Surgical apparel system

Abstract

To provide a barrier between an individual who wears a surgical apparel system and a surrounding environment by using a surgical garment assembly.SOLUTION: In a surgical apparel system, a surgical garment 112 is configured to be attached to a surgical helmet 120, and the surgical garment demarcates a barrier between a wearer and the environment. The surgical helmet includes peripheral devices, a chin bar, and coupling members 148A and 148B. The coupling member may be embedded in the chin bar. The surgical garment can comprise an attachment element configured to be removably connected to the coupling member of the surgical helmet. The coupling member and the attachment element may have complementary features such as protrusions and recesses. The protrusion and / or the corresponding recess may have a curved or similarly shaped surface configured to resist decoupling of the attachment element and the coupling member when a force is applied to the surgical garment.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Summary of the Invention

[0001] This application claims the benefit of priority and all benefits of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 602,859, filed on November 27, 2023, the entire content of which is hereby expressly incorporated by reference herein.

[0002] The present disclosure generally relates to a surgical apparel system. The surgical apparel system includes a surgical garment assembly configured to be attached to a surgical helmet, and the surgical garment assembly can be used to provide a barrier between a person wearing the system and the surrounding environment.

[0003] An exemplary configuration provides a surgical apparel system that includes a helmet, which can also include a ventilation assembly. The helmet also includes a controller electrically connected to the ventilation assembly, and a first helmet terminal and a second helmet terminal, each of the first and second helmet terminals being electrically connected to the controller. The system also includes a surgical garment configured to be at least partially disposed over the helmet. The surgical garment can include a transparent face shield and a surgical fabric coupled to the transparent face shield, and the surgical fabric has a first filter efficiency. The surgical garment also includes a first garment terminal, a second garment terminal, and a conductor forming an electrical connection between the first and second garment terminals. The system can be configured such that each of the first and second garment terminals removably engages the first and second helmet terminals to form a circuit between the helmet and the surgical garment. The system also includes a sensor that communicates with the controller, and the sensor is configured to detect electrical parameters of a conductor associated with the first and second garment terminals. The controller is configured to control the operating characteristics of the ventilation assembly based on the electrical parameters of the conductor detected by the sensor.

[0004] In another exemplary configuration, the surgical apparel system can also include a helmet that can include a ventilation assembly. The helmet can also include a controller electrically connected to the ventilation assembly. The helmet can also include a first coupling member and a second coupling member, each of the first and second coupling members being formed from one of a ferromagnetic material or a magnetic material. The system can also include a surgical garment configured to be at least partially disposed over the helmet. The surgical garment can include a transparent face shield and a surgical fabric coupled to the transparent face shield. The surgical garment can also include a first attachment element and a second attachment formed from the other of a magnetic material or a ferromagnetic material. The surgical garment can include a conductor configured to form an electrical connection between the first and second attachment elements, the conductor being configured to define an electrical resistance. The system is configured such that the first and second attachment elements removably engage the first and second coupling members of the helmet to form a circuit between the helmet and the surgical garment. The controller is configured to control the operating characteristics of the ventilation assembly based on the resistance of the conductor when the circuit between the helmet and the surgical garment is closed.

[0005] In yet another exemplary configuration, the surgical apparel system also includes a helmet that can include a ventilation assembly. The system also includes a controller electrically connected to the ventilation assembly. The system also includes a first coupling member, a second coupling member, and a third coupling member, each of the coupling members being formed from one of a ferromagnetic material or a magnetic material. The system also includes a surgical garment configured to be at least partially disposed over the helmet, the surgical garment being able to include a transparent face shield. The system also includes a surgical fabric coupled to the transparent face shield, the surgical fabric having a first filter efficiency. The system also includes a first attachment element, a second attachment, and a third attachment element, each of the attachment elements being formed from the other of a magnetic material or a ferromagnetic material. The system also includes a conductor that forms an electrical connection between the first attachment element and one of the second attachment element or the third attachment element. The system also includes that each of the first, second, and third attachment elements is removably engaged with one of the first, second, and third coupling members of the helmet to removably couple the surgical garment to the helmet, such that when the surgical garment is coupled to the helmet, the conductor forms an electrical circuit between the helmet and the surgical garment. The system also includes that the controller is configured to operate the ventilation assembly in a first operating characteristic / setting when the conductor forms an electrical connection between the first attachment element and the second attachment element and the surgical garment is coupled to the helmet to form / close an electrical circuit between the helmet and the surgical garment. The system also includes that the controller is configured to operate the ventilation assembly in a second operating characteristic / setting when the conductor forms an electrical connection between the first attachment element and the third attachment element and the surgical garment is coupled to the helmet to form / close an electrical circuit between the helmet and the surgical garment.

[0006] In yet another exemplary configuration, the surgical apparel system also includes a helmet that can include a ventilation assembly. The helmet also includes a controller electrically connected to the ventilation assembly. The helmet also includes a first coupling member, a second coupling member, and a third coupling member, each of the coupling members being formed from one of a ferromagnetic material or a magnetic material. The system also includes a surgical garment configured to be at least partially disposed over the helmet, the surgical garment being able to include a transparent face shield. The surgical garment can also include a surgical fabric coupled to the transparent face shield, the surgical fabric having a first filter efficiency. The surgical garment also includes a first attachment element, a second attachment, and a third attachment element, each of the attachment elements being formed from the other of a magnetic material or a ferromagnetic material. The surgical garment also includes a conductor that forms an electrical connection between the first attachment element and at least one of the second attachment element and the third attachment element. The system also includes that each of the first, second, and third attachment elements is removably engaged with one of the first, second, and third coupling members of the helmet to removably couple the surgical garment to the helmet, such that when the surgical garment is coupled to the helmet, the conductor forms an electrical circuit between the helmet and the surgical garment. The system also includes that the controller is configured to operate the ventilation assembly in a first operating characteristic / setting when the conductor forms an electrical connection between the first attachment element and the second attachment element and the surgical garment is coupled to the helmet to form an electrical circuit between the helmet and the surgical garment. The system also includes that the controller is configured to operate the ventilation assembly in a second operating characteristic / setting when the conductor forms an electrical connection between the first attachment element and the third attachment element and the surgical garment is coupled to the helmet to form an electrical circuit between the helmet and the surgical garment.The system is also configured such that when the conductor forms an electrical connection between the first attachment element and both the second and third attachment elements, and the surgical garment is coupled to the helmet to form an electrical circuit between the helmet and the surgical garment, the ventilation assembly operates in a third operating characteristic / setting.

[0007] In yet another exemplary configuration, the surgical apparel system can also include a helmet that can include a ventilation assembly. The helmet can also include a controller electrically connected to the ventilation assembly. The helmet can also include a first coupling member and a second coupling member, each of the coupling members being formed from one of a ferromagnetic material or a magnetic material. The system can also include a first surgical garment for use with the helmet. The first surgical garment can include a first transparent face shield. The first surgical garment can also include a first surgical fabric coupled to the first transparent face shield, the first surgical fabric having a first filter efficiency. The first surgical garment can also include a first attachment element and a second attachment element formed from the other of a magnetic material or a ferromagnetic material and configured to removably engage the first and second coupling members of the helmet. The first surgical garment can also include a conductor forming an electrical connection between the first and second attachment elements. The system can also include a second surgical garment for use with the helmet, the second surgical garment being able to include a second transparent face shield. The second surgical garment can also include a second surgical fabric coupled to the second transparent face shield, the second surgical fabric having a second filter efficiency. The second surgical garment can also include a third attachment element and a fourth attachment element formed from the other of a magnetic material or a ferromagnetic material and configured to removably engage the first and second coupling members of the helmet. The system can also include that the conductor of the first surgical garment is configured to form a closed circuit between the helmet and the first surgical garment when the first and second attachment elements engage the first and second coupling members of the helmet. The system can also include that the second surgical garment is configured to form an open circuit between the helmet and the second surgical garment when the third and fourth attachment elements engage the first and second coupling members of the helmet.The system is also configured such that the controller operates the ventilation assembly with a first operating characteristic / setting when the circuit between the helmet and the first surgical garment is closed, and operates the ventilation assembly with a second operating characteristic / setting when the circuit between the helmet and the second surgical garment is open.

[0008] In yet another exemplary configuration, the surgical apparel system also includes a helmet that can include a ventilation assembly. The helmet also includes a controller electrically connected to the ventilation assembly. The helmet also includes a first coupling member and a second coupling member, each of the coupling members being formed from one of a ferromagnetic material or a magnetic material. The system also includes a first surgical garment for use with the helmet, the first surgical garment being able to include a first transparent face shield. The first surgical garment also includes a first surgical fabric coupled to the first transparent face shield, the first surgical fabric having a first filter efficiency. The first surgical garment is also formed from the other of a magnetic material or a ferromagnetic material and includes a first attachment element and a second attachment element configured to removably engage the first and second coupling members of the helmet. The first surgical garment also includes a first conductor forming an electrical connection between the first and second attachment elements, the first conductor defining a first electrical resistance. The system also includes a second surgical garment for use with the helmet, the second surgical garment being able to include a second transparent face shield. The second surgical garment also includes a second surgical fabric coupled to the second transparent face shield, the second surgical fabric having a second filter efficiency. The second surgical garment is also formed from the other of a magnetic material or a ferromagnetic material and includes a third attachment element and a fourth attachment element configured to removably engage the first and second coupling members of the helmet. The second surgical garment also includes a second conductor forming an electrical connection between the third and fourth attachment elements, the second conductor defining a second electrical resistance. The system also includes that each of the first and second conductors is configured to form a circuit between the helmet and the first surgical garment or the second surgical garment when the attachment elements engage the first and second coupling members of the helmet.The system is also configured such that when the circuit can include a first conductor having a first electrical resistance, the ventilation assembly is operated with a first operating characteristic / setting, and when the circuit can include a second conductor having a second electrical resistance, the ventilation assembly is operated with a second operating characteristic / setting.

[0009] In yet another exemplary configuration, the surgical apparel system also includes a helmet that can include a ventilation assembly. The helmet also includes a controller electrically connected to the ventilation assembly. The helmet also includes a first coupling member and a second coupling member, each of the coupling members being formed from one of a ferromagnetic material or a magnetic material. The system also includes a first surgical garment for use with the helmet, the first surgical garment being able to include a first transparent face shield. The first surgical garment also includes a first surgical fabric coupled to the first transparent face shield, the first surgical fabric having a first filter efficiency. The first surgical garment also includes a first attachment element and a second attachment element formed from the other of a magnetic material or a ferromagnetic material and configured to removably engage the first and second coupling members of the helmet. The first surgical garment also includes a first conductor forming an electrical connection between the first and second attachment elements, the first conductor defining a first electrical resistance. The system also includes a second surgical garment for use with the helmet, the second surgical garment being able to include a second transparent face shield. The second surgical garment also includes a second surgical fabric coupled to the second transparent face shield, the second surgical fabric having a second filter efficiency. The second surgical garment also includes a third attachment element and a fourth attachment element formed from the other of a magnetic material or a ferromagnetic material and configured to removably engage the first and second coupling members of the helmet. The second surgical garment also includes a second conductor forming an electrical connection between the third and fourth attachment elements, the second conductor defining a second electrical resistance. The system also includes that each of the first and second conductors is configured to form a circuit between the helmet and the first surgical garment or the second surgical garment when the attachment elements engage the first and second coupling members of the helmet.The system is also configured such that the controller operates the ventilation assembly in a first operating characteristic / setting or a second operating characteristic / setting based on the electrical resistance of the conductor when a circuit is closed / formed between the helmet and the first or second surgical garment.

[0010] In yet another exemplary configuration, a surgical apparel system for use with a surgical helmet that includes a ventilation assembly. The surgical apparel system also includes a first surgical garment, which can include a first transparent face shield. The first surgical garment also includes a first surgical fabric coupled to the first transparent face shield, and the first surgical fabric has a first filter efficiency. The first surgical garment also includes a first attachment element and a second attachment element formed from the other of a magnetic material or a ferromagnetic material. The first surgical garment also includes a first conductor that forms an electrical connection between the first and second attachment elements. The system also includes a second surgical garment that can include a second transparent face shield. The second surgical garment also includes a second surgical fabric coupled to the second transparent face shield, and the second surgical fabric has a second filter efficiency. The second surgical garment also includes a third attachment element and a fourth attachment element formed from the other of a magnetic material or a ferromagnetic material. The second surgical garment also includes a second conductor that forms an electrical connection between the third and fourth attachment elements.

[0011] In yet another exemplary configuration, a surgical apparel system for use with a surgical helmet including a ventilation assembly. The surgical apparel system can also include a first surgical garment that can include a first transparent face shield. The first surgical garment also includes a first surgical fabric coupled to the first transparent face shield, and the first surgical fabric has a first filter efficiency. The first surgical garment also includes a first attachment element and a second attachment element formed from one of a magnetic material or a ferromagnetic material. The first surgical garment also includes a first conductor that forms an electrical connection between the first and second attachment elements, and the conductor defines a first electrical resistance. The system can also include a second surgical garment that can include a second transparent face shield. The second surgical garment also includes a second surgical fabric coupled to the second transparent face shield, and the second surgical fabric has a second filter efficiency. The second surgical garment also includes a third attachment element and a fourth attachment element formed from one of a magnetic material or a ferromagnetic material. The second surgical garment also includes a second conductor that forms an electrical connection between the third and fourth attachment elements, and the conductor defines a second electrical resistance.

[0012] The above other configurations, features, and advantages of the present disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art. The present disclosure is not intended to be limited to or by these configurations, embodiments, features, and / or advantages.

[0013] Referring now to the drawings, exemplary figures are shown in detail. The drawings represent schematic embodiments and / or exemplary configurations, but these drawings are not necessarily to scale and certain features may be enlarged to better illustrate and describe innovative aspects of the exemplary configurations. Further, the exemplary figures described herein are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit or restrict in any other way the precise forms and configurations shown in the drawings and disclosed in the following detailed description.

[0014] The present disclosure will be further understood, and the advantages of the present disclosure will also be readily understood, by considering it in conjunction with the accompanying drawings with reference to the following detailed description.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0015]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Modes for Carrying Out the Invention

[0016] To prevent the exchange and / or transmission of particles or foreign objects during medical treatment or examination, it is of utmost importance to maintain a reliable barrier between the healthcare provider and the patient. During medical and surgical procedures, the healthcare provider can wear an assembly known as a surgical apparel system, such as the surgical apparel system 10 shown in FIG. 1.

[0017] Accordingly, the surgical apparel system 110 can include a surgical garment assembly that includes a surgical garment 112 configured to be attached to a surgical helmet 120. The surgical garment 112 is configured to provide a barrier, such as a microbial barrier, between the wearer and the surrounding environment. The barrier provided by the surgical garment 112 can benefit both the wearer and the patient. The barrier provided by the surgical garment 112 can substantially eliminate the possibility that the wearer comes into contact with fluid or solid particles of substances from the patient that can be generated during the surgical procedure. The barrier can substantially prevent the transmission of any external particles released by the wearer from being transmitted to the patient during the surgical procedure.

[0018] Referring to FIG. 1, the surgical garment 112 can include a surgical fabric 114 configured to cover at least a portion of the surgical helmet 120 and the wearer's head. The surgical garment 112 can be configured as a hood, as shown in FIG. 1. It will be understood that the hood 112 refers to a surgical garment 112 that covers the head when worn by the wearer and is likely to extend only a short distance below the neck. However, although not shown in the figure, it is further contemplated that the surgical garment 112 can also be configured as a toga, a shirt, or a jacket. It will be understood that the toga 112 refers to a surgical garment 112 that covers the head in a manner similar to a hood when worn by the wearer and extends at least to the waist.

[0019] Surgical garment 112 can be manufactured from any suitable surgical fabric 114 or combination of fabrics to help repel and / or absorb water, debris, and other contaminants. The surgical fabric 114 can include multiple layers. One such layer can be a microporous film that maintains a microbial barrier while allowing gas to pass through the fabric. In certain configurations, the surgical fabric 114 is a fabric that meets the ASTM F1670-98 standard for blood penetration resistance and / or the ASTM F1671-97B standard for virus penetration resistance. In one non-limiting example of the surgical fabric 114, the surgical fabric 114 of the surgical garment 112 has a pore size in the range of about 0.5 to 0.20 microns. However, other pore sizes for the surgical fabric 114 are contemplated.

[0020] It is further contemplated that the surgical garment 112 can be constructed from a plurality of different fabrics joined together to define a barrier. For example, the surgical garment 112 can be constructed primarily from a surgical barrier fabric 114 and a filter fabric 116. The filter fabric 116 can have a higher permeability, and thus higher breathability, than the surgical barrier fabric 114 described above. The filter fabric 116 can be located within a region that reduces the risk of microbial particles passing beyond the barrier, such as over the wearer's head or near the crown of the wearer's head, and can be configured to assist in the circulation of air through the barrier. The surgical barrier fabric 114 can be attached to the filter fabric 16 using any suitable means such as adhesion, sewing, welding, or combinations thereof.

[0021] As shown in FIG. 1, the surgical garment 112 can further include a face shield 118. The portion of the face shield 118 of the surgical garment 112 allows the wearer to see through the barrier provided by the surgical garment 112. The face shield 118 has a generally sheet-like structure and can have a thickness of about 1 mm or less. The face shield 118 can be installed and / or attached to an opening or cutout formed in the surgical fabric 114 of the surgical garment 112. The surgical fabric 114 can be attached around the perimeter or edge of the face shield 118 by sewing, snaps, hooks and loops, adhesion, welding, or combinations thereof. The face shield 118 can be constructed from a transparent material such as polycarbonate. One such polycarbonate is sold by Sabic under the trademark LEXAN™. The face shield 118 of the surgical garment 112 can also be tinted to protect the wearer's eyes from increased exposure to bright light. Further, the face shield 118 can be flexible so that it can be bent to accommodate different head sizes, as described below.

[0022] Surgical garment 112 can also include one or more attachment elements 158 positioned around surgical garment 112. Attachment elements 158 can also be referred to as garment fasteners, garment terminals, etc. Attachment elements 158 are configured to releasably secure surgical garment 112 to surgical helmet 120. Attachment elements 158 can also be configured to define an electrical connection between surgical garment 112 and surgical helmet 120, as will be described in more detail below. Attachment elements 158 can take any suitable form and can include metal studs, rivets, buttons, magnets, hooks and loops, snaps, or similar types of fasteners, either alone or in combination. As shown in FIG. 1, attachment elements 158 can be mounted to face shield 118 of surgical garment 112 so as to extend inwardly from the wearer side of face shield 118. Although not shown in the figures, it is also contemplated that attachment elements 158 can be positioned at any other location or place around surgical garment 112, including being mounted to surgical barrier fabric 114 and / or filtration fabric 116. Attachment elements 158 can be mounted to face shield 118 and / or fabric 114 / 116 via adhesion, rivets, snaps, similar mounting devices, or combinations thereof.

[0023] Referring again to FIGS. 1 and 2, an exemplary configuration of a surgical apparel system 110 is described in detail. The system can include a surgical garment 112 and a surgical helmet 120. The surgical garment 112 can be configured as a hood or a toga so as to be disposed over the surgical helmet 120. In the hood configuration shown in FIG. 1, the surgical garment 112 can be positioned over the surgical helmet 120, wrap around the surgical helmet 120, and correspondingly wrap around the head of the wearer of the surgical apparel system 110, thereby covering the face and the back of the wearer's head. Alternatively, when the surgical garment 112 is configured as a toga, the toga can be positioned over the surgical helmet 120, wrap around the surgical helmet 120, and correspondingly wrap around the head, arms, shoulders, and torso of the wearer of the surgical apparel system 110. To dispose the surgical garment 112 over the surgical helmet 120, the surgical garment 112 is typically turned inside out such that a face shield 118 is aligned and attached to the surgical helmet 120 as described below. After the face shield 18 is positioned relative to the surgical helmet 120, the remaining portion of the surgical fabric 114 is typically draped over the wearer's head so as to cover the exposed components of the surgical helmet 120 and the wearer's head.

[0024] Referring to FIG. 2, an exemplary configuration of a surgical helmet 120 that can be utilized as part of a surgical apparel system 110 is shown. The surgical helmet 120 of FIG. 2 includes a headband 122. The headband 122 can be configured to surround the wearer's head and support the surgical helmet 120. The headband 122 can be constructed from a substantially flexible and pliable material, enabling the headband 122 to conform to the overall shape of the wearer's head. The headband 122 can include a headband control assembly 138 configured to adjust the size / shape of the headband 122. The headband control assembly 138 can include a control member 139 operable by the wearer to adjust the size of the headband 122. For example, as shown in FIG. 2, the control member 139 can include a rotatable knob or lever. When the wearer rotates the control member 139 in one direction, the headband control assembly 138 can be configured to reduce the size, i.e., the circumference, of the headband 122. Alternatively, when the wearer rotates the control member 139 in the opposite direction, the headband control assembly 138 can be configured to increase the size, i.e., the circumference, of the headband 122. This enables the headband 122 of the surgical helmet 120 to be adjusted and / or customized to securely fit a particular individual's head, regardless of the size and / or shape of the individual's head.

[0025] The surgical helmet 120 further includes a shell 132 that is supported by a headband 122 and is positioned above the headband 122. The shell 132 can be configured in an arcuate shape to fit over the head of an individual wearing the personal protection system 110. Other helmet designs are contemplated. Many portions of the shell 312 can be formed to define voids or open interior spaces. For example, the shell 132 can include a central void. The central void can be positioned toward the rear of the shell 132. To provide access to the central void, an access opening or aperture can be provided in the top of the shell 132. The shell 132 can also include additional voids, such as a front void proximate to the front of the shell 132 and a rear void proximate to the rear of the shell 132. The additional voids can be configured to form duct-like structures or passages within the shell 132. The additional voids can be further interconnected to the central void.

[0026] The surgical helmet 120 can include one or more electric peripheral devices 130, including, but not limited to, a ventilation assembly, a light, a camera, a microphone, or other communication device, a cooling device, or combinations thereof. These devices can be installed and / or attached to the surgical helmet 120 in various locations and orientations. Each of the peripheral devices 130 can be configured to receive commands that affect the operating state of the corresponding peripheral device. For example, each of the peripheral devices 130 can receive an on / off command. Alternatively, the peripheral device 130 can receive commands that change one or more settings of the peripheral device 130. Such a configuration enables the wearer of the surgical helmet 120 to control the operating states of the various peripheral devices 130 during a surgical procedure. In one particular example, when the peripheral device is the ventilation assembly 30, the ventilation assembly 130 can be configured to receive various commands for controlling the operation and / or adjusting the speed of the fan within the ventilation assembly 130. Alternatively, when the peripheral device is the cooling device 130, the cooling device 130 can be configured to receive commands for controlling the intensity of the cooling output provided by the cooling strip. When the peripheral device is the microphone 130, the microphone 130 can be configured to receive commands for controlling the volume of the audible signal generated by the microphone. When the peripheral device is the light 130, the light 130 can be configured to receive commands for controlling the direction and / or intensity of the emitted light. The peripheral device 130 can, of course, be configured to respond to other types of commands that control the operation of the peripheral device 130.

[0027] When a surgical apparel system 110 including a surgical garment 112 is worn over a user's head, as a result of the user's normal breathing, carbon dioxide inevitably accumulates within the surgical garment 112 and the temperature may rise. Also, when the temperature rises under the surgical garment 112, water vapor may accumulate on the user and / or the face shield 118, which may obstruct the user's vision. To prevent these undesirable effects, the surgical helmet 120 of the surgical apparel system 110 can be configured to be attached to and / or include one or more of the above-described peripheral devices 130 such as a ventilation assembly, a cooling device, etc. Specific features of the surgical helmet 120, the peripheral device 120, and the surgical garment 112 can be found in one or more of U.S. Patent Nos. 6,481,19, 6,622,311, 6,973,677, 7,735,156, 7,752,682, 8,234,722, 8,282,234, 8,407,818, 8,819,869, and 9,173,437, which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0028] The ventilation assembly 130 shown in FIG. 2 is an example of a peripheral device 30 that can be incorporated into the surgical helmet 120 of the surgical apparel system 110. Although the ventilation assembly 130 is shown as an integral component of the surgical helmet 120, it should be understood that each of the other peripheral devices 30 described above may be an integral component of the surgical helmet 120 or may be removably coupled to the surgical helmet 120. The surgical helmet 120 shown in FIG. 2 includes a ventilation assembly 130 positioned within the central void of the shell 132. The ventilation assembly 130 can include fan blades, an impeller, a propeller, a fan wheel, or a similar blade mechanism configured to induce air movement. The blades can be coupled to a motor configured to rotate the blades when energized by a power source. When the blades are actuated, the ventilation assembly 130 is configured to draw air into the central void of the shell 132 through an intake opening at the top of the shell 132. Additional voids of the shell 132 can be connected to the central void, and these additional voids can serve as ducts for dispersing the air drawn into the central void.

[0029] The surgical helmet 120 can include a chin bar 124 that extends downwardly from the front portion of the headband 122. The chin bar 124 can include a first post 126A and a second post 126B. A beam 128 extends between the free ends of both of the posts 126A, 126B. The chin bar 124 is formed such that the beam 128 is positioned slightly forwardly under the chin of the wearer of the surgical helmet 120. The beam 128 can be bent outwardly from the free ends of the posts 126A, 126B. The chin bar 124 can extend outwardly from the headband 122, and thus when the surgical helmet 120 is secured to the wearer's head, the chin bar 124 is positioned forwardly of the wearer's face and generally surrounds the wearer's face.

[0030] A plurality of coupling members 148, such as magnets, hooks, and loops, metal rivets, snaps, or similar types of fasteners, can be installed at another location on the timber 124, face frames 124, 126, 128, 129, or the helmet 120, and can be configured to be aligned with and / or attached to the face shield 118 of the surgical garment 112. For example, on the timber 124, the coupling members 148 can be positioned proximate to both free ends of the posts 126A, 126B and / or adjacent to both ends of the beam 128. Alternatively, the coupling members 148 of the surgical helmet 120 can be arranged in any suitable manner or configured in other forms so as to cooperate with the complementary attachment elements 158 of the face shield 118 to releasably secure the surgical garment 112 to the surgical helmet 120, as described above. The coupling members 148 can also be configured to define an electrical connection between the surgical garment 112 and the surgical helmet 120 via the complementary attachment elements 158 of the face shield 118, as will be described in more detail below.

[0031] Furthermore, as described above, the face shield 118 and / or the surgical fabric 114 can include a plurality of attachment elements 158 disposed around the surgical garment 112. In the exemplary configuration of the surgical garment 112 shown in FIGS. 1 and 3, the attachment elements 158 of the surgical garment 112 can be disposed and / or positioned on the face shield 118 such that the top coupling member 148A of the surgical helmet 120 is coupled to the top attachment element 158A of the face shield 118, and when the face shield 118 is bent around the chin bar 124 and the strap 144 of the headband 122, each of the garment attachment elements 158 abuts and is secured to a complementary magnet or other suitable coupling member 148 on the surgical helmet 120. Referring to the exemplary configuration of the system 110 shown in FIG. 1 and the cross-sectional view of the face shield 118 and chin bar 124 of FIG. 3, the surgical garment 112 includes a top attachment element 158A proximate to the top of the face shield 118, and a plurality of lower attachment elements 158B are positioned around the periphery of the face shield 118. The attachment elements 158 can be spaced around the periphery of the face shield 118 to fit and engage with complementary magnets 148 on the chin bar 124 of the surgical helmet 120. The surgical garment 112 shown in these figures includes a top coupling member 148A, but it is also contemplated that in certain configurations, the top coupling member 148A may not be required. Alternatively, the attachment elements 158 can also be configured to couple and / or align the face shield 118 to the surgical helmet 120.

[0032] During operation, after the top attachment element 158A on the face shield 118 is coupled to the top coupling element 148A of the surgical helmet 120, the face shield 118 can then be bent around the surgical helmet 120 and / or the chin bar 124 to fit the lower attachment element 158B spaced around the periphery of the face shield 118 into a complementary coupling member 148B on the chin bar 124 of the surgical helmet 120. The size of the face shield 118, as well as the spacing and / or position of the attachment elements 158 on the surgical garment 112, can be varied to change the curvature and / or shape of the face shield 118 when attached to the surgical helmet 120. For example, the attachment elements 158 on the surgical garment 112 can be spaced closer together to reduce the curvature of the face shield 118 when attached to the surgical helmet 120. Alternatively, the attachment elements 158 on the surgical garment 112 can be spaced farther apart to increase the curvature of the face shield 118 when attached to the surgical helmet 120.

[0033] Referring to FIG. 5, an alternative configuration of the surgical apparel system 110 is shown. It should be understood that the various configurations of the surgical apparel system 110 may include similar elements, and such similar elements can be identified by reference numbers incremented by 100. It should be understood that those elements including the reference numbers incremented by 100 can have the same features as those described above. The surgical apparel system 110 can include a surgical garment assembly including a surgical garment 112 configured to be attached to a surgical helmet 120. As described above, the surgical garment 112 can be configured to provide a barrier, such as a microbial barrier, between the wearer and the surrounding environment. The barrier provided by the surgical garment 112 can benefit both the wearer and the patient. The barrier provided by the surgical garment 112 can substantially eliminate the possibility that the wearer comes into contact with fluid or solid particles of substances from the patient that may be generated during the surgical procedure. The barrier can substantially prevent the transmission of any external particles emitted by the wearer from being transmitted to the patient during the surgical procedure.

[0034] Referring to FIG. 5, the surgical garment 112 can include a fabric 114 configured to cover the surgical helmet 120 and at least a portion of the wearer's head. The surgical garment 112 can be configured as a hood, a toga, or other similar medical garment, as described above with respect to the first configuration of the surgical apparel system 10. The surgical garment 112 can further include a face shield 118 and one or more attachment elements 158 positioned around the surgical garment 112. The attachment element 158 may also be referred to as a second member. The attachment element 158 can be configured to act as an alignment element and / or a centering feature. Further, to ensure that the fabric 114 covers the attachment element 158 and maintain the barrier provided between the wearer and the environment by the surgical garment 112, the attachment element 158 can be positioned on the face shield 118 above the attachment point of the fabric 114 to the face shield 118. The attachment element 158 can be configured to be constructed from one of a ferromagnetic material or a magnetic material. It should be understood that the surgical garment 112 and all of its components can be configured similarly to the surgical garment 12 described above and / or can have the features described above with respect to the surgical garment 12 described above.

[0035] Referring again to FIGS. 2 and 3, the surgical helmet 120 can further include a control housing 150, which can be located on the front of the helmet 120 and can be coupled to the front bellows 136 on the side opposite the ventilation assembly 130, as shown. It is also contemplated that the control housing 150 can be positioned on or within the chin bar 124. For example, the control housing 150 can be positioned within the chin bar 124 relative to one or more of the coupling members 148. The control housing 150 can include a top coupling member 148A configured to engage at least one of the attachment elements 158A. The top coupling member 148A is generally configured to couple and / or attach an article, such as a surgical garment 112, to the surgical helmet 120, and thus the top coupling member 148A may also be referred to as a helmet coupler. The control housing 150 can be coupled to a top beam 129 that extends between a first post 126A and a second post 126B across the front of the surgical helmet 120, and the top beam extends from both sides of the control housing 150.

[0036] The surgical helmet 120 can further include a sensor 152 or detector. The sensor 152 can be disposed within the control housing 150. In FIGS. 2 and 3, the sensor 152 is shown as being disposed within the control housing 150, but it is further contemplated that the sensor 152 can be disposed at any location on the surgical helmet 120. The sensor can be configured to sense or detect electrical parameters such as voltage, current, resistance, the presence or change of an electromagnetic field, and the like.

[0037] Sensor 152 can be electrically coupled and / or connected to each of the coupling members 148 of the surgical helmet 120 by traces 154A, 154B, 154C, wires, or similar electrical connectors. In cases where the sensor 152 is a Hall effect sensor configured to measure the presence, absence, and / or change of an electromagnetic field in proximity to one or more of the coupling members 148, the sensor 152 may not be directly coupled to one or any of the coupling members 148. Instead, it is also contemplated that the sensor 152 may be configured to measure general characteristics in proximity to one or more of the coupling members 148. Although only a single sensor 152 is shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, it is contemplated that the surgical helmet 120 may also include multiple sensors 152. For example, the surgical helmet 120 may include sensors 152 installed in proximity to each of the coupling members 148.

[0038] Based on the measured and / or detected electrical parameters, the sensor 152 can be configured to generate a signal to a controller (not shown). The controller can be configured to transmit and receive data, such as receiving a signal and / or data indicating the electrical parameters measured by the sensor 152 from the sensor 152. The controller can also store operation instructions related to the operation of the peripheral device 130 of the surgical helmet and be configured to communicate those operation instructions to the peripheral device 130 for the purpose of controlling the operation of the peripheral device 130. For example, as described above, the peripheral device 130 can include a ventilation assembly 130, and the controller can store and / or communicate operation instructions such as a preferred fan speed for the ventilation assembly 130.

[0039] Referring to FIG. 3, a partial perspective view of the surgical garment 112 coupled to the chin bar 124 and the control housing 150 of the surgical helmet 120 is shown. A sensor 152 is disposed within the control housing 150 and is connected to each of the coupling members 148 disposed on the surgical helmet 120. The surgical garment 112 includes a plurality of attachment elements 158 positioned around the periphery of the face shield 118, and the attachment elements 158 correspond to one or more of the coupling members 148 of the surgical helmet 120. For example, as shown in FIG. 3, the face shield 118 includes a pair of attachment elements 158B, 158C positioned at both ends of the lower portion of the face shield 118, and the attachment elements 158B, 158C are each configured to couple to corresponding coupling members 148B, 148C on the chin bar 124. The face shield 118 further includes a top attachment element 158A positioned near the center of the top of the face shield 118, and the top attachment element 158A is configured to couple to a top coupling member 148A disposed on the control housing 150.

[0040] One or more of the attachment elements 158 can be electrically connected by a trace, wire, or similar electrical connector capable of forming an electrical connection between the attachment elements 158. For example, as shown in FIG. 3, the top attachment element 158A is connected to one of the lower attachment elements 158B by a trace 156A. The trace 156 can comprise a conductive trace, and the conductive trace 156 can be formed from one of silver, carbon nanoparticles, and / or another suitable printable ink capable of providing an electrical connection between two components such as the attachment elements 158 on the face shield 118. The conductive trace 156 can be applied to the face shield 118, although it is not necessarily required that the conductive trace 156 be applied to the face shield. For example, the trace between one or more of the attachment elements 158 can be a wire simply connecting two points.

[0041] The conductive trace 156 on the surgical garment 112 can be configured to provide authentication of the surgical garment 112 having the surgical helmet 120. The conductive trace 156 can be configured to provide an electrical connection between attachment elements 158 attached to the face shield 118, and the attachment elements 158 are in close contact with the coupling member 146 on the surgical helmet 120 when the surgical garment 112 is coupled to the surgical helmet 120. The combination of the attachment elements 158, the coupling member 146, and the traces 154, 156 can be arranged to provide an electrical parameter that can be detected or sensed by the sensor 152. The sensor can be configured to detect the electrical parameter and / or confirm the completed circuit and generate a signal to a controller that identifies the particular surgical garment 112. The sensor 152 can be configured to generate a unique signal that includes data based on a measured electrical parameter such as a unique measured resistance, and then the controller can use this signal to identify the particular surgical garment 112 coupled to the surgical helmet 120. Alternatively, the sensor 152 can be configured to generate different types of signals based on measured electrical parameters such as yest, or not to generate a signal based on the measured electrical parameter being above or below a known threshold, and then the controller can use this signal to identify the particular surgical garment 112 coupled to the surgical helmet 120 to the controller. For example, one way to identify the surgical garment 112 is to configure the sensor 152 to measure the resistance and compare the measured resistance to a specified value. The sensor 152 can then be configured to transmit a first signal if the measured resistance is lower than the specified value and a second signal if the measured resistance is higher than the specified value.

[0042] The properties of the trace 156 disposed on the face shield 118 can be manipulated to produce varying levels of resistance in the attachment element 158 and the trace 156. For example, typically, reducing the cross-section of the trace 156 generally increases the resistance. Thus, the resistance of a given trace can be changed and / or manipulated by varying one or more of the width, length, pattern, and / or shape of the trace 156 that connects one or more attachment elements 158 on the face shield 118. With respect to the trace width, a trace 156 with a smaller width can be created by having multiple different options for applying the trace to the face shield 118. With respect to the trace thickness, the resistance can be increased by placing a thinner layer (adjusting the ratio of the ink to be thinner), or the printed cross-sectional area can be increased and the trace resistance decreased by placing multiple ink layers on top of each other. With respect to the trace pattern, the trace length can be increased or decreased by placing traces 156 of different patterns, resulting in different levels of trace resistance being obtained.

[0043] Referring to FIGS. 4 - 7, different exemplary configurations of traces 156 connecting one or more attachment elements 158 on the face shield 118 are shown. In addition to measuring the electrical parameters of the traces 156 connecting one or more attachment elements 158 on the face shield 118 to identify a particular surgical garment 112 coupled to the surgical helmet 120, this can also be accomplished by completing a circuit between one or more of the attachment elements 158 and the coupling member 148. For example, a trace 156B can be formed between the attachment element 158A at the top of the face shield 118A and the attachment element 158C at the lower left to complete a circuit between the sensor 152, the top coupling member 148A, the lower left coupling member 148C, the top attachment element 158A, and the lower left attachment element 158C. Based on this, the sensor 152 can provide a signal to the controller indicating which attachment elements 158 and coupling members 148 completed the circuit, and the controller can utilize this signal to identify the particular surgical garment 112.

[0044] Referring to FIG. 5, an alternative configuration of the face shield 118B without a trace 156 connecting any of the attachment elements 158 thereon. In this configuration, the circuit should always be open. The sensor 152 can similarly provide a signal to the controller indicating an open circuit, and the controller can utilize this signal to identify the particular surgical garment 112.

[0045] Referring to FIG. 6, an alternative configuration of the face shield 118C is formed with a trace 156A between the mounting element 158A at the top of the face shield 118C and the lower right mounting element 158B, enabling a circuit to be completed between the sensor 152, the top coupling member 148A, the lower right coupling member 148B, the top mounting element 158A, and the lower right mounting element 158B. The sensor 152 can similarly provide a signal to the controller for indicating a closed circuit between the top mounting element 158A and the lower right mounting element 158B, and the controller can utilize this signal to identify the specific surgical garment 112.

[0046] Referring to FIG. 7, an alternative configuration of the face shield 118D is formed with a trace 156B between the top mounting element 158A and the lower left mounting element 158C, and a trace 156A can be formed between the top mounting element 158A and the lower right mounting element 158B. In this configuration, the circuit should be closed both between the top mounting element 158A and the lower right mounting element 158B, and between the top mounting element 158A and the lower left mounting element 158C. The sensor 152 can similarly provide a signal to the controller for indicating a closed circuit, and the controller can utilize this signal to identify the specific surgical garment 112.

[0047] As described above, the sensor can be configured to measure electrical parameters generated by and / or defined across a trace 156 that connects one or more attachment elements 158 on the face shield 118. The controller can then be configured to utilize the electrical parameters measured or detected by the sensor 152 to identify a particular surgical garment 112 coupled to the surgical helmet 120. This enables the controller to adjust the operation of a peripheral device 130, such as a ventilation assembly, in accordance with the particular characteristics of the surgical garment 112 attached to the surgical helmet 120. For example, a surgical garment 112 that includes a filter fabric 116 with a higher filtration efficiency may require a higher fan speed than a surgical garment 112 that includes a filter fabric 116 with a lower filtration efficiency. The controller can identify when a surgical garment 112 with a high filtration efficiency and a surgical garment 112 with a low filtration efficiency are each coupled to the surgical helmet 120 based on one of the configuration and / or characteristics of the trace 156 on the surgical garment 112 designed to produce a detectable electrical parameter, and can be configured to provide an operation instruction to the peripheral device 130 based on the surgical garment 112. When the surgical garment is made as a toga rather than a hood, based on the additional body coverage of the toga, it may be advantageous to operate a peripheral device 130, such as a ventilation assembly, at a higher fan speed to provide additional air movement. Similarly, the controller can identify when a toga rather than a hood is coupled to the surgical helmet 120 based on one of the configuration and / or characteristics of the trace 156 on the surgical garment 112 designed to produce a detectable electrical parameter, and can be configured to provide an operation instruction to the peripheral device 130 based on the type of the surgical garment 112.

[0048] The present disclosure also includes the following clauses having specific features shown in the dependent clauses, which can be specifically implemented as described in more detail with reference to the above configurations and drawings.

[0049] Clause I A helmet, a ventilation assembly, a controller electrically connected to the ventilation assembly, a first helmet terminal and a second helmet terminal, comprising a helmet, wherein each of the first and second helmet terminals is electrically connected to the controller; A surgical garment configured to be at least partially disposed on the helmet, a transparent face shield, surgical fabric coupled to the transparent face shield and having a first fabric property, a first garment terminal and a second garment terminal, a conductor forming an electrical connection between the first and second garment terminals, comprising: a surgical garment, wherein each of the first and second garment terminals is configured to removably engage with the first and second helmet terminals to form a circuit between the helmet and the surgical garment; a sensor in communication with the controller and configured to detect electrical parameters of the conductor associated with the first and second garment terminals, comprising: A surgical apparel system, wherein the controller is configured to control operating characteristics of the ventilation assembly based on the electrical parameters of the conductor detected by the sensor.

[0050] Article II The sensor is configured to measure the electrical resistance of the conductor, The conductor defines a first electrical resistance when the circuit is closed, The surgical apparel system according to Clause I, wherein the controller is configured to control the operating characteristics of the ventilation assembly based on the first electrical resistance in the circuit.

[0051] Clause III The first electrical resistance correlates with the first fabric characteristic of the surgical fabric of the surgical garment, and the controller is configured to control the operating characteristics of the ventilation assembly based on a first filtration efficiency of the surgical fabric, the surgical apparel system according to clause II.

[0052] Clause IV The surgical fabric includes a filter fabric, and the first fabric characteristic includes a filter efficiency rating for the filter fabric, the surgical apparel system according to clause III.

[0053] Clause V The first electrical resistance correlates with a characteristic of the surgical garment, and the controller is configured to control the operating characteristics of the helmet based on the characteristic of the surgical garment, the surgical apparel system according to clause II.

[0054] Clause VI The conductor connecting the first and second garment terminals is formed on the transparent face shield, the surgical apparel system according to any one of clauses I to III.

[0055] Clause VII The conductor connecting the first and second garment terminals comprises a conductive trace or a conductive layer, the surgical apparel system according to any one of clauses I to VI.

[0056] Clause VIII The conductor connecting the first and second garment terminals is a conductive trace, and the conductive trace is formed from conductive ink, the surgical apparel system according to any one of clauses I to VII.

[0057] Clause IX The conductor connecting the first and second garment terminals comprises a trace formed from at least one of silver, carbon nanoparticles, or printable ink, the surgical apparel system according to any one of clauses I to VII.

[0058] Clause X The first and second garment terminals are disposed on the transparent face shield, the surgical apparel system according to any one of clauses I to VIII.

[0059] Clause XI The conductor connecting the first and second garment terminals is a conductive trace, and the resistance of the conductive trace is determined by at least one of the material of the conductive trace, the depth of the conductive trace, the width of the conductive trace, the length of the conductive trace, or the pattern / shape of the conductive trace, the surgical apparel system according to any one of clauses I to X.

[0060] Clause XII A helmet, a ventilation assembly, and a controller electrically connected to the ventilation assembly, a first coupling member and a second coupling member, a helmet comprising the first and second coupling members, each formed from one of a ferromagnetic material or a magnetic material, a surgical garment configured to be disposed at least partially over the helmet, a transparent face shield, surgical fabric coupled to the transparent face shield, a first attachment element and a second attachment element formed from the other of a magnetic material or a ferromagnetic material, a conductor that forms an electrical connection between the first and second attachment elements and has / defines an electrical resistance, a surgical garment comprising, comprising, the first and second attachment elements are configured to removably engage the first and second coupling members of the helmet to form a circuit between the helmet and the surgical garment, a surgical apparel system, wherein the controller is configured to control operating characteristics of the ventilation assembly based on the resistance of the conductor when the circuit is closed between the helmet and the surgical garment.

[0061] Article XIII The surgical apparel system of Article XII, wherein the conductor connecting the first and second attachment elements comprises a conductive trace or a conductive layer.

[0062] Article XIV The surgical apparel system of Article XIII, wherein the resistance of the conductor is defined by the width of the conductive trace.

[0063] Article XV The surgical apparel system of Article XIII, wherein the resistance of the conductor is defined by the thickness of the conductive trace or the number of conductive layers.

[0064] Article XVI The surgical apparel system of Article XIII, wherein the resistance of the conductor is defined by the shape of the conductive trace.

[0065] Article XVII the conductor is configured to define the electrical resistance to provide a first ohmic resistance, The surgical apparel system according to any one of Articles XIII to XVI, wherein the first ohmic resistance correlates to the surgical fabric having a first filtration efficiency.

[0066] Article XVIII the conductor is configured to define the electrical resistance to provide a second ohmic resistance, The surgical apparel system according to any one of Articles XIII to XVI, wherein the second ohmic resistance correlates to the surgical fabric having a second filtration efficiency.

[0067] Article XIX the conductor is configured to define the electrical resistance to provide a third ohmic resistance, The surgical apparel system according to any one of clauses XIII to XVI, wherein the third ohmic resistance correlates with the surgical fabric having a third filtration efficiency.

[0068] Clause XX A helmet, a ventilation assembly, a controller electrically connected to the ventilation assembly, a first coupling member, a second coupling member, and a third coupling member, comprising a helmet, each of the coupling members being formed from one of a ferromagnetic material or a magnetic material, a surgical garment configured to be at least partially disposed on the helmet, a transparent face shield, a surgical fabric coupled to the transparent face shield and having a first filter efficiency, a first attachment element, a second attachment, and a third attachment element each formed from the other of a magnetic material or a ferromagnetic material, a conductor forming an electrical connection between the first attachment element and one of the second attachment element or the third attachment element, comprising a surgical garment, comprising each of the first, second, and third attachment elements removably engages with one of the first, second, and third coupling members of the helmet to removably couple the surgical garment to the helmet, and when the surgical garment is coupled to the helmet, the conductor is configured to form an electrical circuit between the helmet and the surgical garment. The controller is configured to operate the ventilation assembly in a first operating characteristic / setting when the conductor forms an electrical connection between the first attachment element and the second attachment element and the surgical garment is coupled to the helmet to form / close the electrical circuit between the helmet and the surgical garment. The surgical apparel system, wherein the controller is configured to operate the ventilation assembly in a second operating characteristic / setting when the conductor forms an electrical connection between the first attachment element and the third attachment element and the surgical garment is coupled to the helmet to form / close the electrical circuit between the helmet and the surgical garment.

[0069] Clause XXI The surgical apparel system according to clause XX, further comprising a sensor configured to detect an electrical parameter of the conductor between the first attachment element and one of the second attachment element or the third attachment element when the attachment element of the surgical garment is coupled to the coupling member of the helmet.

[0070] Clause XXII The surgical apparel system according to clause XXI, wherein the sensor is configured to detect a resistance of the conductor between the first attachment element and one of the second attachment element or the third attachment element when the attachment element of the surgical garment is coupled to the coupling member of the helmet.

[0071] Clause XXIII The surgical apparel system according to clause XXI, wherein the sensor is configured to detect a voltage of the conductor between the first attachment element and one of the second attachment element or the third attachment element when the attachment element of the surgical garment is coupled to the coupling member of the helmet.

[0072] Clause XXIV A helmet, a ventilation assembly, a controller electrically connected to the ventilation assembly, a first coupling member, a second coupling member, and a third coupling member, wherein each of the coupling members is formed of either a ferromagnetic material or a magnetic material, and a helmet; A surgical garment configured to be at least partially disposed on the helmet, a transparent face shield, a surgical fabric coupled to the transparent face shield and having a first filter efficiency, a first attachment element, a second attachment, and a third attachment element each formed of the other of a magnetic material or a ferromagnetic material, a conductor forming an electrical connection between the first attachment element and at least one of the second attachment element and the third attachment element, and a surgical garment; Comprising each of the first, second, and third attachment elements is removably engaged with one of the first, second, and third coupling members of the helmet to removably couple the surgical garment to the helmet, and when the surgical garment is coupled to the helmet, the conductor is configured to form an electrical circuit between the helmet and the surgical garment. The controller is configured to operate the ventilation assembly with a first operating characteristic / setting when the conductor forms an electrical connection between the first attachment element and the second attachment element and the surgical garment is coupled to the helmet to form the electrical circuit between the helmet and the surgical garment. The controller is configured to operate the ventilation assembly with a second operating characteristic / setting when the conductor forms an electrical connection between the first attachment element and the third attachment element and the surgical garment is coupled to the helmet to form the electrical circuit between the helmet and the surgical garment. The surgical apparel system, wherein the controller is configured to operate the ventilation assembly with a third operating characteristic / setting when the conductor forms an electrical connection between the first attachment element and both the second and third attachment elements and the surgical garment is coupled to the helmet to form the electrical circuit between the helmet and the surgical garment.

[0073] Article XXV The surgical apparel system according to Article XXIV, further comprising a sensor configured to detect a voltage of the conductor between the first attachment element and one of the second attachment element or the third attachment element when the attachment element of the surgical garment is coupled to the coupling member of the helmet.

[0074] Article XXVI The surgical apparel system according to Article XXIV or XXV, wherein the conductor connecting the first attachment element and one of the second attachment element or the third attachment element comprises a conductive trace or a conductive layer.

[0075] Article XXVII The surgical apparel system according to any one of Articles XXIV to XXVI, wherein the conductor connecting the first attachment element and one of the second attachment element or the third attachment element is a conductive trace, and the conductive trace is formed from conductive ink.

[0076] Article XXVIII The conductor connecting the first attachment element and one of the second attachment element or the third attachment element comprises a trace formed from at least one of silver, carbon nanoparticles, or printable ink. The surgical apparel system according to any one of Articles XXIV to XXVI.

[0077] Article XXIX The conductor connecting the first attachment element and one of the second attachment element or the third attachment element is a conductive trace, and the resistance of the conductive trace is determined by at least one of the material of the conductive trace, the depth of the conductive trace, the width of the conductive trace, the length of the conductive trace, or the pattern / shape of the conductive trace. The surgical apparel system according to any one of clauses XXIV to XXVIII.

[0078] Clause XXX A helmet, a ventilation assembly, a controller electrically connected to the ventilation assembly, a first coupling member and a second coupling member, comprising a helmet, each of the coupling members being formed of one of a ferromagnetic material or a magnetic material, a first surgical garment for use with the helmet, a first transparent face shield, a first surgical fabric coupled to the first transparent face shield and having a first filter efficiency, a first attachment element and a second attachment element formed of the other of the magnetic material or the ferromagnetic material and configured to removably engage the first and second coupling members of the helmet, a conductor forming an electrical connection between the first and second attachment elements, comprising a first surgical garment, a second surgical garment for use with the helmet, a second transparent face shield, a second surgical fabric coupled to the second transparent face shield and having a second filter efficiency, a third attachment element and a fourth attachment element formed of the other of the magnetic material or the ferromagnetic material and configured to removably engage the first and second coupling members of the helmet, comprising a second surgical garment, comprising the conductor of the first surgical garment is configured to form a closed circuit between the helmet and the first surgical garment when the first and second attachment elements engage the first and second coupling members of the helmet, the second surgical garment is configured to form an open circuit between the helmet and the second surgical garment when the third and fourth attachment elements engage the first and second coupling members of the helmet, The controller is configured to operate the ventilation assembly with a first operating characteristic / setting when the circuit between the helmet and the first surgical garment is closed, and to operate the ventilation assembly with a second operating characteristic / setting when the circuit between the helmet and the second surgical garment is open, a surgical apparel system.

[0079] Article XXXI Further comprising a sensor, the sensor being configured to detect a voltage of the conductor between the first attachment element and one of the second attachment element or the third attachment element when the attachment element of the surgical garment is coupled to the coupling member of the helmet, the surgical apparel system according to Article XXX.

[0080] Article XXXII The conductor connecting the first attachment element and one of the second attachment element or the third attachment element comprises a conductive trace or a conductive layer, the surgical apparel system according to Article XXX or XXXI.

[0081] Article XXXIII The conductor connecting the first attachment element and one of the second attachment element or the third attachment element is a conductive trace, and the conductive trace is formed from conductive ink, the surgical apparel system according to any one of Articles XXX to XXXII.

[0082] Article XXXIV The conductor connecting the first attachment element and one of the second attachment element or the third attachment element comprises a trace formed from at least one of silver, carbon nanoparticles, or printable ink, the surgical apparel system according to any one of Articles XXX to XXXII.

[0083] Article XXXV The conductor connecting the first attachment element and one of the second attachment element or the third attachment element is a conductive trace, and the resistance of the conductive trace is determined by at least one of the material of the conductive trace, the depth of the conductive trace, the width of the conductive trace, the length of the conductive trace, or the pattern / shape of the conductive trace, the surgical apparel system according to any one of Articles XXX to XXXIV.

[0084] Article XXXVI A helmet, a ventilation assembly, a controller electrically connected to the ventilation assembly, a first coupling member and a second coupling member, A helmet comprising, each of the coupling members being formed from one of a ferromagnetic material or a magnetic material, and A first surgical garment for use with the helmet, comprising A first transparent face shield, and A first surgical fabric coupled to the first transparent face shield and having a first filter efficiency, and A first attachment element and a second attachment element formed from the other of the magnetic material or the ferromagnetic material and configured to removably engage the first and second coupling members of the helmet, and A first conductor forming an electrical connection between the first and second attachment elements and defining a first electrical resistance, and A first surgical garment comprising A second surgical garment for use with the helmet, comprising A second transparent face shield, and A second surgical fabric coupled to the second transparent face shield and having a second filter efficiency, and A third attachment element and a fourth attachment element formed from the other of the magnetic material or the ferromagnetic material and configured to removably engage the first and second coupling members of the helmet, and A second conductor forming an electrical connection between the third and fourth attachment elements and defining a second electrical resistance, and A second surgical garment comprising Comprising Each of the first and second conductors is configured to form a circuit between the helmet and the first surgical garment or the second surgical garment when the attachment elements engage the first and second coupling members of the helmet, A surgical apparel system, wherein the controller is configured to operate the ventilation assembly in a first operating characteristic / setting when the circuit comprises the first conductor having a first electrical resistance, and to operate the ventilation assembly in a second operating characteristic / setting when the circuit comprises the second conductor having a second electrical resistance.

[0085] Article XXXVII A helmet comprising A ventilation assembly, and A controller electrically connected to the ventilation assembly, and A first coupling member and a second coupling member, and A helmet comprising, each of the coupling members being formed from one of a ferromagnetic material or a magnetic material, and A first surgical garment for use with the helmet, comprising A first transparent face shield, and A first surgical garment, comprising a first surgical fabric having a first filter efficiency and coupled to the first transparent face shield; a first attachment element and a second attachment element formed from the other of the magnetic material or ferromagnetic material and configured to removably engage the first and second coupling members of the helmet; a first conductor forming an electrical connection between the first and second attachment elements and defining a first electrical resistance; A second surgical garment for use with the helmet, comprising: a second transparent face shield; a second surgical fabric having a second filter efficiency and coupled to the second transparent face shield; a third attachment element and a fourth attachment element formed from the other of the magnetic material or ferromagnetic material and configured to removably engage the first and second coupling members of the helmet; a second conductor forming an electrical connection between the third and fourth attachment elements and defining a second electrical resistance; Comprising: each of the first and second conductors is configured to form a circuit between the helmet and the first surgical garment or the second surgical garment when the attachment elements engage the first and second coupling members of the helmet; a surgical apparel system, wherein the controller is configured to operate the ventilation assembly in a first operating characteristic / setting or a second operating characteristic / setting based on the electrical resistance of the conductor when the circuit is closed / formed between the helmet and the first or second surgical garment. Article XXXVIII A surgical apparel system for use with a surgical helmet, comprising a ventilation assembly, a controller for operating the ventilation assembly, and first and second coupling members, each of the first and second coupling members being formed from one of a ferromagnetic material or a magnetic material,

[0086] a first surgical garment, a first transparent face shield, a first surgical fabric having a first filter efficiency and coupled to the first transparent face shield, a first attachment element and a second attachment element formed from the other of the magnetic material or ferromagnetic material, ​ ​ A first conductor that forms an electrical connection between the first and second attachment elements, A first surgical garment comprising, A second surgical garment, A second transparent face shield, A second surgical fabric coupled to the second transparent face shield and having a second filter efficiency, A third attachment element and a fourth attachment element formed from the other of the magnetic material or ferromagnetic material, A second conductor that forms an electrical connection between the third and fourth attachment elements, A second surgical garment comprising, A surgical apparel system comprising.

[0087] Article XXXIX A surgical apparel system for use with a surgical helmet, the system including a ventilation assembly, a controller for operating the ventilation assembly, and a first coupling member and a second coupling member, each of the first and second coupling members being formed from one of a ferromagnetic material or a magnetic material, A first surgical garment, A first transparent face shield, A first surgical fabric coupled to the first transparent face shield and having a first filter efficiency, A first attachment element and a second attachment element formed from the other of the magnetic material or ferromagnetic material, A first conductor that forms an electrical connection between the first and second attachment elements and defines a first electrical resistance, A first surgical garment comprising, A second surgical garment, A second transparent face shield, A second surgical fabric coupled to the second transparent face shield and having a second filter efficiency, A third attachment element and a fourth attachment element formed from the other of the magnetic material or ferromagnetic material, A second conductor that forms an electrical connection between the third and fourth attachment elements and defines a second electrical resistance. A second surgical garment comprising, A surgical apparel system comprising.

[0088] Article XL A method of operating a surgical garment system including a helmet and a surgical garment, The helmet having a ventilation assembly, a controller, a first helmet terminal, and a second helmet terminal, The surgical garment comprises a surgical garment, a transparent face shield, and a surgical fabric coupled to the transparent face shield, the surgical fabric having a first fabric property, a first garment terminal, and a second garment terminal, and a conductor forming an electrical connection between the first and second garment terminals. The method comprises: coupling the first and second garment terminals of the surgical garment to the first and second helmet terminals to form a circuit between the helmet and the surgical garment; detecting an electrical parameter / resistance of the conductor associated with the first and second garment terminals via a sensor communicating with the controller; a method of controlling an operating characteristic of the ventilation assembly based on the detected electrical parameter / resistance of the conductor associated with the first and second garment terminals.

[0089] Some configurations have been discussed in the above description. However, the configurations discussed in this specification are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the system 110 to any particular form. The terms used are intended to be words of explanation rather than of limitation. In light of the above teachings, many modifications and variations are possible, and the system can be implemented in ways other than those specifically described.

Claims

1. A helmet, a vent assembly; a controller electrically connected to the vent assembly; a first helmet terminal and a second helmet terminal; a helmet comprising: a surgical garment configured to be at least partially disposed over the helmet, A transparent face shield and a surgical fabric coupled to the transparent face shield and having a first fabric characteristic; a first garment terminal and a second garment terminal; a conductor forming an electrical connection between the first and second garment terminals; Equipped with a surgical garment, the first and second garment terminals being configured to releasably engage the first and second helmet terminals, respectively, to form a circuit between the helmet and the surgical garment; a sensor in communication with the controller and configured to detect an electrical parameter of the conductor associated with the first and second garment terminals; Equipped with The surgical apparel system, wherein the controller is configured to control an operational characteristic of the venting assembly based on an electrical parameter of the conductor detected by the sensor.

2. the sensor is configured to measure the electrical resistance of the conductor; the conductor defines a first electrical resistance when the circuit is closed; The surgical apparel system of claim 1 , wherein the controller is configured to control the operating characteristic of the venting assembly based on the first electrical resistance in the circuit.

3. 3. The surgical apparel system of claim 2, wherein the first electrical resistance is correlated to the first fabric characteristic of the surgical fabric of the surgical garment, and the controller is configured to control the operating characteristic of the venting assembly based on a first filter efficiency of the surgical fabric.

4. The surgical apparel system of claim 3 , wherein the surgical fabric comprises a filter fabric and the first fabric characteristic comprises a filter efficiency rating for the filter fabric.

5. 3. The surgical apparel system of claim 2, wherein the first electrical resistance correlates to a characteristic of the surgical garment, and the controller is configured to control the operational characteristic of the helmet based on the characteristic of the surgical garment.

6. The surgical apparel system of claim 1 , wherein the conductor connecting the first and second garment terminals is formed on the transparent face shield.

7. The surgical apparel system of claim 1 , wherein the conductor connecting the first and second garment terminals comprises a conductive trace or layer.

8. The surgical apparel system of claim 1 , wherein the conductor connecting the first and second garment terminals is a conductive trace, the conductive trace being formed from a conductive ink.

9. 8. The surgical apparel system of claim 1, wherein the conductor connecting the first and second garment terminals comprises a trace formed from at least one of silver, carbon nanoparticles, or a printable ink.

10. The surgical apparel system of claim 1 , wherein the first and second garment terminals are disposed on the transparent face shield.

11. 11. The surgical apparel system of claim 1, wherein the conductor connecting the first and second garment terminals is a conductive trace, the resistance of the conductive trace being determined by at least one of a material of the conductive trace, a depth of the conductive trace, a width of the conductive trace, a length of the conductive trace, or a pattern / shape of the conductive trace.

12. A helmet, a vent assembly; a controller electrically connected to the vent assembly; a first coupling member and a second coupling member; each of the first and second coupling members being formed from one of a ferromagnetic material or a magnetic material; a surgical garment configured to be at least partially disposed over the helmet, A transparent face shield and a surgical fabric coupled to the transparent face shield; a first mounting element and a second mounting element formed from the other of a magnetic material or a ferromagnetic material; a conductor forming an electrical connection between the first and second mounting elements and having / defining an electrical resistance; a surgical garment comprising: Equipped with the first and second attachment elements are configured to releasably engage the first and second coupling members of the helmet to form a circuit between the helmet and the surgical garment; The surgical apparel system, wherein the controller is configured to control an operational characteristic of the venting assembly based on the resistance of the conductor when the circuit is closed between the helmet and the surgical garment.

13. The surgical apparel system of claim 12, wherein the conductor connecting the first and second attachment elements comprises a conductive trace or layer.

14. The surgical apparel system of claim 13 , wherein the resistance of the conductor is defined by a width of the conductive trace.

15. The surgical apparel system of claim 13, wherein the resistance of the conductor is defined by a thickness of the conductive trace or a number of conductive layers.

16. The surgical apparel system of claim 13 , wherein the resistance of the conductor is defined by a shape of the conductive trace.

17. the conductor is configured to define the electrical resistance to provide a first ohmic resistance; 17. The surgical apparel system of any one of claims 13 to 16, wherein the first ohmic resistance correlates to the surgical fabric having a first filtration efficiency.

18. the conductor is configured to define the electrical resistance to provide a second ohmic resistance; 17. The surgical apparel system of any one of claims 13 to 16, wherein the second ohmic resistance correlates to the surgical fabric having a second filtration efficiency.

19. the conductor is configured to define the electrical resistance to provide a third ohmic resistance; 17. The surgical apparel system of any one of claims 13 to 16, wherein the third ohmic resistance correlates to the surgical fabric having a third filtration efficiency.

20. A helmet, a vent assembly; a controller electrically connected to the vent assembly; a first coupling member, a second coupling member, and a third coupling member; each of said coupling members being formed from one of a ferromagnetic material or a magnetic material; a surgical garment configured to be at least partially disposed over the helmet, A transparent face shield and a surgical fabric coupled to the transparent face shield and having a first filtration efficiency; a first mounting element, a second mounting element, and a third mounting element, each formed from the other of a magnetic material or a ferromagnetic material; a conductor forming an electrical connection between the first mounting element and one of the second mounting element or the third mounting element; a surgical garment comprising: Equipped with each of the first, second, and third attachment elements is configured to releasably engage one of the first, second, and third coupling members of the helmet to releasably couple the surgical garment to the helmet, and when the surgical garment is coupled to the helmet, the conductors are configured to form an electrical circuit between the helmet and the surgical garment; the controller is configured to operate the venting assembly at a first operating characteristic / setting when the conductor forms an electrical connection between the first attachment element and the second attachment element and the surgical garment is coupled to the helmet to form / close the electrical circuit between the helmet and the surgical garment; The controller is configured to operate the venting assembly with a second operating characteristic / setting when the conductor forms an electrical connection between the first attachment element and the third attachment element and the surgical garment is coupled to the helmet to form / close the electrical circuit between the helmet and the surgical garment.

21. 21. The surgical apparel system of claim 20, further comprising a sensor configured to detect an electrical parameter of the conductor between the first attachment element and one of the second attachment element or the third attachment element when the attachment element of the surgical garment is coupled to the coupling member of the helmet.

22. 22. The surgical apparel system of claim 21, wherein the sensor is configured to detect a resistance of the conductor between the first attachment element and one of the second attachment element or the third attachment element when the attachment element of the surgical garment is coupled to the coupling member of the helmet.

23. 22. The surgical apparel system of claim 21, wherein the sensor is configured to detect a voltage on the conductor between the first attachment element and one of the second attachment element or the third attachment element when the attachment element of the surgical garment is coupled to the coupling member of the helmet.

24. A helmet, a vent assembly; a controller electrically connected to the vent assembly; a first coupling member, a second coupling member, and a third coupling member; each of said coupling members being formed from one of a ferromagnetic material or a magnetic material; a surgical garment configured to be at least partially disposed over the helmet, A transparent face shield and a surgical fabric coupled to the transparent face shield and having a first filtration efficiency; a first mounting element, a second mounting element, and a third mounting element, each formed from the other of a magnetic material or a ferromagnetic material; a conductor forming an electrical connection between the first mounting element and at least one of the second mounting element and the third mounting element; a surgical garment comprising: Equipped with each of the first, second, and third attachment elements is configured to releasably engage one of the first, second, and third coupling members of the helmet to releasably couple the surgical garment to the helmet, and when the surgical garment is coupled to the helmet, the conductors are configured to form an electrical circuit between the helmet and the surgical garment; the controller is configured to operate the venting assembly at a first operating characteristic / setting when the conductor forms an electrical connection between the first attachment element and the second attachment element and the surgical garment is coupled to the helmet to form the electrical circuit between the helmet and the surgical garment; the controller is configured to operate the venting assembly with a second operating characteristic / setting when the conductor forms an electrical connection between the first attachment element and the third attachment element and the surgical garment is coupled to the helmet to form the electrical circuit between the helmet and the surgical garment; the controller is configured to operate the venting assembly with a third operating characteristic / setting when the conductor forms an electrical connection between the first attachment element and both the second and third attachment elements and the surgical garment is coupled to the helmet to form the electrical circuit between the helmet and the surgical garment.

25. 25. The surgical apparel system of claim 24, further comprising a sensor configured to detect a voltage on the conductor between the first attachment element and one of the second attachment element or the third attachment element when the attachment element of the surgical garment is coupled to the coupling member of the helmet.

26. 26. The surgical apparel system of claim 24 or 25, wherein the conductor connecting the first attachment element and one of the second attachment element or the third attachment element comprises a conductive trace or layer.

27. 27. The surgical apparel system of any one of claims 24 to 26, wherein the conductor connecting the first attachment element to one of the second attachment element or the third attachment element is a conductive trace, the conductive trace being formed from a conductive ink.

28. 27. The surgical apparel system of any one of claims 24-26, wherein the conductor connecting the first attachment element to one of the second attachment element or the third attachment element comprises a trace formed from at least one of silver, carbon nanoparticles, or a printable ink.

29. 29. The surgical apparel system of any one of claims 24 to 28, wherein the conductor connecting the first attachment element and one of the second attachment element or the third attachment element is a conductive trace, and a resistance of the conductive trace is determined by at least one of a material of the conductive trace, a depth of the conductive trace, a width of the conductive trace, a length of the conductive trace, or a pattern / shape of the conductive trace.

30. A helmet, a vent assembly; a controller electrically connected to the vent assembly; a first coupling member and a second coupling member; each of said coupling members being formed from one of a ferromagnetic material or a magnetic material; A first surgical garment for use with the helmet, comprising: A first transparent face shield; and a first surgical fabric coupled to the first transparent face shield and having a first filtration efficiency; a first attachment element and a second attachment element formed from the other of the magnetic material or the ferromagnetic material and configured to releasably engage the first and second coupling members of the helmet; a conductor forming an electrical connection between the first and second mounting elements; a first surgical garment comprising: A second surgical garment for use with the helmet, comprising: a second transparent face shield; and a second surgical fabric coupled to the second transparent face shield and having a second filter efficiency; a third attachment element and a fourth attachment element formed from the other of the magnetic material or the ferromagnetic material and configured to releasably engage the first and second coupling members of the helmet; and a second surgical garment comprising: Equipped with the conductor of the first surgical garment is configured to form a closed circuit between the helmet and the first surgical garment when the first and second attachment elements engage the first and second coupling members of the helmet; the second surgical garment is configured to form an open circuit between the helmet and the second surgical garment when the third and fourth attachment elements engage the first and second coupling members of the helmet; The controller is configured to operate the venting assembly with first operating characteristics / settings when a circuit between the helmet and the first surgical garment is closed, and to operate the venting assembly with second operating characteristics / settings when a circuit between the helmet and the second surgical garment is open.

31. 31. The surgical apparel system of claim 30, further comprising a sensor configured to detect a voltage on the conductor between the first attachment element and one of the second attachment element or the third attachment element when the attachment element of the surgical garment is coupled to the coupling member of the helmet.

32. The surgical apparel system of claim 30 or 31, wherein the conductor connecting the first attachment element and one of the second attachment element or the third attachment element comprises a conductive trace or layer.

33. 33. The surgical apparel system of any one of claims 30 to 32, wherein the conductor connecting the first attachment element to one of the second attachment element or the third attachment element is a conductive trace, the conductive trace being formed from a conductive ink.

34. 33. The surgical apparel system of any one of claims 30-32, wherein the conductor connecting the first attachment element to one of the second attachment element or the third attachment element comprises a trace formed from at least one of silver, carbon nanoparticles, or a printable ink.

35. 35. The surgical apparel system of any one of claims 30 to 34, wherein the conductor connecting the first attachment element and one of the second attachment element or the third attachment element is a conductive trace, and a resistance of the conductive trace is determined by at least one of a material of the conductive trace, a depth of the conductive trace, a width of the conductive trace, a length of the conductive trace, or a pattern / shape of the conductive trace.

36. A helmet, a vent assembly; a controller electrically connected to the vent assembly; a first coupling member and a second coupling member; each of said coupling members being formed from one of a ferromagnetic material or a magnetic material; A first surgical garment for use with the helmet, comprising: A first transparent face shield; and a first surgical fabric coupled to the first transparent face shield and having a first filtration efficiency; a first attachment element and a second attachment element formed from the other of the magnetic material or the ferromagnetic material and configured to releasably engage the first and second coupling members of the helmet; a first conductor forming an electrical connection between the first and second mounting elements and defining a first electrical resistance; a first surgical garment comprising: A second surgical garment for use with the helmet, comprising: a second transparent face shield; and a second surgical fabric coupled to the second transparent face shield and having a second filter efficiency; a third attachment element and a fourth attachment element formed from the other of the magnetic material or the ferromagnetic material and configured to releasably engage the first and second coupling members of the helmet; and a second conductor forming an electrical connection between the third and fourth mounting elements and defining a second electrical resistance; a second surgical garment comprising: Equipped with each of the first and second conductors configured to form a circuit between the helmet and the first surgical garment or the second surgical garment when the attachment element engages the first and second coupling members of the helmet; The controller is configured to operate the venting assembly at a first operating characteristic / setting when the circuit comprises the first conductor having a first electrical resistance, and to operate the venting assembly at a second operating characteristic / setting when the circuit comprises the second conductor having a second electrical resistance.

37. A helmet, a vent assembly; a controller electrically connected to the vent assembly; a first coupling member and a second coupling member; each of said coupling members being formed from one of a ferromagnetic material or a magnetic material; A first surgical garment for use with the helmet, comprising: A first transparent face shield; and a first surgical fabric coupled to the first transparent face shield and having a first filtration efficiency; a first attachment element and a second attachment element formed from the other of the magnetic material or the ferromagnetic material and configured to releasably engage the first and second coupling members of the helmet; a first conductor forming an electrical connection between the first and second mounting elements and defining a first electrical resistance; a first surgical garment comprising: A second surgical garment for use with the helmet, comprising: a second transparent face shield; and a second surgical fabric coupled to the second transparent face shield and having a second filter efficiency; a third attachment element and a fourth attachment element formed from the other of the magnetic material or the ferromagnetic material and configured to releasably engage the first and second coupling members of the helmet; and a second conductor forming an electrical connection between the third and fourth mounting elements and defining a second electrical resistance; a second surgical garment comprising: Equipped with each of the first and second conductors configured to form a circuit between the helmet and the first surgical garment or the second surgical garment when the attachment element engages the first and second coupling members of the helmet; The surgical apparel system, wherein the controller is configured to operate the venting assembly with a first operating characteristic / setting or a second operating characteristic / setting based on the electrical resistance of the conductor when the circuit is closed / formed between the helmet and the first or second surgical garment.

38. 1. A surgical apparel system for use with a surgical helmet, comprising: a venting assembly; a controller for operating the venting assembly; and first and second coupling members, each of the first and second coupling members formed from one of a ferromagnetic material or a magnetic material, a first surgical garment; A first transparent face shield; and a first surgical fabric coupled to the first transparent face shield and having a first filtration efficiency; a first mounting element and a second mounting element formed from the other of the magnetic material or the ferromagnetic material; a first conductor forming an electrical connection between the first and second mounting elements; a first surgical garment comprising: a second surgical garment; a second transparent face shield; and a second surgical fabric coupled to the second transparent face shield and having a second filter efficiency; a third mounting element and a fourth mounting element formed from the other of the magnetic material or the ferromagnetic material; a second conductor forming an electrical connection between the third and fourth mounting elements; a second surgical garment comprising: A surgical apparel system comprising:

39. 1. A surgical apparel system for use with a surgical helmet, comprising: a venting assembly; a controller for operating the venting assembly; and first and second coupling members, each of the first and second coupling members formed from one of a ferromagnetic material or a magnetic material, a first surgical garment; A first transparent face shield; and a first surgical fabric coupled to the first transparent face shield and having a first filtration efficiency; a first mounting element and a second mounting element formed from the other of the magnetic material or the ferromagnetic material; a first conductor forming an electrical connection between the first and second mounting elements and defining a first electrical resistance; a first surgical garment comprising: a second surgical garment; a second transparent face shield; and a second surgical fabric coupled to the second transparent face shield and having a second filter efficiency; a third mounting element and a fourth mounting element formed from the other of the magnetic material or the ferromagnetic material; A second conductor forming an electrical connection between the third and fourth mounting elements and defining a second electrical resistance. a second surgical garment comprising: A surgical apparel system comprising:

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