 10° and about 45°. In some embodiments, the entire rear sheet 112 is configured to filter the exiting air (arrows) to protect other personnel or general subjects from vectors from an infected user wearing the hood assembly 100A. In some embodiments, only a portion of the rear sheet 112 is a filter material. In some embodiments, substantially all of the rear sheet 112 is a filter material. In some embodiments, but not required, the sensor 204 is configured to measure an internal property such as air pressure, air velocity, or air temperature.The controller 206 may be carried by the fan 202 or by a head support 205 (optionally) that also carries the fan 202. The controller 206 may be configured to receive data from the sensor 204 indicative of the internal characteristic and adjust the speed of the fan 202 (speed up, slow down, switch off (e.g., reduce rotational speed to 0 rpm), switch on) to adjust the internal characteristic towards a more desirable value or state.

[0026]

[0088] The hood assembly 100B in FIG. 23 includes a fan 208 carried below the inlet filter 124 configured to draw air (arrow) through the inlet filter 124 to filter and capture incoming undesirable particles or vectors (e.g., potentially infectious viruses or bacteria). The fan 208 is disposed substantially along a longitudinal axis, but in other embodiments may be at least partially angled rearward, as described in connection with the hood assembly 100A of FIG. 22. In some embodiments, the entire rear sheet 112 is configured to filter the outgoing air (arrow) to protect other personnel or general subjects from vectors from an infected user wearing the hood assembly 100B. In some embodiments, only a portion of the rear sheet 112 is filter material. In some embodiments, substantially all of the rear sheet 112 is filter material. In this embodiment, a second fan 211 is carried by the rear sheet 112 or another element. The second fan 211 is configured to help push the interior air through the rear sheet 112. In some embodiments, but not necessarily, the sensor 210 is configured to measure an interior characteristic such as air pressure, air velocity, or air temperature. The controller 212 may be carried by the fan 208 or by a head support carrying the fan 208 (as in the hood assembly 100A of FIG. 22). The controller 212 may be configured to receive data from the sensor 210 indicative of the interior characteristic and adjust the speed of the fan 208 (accelerate speed, decelerate speed, switch off, switch on) and / or the second fan 211 (accelerate speed, decelerate speed, switch off, switch on) to adjust the interior characteristic toward a more desirable value or state. For example, if the interior pressure rises to an undesirable level (e.g., exceeds a current threshold value stored in the memory 213 associated with the controller 212), the controller 212 may slow down or stop the fan 208, accelerate or start the second fan 211 (if not currently running), or both.In some embodiments, the controller 212 can control the ratio between the speed of the fan 208 and the speed of the second fan 211. In some embodiments, the controller 212 can control the difference between the speed of the fan 208 and the speed of the second fan 211. In some embodiments, the controller 212 can control the ratio of the current sent to the fan 208 and the current sent to the second fan 211. In some embodiments, the controller 212 can control the difference between the current sent to the fan 208 and the current sent to the second fan 211.

[0027]

[0089] The hood assembly 100C in FIG. 24 includes a fan 214 carried below the inlet filter 124 configured to draw air (arrow) through the inlet filter 124 to filter and capture incoming undesirable particles or disease vectors (e.g., potentially infectious viruses or bacteria). The fan 214 is oriented on a substantially vertical axis, but in other embodiments may be at least partially angled rearward. Attached to the head support or other element is a series of air baffles or channels 216 configured to direct or guide air drawn into the interior 200 by the fan 214 toward the rear sheet 112. In some embodiments, only a portion of the rear sheet 112 is filter material. In some embodiments, substantially all of the rear sheet 112 is filter material. In some embodiments where only a portion of the rear sheet 112 is filter material, the baffles / channels 216 may be configured to direct or guide air toward that portion. The baffles or channels 216 may be formed by a material that has low air permeability and / or is substantially flexible. In some embodiments, each baffle or channel 216 is longer than it is wide. In some embodiments, each baffle or channel has a width greater than it is long. In some embodiments, some baffles have a width-to-length ratio less than 1.0 and other baffles have a width-to-length ratio greater than 1.0. In some embodiments, the entire rear sheet 112 is configured to filter the exiting air (arrows) to protect others from vectors from an infected user wearing the hood assembly 100C. In some embodiments, but not required, the sensor 218 is configured to measure an internal property such as air pressure, air velocity, or air temperature. The controller 220 may be carried by the fan 214 or by a head support that carries the fan 214 (as in the hood assembly 100A of FIG. 22).The controller 220 can be configured to receive data from the sensor 218 indicative of the interior characteristic and adjust the speed of the fan 214 (speed up, slow down, switch off, switch on) to adjust the interior characteristic towards a more desirable value or state. In some embodiments, the hood material can be pleated or similarly formed to directly provide one or more channels. The material forming the channels can be substantially impermeable, but can also include a fabric having some degree of permeability (e.g., a low permeability material).

[0028]

[0090] The hood assembly 100D in FIG. 25 includes a fan 222 carried adjacent to the front sheet 106 and configured to draw air (arrow) through the filter material of the front sheet 106 to filter and capture incoming undesirable particles or vectors (e.g., potentially infectious viruses or bacteria). In some embodiments, the front sheet 106 may include the only filter material used to filter the incoming air, although a head-carried inlet filter 124 (as in FIGS. 22-24) may be used as a supplement. The fan 222 is oriented substantially on a horizontal axis, but in other embodiments may be at least partially angled in other directions. For example, the angle of the fan 222 with the horizontal axis may be about 0.5° to about 60°, or about 10° to about 55°, or about 10° to about 45° (positive or negative). In some embodiments, the entire rear sheet 112 is configured to filter the outgoing air (arrow) to protect others from vectors from an infected occupant. In some embodiments, only a portion of the rear sheet 112 is a filter material. In some embodiments, substantially all of the rear sheet 112 is a filter material. In some embodiments, but not required, the sensor 224 is configured to measure an interior characteristic, such as air pressure, air velocity, or air temperature. The controller 226 may be carried by the fan 222 or may be carried by another element that also carries the fan 222. The controller 226 may be configured to receive data from the sensor 224 indicative of the interior characteristic and adjust (speed up, slow down, switch off, switch on) the speed of the fan 222 to adjust the interior characteristic toward a more desirable value or state. For example, increasing the outflow can reduce the interior (positive) pressure, but can also reduce the interior temperature (to improve comfort). In FIG. 25, the fan 222 is directed substantially toward the rear and along a substantially horizontal axis, but in other embodiments, the fan 222 may be directed toward an upper (upper) location, e.g., toward a higher portion within the hood assembly 100D.Thus, the air flow can be directed upwards before it returns (and exits).

[0029]

[0091] The hood assembly 100E in FIG. 26 includes a fan 228 carried below the inlet filter 124 configured to draw air (arrow) through the inlet filter 124 to filter and capture incoming undesirable particles or vectors (e.g., potentially infectious viruses or bacteria). The fan 228 is oriented substantially vertically, but in other embodiments may be angled at least partially rearward, as described in connection with the hood assembly 100A in FIG. 22. A second fan 230 is carried adjacent the forward sheet 106 and configured to draw air (arrow) through the filter material of the forward sheet 106 to filter and capture incoming undesirable particles or vectors (e.g., potentially infectious viruses or bacteria). The second fan 230 is oriented substantially horizontally, but in other embodiments may be angled at least partially in other directions, as described in connection with the hood assembly 100D in FIG. 25. In some embodiments, the entire rear sheet 112 is configured to filter the outgoing air (arrow) to protect others from disease vectors from an infected user. In some embodiments, only a portion of the rear sheet 112 is filter material. In some embodiments, substantially all of the rear sheet 112 is filter material. In this embodiment, a third fan 232 is carried by the rear sheet 112 or another element. The third fan 232 is configured to help push the interior air through the rear sheet 112. In some embodiments, but not required, the sensor 234 is configured to measure an interior property such as air pressure, air velocity, or air temperature. The controller 236 may be carried by the fan 228, by a head support carrying the fan 228, or by one of the other fans.The controller 236 can be configured to receive data from the sensor 234 indicative of the interior characteristic and adjust the speed of the fan 228, the second fan 230, and / or the third fan 232 (accelerate the speed, slow the speed, switch off, switch on any one or more fans in any combination positive or negative) to adjust the interior characteristic toward a more desirable value or state. For example, if the interior pressure increases to an undesirable level (e.g., above a current threshold stored in the memory 237 of the control device 236), the controller 36 may slow down or stop the fan 228, slow down or stop the second fan 230, accelerate or start the third fan 232 (if not currently running), or cause any combination of these actions. In FIG. 26, the fan 228 is directed substantially rearward and substantially along a horizontal axis, although in other embodiments, the fan 228 may be directed to be directed toward an upward (upper) location, e.g., toward a higher portion within the hood assembly 100E. Thus, the air flow can be directed upwards before it returns (and exits).

[0030]

[0092] The hood assembly 100F in FIG. 27 includes a fan 238 carried below the inlet filter 124 configured to draw air (arrow) through the inlet filter 124 to filter and capture incoming undesirable particles or vectors (e.g., potentially infectious viruses or bacteria). The fan 238 is oriented substantially vertically, but in other embodiments may be at least partially angled rearward, as described in connection with the hood assembly 100A in FIG. 22. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the rear sheet 112 may be configured to filter the exiting air (arrow) to protect others from vectors from an infected occupant, but in the embodiment shown in FIG. 27, the rear sheet 112 is not configured to allow significant passage of air. Instead, an adjustable exit orifice 240 having a filter 242 is provided in the rear sheet 112. The orifice 240 is adjustable to help control the amount of interior air that exits through the rear sheet 112. In some embodiments, but not required, the sensor 244 is configured to measure an internal characteristic, such as air pressure, air velocity, or air temperature. The controller 246 may be carried by the fan 238 or by a head support carrying the fan 238. The controller 246 may be configured to receive data from the sensor 244 indicative of the internal characteristic and adjust the speed of the fan 248 (speed up, slow down, switch off, switch on) to adjust the internal characteristic toward a more desirable value or state. For example, if the internal pressure increases to an undesirable level (e.g., above a current threshold stored in the memory 247 of the controller 246), the controller 246 may slow down or stop the fan 238.

[0031]

[0093] The adjustable orifice 240 may include an internal, openable orifice 250 configured to be controlled by a controller 246. The controller 246 may be configured to receive data indicative of the internal characteristics from the sensor 244 and adjust the size of the holes 250 to increase or decrease the amount of air exiting through the filter 242 during a particular time to vary the outlet flow rate. The controller 246 may also be configured to adjust the overall flow resistance of the orifice 240. This may be done by adjusting the holes 250, but may also be done by changing the geometry or surface shape of the orifice 240. For example, increasing the length of the orifice 240 may increase the flow resistance, decreasing at least a portion of the diameter (e.g., pinching or compressing a portion) may increase the flow resistance, and a wavy or micro-wavy internal surface may increase the flow resistance. In some embodiments, the orifice 240 may include an internal, adjustable flow baffle to allow for adjustment of the flow resistance.

[0032]

[0094] In some embodiments, adjustment of the fan or fans can be done along with adjustment of the orifice or orifices. In some embodiments, the adjustable inlet orifice can be controllable. In some embodiments, the internal characteristics measured by the sensor 244 can be interpreted to adjust or control the laminar flow of the flow, thus ensuring that no significant vortex occurs and substantially all of the air circulates through the system pathway. In some embodiments, the grooves, troughs, or channels can be the first element for optimizing laminar flow, and any of the adjustable elements can be the second element for optimizing laminar flow. In some embodiments, other elements can have shaped portions, such as baffles or channels. For example, a chin bar configured to extend around a user's chin can have baffles, deflectors, or channels.

[0033]

[0095] In some embodiments, the front sheet 106 can comprise one layer, two layers, or more than two layers. In some embodiments, the rear sheet 112 can comprise one layer, two layers, or more than two layers. In some embodiments, the front sheet 106 can comprise a first filter medium and the rear sheet 112 can comprise a second filter medium. In some embodiments, the front sheet 106 can comprise a first filter medium having a first filtration efficiency and the rear sheet 112 can comprise a second filter medium having a second filtration efficiency different from the first filtration efficiency. In some embodiments, the filtration efficiency may include a particle filtration efficiency (PFE). In some embodiments, the filtration efficiency may include a viral filtration efficiency (VFE). In some embodiments, the filtration efficiency may include a bacterial filtration efficiency (BFE). In some embodiments, the second filter medium is configured to have a lower efficiency than the first filter medium. In some embodiments, the first filter medium is about 20 g / m 2 from about 250g / m 2 In some embodiments, the first filter media has a basis weight of about 30 g / m 2 from about 250g / m 2 In some embodiments, the first filter media has a basis weight of about 30 g / m 2 to about 200 g / m 2 In some embodiments, the second filter media has a basis weight of about 20 g / m 2 to about 600g / m 2 In some embodiments, the second filter media has a basis weight of about 20 g / m 2 to about 500g / m 2 In some embodiments, the second filter media has a basis weight of about 20 g / m 2 ~ approx. 100g / m 2 The sheet has a basis weight of 1.0 g.

[0034]

[0096] In any embodiment of the hood assemblies 100A-F, a pressure differential can be maintained, the pressure differential comprising the difference between the first characteristic and the ambient pressure outside the cover.

[0035]

[0097] FIG. 33 illustrates a user 452 wearing a personal protection system 450 including the hood assembly 100 of FIGS. 1-13 and a gown 454. The gown 454 includes a left sleeve 456, a right sleeve 458, and a front portion 460 extending therebetween and extending between a lower end 462 and an upper end (not visible under the hood assembly 100). The gown 454 may comprise a standard surgical garment and is configured to close at the rear and be tied closed with a joint 464. Alternatively, the gown 454 may be closed with a rear vertical seal. An additional (optional) joint 466 is configured to close the gown 454 around an upper portion of the legs 468 of the user 452 or around the buttocks of the user 452. In laminar flow rooms (such as clean rooms) where lower level laminar flow layers of air are removed from the room without significant mixing with higher level laminar flow areas (e.g., near the face of personnel), the significant closure of gown 454 by coupling 466 helps to funnel a portion of the interior (to system 450) into the lower laminar flow area of ​​the room. Thus, system 450 operates in conjunction with laminar flow rooms. In FIG. 34, coupling 142 of hood assembly 100 is further tied around the neck area of ​​user 452. User 452 may also wear gloves 459 over the ends (e.g., cuffs) of sleeves 456, 458. In rooms that are not laminar flow rooms or are not operated as laminar flow rooms, system 450 can be used without coupling 466 (or with coupling 466 significantly loosened).

[0036]

[0098] Applicant conducted interior and exterior particle reduction testing on a personal protection system 450 including a hood assembly 100 having the general configuration of FIG. 34 (with a vertical seal to close the rear of a Level IV isolation gown) in two different configurations. The first configuration A includes an additional joint 466 closing the bottom portion. The second configuration B does not have the additional joint 466. As a comparison, tests were performed with an N95 respirator with simulated face seal C and a KN95 respirator D. Ten different samples from each test group were tested (N=10). In each test, 0.1 to 10 micron NaCl particles were injected through the nasal passages of a soft face media ISO head foam (e.g., dummy) at a flow rate of 85 liters / min at approximately 5 mg / m. 3 A concentration of 10 ... [Table 1] Data from Group A and Group C were compared by conducting a Student's T-test, a two-tailed test. The p-value of the T-test was 0.45, and therefore the null hypothesis could not be rejected. *Air delivered to the lower level of the gown should have been at the lower level of the laminar flow room (for removal), but was isolated and was not part of the measurements. Therefore, only air that would have been important to the room personnel was measured in the four groups (A, B, C, D).

[0037]

[0099] FIG. 37 shows the hood assembly in place on the head 451 of the occupant 452, with the tie 142 tightened around the neck of the occupant 452 to create an interior volume 472. The hood assembly 100a of FIG. 38, the hood assembly 100b of FIG. 39, and the hood assembly 100c of FIG. 40 each include a fan 470 adjacent the filter 124 configured to draw outside air through the filter 124 and into the interior volume 472. The fan 470 may be powered from a local wired power source or may be battery powered, including one or more rechargeable batteries. The inflow of filtered air 384 flows toward the open space (space not blocked by the head 451 of the occupant 452), which favors a circulation path toward the open space 474 between the face 476 of the occupant 452 and the interior surface 478 of the face shield 102.

[0038]

[0100] In the hood assembly 100a of FIG. 38, a series of three channels 480a, 480b, 480c are carried on each side. The channels 480 serve to guide the circulating air in the open space of the interior volume 472 towards the rear seat 112. A positive pressure (e.g., gauge pressure relative to the outside environment) then selectively exhausts the air through the rear seat 112, thereby filtering the air. Thus, the occupant 452 breathes filtered air that has passed through the filter 124. Furthermore, the air exhaled by the occupant 452 is filtered by the rear seat 112 before being returned to the outside environment. Thus, both the occupant 452 and other personnel in the work area are protected from potential airborne disease vectors.

[0039]

[0101] Hood assembly 100b of FIG. 39 includes an outlet fan 482 instead of channel 480. Hood assembly 100c of FIG. 40 includes both guide channels 484a, 484b, 484c and an outlet fan 482. The outlet fan 482 is configured to pull air from the open space 474 toward the rear seat 112. The positive pressure causes the air to exit through the rear seat 112. Hood assembly 100c can also include an optional third fan 486 configured to push air toward guide channels 484a, 484b, 484c and / or outlet fan 482.

[0040]

[0102] 30 shows a bonnet assembly 400 similar to the hood assembly 100. Similar materials and components having similar functions and uses as all of the embodiments 100A-100F may be used, but the geometry of the worn elements of the bonnet assembly 400 is different. The bonnet assembly 400 has a face shield 402, an inlet filter 404, a bonnet body 408, and an elastic fastening band 406. The bonnet body 408 includes a tapered middle section 401 that transitions between a maximum diameter section 403 and a top dome-shaped section 405.

[0041]

[0103] 28-29 show a bonnet assembly 300 configured to protect a user 2 (similar to the hood assembly 100) while allowing the user 2 to easily use a stethoscope 302. The bonnet assembly 300 includes a head cover 304 coupled to a face shield 306. The head cover 304 is also coupled to a cuff 308 that can conform to the face 3 of the user 2. The head cover 304 includes a first portion 310 that fits around a rear portion of the user's head and includes a substantially forward facing upward sweep 312 to avoid the user's ears 4. The head cover 304 also includes a second portion 314 that overlaps the first portion 310. The second portion 314 includes a substantially rearward facing upward sweep 316 that fits around the lower surface 3 of the user 2 and also avoids the user's ears 4. Thus, the upper sweep 312 and the upper sweep 316 together cover and protect the user 2 while allowing full access to the user's ear 4 for the earphone 318 of the stethoscope 302. The upper sweep 312 and the upper sweep 316 together form a substantially triangular relief area 303 that leaves the inner canal of the ear 4 fully accessible while the bonnet assembly 300 is fully secured to the head of the user 2. The first portion 310 and / or the second portion 314 may, as the case may be, at least partially cover an upper portion of the outer ear of the user 2 while allowing full access to the inner canal of the ear 4.

[0042]

[0104] In the first embodiment, the first portion 310 and the second portion 314 may or may not be snapped together (not shown). When not snapped together, the user 2 can pull the second portion 314 down to partially or completely cover the ear 4 as desired. To completely cover the ear, the earphone 318 of the stethoscope 302 may first be removed from the user's ear 4. The second embodiment includes a strap or tie instead of a snap. The strap or tie can be tied around the second portion 314 to keep it above the ear 4.

[0043]

[0105] FIG. 31 shows a bonnet assembly 330 that covers the head of a user. The helmet 332 is configured to cover an upper portion of the head of a user 354 (FIG. 41) and to blend in with the head 356 of the user 354. The gaiter-like head cover 334 is formed from a fabric 348 that includes at least a portion of a filtering fabric material 336. At least a portion of the fabric 348 may comprise an impermeable or substantially impermeable material. The upper portion 338 of the head cover 334 includes an elastic ring 340 configured to be snugly secured around a perimeter 342 of an undercut 344 on a lower portion 346 of the helmet 332. The lower portion 350 of the head cover 334 includes an elastic band 352 configured to be securely secured around a lower portion of the head 356 of the user 354 and / or around the neck 370 of the user 354, and may be configured to cover and hold the user's hair, as seen in FIG. 41. The lower portion 350 and / or the elastic band 352 may be configured with a curved portion 358 configured to move away from the ear 360 of the user 354 to allow access for, for example, a stethoscope, headphones, earphones, or earplugs.

[0044]

[0106] The front portion 362 of the head cover 334 comprises a substantially translucent or transparent face shield 364. The face shield 364 may comprise a sheet including polyethylene terephthalate glycol (PETG), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), or other polyester or polyester copolymer, or a highly transparent polymer such as acrylic or polycarbonate, to provide a relatively thin yet durable barrier that does not significantly impede the user's vision. The face shield 364 includes a perimeter 366 secured to the fabric 348 of the head cover 334 at one or more seams 368. The helmet 332 and the head cover 334 are configured together to be secured tightly around a lower portion of the head 356 of the user 354 and / or around the neck 370 of the user 354, creating a controlled interior volume 372 therein. The user 354 thus draws air from within the interior volume 372. In some embodiments, the head covering 334 includes an additional cuff similar to the cuff 616 of the hood assembly 600 of Figure 32 or the cuff 616 of the hood assemblies 600a, 600b, 600c of Figures 46-48. In some embodiments, an internal (under) flow barrier is created by the lower portion 350 and / or elastic band 352 configured to fit around a rear portion of the user's head and the additional cuff configured to fit around a front portion of the user's head.

[0045]

[0107] Bonnet assembly 330a of FIG. 42, bonnet assembly 330b of FIG. 43, and bonnet assembly 330c of FIG. 44 each include an opening 374 in a proximal portion 376 of helmet 332 and a filter 378 disposed adjacent and / or within opening 374. Each also includes a fan 380 adjacent filter 378 configured to draw outside air through filter 378 and into interior volume 372. Fan 380 may be powered from a local wired power source or may be battery powered, including one or more rechargeable batteries. Each bonnet assembly 330a, 330b, 330c also includes a suspension band 382 for holding helmet 332 snugly against head 356 of user 354. The inflow of filtered air 384 flows toward the open space (space not blocked by the head 356 of the occupant 354), which favors a circulation path toward the open space 386 between the face 388 of the occupant 354 and the inner surface 390 of the face shield 364.

[0046]

[0108] In the bonnet assembly 330a of FIG. 42, a series of three channels 392a, 392b, 392c are carried on each side of the head cover 334. The channels 392 serve to guide the circulating air in the open space 386 towards the filtering fabric material 336 at the rear portion 394 of the head cover 334. Positive pressure (e.g., gauge pressure relative to the outside environment) then selectively forces the air to be exhausted through the filtering fabric material 336 to the rear portion 394 of the head cover 334. Thus, the occupant 354 breathes filtered air that has passed through the filter 378. Furthermore, air exhaled by the occupant 354 is filtered by the filtering fabric material 336 before being returned to the outside environment. Thus, both the occupant 354 and other personnel in the work area are protected from potential airborne pathogens.

[0047]

[0109] The bonnet assembly 330b of FIG. 43 includes an outlet fan 396 instead of the channel 392. The bonnet assembly 330c of FIG. 44 includes both guide channels 398a, 398b, 398c and an outlet fan 396. The outlet fan 396 is configured to draw air from the open space 386 toward the filtering fabric material 336 at the rear portion 394 of the head cover 334. Positive pressure forces air to flow out through the filtering fabric material 336. The bonnet assembly 330c may also include an optional third fan 399 configured to push air toward the guide channels 398a, 398b, 398c and / or the outlet fan 396.

[0048]

[0110] FIG. 35 shows a user 303 wearing a personal protection system 301 including the bonnet assembly 330 and gown 454 of FIG. 31. The gown 454 comprises a left sleeve 456, a right sleeve 458, and a front portion 460 extending therebetween and extending between a lower end 462 and an upper end 461. The gown 454 may comprise a standard surgical garment and is configured to close at the rear and be tied closed with a tie 464. Alternatively, the gown 454 may be closed with a vertical seal at the rear. An additional (optional) tie 466 is configured to close the gown 454 around an upper portion of the legs 468 of the user 303 or around the buttocks of the user 303. The user 303 may also wear gloves 459 over the ends of the sleeves 456, 458.

[0049]

[0111] FIG. 32 illustrates a hood assembly 600 that covers the head of a user. The helmet 602 is configured to cover an upper portion of the head of a user 604 (FIG. 36) and blend in with the head 606 of the user 604. The shroud 608 includes a fabric 612 having at least a portion of a filtering fabric material 610 (FIG. 45). At least a portion of the fabric 612 may comprise an impermeable or substantially impermeable material. The upper portion 614 of the shroud 608 includes an inner cuff 616 configured to be fitted snugly around the neck 618 of the user 604. The lower portion 620 thereof includes a flare 622 having a lower edge 624.

[0050]

[0112] The forward portion 626 of the shroud 608 comprises a substantially translucent or transparent face shield 628. The face shield 628 may comprise a sheet including polyethylene terephthalate glycol (PETG), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), or other polyester or polyester copolymer, or a highly transparent polymer such as acrylic or polycarbonate, to provide a relatively thin yet durable barrier that does not significantly impede the user's vision. The face shield 628 includes a perimeter 630 secured to the fabric 612 of the shroud 608 at one or more seams 632. The helmet 602 and the shroud 608, together with the cuff 616, are configured to be secured tightly around a lower portion of the user's head 606 and / or around the user's neck 618, creating a controlled interior volume 634 therein (FIG. 45). The user 604 thus draws air from within the interior volume 634.

[0051]

[0113] FIG. 36 illustrates a user 604 wearing a personal protection system 601 including the hood assembly 600 and gown 454 of FIG. 32. The gown 454 includes a left sleeve 456, a right sleeve 458, and a front portion 460 extending therebetween and extending between a lower end 462 and an upper end (not visible under the shroud 608). The gown 454 may include standard surgical clothing and is configured to close at the rear and be tied closed with a tie 464. Alternatively, the gown 454 may be closed with a vertical seal at the rear. An additional (optional) tie 466 is configured to close the gown 454 around an upper portion of the legs 468 of the user 604 or around the buttocks of the user 604. The user 604 may also wear gloves 459 over the ends of the sleeves 456, 458. In some embodiments, the systems 450, 301, 601 of Figures 33-36 can be used with the ties 466 untied, loosened, or removed entirely. This can be done in certain cases to push the majority of the exhaust air out through the bottom of the gown 454, where it is directed to an area away from the faces / heads of other personnel in the surrounding work area. Overall, the specific height level of the exhaust air may be manipulated by design, similar to how air traffic (planes) are maintained at different altitudes by air traffic control.

[0052]

[0114] Hood assembly 600a of FIG. 46, hood assembly 600b of FIG. 47, and hood assembly 600c of FIG. 48 each include an opening 636 in a proximal portion 638 of helmet 602 and a filter 640 disposed adjacent and / or within opening 636. Each also includes a fan 642 adjacent filter 640 configured to draw outside air through filter 640 and into interior volume 634. Fan 642 may be powered from a local wired power source or may be battery powered, including one or more rechargeable batteries. Each hood assembly 600a, 600b, 600c also includes a suspension band 644 for holding helmet 602 snugly against head 606 of user 604. The inflow of filtered air 646 flows toward the open space (space not blocked by the head 606 of the occupant 604), which favors a circulation path toward the open space 648 between the face 650 of the occupant 604 and the inner surface 652 of the face shield 628.

[0053]

[0115] In the hood assembly 600a of FIG. 46, a series of three channels 654a, 654b, 654c are carried on each side of the shroud 608. The channels 654 serve to guide the circulating air in the open space 648 towards the filtering fabric material 610 at the rear portion 656 of the shroud 608. Then, due to positive pressure (e.g., gauge pressure relative to the outside environment), the air selectively exits through the filtering fabric material 610 at the rear portion 656 of the shroud 608. Thus, the occupant 604 breathes filtered air that has passed through the filter 640. Furthermore, the air exhaled by the occupant 604 is filtered by the filtering fabric material 610 before being returned to the outside environment. Thus, both the occupant 604 and other personnel in the work area are protected from potential airborne pathogens.

[0054]

[0116] The hood assembly 600b of FIG. 47 includes an outlet fan 658 instead of the channel 654. The hood assembly 600c of FIG. 48 includes both guide channels 660a, 660b, 660c and an outlet fan 658. The outlet fan 658 is configured to draw air from the open space 648 toward the filtering fabric material 610 in the rear portion 656 of the shroud 608. The positive pressure forces the air out through the filtering fabric material 610. The hood assembly 600c can also include an optional third fan 662 configured to push air toward the guide channels 660a, 660b, 660c and / or the outlet fan 658. The embodiments disclosed herein can be modified to have three or more channels, four or more channels, five or more channels, six or more channels, etc. In some embodiments, the number of channels can be 2-20, 4-14, or dix-12. In some embodiments, the channels may be parallel to one another, but may converge or diverge to a non-parallel configuration. In some embodiments, all of the channels may be non-parallel to one another. In other embodiments, a first number of channels X may converge to a smaller number of channels Y. For example, six channels may be combined or transformed to five or fewer, four or fewer, three or fewer, two or fewer, or one channel.

[0055]

[0117] In FIG. 49, a hood assembly 700 is shown, however the features taught may be incorporated into any of the hood or bonnet assemblies disclosed herein. The rear portion 702 of the hood assembly 700 includes a fabric 704 including a substantially impermeable sheet 706 and a filtering sheet 708 centrally located in an upper portion 710 of the hood assembly 700. The hood assembly 700 further includes a seam 712 connecting between a perimeter 714 of the filtering sheet 708 and an open portion 716 of the substantially impermeable sheet 706. The seam 712 may be formed by many different methods, including but not limited to adhesives, epoxies, hot melts, stitching, fasteners, pins, hook and loop (Velcro®), snaps, buttons, clasps, or other methods that allow for a tight fit between edges without significant gaps or openings. In some embodiments, the seam 712 includes an airtight seal. In some embodiments, the filtration efficiency of the filtering sheet 708 may include a particle filtration efficiency (PFE). In some embodiments, the filtration efficiency of the filtering sheet 708 can include a viral filtration efficiency (VFE). In some embodiments, the filtration efficiency of the filtering sheet 708 can include a bacterial filtration efficiency (BFE). In some embodiments, the filtering sheet 708 can include a bacterial filtration efficiency (BFE). In some embodiments, the filtering sheet 708 can include a bacterial filtration efficiency (BFE). 2 from about 250g / m 2 In some embodiments, the filtering sheet 708 has a basis weight of about 30 g / m 2 from about 250g / m 2 In some embodiments, the filtering sheet 708 has a basis weight of about 30 g / m 2 to about 200 g / m 2 In some embodiments, the filtering sheet 708 has a basis weight of about 20 g / m 2 to about 600g / m 2 In some embodiments, the filtering sheet 708 has a basis weight of about 20 g / m 2 to about 500g / m 2In some embodiments, the filtering sheet 708 has a basis weight of about 20 g / m 2 to about 100g / m 2 The hood assembly 700 also includes a filtering inlet material 711.

[0056]

[0118] In FIG. 50, a hood assembly 720 is shown, however the features taught may be incorporated into any of the hood or bonnet assemblies disclosed herein. The rear portion 722 of the hood assembly 720 includes a fabric 724 including a substantially impermeable sheet 726 and a filtering sheet 728 comprising a portion of the fabric 724 configured to be oriented substantially rearward when worn. The hood assembly 720 further includes one or more seams 732 connecting between an edge 736 of the filtering sheet 728 and an edge 734 of the substantially impermeable sheet 726. The seam 732 may be formed by many different methods, including but not limited to adhesives, epoxies, hot melts, stitching, fasteners, pins, hook and loop (Velcro®), snaps, buttons, clasps, or other methods that allow for a tight fit between the edges without significant gaps or openings. In some embodiments, the seam 732 includes an airtight seal. In some embodiments, the filtration efficiency of the filtering sheet 728 may include a particle filtration efficiency (PFE). In some embodiments, the filtration efficiency of the filtering sheet 728 can include a viral filtration efficiency (VFE). In some embodiments, the filtration efficiency of the filtering sheet 728 can include a bacterial filtration efficiency (BFE). In some embodiments, the filtering sheet 728 can include a bacterial filtration efficiency (BFE). In some embodiments, the filtering sheet 728 can include a bacterial filtration efficiency (BFE). 2 from about 250g / m 2 In some embodiments, the filtering sheet 728 has a basis weight of about 30 g / m 2 from about 250g / m 2 In some embodiments, the filtering sheet 728 has a basis weight of about 30 g / m 2 to about 200 g / m 2In some embodiments, the filtering sheet 728 has a basis weight of about 20 g / m 2 to about 600g / m 2 In some embodiments, the filtering sheet 728 has a basis weight of about 20 g / m 2 to about 500g / m 2 In some embodiments, the filtering sheet 728 has a basis weight of about 20 g / m 2 to about 100g / m 2 The hood assembly 720 also includes a filtering inlet material 711.

[0057]

[0119] In FIG. 51, a hood assembly 740 is shown, however the features taught may be incorporated into any of the hood or bonnet assemblies disclosed herein. The rear portion 742 of the hood assembly 740 includes a fabric 744 including a substantially impermeable sheet 746 and a filtering sheet 748 with the entire rear portion 750 of the hood assembly 740. The hood assembly 740 further includes a seam 752 connecting between one or more edges 754 of the filtering sheet 748 and one or more edges 756 of the substantially impermeable sheet 746. The seam 752 may be formed by many different methods, including but not limited to adhesives, epoxies, hot melts, stitching, fasteners, pins, hook and loop (Velcro®), snaps, buttons, clasps, or other methods that allow for a tight fit between the edges without significant gaps or openings. In some embodiments, the seam 752 includes an airtight seal. In some embodiments, the filtration efficiency of the filtering sheet 748 may include a particle filtration efficiency (PFE). In some embodiments, the filtration efficiency of the filtering sheet 748 can include a viral filtration efficiency (VFE). In some embodiments, the filtration efficiency of the filtering sheet 748 can include a bacterial filtration efficiency (BFE). In some embodiments, the filtering sheet 748 can include a bacterial filtration efficiency (BFE). In some embodiments, the filtering sheet 748 can include a bacterial filtration efficiency (BFE). 2 from about 250g / m 2In some embodiments, the filtering sheet 748 has a basis weight of about 30 g / m 2 from about 250g / m 2 In some embodiments, the filtering sheet 748 has a basis weight of about 30 g / m 2 to about 200 g / m 2 In some embodiments, the filtering sheet 748 has a basis weight of about 20 g / m 2 to about 600g / m 2 In some embodiments, the filtering sheet 748 has a basis weight of about 20 g / m 2 to about 500g / m 2 In some embodiments, the filtering sheet 748 has a basis weight of about 20 g / m 2 to about 100g / m 2 The hood assembly 740 also includes a filtering inlet material 711.

[0058]

[0120] In FIG. 52, a hood assembly 760 is shown, however the features taught may be incorporated into any of the hood or bonnet assemblies disclosed herein. The rear portion 762 of the hood assembly 760 includes a fabric 764 including a substantially impermeable sheet 766 and a filtering sheet 768 centrally disposed in an upper portion 770 of the hood assembly 760. The hood assembly 760 further includes a seam 772 connecting between a perimeter 774 of the filtering sheet 768 and an open portion 776 of the substantially impermeable sheet 766. The seam 772 may be formed by many different methods including, but not limited to, adhesives, epoxies, hot melts, stitching, fasteners, pins, hook and loop (Velcro®), snaps, buttons, clasps, or other methods that allow for a tight fit between edges without significant gaps or openings. In some embodiments, the seam 772 includes an airtight seal. In some embodiments, the filtration efficiency of the filtering sheet 768 may include a particle filtration efficiency (PFE). In some embodiments, the filtration efficiency of the filtering sheet 768 can include a viral filtration efficiency (VFE). In some embodiments, the filtration efficiency of the filtering sheet 768 can include a bacterial filtration efficiency (BFE). In some embodiments, the filtering sheet 768 can include a bacterial filtration efficiency (BFE). In some embodiments, the filtering sheet 768 can include a bacterial filtration efficiency (BFE). 2 from about 250g / m 2 In some embodiments, the filtering sheet 768 has a basis weight of about 30 g / m 2 from about 250g / m 2 In some embodiments, the filtering sheet 768 has a basis weight of about 30 g / m 2 to about 200 g / m 2 In some embodiments, the filtering sheet 768 has a basis weight of about 20 g / m 2 to about 600g / m 2 In some embodiments, the filtering sheet 768 has a basis weight of about 20 g / m 2 to about 500g / m 2 In some embodiments, the filtering sheet 768 has a basis weight of about 20 g / m2 to about 100g / m 2 The hood assembly 760 also includes a filtering inlet material 711.

[0059]

[0121] In the hood assembly 700, 720, 740, 760, the surface area and / or location of the filtering sheet 708, 728, 748, 768 may be modified to help control the amount of exiting air pressure drop and positive pressure within the hood assembly 700, 720, 740, 760 during operation. The location of the filtering sheet 708, 728, 748, 768 may be selected to allow the air to exit at a height and / or angle that does not interfere with instruments, implants, or other devices and does not interfere with other personnel. In some embodiments, the ratio of the percentage of the total effective surface area of ​​the filtering sheet 708, 728, 748, 768 to the total surface area of ​​the rear portion of the fabric 704, 724, 744, 764 is about 10% to about 90%, about 15% to about 85%, about 20% to about 80%, about 30% to about 70%, about 40% to about 60%.

[0060]

[0122] FIG. 53 illustrates a bonnet assembly 800 similar to the bonnet assembly 330 of FIG. 31 in that it includes a helmet 802 and a gaiter-like head cover 804 configured to engage the helmet 802. However, the helmet 802 includes an internal filter 806 with adjustable filtering characteristics. The bonnet assembly 800 is manually adjustable and includes a manual adjustment system 808, as shown in FIGS. 53 and 54. Alternatively, FIG. 55 illustrates an electromechanical adjustment system 810. Both the manual adjustment system 808 and the electromechanical adjustment system 810 are configured to tighten or loosen an outer ring 812 that surrounds an oval or elliptical periphery 814 of the filter 806. In a substantially loosened configuration (FIG. 56A), the outer ring 812 or band is loosened, reducing the internal compression on the periphery 814 of the filter 806. In the loosened configuration, the filter 806 has more overall surface area and less resistance to air flow therethrough. Thus, the effective average pore size is large. In a substantially pinched / compressed configuration (FIG. 56B), the outer ring 812 or band is pinched, increasing the internal surface compression on the periphery 814 of the filter 806. In the pinched configuration, the filter 806 has a smaller total surface area and a greater resistance to air flow therethrough. Thus, the effective average pore size is small. In this embodiment, the filter 806 is an outlet filter that filters air within the bonnet assembly 800, including the user's exhaled breath, as the air exits through the filter 806. However, in other embodiments, the same filter configuration can be used as an inlet filter that filters outside air entering the bonnet assembly.

[0061]

[0123] In some embodiments, filter 806 may be adjustable within a range of particle filtration efficiency (PFE). In some embodiments, filter 806 may be adjustable within a range of viral filtration efficiency (VFE). In some embodiments, filter 806 may be adjustable within a range of bacterial filtration efficiency (BFE). In some embodiments, filter 806 may be adjustable between these two ranges, or in some embodiments, may be adjustable between all three ranges.

[0062]

[0124] The manual adjustment system 808 includes a slide 816 that may be slidable in a first direction 818 that loosens the outer ring 812 and allows the filter 806 to expand toward the loosened configuration of FIG. 56A. The slide 816 is also slidable in a second direction 820 that tightens the outer ring 812 and compresses the filter toward the tightened configuration of FIG. 56B. The slide interface 822 includes a knob 824 and a body 826. The slide interface 822 has a concave underside that engages the slide 816 such that when the knob 824 is grasped by a user or other personnel and moved in a first direction 828, the slide 816 is moved in the first direction 818. Additionally, when the knob 824 is grasped by a user or other personnel and moved in a second direction 830, the slide 816 is moved in the second direction 820. In some embodiments, a ratchet and lock can be used on the slide 816 and / or the slide interface 822 to lock the slide 816 in place when the slide 816 is not adjusted. In some implementations, the slide interface 822 can include a radial spring load so that you can push it in (towards the user's head) to unlock it, slide it in either direction 828, 830, and release to lock it in place.

[0063]

[0125] The electromechanical adjustment system 810 includes a slide 832 that includes an internal (female) thread 834. A motor 836 is rotatably coupled to a lead screw 838 that is threaded into the internal thread 834. An on / off button 840 (shown in FIG. 53 for simplicity) turns the motor on or off. This button can be switched off in three directions: first direction, second direction. In some embodiments, the motor in its off position can function as a lock that locks the configuration of the filter 806 in place. In some implementations, the microprocessor 825 includes an artificial intelligence (AI) system carried by circuitry on the helmet 802 and configured to integrate with the electromechanical adjustment system 810. The bonnet assembly 800 can further incorporate one or more sensors, such as sensors 204, 210, 218, 224, 234, 244 of the embodiments of Figures 22-27, and establish a regulation protocol for the electro-mechanical regulation system 810 that depends on characteristics measured from the sensors, such as air pressure, air flow, air temperature, air humidity, etc.

[0064]

[0126] 57-58 illustrate a bonnet assembly 850 similar to the bonnet assembly 330 of FIG. 31 in that it includes a helmet 852 and a gaiter-like head cover 854 configured to engage the helmet 852. However, the helmet 852 includes an internal filter 856 having adjustable filtering characteristics. The filter 856 is at least partially rotatable and adjustable relative to the helmet 852. The filter 856 is connected to a knob 858 that can be grasped by a user or other personnel and rotated in a first direction 860 or a second direction 862 about an axis 866. The filter 856 has a convex side 864 that is configured to slide directly beneath a window 868 in the helmet 852. The extension of the dimensions (axial and lateral) of the filter 856 allows the filter 856 to effectively fill the window 868 of the helmet 852 regardless of the adjusted position of the filter 856. Filter 856 comprises a permeable filtering portion 870 and a substantially impermeable portion 872 adjacent filtering portion 870. As shown, filtering portion 870 is in front of impermeable portion 872, although in other embodiments they may be reversed. Alternatively, there may be one or more of each portion. In other embodiments, filter 856 may be rotatable about a different axis (such as a horizontal axis).

[0065]

[0127] In this embodiment, the filter 856 is an outlet filter that filters air within the bonnet assembly 850, including the user's exhaled air, as the air exits through the filter 856. However, in other embodiments, the same filter configuration can be used as an inlet filter that filters outside air entering the bonnet assembly. With particular reference to the embodiment of FIGS. 57-58, when the knob 858 is grasped and the knob 858 and filter 856 are rotated in a first direction 860, the effective filtering surface area of ​​the filtering portion 870 within or immediately adjacent to the window 868 is reduced and the blocking area of ​​the substantially impermeable portion 872 within or immediately adjacent to the window 868 is increased. Thus, rotating the knob 858 in the first direction 860 increases the resistance to the passage of air through the filter 856. Thus, the knob can be rotated in the first direction 860 to temporarily increase the positive pressure within the bonnet assembly 850. When the knob 858 is gripped and the knob 858 and filter 856 are rotated in a second direction 862, the effective filtering surface area of ​​the filtering portion 870 in or adjacent to the window 868 is increased and the blocking area of ​​the substantially impermeable portion 872 in or adjacent to the window 868 is decreased. Thus, rotating the knob 858 in the second direction 862 decreases the resistance to the passage of air through the filter 856. As such, the knob can be rotated in the second direction 862 to temporarily reduce the positive pressure within the bonnet assembly 850. In an alternative embodiment, the knob 858 can be replaced with a button-operated electromechanical adjustment system in a manner somewhat similar to that described in the embodiment of FIG. 55. In another alternative embodiment, as in the embodiment of FIG. 53, the adjustment of the filtering portion 870 can also include some degree of compression and relaxation adjustment.

[0066]

[0128] In some embodiments, the microprocessor 865 includes an artificial intelligence (AI) system carried by circuitry on the helmet 852 and configured to integrate with an alternative electro-mechanical regulation system. The bonnet assembly 850 can further incorporate one or more sensors, such as sensors 204, 210, 218, 224, 234, 244 of the embodiment of Figures 22-27, to develop a regulation protocol for the electro-mechanical regulation system that is dependent on characteristics measured from the sensors, such as air pressure, air flow, air temperature, air humidity, etc.

[0067]

[0129] 59-60 illustrate a bonnet assembly 900 similar to the bonnet assembly 300 of FIGS. 28-29 in that it includes a head cover 904 coupled to a face shield 906. The head cover 904 is also coupled to a cuff 908 that is conformable to a face 903 of a user 901. The head cover 904 includes a first portion 910 that fits around a rear portion of the user's head and includes a substantially forward facing upward sweep 912 to avoid the user's ears. The head cover 904 also includes a second portion 914 that overlaps the first portion 910. The second portion 914 includes a substantially rearward facing upward sweep 916 that fits around a lower face of the user to avoid the user's ears.

[0068]

[0130] The first portion 910 is formed from at least two different types of fabric including at least a permeable filtering portion 918 and a substantially impermeable portion 920. The first portion 910 can be adjusted relative to the second portion 914 to increase or decrease the effective surface area of ​​the first portion 910, and thus the surface configured to filter the outflow of air (including exhaled air) from the interior of the bonnet assembly 900. FIG. 59 illustrates a first configuration in which a larger effective surface area of ​​the first portion 910 is configured to filter the outflow air. FIG. 60 illustrates an adjusted second configuration in which a portion of the first portion 910 configured to filter in the first configuration of FIG. 59 has been slid under the second portion 914. Thus, in the second configuration of FIG. 60, there is a smaller effective surface of the first portion 910 configured to filter the outflow air. The ratio of the total percentage of the effective surface area of ​​the first portion 910 to the total (first portion 910 + second portion 914) surface area may be adjustable between about 10% to about 90%, or about 20% to about 80%, or about 30% to about 70%. In other embodiments, the first portion 910 may be adjustable such that it can double up on itself to increase resistance to flow and / or increase the amount of filtering and / or reduce the size of particles that may pass through.

[0069]

[0131] The first portion 910 and the second portion 914 may be attached together at a seam 922. The seam 922 may be formed by many different methods, including but not limited to, adhesives, epoxies, hot melts, stitching, fasteners, pins, hook and loop (Velcro®), snaps, buttons, clasps, or other methods that allow for a tight fit between edges without significant gaps or openings. In some embodiments, the seam 922 comprises an airtight seal. In some embodiments, the filtration efficiency of the first portion 910 may include a particle filtration efficiency (PFE). In some embodiments, the filtration efficiency of the first portion 910 may include a viral filtration efficiency (VFE). In some embodiments, the filtration efficiency of the first portion 910 may include a bacterial filtration efficiency (BFE). In some embodiments, the first portion 910 has a weight of about 20 g / m 2 from about 250g / m 2 In some embodiments, the first portion 910 has a basis weight of about 30 g / m 2 from about 250g / m 2 In some embodiments, the first portion 910 has a basis weight of about 30 g / m 2 to about 200 g / m 2 In some embodiments, the first portion 910 has a basis weight of about 20 g / m 2 to about 600g / m 2 In some embodiments, the first portion 910 has a basis weight of about 20 g / m 2 to about 500g / m 2 In some embodiments, the first portion 910 has a basis weight of about 20 g / m 2 to about 100g / m 21. The bonnet assembly 900 may have a basis weight of 1.0 lbs (8 g) or less. Another advantage of adjustable outflow filter permeability and / or surface area is that an optimal flow resistance combined with sufficient filtering may be achieved, so that the motor (e.g., from a fan) does not have to be overworked. Thus, battery life may be extended and / or power usage and consumption may be reduced. In some embodiments, the cuff 908 may be replaced or reinforced with an adhesive to seal and secure the bonnet assembly 900 around the neck of the user. In some embodiments, the adhesive may include a neoprene adhesive, a silicone adhesive, or a polyurethane adhesive.

[0070]

[0132] 61-64 illustrate a bonnet assembly 950 somewhat similar to the bonnet assemblies of the embodiments of FIGS. 31, 41 and 43, including a helmet 952 and a head cover 953 that engages with the helmet 952. However, the helmet 952 includes three or more, or four or more, or five or more, or six or more, or seven or more, or between three and ten, or between three and nine, or between three and eight, or between three and seven internal fans (air movers). The particular embodiment of FIGS. 61-64 has seven internal fans, one inlet fan 954 located in the helmet opening 956 adjacent to the filter 958, and six other fans 960 af. In some embodiments, one or more of the fans (e.g., fan 960 f) can be an outlet fan adjacent the opening of the helmet 952 or adjacent the filtering material 962 of the head cover 953. The head cover 953 includes a face shield 955, as previously described in other embodiments herein. Also carried on the interior 964 of the helmet 952 is at least one pressure sensor 966 and at least one flow sensor 968. In some embodiments, there may be only one sensor (pressure, flow, or other), while in other embodiments there may be three or more sensors. The sensors may include any sensor, including a temperature sensor or a humidity sensor, capable of determining the state of the flow characteristics within the helmet 952. A controller 970 may be carried on the helmet 952 or alternatively carried separately from the helmet. The controller 970 is configured to turn any one or more of the fans 954, 960 on or off and / or increase or decrease their speed. The circulation of air within the helmet 952 may be manually controlled by a user via operation of the fans 954, 960, voice commands to a microphone 972 coupled to the controller 970, or may be controlled by a user interface 973.Air circulation within the helmet 952 may alternatively be controlled automatically through operation of the fans 954 , 960 by a controller 970 based on feedback from one or more sensors 966 , 968 .

[0071]

[0133] FIG. 63 illustrates the bonnet assembly 950 in a first initial operating configuration. Fans that are "on" are shown with a vertical line and fans that are "off" are shown without a vertical line. FIG. 63 illustrates the bonnet assembly 950 after the controller 970 has modified the operation of one or more fans. Speed-up fans are shown with an upward arrow and speed-down fans are shown with a downward arrow. In some embodiments, the controller 970 is configured to turn on or increase the speed of a first (e.g., 2 or more, 3 or more, 4 or more, 5 or more, 6 or more, 7 or more, etc.) fan of the plurality of fans while turning on or decreasing the speed of a second fan of the plurality of fans. In some embodiments, adjustable holes such as holes 250 of FIG. 27 can also be incorporated.

[0072]

[0134] In some embodiments, the controller 970 includes a microprocessor with an artificial intelligence (AI) system configured to integrate with the bonnet assembly 950. The bonnet assembly 950 may further incorporate one or more sensors, such as the sensors 204, 210, 218, 224, 234, 244 of the embodiment of Figures 22-27, and may develop a regulation protocol for the fans 954, 960a-f that depends on the characteristics measured from the sensors, such as air pressure, air flow, air temperature, air humidity, etc. In some embodiments, an Inter-Integrated Circuit (I2C) is incorporated to further control the sensors. Bluetooth (registered trademark) (Bluetooth Sig Inc.) functionality may also be combined.

[0073]

[0135] In any of the presented embodiments, the cloth, cover, bonnet, hood, etc. may comprise disposable materials. In some embodiments, the cover, bonnet, shroud, or hood may be doubled. In other words, two of the covers, bonnets, shrouds, or hoods may be worn one on top of the other. In other embodiments, three or more of the covers, bonnets, shrouds, or hoods may be worn. In some embodiments, the double, triple, etc. covers, bonnets, shrouds, or hoods may have seams connecting the ends of the layers to one another. In some embodiments, the double layered covers, bonnets, shrouds, or hoods include an inner layer configured to be tucked into a gown or other garment and an outer layer configured to overlie the gown or other garment. In FIG. 36, the hood assembly 600 of the personal protection system 601 includes a visible outer layer of a shroud 608 overlying the gown 454, but also includes an inner layer (not visible) tucked to the inside of the gown 454. Thus, the outer layer provides splash protection while the inner layer provides some degree of fixation. In some embodiments, the inner layer comprises a filter material and the outer layer comprises a substantially impermeable barrier (e.g.) material, thus aiding in filtering effluent air (inner layer material) and protecting the user (outer layer material).

[0074]

[0136] Thus, in certain embodiments, personal protection systems utilizing the disclosed elements may be configured to provide protection for the wearer. In other embodiments, personal protection systems utilizing the disclosed elements may be configured to provide protection for others from the wearer. In yet other embodiments, personal protection systems utilizing the disclosed elements may be configured to provide protection for the wearer as well as provide protection for others from the wearer.

[0075]

[0137] While the forgoing is directed to embodiments of the present disclosure, other and further embodiments may be devised without departing from the basic scope thereof.

[0076]

[0138] The following clauses include embodiments of the disclosed apparatus.

[0077]

[0139] Clause 1: In one embodiment, a protective headgear system includes a cover configured to cover a head of a user, the cover including a substantially transparent face shield and a sheet material sealingly coupled to the face shield, the sheet material including at least a portion configured to filter contaminants from the air, the cover providing an interior volume configured to isolate air to be supplied to a user, an input blower configured to draw air into the interior volume of the cover, and an output blower configured to draw air from the interior volume of the cover through at least the portion of the sheet material, the input blower and the output blower each configured to be individually controlled.

[0078]

[0140] Clause 2: In some embodiments, the system of clause 1 further comprises a controller configured to control operation of the output blower.

[0079]

[0141] Clause 3: In some embodiments, the system of clause 2 includes the controller further configured to control operation of the input blower.

[0080]

[0142] Clause 4: In some embodiments, the system of clause 1 further comprises a controller configured to control operation of the input blower.

[0081]

[0143] Clause 5: In some embodiments, the system of any one of clauses 1-4, wherein operational control by the controller includes varying a fan speed.

[0082]

[0144] Clause 6: In some embodiments, the system of any one of clauses 2-5 includes the operational control by the controller increasing the fan speed.

[0083]

[0145] Clause 7: In some embodiments, the system of any one of clauses 2-6, wherein the operational control by the controller includes reducing a fan speed.

[0084]

[0146] Clause 8: In some embodiments, the system of clause 7, wherein reducing the fan speed includes at least temporarily reducing the fan speed to 0 rpm.

[0085]

[0147] Clause 9: In some embodiments, the system of clause 2 or 3 further comprises a first sensor configured to sense a first property associated with the interior volume of the cover.

[0086]

[0148] Clause 10: In some embodiments, the system of clause 9 includes the first characteristic being a pressure of the interior volume.

[0087]

[0149] Clause 11: In some embodiments, the system of any one of clauses 9 or 10 further comprises a second sensor configured to sense a second property associated with the interior volume of the cover.

[0088]

[0150] Clause 12: In some embodiments, the system of clause 11 includes the second property being a temperature of the interior volume.

[0089]

[0151] Clause 13: In some embodiments, the system described in any one of clauses 9 to 12 is configured such that the controller is configured to receive a signal from a first sensor indicative of a first characteristic, and the controller is configured to control operation of the output blower based at least in part on the first characteristic.

[0090]

[0152] Clause 14: In some embodiments, the system of clause 13 includes the controller configured to control operation of the input blower based at least in part on the first characteristic.

[0091]

[0153] Clause 15: In some embodiments, the system described in any one of clauses 9 to 12 is configured such that the controller is configured to receive a signal from a first sensor indicative of a first characteristic, and the controller is configured to control operation of the input blower based at least in part on the first characteristic.

[0092]

[0154] Clause 16: In some embodiments, the system of any one of clauses 13-15, wherein the operational control by the controller includes varying a fan speed.

[0093]

[0155] Clause 17: In some embodiments, the system of any one of clauses 13-16, wherein the operational control by the controller includes increasing a fan speed.

[0094]

[0156] Clause 18: In some embodiments, the system of any one of clauses 13-17, wherein the operational control by the controller includes reducing a fan speed.

[0095]

[0157] Clause 19: In some embodiments, the system of clause 18, wherein reducing the fan speed includes at least temporarily reducing the fan speed to 0 rpm.

[0096]

[0158] Clause 20: In some embodiments, the system of clause 13 or 14 is configured such that the controller controls operation of the output blower based on the differential pressure.

[0097]

[0159] Clause 21: In some embodiments, the system of clause 20, wherein the differential pressure comprises a difference between the first property and an ambient pressure outside the cover.

[0098]

[0160] Clause 22: In some embodiments, the system described in any one of clauses 1-21 further includes a plurality of channels coupled to an interior surface of the cover and configured to direct air flow to an intake port coupled to the output blower.

[0099]

[0161] Clause 23: In some embodiments, the system of clause 22, wherein the plurality of channels includes an X channel, the X channel converging to a Y channel, and Y is less than X.

[0100]

[0162] Clause 24: In some embodiments, the system of any one of clauses 22 or 23 further comprises an artificial intelligence system configured to be integrated with the compressor.

[0101]

[0163] Clause 25: In some embodiments, the system described in any one of clauses 1 to 24 is configured such that the cover substantially seals off the air supplied to the user, such that air can only exit through the output compressor.

[0102]

[0164] Clause 26: In some embodiments, the system of any one of clauses 1-25, wherein the cover comprises a hood.

[0103]

[0165] Clause 27: In some embodiments, the system of any one of clauses 1-26, wherein at least a portion of the sheet material generally comprises a rear portion of the cover.

[0104]

[0166] Clause 28: In some embodiments, the system of clause 27 includes a front-facing sheet and a rear-facing sheet of sheet material sealingly secured to one another about a perimeter portion thereof.

[0105]

[0167] Clause 29: In some embodiments, the system of clause 28, wherein the front-facing sheet comprises two or more layers.

[0106]

[0168] Clause 30: In some embodiments, the system of clause 29, wherein the rearward facing sheet comprises a rear filter sheet and the frontward facing sheet comprises a front filter sheet and a front barrier sheet, substantially covering one side of the front filter sheet.

[0107]

[0169] Clause 31: In some embodiments, the system described in clause 28 includes one of the front-facing sheet and the rear-facing sheet comprising a first filter medium and the other of the front-facing sheet and the rear-facing sheet comprising a second filter medium, the first filter medium having a higher filtration efficiency than the second filter medium.

[0108]

[0170] Clause 32: In some embodiments, the system of clause 31, wherein the filtration efficiency comprises a particle filtration efficiency (PFE).

[0109]

[0171] Clause 33: In some embodiments, the system of clause 31, wherein the filtration efficiency comprises a viral filtration efficiency (VFE).

[0110]

[0172] Clause 34: In some embodiments, the system of clause 31, wherein the filtration efficiency comprises a bacterial filtration efficiency (BFE).

[0111]

[0173] Clause 35: In some embodiments, the system of clause 31 further comprises a first filter medium having a filter capacity of about 20 g / m 2 and about 250g / m 2 The basis weight is between .

[0112]

[0174] Clause 36: In some embodiments, the system of clause 35 further comprises a second filter medium having a thickness of about 20 g / m 2 and about 500g / m 2 The basis weight is between .

[0113]

[0175] Clause 37: In some embodiments, the system of clause 31 further comprises a second filter medium having a thickness of about 30 g / m 2 and about 250g / m 2 The basis weight is between .

[0114]

[0176] Clause 38: In some embodiments, the system of any one of clauses 31-37, wherein the front-facing sheet includes a first filter media and the rear-facing sheet includes a second filter media.

[0115]

[0177] Clause 39: In some embodiments, the system of any one of clauses 31-38 is configured such that the cover is tucked into the gown and the gown is configured to cover the body part of the user.

[0116]

[0178] Clause 40: In some embodiments, the system of clause 39 further comprises a fastening member configured to fasten the cover around a neck of the user.

[0117]

[0179] Clause 41: In some embodiments, the system of clause 40, wherein the fixation member is a tie configured to be tied around the neck of a user.

[0118]

[0180] Clause 42: In some embodiments, the system of any one of clauses 40 or 41 is configured such that the securing member is configured to at least partially control air drawn into the interior volume of the cover.

[0119]

[0181] Clause 43: In another embodiment, a protective headgear system includes a cover configured to cover a head of a user, the cover including a substantially transparent face shield and a sheet material sealingly coupled to the face shield, the sheet material configured to filter contaminants from the air, the cover providing an interior volume configured to isolate air supplied to the user, a volume of open space of at least 500 cubic centimeters adjacent to the user's face when the cover is placed on the user's head with the face shield in front of the user's face, and a blower configured to draw air into the interior volume of the cover and / or draw air out of the interior volume of the cover through the sheet material.

[0120]

[0182] Clause 44: In yet another embodiment, a protective headgear system includes a covering configured to cover a head of a user, the covering including a substantially transparent face shield and a sheet material sealingly coupled to the face shield, the sheet material configured to filter contaminants from the air, where the covering provides an interior volume configured to isolate air supplied to the user, a blower configured to draw air into the interior volume of the covering and draw air from the interior volume of the covering through the sheet material, and an exit orifice coupled to the sheet material and coupled to a downstream side of the sheet material, the exit orifice having an adjustable flow resistance.

[0121]

[0183] Clause 45: In some embodiments, the system of clause 39 further comprises a controller configured to control the adjustment of the exit orifice.

[0122]

[0184] Clause 46: In some embodiments, the system of any one of clauses 44 or 45, wherein the exit orifice comprises an adjustable inner diameter.

[0123]

[0185] Clause 47: In some embodiments, the system of any one of clauses 44-46 includes an adjustable cross-sectional shape of the exit orifice.

[0124]

[0186] Clause 48: In some embodiments, the system of any one of clauses 44-47 includes an internal feature where the exit orifice is adjustable.

[0125]

[0187] Clause 49: In some embodiments, the system of any one of clauses 44-48 is configured such that the exit orifice has a variable taper angle.

[0126]

[0188] Clause 50: In some embodiments, the system of any one of clauses 44 or 45 further comprises a flow baffle configured to adjustably add or remove flow resistance to the exit orifice.

[0127]

[0189] Clause 51: In yet another embodiment, a protective headgear system includes a cover configured to cover a head of a user, the cover including a substantially transparent face shield and a sheet material sealingly coupled to the face shield, the sheet material including at least a portion configured to filter contaminants from the air, the cover providing an interior volume configured to isolate air supplied to the user, an outlet filter configured to filter air exiting the cover, and a blower configured to draw air into the interior volume of the cover, the cover including one or more channels configured to direct the air toward the outlet filter.

[0128]

[0190] Clause 52: In some embodiments, the system of clause 51, wherein the one or more channels are formed from a flexible, low-breathability material.

[0129]

[0191] Clause 53: In some embodiments, the system of any one of clauses 51 or 52 is further configured such that the blower forces air through an outlet filter.

[0130]

[0192] Clause 54: In yet another embodiment, a protective headgear system includes a support configured to engage a head of a user and a cover coupled to the support and configured to cover the head of the user, the cover including a substantially transparent face shield and a sheet material sealingly coupled to the face shield, the sheet material including at least a portion configured to filter contaminants from the air, the cover providing an interior volume configured to isolate air supplied to the user, an outlet filter configured to filter air exiting the cover, and a blower configured to draw air into the interior volume of the cover, the support including one or more channels configured to direct the air towards the outlet filter.

[0131]

[0193] Clause 55: In some embodiments, the system of clause 54 includes the one or more channels being formed from a flexible, low-breathability material.

[0132]

[0194] Clause 56: In some embodiments, the system of any one of clauses 54 or 55 is further configured such that the blower forces air through an outlet filter.

[0133]

[0195] Clause 57: In some embodiments, the system described in any one of clauses 1-27 or clauses 43-50 includes a sheet of material including an inlet filter having an outer convex surface and an opposing inner concave surface configured to engage above the top of a user's head.

[0134]

[0196] Clause 58: In some embodiments, the system of clause 57 further comprises a head engagement structure coupled to the inlet filter configured to directly engage a head of a user.

[0135]

[0197] Clause 59: In yet another embodiment, a protective headgear system includes a cover configured to cover a user's head, the cover including fabric, and a cover disposed on a first layer configured to cover a rear portion of the user's head and a second layer configured to at least partially cover the first layer and cover at least a lower portion of the user's face, wherein neither the first layer nor the second layer covers the user's ear canals, thereby allowing free access to in-ear earphones or earplugs.

[0136]

[0198] Clause 60: In some embodiments, the system described in clause 59 includes the second layer being configured to snap onto the first layer to maintain access to the in-ear earbud or earplug by the user's ear.

[0137]

[0199] Clause 61: In some embodiments, the system described in clause 60 includes that the second layer is unsnapable from the first layer such that the second layer can be pulled over the user's ear.

[0138]

[0200] Clause 62: In some embodiments, the system of clause 59 further comprises a tie configured to maintain a position of the second layer.

[0139]

[0201] Clause 63: In yet another embodiment, a protective headgear system includes a covering configured to cover a head of a user, the covering including a substantially transparent face shield and a sheet material sealingly coupled to the face shield, the sheet material including at least one filtering portion configured to filter contaminants from the gas, the cover providing an interior volume isolated from external air, an air mover configured to draw a portion of the external air into the interior volume of the cover, a filter coupled to the cover and configured to filter the drawn air, and one or more channels carried by the cover and configured to direct internal air in the interior volume, including at least a portion of exhaled air from the user, toward the filtering portion of the sheet material.

[0140]

[0202] Clause 64: In yet another embodiment, a protective headgear system includes a cover configured to cover a head of a user, the cover including a substantially transparent face shield and a sheet material sealingly coupled to the face shield, the sheet material including at least one filtering portion configured to filter contaminants from the gas, the cover providing an interior volume isolated from external air, an air mover configured to draw a portion of the external air into the interior volume of the cover, a filter coupled to the cover and configured to filter the drawn air, and one or more inductors carried by the cover and configured to direct internal air in the interior volume, including at least a portion of exhaled air from a user, toward the filtering portion of the sheet material.

[0141]

[0203] Clause 65: In some embodiments, the system of clause 64, wherein the one or more inductors include one or more channels.

[0142]

[0204] Clause 66: In some embodiments, the system of clause 64, wherein the one or more inductors include one or more fans.

[0143]

[0205] Clause 67: In some embodiments, the system of clause 66, wherein the one or more inductors further comprise one or more channels.

[0144]

[0206] The ranges disclosed herein also encompass any and all overlaps, subranges, and combinations thereof. Words such as "up to," "at least," "greater than," "less than," "between," and the like include the recited numbers. Numbers preceded by terms such as "approximately," "about," and "substantially" as used herein include the recited numbers (e.g., about 10%=10%) and represent an amount close to the stated amount that still performs the desired function or achieves the desired result. For example, the terms "approximately," "about," and "substantially" can refer to an amount that is less than 10%, less than 5%, less than 1%, less than 0.1%, and less than 0.01% of the recited amount.

[0145]

[0207] For purposes of this disclosure and the appended claims, the conjunction "or" is to be interpreted inclusively (e.g., "apples or oranges" is to be interpreted as "apples, or oranges, or both"; e.g., "apples, oranges, or avocados" is to be interpreted as "apples, or oranges, or avocados, or any two, or all three"), except where (i) it is expressly stated otherwise, e.g., by use of "...or," "only one of," or similar language; or (ii) two or more recited options are mutually exclusive in a particular context, in which case "or" includes only combinations that include the non-mutually exclusive options. For purposes of this disclosure and the appended claims, the words "comprise," "include," "have," and variations thereof, wherever they appear, are to be interpreted as open-ended terms having the same meaning as if the phrase "at least" were appended after each instance thereof.

Claims

1. In a protective head covering system, a support configured to engage a user's head and cover at least an upper portion of the user's head, the support including a lower portion having a perimeter interface; a cover coupled to the support and configured to surround the head of a user; Equipped with the cover comprises a substantially transparent face shield and a sheet material hermetically bonded to the face shield, the cover further comprising a filter portion of the sheet material configured to filter contaminants from air, an upper opening in the sheet material defined by enclosing an edge of the sheet material, and a lower barrier defining a lower opening in the sheet material, the edge configured to substantially surround and engage the perimeter interface of the support to minimize air flow from between the cover and the support, the lower barrier configured to significantly restrict air from exiting the cover at the neck of the user, and the cover, when coupled to the support, provides an interior volume configured to isolate air supplied to the user.

2. 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the lower barrier comprises an elastic band configured to create a first barrier portion of the lower barrier around a rear portion of the user's head and in a neck region, and a cuff configured to create a second barrier portion of the lower barrier around a front portion of the user's head and in a neck region.

3. The system of claim 1 further comprising an air mover carried by the support.

4. The system of claim 3 , wherein the air mover comprises a fan.

5. 5. The system of claim 3 or 4, wherein the air mover is configured to move air supplied to the occupant through the filter portion of the sheet material to an exterior of the cover.

6. The system of claim 1 , wherein the filter portion is located in a rear portion of the cover.

7. The system of any one of claims 1 to 4 and 6, wherein the cover is disposable.

8. The system of claim 1 , wherein the filter portion is configured to filter outflowing air.

9. The system of any one of claims 1 to 4, 6 and 8, further comprising one or more channels configured to direct air towards the filter portion.

10. The system of claim 1 , wherein the perimeter interface comprises an undercut.

11. The system of claim 1 , wherein the lower barrier comprises a cuff.

12. The system of claim 11 , wherein the cuff is configured to be secured under the chin of the user.

13. The system of claim 11 , wherein the cuff is configured to be secured around the neck of the user.

14. The system of claim 1 , wherein the lower barrier comprises an elastic material.

15. The system of claim 1 , wherein the rim comprises an elastic ring.

16. The system of any one of claims 1 to 4, 6, 8, 10 to 15, wherein the support comprises a helmet.

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