Personal protection system including medical gown with shield

Abstract

A surgical helmet (720) for use with a surgical gown (718) and a power source (826). The surgical helmet includes a protrusion (746) extending from an upper beam (729) and configured to removably secure the surgical gown to the surgical helmet, and a projection (754) extending transversely from the protrusion to retain the surgical gown. The surgical helmet may also include a post (834), and the power source may include a plug (832), the post and plug including complementary features that allow the plug to rotate about the post without breaking the electrical connection between the plug and the post.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] Related Applications This application claims priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 528,018, filed July 31, 2019, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 257,668, filed January 25, 2019, and further claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 897,954, filed September 9, 2019, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 906,330, filed September 26, 2019, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. [Background technology]

[0002] Personal protective systems are used in surgical procedures to provide a sterile barrier between the surgical personnel and the patient. Specifically, conventional systems include a helmet supporting a toga or hood. The system is worn by the medical / surgical personnel wishing to establish a sterile barrier. The toga or hood may also include a transparent face shield. The helmet includes a ventilation unit, including a fan. The ventilation unit draws air through the toga / hood so that it circulates around the wearer. This reduces both the amount of heat trapped in the toga / hood and the amount of CO2 that accumulates in this space. Additionally, it is known to attach lights to the helmet for illumination, which can be directed to illuminate the surgical site.

[0003] Conventional togas or hoods are configured to be removably coupled to a helmet. This allows the toga / hood to be removed from the helmet and discarded after a surgical procedure. Conventional toga and hood designs include hooks and / or standard fasteners that couple the toga / hood to the helmet. Therefore, medical gowns that include improved fasteners for coupling to the helmet may also improve the performance of personal protection systems. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The present disclosure relates generally to medical gowns, including assemblies including a shield that can be configured to attach to a surgical helmet, and the medical gown including the shield can be employed to provide a barrier between an individual wearing the system and the surrounding environment.

[0005] An exemplary configuration provides a medical gown including a shell configured to attach to a surgical helmet, the shell including an attachment member, which may be integral with the shell or configured to removably couple the shell to the surgical helmet. The attachment member may be configured to removably couple to the surgical helmet on a wearer side of a microbial barrier formed by the shell. The surgical helmet may include a helmet coupler assembly, which may be configured to matingly couple with the attachment member to removably couple the shell to the surgical helmet. The helmet coupler assembly may further include a movable member, which may be configured to selectively couple the detector based at least in part on a position of the shell relative to the surgical helmet. The switch may be communicatively connected to a controller configured to control an operational characteristic of a peripheral device of the surgical helmet.

[0006] In another exemplary configuration, a medical gown may include a shell configured to provide a microbial barrier between a medical environment and a wearer. The shell may be configured to be disposed over a surgical helmet including a hook and a chin bar at least partially disposed within the alignment channel. The chin bar may include at least two magnetic coupling members. The shell may include a first member configured to be disposed at least partially over the surgical helmet. The first member may include an opening configured to be positioned in front of the wearer's face when disposed over the surgical helmet. The shell may further include a transparent face shield disposed within the opening of the first member. The transparent face shield may include a first side and an opposing second side, an upper portion and a lower portion, and a first opening configured to removably couple to a protrusion on the surgical helmet to align the first member with the surgical helmet. The shell may further include a first attachment element and a second attachment element, the first and second attachment elements being secured to a lower portion of the transparent face shield on either side of the first opening. Each of the first and second attachment elements may include a retention mechanism configured to secure the first and second attachment elements to the transparent face shield. At least one of the first and second attachment elements may be constructed of a ferromagnetic material, the at least one of the first and second attachment elements defining a recess on the wearer side of the microbial barrier and configured to removably couple with one of the magnetic coupling members on the surgical helmet.

[0007] In yet another exemplary configuration, a medical gown may include a shell configured to provide a microbial barrier between a medical environment and a wearer. The shell may be configured to be disposed over a surgical helmet including at least two magnetic coupling members. The shell may include a first member configured to be disposed at least partially over the surgical helmet. The first member may include an opening. The shell may further include a transparent face shield disposed within the opening of the first member. The transparent face shield may include a first surface and an opposing second surface, an upper surface and a lower surface, and a first coupling, the first coupling being configured to removably couple to the surgical helmet. The shell may also include a first attachment element and a second attachment element. The first attachment element and the second attachment element may be secured to the lower portion of the transparent face shield. Each of the first and second attachment elements may also include a retention mechanism configured to secure the first and second attachment elements to the transparent face shield. At least one of the first and second attachment elements may include a ferromagnetic material and define a recess on the wearer-side of the microbial barrier, the recess being configured to removably couple to a magnetic coupling member on a surgical helmet.

[0008] In yet another exemplary configuration, a medical gown may include a shell configured to provide a microbial barrier between a medical environment and a wearer. The shell may be configured to be disposed over a surgical helmet including at least two magnetic coupling members. The shell may include a first member configured to be disposed at least partially over the surgical helmet. The first member may include an opening. The shell may further include a transparent face shield disposed within the opening of the first member. The transparent face shield may include an upper portion and a lower portion. The shell may further include a first coupling, the first coupling being disposed on the wearer side of the first material and configured to removably couple to the surgical helmet. The shell may also include a first attachment element and / or a second attachment element. The first and second attachment elements may be secured to a lower portion of the transparent face shield. Each of the first and second attachment elements may include a head including a distal surface and a proximal surface. Each of the first and second attachment elements may include a post extending from a distal surface of the head. The post may include a distal portion and a proximal portion, the proximal portion configured to abut the distal surface of the head. The proximal portion may have a first dimension and the distal portion may have a second dimension, the first dimension being greater than the second dimension. The head of each of the first and second attachment elements may further include a ferromagnetic material, and the proximal surface of each head may be configured to removably couple to one of the magnetic coupling members of the surgical helmet.

[0009] In yet another exemplary configuration, a protective clothing system configured for use with a helmet may provide a barrier between the environment and a wearer. The helmet may include a protrusion and a chin bar at least partially disposed within the alignment channel. The chin bar may include at least two magnetic coupling members. The protective clothing system may further include a medical gown including a shell, which may be configured to be at least partially disposed over the helmet. The shell may include an opening configured to be positioned in front of the wearer's face when at least partially disposed over the helmet. The medical gown may also include a transparent face shield disposed within the opening in the shell. The transparent face shield may include an upper portion and a lower portion. The medical gown may further include a tab on a wearer-side of the shell, the tab including an outer edge that aligns the shell with the helmet through the alignment channel in the helmet. The tab may include a first opening, which may be configured to detachably couple to the protrusion in the helmet to align the shell with the helmet. The medical gown may further include a first attachment element and a second attachment element, which may be secured to a lower portion of the transparent face shield on either side of the first opening. At least one of the first and second attachment elements includes a ferromagnetic material and defines a coupling recess on the wearer side of the barrier. The first and second attachment elements and / or the coupling recess are configured to removably couple to a magnetic coupling member of a helmet.

[0010] In yet another exemplary configuration, a protective clothing system configured for use with a helmet may provide a barrier between the environment and a wearer. The helmet may include a protrusion and a chin bar at least partially disposed within the alignment channel. The chin bar may include at least two magnetic coupling members. The protective clothing system may include a medical gown including a shell, the shell being configured to be at least partially disposed over the helmet. The shell may include an opening configured to be positioned in front of the wearer's face when at least partially disposed over the helmet. The protective clothing system may further include a transparent face shield disposed within the opening in the shell. The transparent face shield may include a first side, an opposing second side, an upper portion, and a lower portion. The protective clothing system may further include a tab on a wearer-side of the shell, the tab having an outer edge that aligns the shell with the helmet through the alignment channel in the helmet. The protective apparel system may further include a first opening formed at least partially in the tab, the first opening configured to removably couple to a protrusion on the helmet to align the shell with the helmet. The protective apparel system may further include a first attachment element and a second attachment element, the first and second attachment elements secured to a lower portion of the transparent face shield on either side of the first opening in the tab. Each of the first and second attachment elements may include a retention mechanism, the retention mechanism being positioned closer to the second surface of the transparent face shield than the first surface. The first and second attachment elements may include a ferromagnetic material and each define a coupling recess on the wearer side of the barrier. The first and second attachment elements and / or the coupling recess are configured to removably couple to a magnetic coupling member on the helmet.

[0011] In yet another exemplary configuration, a surgical gown assembly may be configured for use with a surgical helmet including a magnetic coupling member disposed in a recess and a detector spaced apart from the coupling member. The surgical gown assembly may be configured to be at least partially disposed over the surgical helmet and provide a microbial barrier between a user and a medical environment. The surgical gown assembly may include a surgical fabric defining an opening and a transparent face shield disposed within the opening. The transparent face shield may include an upper portion, a lower portion, a first side, and an opposing second side. The surgical gown assembly may also include a first attachment element coupled to the lower portion of the transparent face shield. The first attachment element may include a ferromagnetic material. The first attachment element may define a proximal surface facing away from the transparent face shield, and the proximal surface may include a first point located on a longitudinal axis of the first attachment element, the first point defining a first distance from the first side of the transparent face shield. The proximal surface may also include a second point that may define a second distance from the first surface of the transparent face shield. The second point on the proximal surface may be spaced from the first point on the proximal surface, and the proximal surface may be shaped such that the first distance is less than the second distance. The first attachment element may be configured to removably couple to a coupling member on the surgical helmet and to trigger (activate) the detector when coupled to the coupling member.

[0012] In yet another exemplary configuration, a surgical gown assembly may be configured for use with a surgical helmet including a coupling member disposed in a recess and a Hall effect sensor spaced from the coupling member. The surgical gown assembly may be configured to be at least partially disposed over the surgical helmet and provide a microbial barrier between a user and a medical environment. The surgical gown assembly may include a surgical fabric defining an opening and a transparent face shield disposed within the opening. The transparent face shield may include an upper portion, a lower portion, a first surface, and an opposite second surface. The surgical gown assembly may also include a first attachment element coupled to the lower portion of the transparent face shield. The first attachment element may define a proximal surface facing away from the transparent face shield. A first axis of the first attachment element may intersect the proximal surface. The proximal surface may be shaped such that a first point on the proximal surface that lies on the first axis can define a first distance from the first surface of the transparent face shield. A second point on the proximal surface can define a second distance from the first surface of the transparent face shield, the second point on the proximal surface being spaced apart from the first point on the proximal surface, the first distance being less than the second distance. The first attachment element can be constructed of a ferromagnetic material and configured to removably couple to a coupling member on the surgical helmet.

[0013] In yet another exemplary configuration, a surgical gown assembly may be configured for use with a surgical helmet including a coupling member disposed in a recess and a Hall effect sensor spaced from the coupling member. The surgical gown assembly may be configured to be at least partially disposed over the surgical helmet and provide a microbial barrier between a user and a medical environment. The surgical gown assembly may include a surgical fabric defining an opening and a transparent face shield disposed within the opening. The transparent face shield may include an upper portion, a lower portion, a first side, and an opposite second side. The surgical gown assembly may also include a first attachment element coupled to the lower portion of the transparent face shield. The first attachment element may define a proximal surface facing away from the transparent face shield. The proximal surface may be shaped such that a first point on the proximal surface may define a first distance from the first side of the transparent face shield. A second point on the proximal surface may define a second distance from the first side of the transparent face shield. The proximal surface may be shaped such that a second point on the proximal surface is spaced from the first point on the proximal surface, the first distance being less than the second distance. The first attachment element may be constructed of a ferromagnetic material and may be configured to removably couple to a coupling member on the surgical helmet.

[0014] In yet another exemplary configuration, a surgical gown assembly may be configured for use with a surgical helmet including a coupling member disposed in a recess and a detector spaced from the coupling member. The surgical gown assembly may be configured to be at least partially disposed over the surgical helmet and provide a microbial barrier between a user and a medical environment. The surgical gown assembly may include a surgical fabric defining an opening and a transparent face shield disposed within the opening. The transparent face shield may include an upper portion, a lower portion, a first side, and an opposite second side. The surgical gown assembly may also include a first attachment element including a head, the head including a ferromagnetic material and defining a proximal surface facing away from the transparent face shield. The proximal surface may be shaped such that a first portion of the proximal surface extends a first distance from the first side of the transparent face shield and a second portion of the proximal surface defines a second distance from the first side of the transparent face shield. The proximal surface may be shaped such that the first distance is shorter than the second distance. The first attachment element may be configured to removably couple to a coupling member on a surgical helmet.

[0015] In yet another exemplary configuration, a surgical gown assembly may be configured for use with a surgical helmet including a coupling member disposed in a recess and a detector spaced from the coupling member. The surgical gown assembly may be configured to be at least partially disposed over the surgical helmet and provide a microbial barrier between a user and a medical environment. The surgical gown assembly may include a surgical fabric defining an opening and a transparent face shield disposed within the opening. The transparent face shield may include a first side and an opposing second side, or may be bisected by a midline. The surgical gown assembly may also include a first attachment element coupled to the transparent face shield. The first attachment element may include a head defining a proximal surface. A first point on the proximal surface on the axis of the first attachment element may define a first distance from the first side of the transparent face shield. A second point on the proximal surface may define a second distance from the first side of the transparent face shield. The second point on the proximal surface can be spaced apart from the first point on the proximal surface, and the proximal surface can be shaped such that the first distance is less than the second distance. The first attachment element can be oriented relative to the transparent face shield such that the second point on the proximal surface is located farther from a midline of the transparent face shield than the first point on the proximal surface.

[0016] In yet another exemplary configuration, a surgical gown assembly may be configured for use with a surgical helmet including a coupling member disposed in a recess and a detector spaced from the coupling member. The surgical gown assembly may be configured to be at least partially disposed over the surgical helmet and provide a microbial barrier between a user and a medical environment. The surgical gown assembly may include a surgical fabric defining an opening and a transparent face shield disposed within the opening. The transparent face shield may include a first side and an opposite second side, or may be bisected by a midline. A first attachment element may be coupled to the transparent face shield. The first attachment element may include a head defining a proximal side and an opposite distal side. A first point on the proximal side, located on the axis of the first attachment element, may define a first distance from the first side of the transparent face shield. A second point on the proximal side may define a second distance from the first side of the transparent face shield. The second point on the proximal surface may be spaced apart from the first point on the proximal surface, and the proximal surface may be shaped such that the first distance is less than the second distance. The transparent face shield and the first attachment element may also include complementary features configured to prevent the first attachment element from rotating relative to the transparent face shield. The first attachment element may be oriented such that the second point on the proximal surface is located farther from a midline of the transparent face shield than the first point on the proximal surface.

[0017] The surgical gown assembly may be configured such that the complementary feature of the transparent face shield and the first attachment element may include an opening in a lower portion of the transparent face shield and a post extending from a distal surface of the head. The opening may have a first shape extending between the first surface and the second surface. The post may include a shape complementary to the first shape and may be configured to prevent rotation within the opening.

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

[0019] The surgical gown assembly may be configured such that the means for preventing rotation of the first attachment element relative to the transparent face shield may include an opening extending between the first surface and the second surface and a post extending distally from the distal surface of the head. The post may be at least partially disposed within the opening, and the post and opening may include a complementary mechanism for preventing rotation of the post within the opening.

[0020] In yet another exemplary configuration, a method of manufacturing a surgical gown assembly for use with a surgical helmet may include providing a fabric suitable for providing a microbial barrier, the fabric defining an opening and shaped to surround at least a portion of a wearer's head and define an environmental side and a wearer side. The method may also include providing a transparent face shield including an upper portion and an opposing lower portion. The method may further include forming a recess in a proximal surface of a head of a ferromagnetic attachment element. The method may also include attaching the ferromagnetic attachment element to the transparent face shield. The method may also include bonding the transparent face shield to the fabric such that the proximal surface of the ferromagnetic attachment element is positioned on the wearer side of the fabric.

[0021] In yet another exemplary configuration, a method for reusing surgical gown features may include obtaining a used surgical gown, the used surgical gown including a surgical fabric defining an opening and a transparent face shield disposed within the opening. The transparent face shield may include an upper portion, a lower portion, a first side, and an opposite second side. The method may further include a first attachment element secured to the lower portion of the transparent face shield, the first attachment element being composed of a ferromagnetic material and defining a coupling recess on the wearer side of the surgical gown. The first attachment element may be configured to removably couple to a magnetic coupling member on a helmet. The first attachment element may further include a head having a distal surface and a proximal surface and a post extending distally from the distal surface of the head. The coupling recess may be formed in the proximal surface of the head. The method may also include detaching the first attachment element from the transparent face shield. The method may further include discarding the surgical gown and the transparent face shield. The method may also include cleaning and / or disinfecting the first attachment element. The method may also include coupling the cleaned or disinfected first attachment element to a new surgical gown with a new face shield, and upon subsequent use of the new surgical gown, utilizing the cleaned or disinfected first attachment element to couple the new surgical gown to the helmet.

[0022] In yet another exemplary configuration, a surgical gown assembly may be configured for use with a surgical helmet including at least one coupling member. The surgical gown assembly may include a surgical fabric defining an opening and a transparent face shield disposed within the opening. The transparent face shield may include a first surface and an opposing second surface. A first attachment element may be coupled to the transparent face shield, the first attachment element including a proximal surface. An adapter member may be configured to removably couple with the first attachment element. The adapter member may include a proximal surface and an opposing distal surface. The adapter member may include a first point on the proximal surface of the adapter member and a second point on the proximal surface of the adapter member. The second point on the proximal surface of the adapter member may be spaced apart from the first point on the proximal surface of the adapter member. The distal surface of the adapter member may be configured to removably couple with the proximal surface of the first attachment element. A first point on the proximal surface of the adapter member may define a first distance from the first side of the transparent face shield when the adapter member is coupled to the first mounting element. A second point on the proximal surface of the adapter member may define a second distance from the first side of the transparent face shield when the adapter member is coupled to the first mounting element. The proximal surface of the adapter member may be shaped such that the first distance from the first side of the transparent face shield is less than the second distance.

[0023] In yet another exemplary configuration, a method of coupling a surgical gown including a first attachment element to a surgical helmet including a first coupling member may include providing an adapter member. The adapter member may include a proximal surface and an opposing distal surface. The adapter member may also include a first point on the proximal surface of the adapter member and a second point on the proximal surface of the adapter member. The second point on the proximal surface of the adapter member may be spaced apart from the first point on the proximal surface of the adapter member. The first point on the proximal surface of the adapter member may define a first distance from the first side of the transparent face shield when the adapter member is coupled to the first attachment element. The second point on the proximal surface of the adapter member may define a second distance from the first side of the transparent face shield when the adapter member is coupled to the first attachment element. The method may also include releasably coupling the adapter member to the first coupling member of the surgical helmet. The method may further include releasably coupling the adapter member to the first attachment element of the surgical gown.

[0024] In yet another exemplary configuration, a surgical gown assembly may be configured for use with a surgical helmet including a magnetic coupling member disposed in a recess and a Hall effect sensor spaced from the coupling member. The surgical gown assembly may be configured to be at least partially disposed over the surgical helmet and provide a microbial barrier between a user and a medical environment. The surgical gown assembly may include a surgical fabric defining an opening and a transparent face shield disposed within the opening. The transparent face shield may include an upper portion, a lower portion, a first surface, and an opposite second surface. A first attachment element may be coupled to the lower portion of the transparent face shield. The first attachment element may include a cylindrical head having a distal end and an opposite proximal end. The proximal end may define a proximal surface facing away from the transparent face shield. The proximal surface may include a first portion extending proximally from a median surface of the cylindrical head to a first edge. The second portion may extend proximally at an angle from the midsurface of the cylindrical head to a second edge, the cylindrical head being constructed of a ferromagnetic material, and the first mounting element may be configured to removably couple to a coupling member on a surgical helmet and to trigger the Hall effect sensor when coupled to the coupling member.

[0025] In yet another exemplary configuration, a surgical gown assembly may be configured for use with a surgical helmet including a magnetic coupling member disposed in a recess and a Hall effect sensor spaced from the coupling member. The surgical gown assembly may be configured to be at least partially disposed over the surgical helmet and provide a microbial barrier between a user and a medical environment. The surgical gown assembly may include a surgical fabric defining an opening and a transparent face shield disposed within the opening. The transparent face shield may include an upper portion, a lower portion, a first side, and an opposite second side. A first attachment element may be coupled to the lower portion of the transparent face shield. The first attachment element may include a cylindrical head including a distal end and an opposite proximal end. The proximal end may define a proximal surface facing away from the transparent face shield. The proximal surface may include a planar surface having a first side and a second side. The first side may extend proximally from the first side of the planar surface to a first edge. The second surface may extend proximally at an angle from a second side of the planar surface to a second edge. The planar surface may be perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The cylindrical head may be constructed of a ferromagnetic material, and the first mounting element may be configured to removably couple to a coupling member on the surgical helmet and to trigger a Hall Effect sensor when coupled to the coupling member.

[0026] In yet another exemplary configuration, a surgical gown assembly may be configured for use with a surgical helmet including a magnetic coupling member disposed in a recess and a Hall effect sensor spaced from the coupling member. The surgical gown assembly may be configured to be at least partially disposed over the surgical helmet and provide a microbial barrier between a user and a medical environment. The surgical gown assembly may include a surgical fabric defining an opening and a transparent face shield disposed within the opening. The transparent face shield may include an upper portion, a lower portion, a first side, and an opposing second side. A first attachment element may be coupled to the lower portion of the transparent face shield. The first attachment element may include a cylindrical head including a distal end having a distal surface and a proximal end having a proximal surface. The proximal surface may extend proximally from a first edge of the cylindrical head to a second edge of the cylindrical head at an angle. The first attachment element may be removably coupled to a coupling member on the surgical helmet and configured to trigger the Hall effect sensor when coupled to the coupling member.

[0027] In yet another exemplary configuration, a surgical gown assembly may be configured for use with a surgical helmet including a magnetic coupling member disposed in a recess and a Hall effect sensor spaced from the coupling member. The surgical gown assembly may be configured to be at least partially disposed over the surgical helmet and provide a microbial barrier between a user and a medical environment. The surgical gown assembly may include a surgical fabric defining an opening and a transparent face shield disposed within the opening. The transparent face shield may include an upper portion, a lower portion, a first surface, and an opposing second surface. A first attachment element may be coupled to the lower portion of the transparent face shield. The first attachment element may include a cylindrical head including a bore, the bore extending along the longitudinal axis between a distal end and a proximal end. The cylindrical head may be constructed of a ferromagnetic material, and the first attachment element may be configured to removably couple to a coupling member on the surgical helmet and to trigger the Hall effect sensor when coupled to the coupling member.

[0028] In yet another exemplary configuration, a surgical gown assembly may be configured for use with a surgical helmet including a magnetic coupling member disposed in a recess and a Hall effect sensor spaced from the coupling member. The surgical gown assembly may be configured to be at least partially disposed over the surgical helmet and provide a microbial barrier between a user and a medical environment. The surgical gown assembly may include a surgical fabric defining an opening and a transparent face shield disposed within the opening. The transparent face shield may include an upper portion, a lower portion, a first surface, and an opposing second surface. A first attachment element may be coupled to the lower portion of the transparent face shield. The first attachment element may include a cylindrical head, and a bore extending along the longitudinal axis between a closed distal end and an open proximal end. The bore may include a mouth, and the mouth may be circumferentially tapered from the open proximal end toward the center of the bore. The cylindrical head may be constructed of a ferromagnetic material and may be configured to removably couple to a coupling member on the surgical helmet and to trigger a Hall effect sensor when the first mounting element is coupled to the coupling member.

[0029] In yet another exemplary configuration, a surgical apparel system may include a surgical helmet. The surgical helmet may include a shell, a ventilation assembly coupled to the shell, and a power coupler coupled to the shell. A power source may be configured to be in electrical communication with the ventilation assembly. The power coupler may include a post. The system may further include a power source including a battery, a wiring harness extending from the battery, and a plug coupled to the wiring harness opposite the battery. The plug may be configured to removably couple to the power coupler of the surgical helmet to power the ventilation assembly. The post and plug may not have a key and keyway, respectively, to allow coupling in any radial direction. Additionally, the post and plug may include complementary retention features that allow the plug to rotate about the post without breaking electrical connection.

[0030] In yet another exemplary configuration, a surgical apparel system may include a surgical helmet. The surgical helmet may include a shell, a ventilation assembly coupled to the shell, and a power coupler disposed on the shell and in electrical communication with the ventilation assembly. The power coupler may further include a post. The system may also include a power source including a battery, a wiring harness extending from the battery, and a plug coupled to the wiring harness opposite the battery. The plug may be configured to removably couple to the power coupler of the surgical helmet to power the ventilation assembly. The post and plug may include complementary retention mechanisms that allow the plug to rotate about the post without breaking the electrical connection. The system may further include a surgical gown at least partially disposed over the surgical helmet and configured to provide a microbial barrier between a medical environment and a wearer. The surgical gown may include a surgical fabric defining an opening configured to be positioned in front of a wearer's face when at least partially disposed over the surgical helmet, and a transparent face shield disposed within the opening of the surgical fabric.

[0031] In yet another exemplary configuration, a surgical apparel system may include a surgical helmet. The surgical helmet may include a shell, a ventilation assembly coupled to the shell, and a power coupler disposed on the shell and in electrical communication with the ventilation assembly. The power coupler may include a post defining an axis of rotation. The system may further include a power source including a battery, a wiring harness extending from the battery, and a plug coupled to the wiring harness on an opposite side of the battery. The plug may be configured to removably couple to the power coupler of the surgical helmet to power the ventilation assembly, the post and plug including complementary retention features that allow the plug to be positioned in a first orientation relative to the axis of rotation and rotated in a second orientation relative to the axis of rotation without breaking the electrical connection between the post and the plug.

[0032] These and other configurations, features, and advantages of the present disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art, and the present disclosure is not intended to be limited to these configurations, embodiments, features, and / or advantages.

[0033] Referring now to the drawings, exemplary figures are shown in detail. While the drawings depict schematic embodiments and / or example configurations, they are not necessarily drawn to scale, and certain features may be exaggerated to better illustrate and explain innovative aspects of an example configuration. Moreover, the exemplary illustrations set forth herein are not intended to be exhaustive or limited to the exact forms and configurations shown in the drawings and disclosed in the following detailed description.

[0034] The advantages of the present disclosure will be readily appreciated as the same becomes better understood by reference to the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which: [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0035] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a first configuration of a surgical apparel system including a medical gown and a surgical helmet, the surgical helmet being shown in phantom. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a surgical helmet of the surgical apparel system of FIG. 1. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a partial perspective view of a medical gown coupled to the chin bar of the surgical helmet shown in FIG. 1. [Figure 4A] 2 is a partial schematic top view of a first configuration of the headband of the surgical apparel system of FIG. 1 with the medical gown coupled to the surgical helmet. FIG. [Figure 4B] 1. FIG. 4 is a partial schematic top view of a second configuration of the headband of the surgical apparel system of FIG. 1 with the medical gown coupled to the surgical helmet. [Figure 5]FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a second configuration of a surgical apparel system including a medical gown and a surgical helmet, the surgical helmet being shown in phantom. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a surgical helmet of the surgical apparel system of FIG. 5. [Figure 7] FIG. 6 is a partial perspective view of a medical gown coupled to the chin bar of the surgical helmet shown in FIG. 5. [Figure 8] FIG. 6 is a partial perspective view of the interior of the controller housing of the surgical apparel system of FIG. 5 including a first configuration of the coupling mechanism. [Figure 9A] 9 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the coupling mechanism of FIG. 8 in a first state of the first configuration; [Figure 9B] 9 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a second state of the first configuration of the coupling mechanism of FIG. 8, in which the medical gown is coupled to the surgical helmet. [Figure 10A] 9 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the first state of the second configuration of the coupling mechanism of FIG. 8. [Figure 10B] 9 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the second state of the second configuration of the coupling mechanism of FIG. 8. [Figure 11] FIG. 9 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a third configuration of the coupling mechanism of FIG. 8. [Figure 12A] FIG. 9 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a fourth configuration of the coupling mechanism of FIG. 8. [Figure 12B] FIG. 9 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a fifth configuration of the coupling mechanism of FIG. 8. [Figure 13A] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a third configuration of a surgical apparel system including a medical gown having a first configuration of tabs extending from a transparent face shield, with a surgical helmet shown in phantom. [Figure 13B] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a third configuration of the surgical apparel system including an alternative configuration of a medical gown having a second configuration of tabs separated from a transparent face shield, with a surgical helmet shown in phantom. [Figure 14] FIG. 13C is a perspective view of the surgical helmet of FIGS. 13A and 13B including alignment channels and coupling members in the chin bar. [Figure 15A]FIG. 15 is an enlarged perspective view of the alignment channel of the helmet of FIG. 14. [Figure 15B] FIG. 15 is an enlarged top view of the alignment channel of the helmet of FIG. 14. [Figure 16A] 15 is a perspective view of one of the coupling members in the chin bar of the helmet of FIG. 14 including a detector positioned adjacent the coupling member. [Figure 16B] FIG. 16C is a cross-sectional view of one of the coupling members of FIG. 16B. [Figure 17A] 15 is a perspective view of a first configuration of the coupling member of the helmet of FIG. 14. FIG. [Figure 17B] 15 is a top view of a first configuration of the coupling member of the helmet of FIG. 14. FIG. [Figure 18A] FIG. 16B is a perspective view of the front of the transparent face shield of the surgical apparel system of FIG. 16A including openings for attaching attachment elements. [Figure 18B] FIG. 13B is a perspective view of the rear of the transparent face shield of the surgical apparel system of FIG. 13A having an attachment member coupled thereto. [Figure 18C] FIG. 18C is a close-up view of one of the attachment members coupled to the transparent face shield as shown in FIG. 18B. [Figure 18D] FIG. 14 is a partial cross-sectional view of a first configuration of attachment elements of a medical gown coupled to a transparent face shield of the surgical apparel system of FIGS. 13A and 13B. [Figure 19A] FIG. 13C is a front view of a first configuration of an attachment element of a surgical hood of the surgical apparel system of FIGS. 13A and 13B. [Figure 19B] FIG. 14 is a front perspective view of a first configuration of an attachment element of a medical gown of the surgical apparel system of FIGS. 13A and 13B. [Figure 19C] FIG. 14 is a rear perspective view of a first configuration of an attachment element of a medical gown of the surgical apparel system of FIGS. 13A and 13B. [Figure 20A] FIG. 14 is a rear perspective view of a retention member securing an attachment element to the transparent face shield of the surgical apparel system of FIGS. 13A and 13B. [Figure 20B]FIG. 14 is a rear view of a retention member securing an attachment element to the transparent face shield of the surgical apparel system of FIGS. 13A and 13B. [Figure 20C] 13C is a cross-sectional view of a retaining member securing an attachment element to a transparent face shield of the surgical apparel system of FIGS. 13A and 13B. FIG. [Figure 20D] FIG. 14 is a side view of a retention member coupling an attachment element to the transparent face shield of the surgical apparel system of FIGS. 13A and 13B. [Figure 21A] 13B is a perspective view of the face shield of the medical gown of FIG. 13A positioned against the chin bar and upper beam of a surgical helmet prior to coupling of the face shield to the surgical helmet. [Figure 21B] FIG. 13B is a perspective view of the face shield of the medical gown of FIG. 13A positioned against the chin bar and upper beam of a surgical helmet during transition of coupling of the face shield to the surgical helmet, including tabs positioned within alignment channels of the upper beam of the surgical helmet. [Figure 21C] FIG. 13B is a perspective view of a face shield of the surgical apparel system of FIG. 13A coupled to a surgical helmet. [Figure 22A] 18D coupled to the coupling member of FIGS. 13A-16C. FIG. [Figure 22B] 10 is a schematic diagram of the magnetic field surrounding the coupling member of the surgical helmet relative to the detector when the attachment element is positioned adjacent to the coupling member. FIG. [Figure 22C] 1 is a schematic diagram of the magnetic field surrounding the coupling member of the surgical helmet relative to the detector in the absence of an attachment element. [Figure 23A] FIG. 13C is a front view of a second configuration of an attachment element for use with the medical gown of the surgical apparel system of FIGS. 13A and 13B. [Figure 23B] 23B is a front perspective view of a second configuration of the mounting element of FIG. 23A. FIG. [Figure 24A]FIG. 14 is a front view of a third configuration of an attachment element for use with the medical gown of the surgical apparel system of FIGS. 13A and 13B. [Figure 24B] FIG. 24B is a front perspective view of a third configuration of the mounting element of FIG. 24A. [Figure 25A] FIG. 14 is a front view of a fourth configuration of an attachment element for use with the medical gown of the surgical apparel system of FIGS. 13A and 13B. [Figure 25B] FIG. 25B is a front perspective view of a fourth configuration of the mounting element of FIG. 25A. [Figure 26A] FIG. 14 is a front view of a fifth configuration of an attachment element for use with a medical gown of the surgical apparel system of FIGS. 13A and 13B and including a magnetic material insert. [Figure 26B] FIG. 26B is a cross-sectional view of a fifth configuration of the mounting element of FIG. 26A. [Figure 27A] FIG. 14 is a front view of a sixth configuration of an attachment element for use with the medical gown of the surgical apparel system of FIGS. 13A and 13B. [Figure 27B] FIG. 27B is a front perspective view of a sixth configuration of the mounting element of FIG. 27A. [Figure 28A] FIG. 14 is a front view of a seventh configuration of an attachment element for use with the medical gown of the surgical apparel system of FIGS. 13A and 13B. [Figure 28B] FIG. 28B is a front perspective view of a seventh configuration of the mounting element of FIG. 28A. [Figure 29A] FIG. 14 is a front perspective view of an eighth configuration of an attachment element coupled to a portion of a face shield of the surgical apparel system of FIGS. 13A and 13B. [Figure 29B] FIG. 29B is a front perspective view of an eighth configuration of the mounting element of FIG. 29A coupled to a portion of a face shield. [Figure 30] FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram of a ninth configuration of attachment elements and coupling members for use with the medical gown of the surgical apparel system of FIGS. 13A and 13B. [Figure 31] FIG. 16 is a schematic diagram of a tenth configuration of attachment elements and coupling members for use with the medical gown of the surgical apparel system of FIGS. 13A and 13B. [Figure 32] FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram of an eleventh configuration of attachment elements and coupling members for use with the medical gown of the surgical apparel system of FIGS. 13A and 13B. [Figure 33] FIG. 16 is a schematic diagram of a twelfth configuration of attachment elements and coupling members for use with the medical gown of the surgical apparel system of FIGS. 13A and 13B. [Figure 34] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of yet another exemplary configuration of a medical gown for use with a surgical helmet. [Figure 35] 35 is a perspective view of a fourth configuration of a surgical apparel system including the medical gown and surgical helmet of FIG. 34 (the surgical helmet is shown in phantom). [Figure 36] FIG. 36 is a partial exploded view of the surgical helmet of FIG. 35. [Figure 37] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a surgical helmet including an alignment channel and a chin bar for use with the surgical apparel system of FIGS. 13A and 13B. [Figure 38A] 38 is a partial cross-sectional view of a portion of the chin bar of the surgical helmet of FIG. 37 including one exemplary configuration of coupling members and detectors positioned proximate the coupling members. [Figure 38B] 38B is a cross-sectional view of one exemplary configuration of the chin bar and linkage member of FIG. 38A. FIG. [Figure 39A] FIG. 13B is a rear view of the transparent face shield of the surgical gown of the surgical apparel system of FIG. 13A having an attachment element coupled thereto. [Figure 39B] FIG. 10 is a partial cross-sectional view of one configuration of attachment elements of a surgical gown coupled to a transparent face shield. [Figure 40] 39A and 39B coupled to a surgical gown coupled to a coupling member of the surgical helmet of FIG. 37. FIG. [Figure 41A] FIG. 39C is a front perspective view of a thirteenth configuration of the mounting elements of the transparent face shield of FIGS. 39A and 39B. [Figure 41B] FIG. 41B is a side view of the thirteenth configuration of the mounting element of FIG. 41A. [Figure 42A] FIG. 39C is a front perspective view of a fourteenth configuration of the mounting element of the transparent face shield of FIGS. 39A and 39B. [Figure 42B] FIG. 42B is a side view of the fourteenth configuration of the mounting element of FIG. 42A. [Figure 43A] FIG. 39C is a front perspective view of a fifteenth configuration of the mounting elements of the transparent face shield of FIGS. 39A and 39B. [Figure 43B] FIG. 43B is a side view of the fifteenth configuration of the mounting element of FIG. 43A. [Figure 44A] FIG. 39C is a front perspective view of a sixteenth configuration of the attachment elements of the transparent face shield of FIGS. 39A and 39B. [Figure 44B] FIG. 44B is a side view of the sixteenth configuration of the mounting element of FIG. 44A. [Figure 44C] FIG. 38 is a partial cross-sectional view of a sixteenth configuration of attachment elements of a surgical gown coupled to coupling members of the surgical helmet of FIG. 37. [Figure 45A] FIG. 39C is a front perspective view of a seventeenth configuration of the attachment elements of the transparent face shield of FIGS. 39A and 39B. [Figure 45B] FIG. 45B is a side view of the seventeenth configuration of the mounting element of FIG. 45A. [Figure 46A] FIG. 39C is a front perspective view of an eighteenth configuration of the mounting elements of the transparent face shield of FIGS. 39A and 39B. [Figure 46B] FIG. 46B is a side view of the eighteenth configuration of the mounting element of FIG. 46A. [Figure 47A] FIG. 39C is a front perspective view of a nineteenth configuration of the attachment elements of the transparent face shield of FIGS. 39A and 39B. [Figure 47B] FIG. 47B is a side view of the nineteenth configuration of the mounting element of FIG. 47A. [Figure 48A] FIG. 39C is a front perspective view of a twentieth configuration of the attachment elements of the transparent face shield of FIGS. 39A and 39B. [Figure 48B] FIG. 48B is a side view of the twentieth configuration of the mounting element of FIG. 48A. [Figure 49A]FIG. 39C is a front perspective view of a twenty-first configuration of the mounting elements of the transparent face shield of FIGS. 39A and 39B. [Figure 49B] FIG. 49B is a side view of the twenty-first configuration of the mounting element of FIG. 49A. [Figure 50A] FIG. 39C is a front perspective view of a twenty-second configuration of the attachment elements of the transparent face shield of FIGS. 39A and 39B. [Figure 50B] FIG. 50B is a side view of the twenty-second configuration of the mounting element of FIG. 50A. [Figure 50C] FIG. 50B is a partial cross-sectional view of a twenty-second configuration of the mounting element of FIG. 50A coupled to a transparent face shield. [Figure 50D] 50B is a partial cross-sectional view of a twenty-second configuration of the attachment element of FIG. 50A coupled to a coupling member of the surgical helmet of FIG. 37. FIG. [Figure 50E] FIG. 50B is a partial cross-sectional view of a twenty-third configuration of the mounting element of FIG. 50A coupled to a transparent face shield. [Figure 50F] FIG. 50F is a partial cross-sectional view of a twenty-third configuration of the attachment element of FIG. 50E coupled to a coupling member of the surgical helmet of FIG. 37. [Figure 51A] FIG. 39C is a front perspective view of a twenty-fourth configuration of the mounting element of the transparent face shield of FIGS. 39A and 39B. [Figure 51B] FIG. 51B is a side view of the twenty-fourth configuration of the mounting element of FIG. 51A. [Figure 51C] A bottom view of the twenty-fourth configuration of the mounting element of Figures 51A and 51B. [Figure 51D] FIG. 38 is a partial cross-sectional view of a twenty-fourth configuration of the attachment element of FIGS. 51A-51C coupled to a coupling member of the surgical helmet of FIG. [Figure 52A] 1 is a perspective view of one configuration of a transparent shield for a surgical gown, the transparent shield including a shaped opening for receiving an attachment element. FIG. [Figure 52B] FIG. 52B is an enlarged perspective view of the shaped opening in the transparent shield of FIG. 52A. [Figure 53] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary surgical helmet including a face frame with a coupling mechanism. [Figure 54] FIG. 54 is a perspective view of the joining mechanism of the face frame of the surgical helmet of FIG. 53. [Figure 55] FIG. 54 is a front view of the face frame coupling mechanism of the surgical helmet of FIG. 53. [Figure 56] FIG. 56 is a cross-sectional view of the coupling mechanism of FIG. 55. [Figure 57] FIG. 54 is a perspective view of the exemplary surgical helmet of FIG. 53 including a power inlet. [Figure 58] FIG. 58 is a perspective view of the power inlet of FIG. 57. [Figure 59] FIG. 58 is a front view of the power inlet of FIG. 57. [Figure 60] FIG. 58 is a cross-sectional view of the power inlet of FIG. 57. [Figure 61] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary power supply including a battery, a wiring harness, and a plug. [Figure 62] FIG. 62 is a front view of the plug of the power supply of FIG. 61. [Figure 63] 62 is a perspective view of an exemplary post for connecting the plug of the power supply of FIG. 61 to the power inlet of the surgical helmet of FIG. 57. FIG. [Figure 64] 62 is an alternative perspective view of an exemplary post for connecting the plug of the power supply of FIG. 61 to the power inlet of the surgical helmet of FIG. 57. FIG. [Figure 65] FIG. 58 is an exploded view of the power inlet of the surgical helmet of FIG. 57 with the post and plug. [Figure 66A] 1 is a perspective view of a plug of a power source coupled to a power inlet of a surgical helmet using a post, the plug positioned in a first orientation relative to the surgical helmet and / or the post. FIG. [Figure 66B] 10 is a perspective view of a plug of a power source coupled to a power inlet of a surgical helmet using a post, the plug positioned in a second orientation relative to the surgical helmet and / or the post. FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0036] It is of paramount importance to prevent the exchange and / or transfer of particles or foreign bodies during a medical procedure or examination by maintaining a reliable barrier between the healthcare provider and the patient. During medical procedures and surgeries, healthcare providers may wear assemblies known as surgical apparel systems, such as the surgical apparel system 10 shown in FIG.

[0037] Thus, the surgical apparel system 10 may include a surgical gown assembly including a surgical gown 12 (which may also be referred to as a medical gown) configured to attach to a surgical helmet 20. The surgical gown 12 is configured to provide a barrier, such as a microbial barrier, between the wearer and the surrounding environment. The barrier formed by the surgical gown 12 may benefit both the wearer and the patient. The barrier provided by the surgical gown 12 may substantially eliminate the possibility of the wearer coming into contact with fluid or solid particles of material from the patient that may be generated during a surgical procedure. The barrier may substantially prevent any foreign material expelled by the wearer from transferring to the patient during a surgical procedure.

[0038] Referring to FIG. 1 , a surgical gown 12 may include a surgical helmet 20 and a surgical fabric 14 (which may also be referred to as a shell) configured to cover at least a portion of a wearer's head. The surgical gown 12 may be configured as a hood, as shown in FIG. 1 . A hood will be understood to refer to a surgical gown 12 that, when worn by a wearer, covers the head and often extends only a short distance below the neck. Although not shown, it is contemplated that the surgical gown 12 may also be configured as a toga, shirt, or jacket. A toga 12 will be understood to refer to a surgical gown 12 that, when worn by a wearer, covers the head similar to a hood and extends at least to the waist.

[0039] The surgical gown 12 can be manufactured from any suitable surgical fabric 14 or combination of fabrics to help repel and / or absorb moisture, tissue debris, and other contaminants. The surgical fabric 14 may include multiple layers. One such layer may be a microporous membrane (microporous film) that allows gas to pass through while maintaining a microbial barrier. In certain configurations, the surgical fabric 14 meets ASTM F1670-98 standards for blood penetration resistance and / or ASTM F1671-97B standards for viral barrier properties. In one non-limiting example of a surgical fabric 14, the surgical fabric 14 of the surgical gown 12 has a pore size ranging from approximately 0.05 to 0.20 microns. However, other pore sizes are contemplated for the surgical fabric 14.

[0040] It is further contemplated that the surgical gown 12 may be constructed from multiple different fabrics joined together to define the barrier. For example, the surgical gown 12 may be constructed primarily from a barrier surgical fabric 14 and a filter fabric 16. The filter fabric 16 may be more permeable, and therefore more breathable, than the barrier surgical fabric 14. The filter fabric 16 may be configured to be positioned in an area where there is a low risk of microbial particles passing through the barrier, such as above or near the crown of the wearer's head, to aid in the circulation of air through the barrier. The barrier surgical fabric 14 may be attached to the filter fabric 16 by any suitable means, such as adhesive, stitching, welding, or a combination thereof.

[0041] As shown in FIG. 1 , the surgical gown 12 may further include a face shield 18. The face shield 18 portion of the surgical gown 12 allows the wearer to see through the barrier provided by the surgical gown 12. The face shield 18 has a generally sheet-like structure and may be approximately 1 mm thick or less. The face shield 18 may be attached and / or fitted to an opening or cutout formed in the surgical fabric 14 of the surgical gown 12. The surgical fabric 14 may be attached to the perimeter or edge of the face shield 18 by sewing, snaps, hook-and-loop fasteners, adhesives, welding, or a combination thereof. The face shield 18 may be constructed of a transparent material such as polycarbonate. One such polycarbonate is sold by Sabic under the trademark LEXAN. The face shield 18 of the surgical gown 12 may also be tinted to protect the wearer's eyes from excessive exposure to bright light. Furthermore, the face shield 18 may be flexible so that it can be curved to accommodate various head sizes, as described below.

[0042] The face shield 18 may further include an opening 56 adjacent its top. The opening 56 may be generally rectangular. Although not shown, it is contemplated that the opening 56 may be circular, oval, square, or any similar polygonal shape. The opening 56 may also be generally centered between the ends of the face shield 18 and function as an alignment element and / or centering mechanism. Furthermore, the opening 56 may be positioned above the attachment point of the surgical fabric 14 to the face shield 18, allowing the surgical fabric 14 to cover the opening 56 and maintain the barrier provided by the surgical gown 12 between the wearer and the environment. For example, as shown in FIG. 1 , the surgical fabric 14 of the surgical gown 12 is attached to the top of the face shield 18 below the opening 56 in the face shield 18.

[0043] The surgical gown 12 may also include one or more attachment elements 58 disposed about its periphery. The attachment elements 58 may also be referred to as gown fasteners or second members. The attachment elements 58 are configured to removably secure the surgical gown 12 to the surgical helmet 20. The attachment elements 58 may be of any suitable form, including metal studs, rivets, buttons, magnets, hook-and-loop (Velcro), snaps, or similar types of fasteners, alone or in combination. As shown in FIG. 1 , the attachment elements 58 may be attached to the face shield 18 of the surgical gown 12 so as to extend inward from the wearer side of the face shield 18. Although not shown, it is contemplated that the attachment elements 58 may be disposed at any other position or location on the surgical gown 12, including attached to the barrier surgical fabric 14 and / or the filter fabric 16. The attachment elements 58 may be attached to the face shield 18 and / or fabric 14 / 16 by adhesive, rivets, snaps, similar attachment devices, or combinations thereof.

[0044] Referring again to FIGS. 1 and 2 , an exemplary configuration of the surgical apparel system 10 will be described in detail. The system may include a surgical gown 12 and a surgical helmet 20. The surgical gown 12 may be configured as a hood or toga that fits over the surgical helmet 20. In the hood configuration shown in FIG. 1 , the surgical gown 12 may be positioned over the surgical helmet 20 and configured to encompass the surgical helmet 20 and the corresponding head of a person wearing the surgical apparel system 10, thereby covering the face and back of the wearer's head. Alternatively, if the surgical gown 12 is configured as a toga, the toga may be positioned over the surgical helmet 20 and configured to encompass the surgical helmet 20 and the corresponding head, arms, shoulders, and torso of a person wearing the surgical apparel system 10. To position the surgical gown 12 over the surgical helmet 20, the surgical gown 12 is typically inverted as the face shield 18 is aligned and secured to the surgical helmet 20 in a manner described below. Once the face shield 18 is positioned relative to the surgical helmet 20, the remaining portion of the surgical fabric 14 is typically pulled over the wearer's head to cover the exposed components of the surgical helmet 20 and the wearer's head.

[0045] Referring to FIG. 2 , an exemplary configuration of a surgical helmet 20 that may be utilized as part of the surgical apparel system 10 is shown. The surgical helmet 20 of FIG. 2 includes a headband 22. The headband 22 may be configured to surround the wearer's head and provide support for the surgical helmet 20. The headband 22 may be constructed of a generally flexible or pliable material, allowing the headband 22 to conform to the general shape of the wearer's head. The headband 22 may include a headband control assembly 38 configured to adjust its size / shape. The headband control assembly 38 may include a control member 39 that the wearer can manipulate to adjust the size of the headband 22. For example, as shown in FIG. 2 , the control member 39 may include a rotatable knob or lever. When the wearer rotates the control member 39 in one direction, the headband control assembly 38 may be configured to decrease the size or circumference of the headband 22. Alternatively, when the wearer rotates the control member 39 in the opposite direction, the headband control assembly 38 may be configured to increase the size or circumference of the headband 22. This allows the headband 22 of the surgical helmet 20 to be adjusted and / or customized to fit snugly on a particular individual's head, regardless of the size and / or shape of that individual's head.

[0046] The surgical helmet 20 further includes a housing 32 supported by and positioned above the headband 22. The housing 32 may be configured with a bow shape to fit the head of an individual wearing the personal protection system 10. Other helmet designs are also contemplated. Portions of the housing 32 may be formed to define a cavity, i.e., an open interior space. For example, the housing 32 may include a central space. The central space may be located toward the rear of the housing 32. An air intake or opening may be located at the top of the housing 32 to provide access to the central space. The housing 32 may also include additional spaces, such as a front space adjacent the front of the housing 32 and a rear space adjacent the rear of the housing 32. These additional spaces may be configured to form duct-like structures or passageways within the housing 32. Alternatively, these additional spaces may be interconnected with the central space.

[0047] The surgical helmet 20 may include one or more powered peripherals 30, including, but not limited to, a ventilation assembly, lights, cameras, microphones, other communication devices, cooling devices, or combinations thereof. These devices may be worn and / or attached to the surgical helmet 20 in various positions and orientations. Each of the peripherals 30 may be configured to receive commands that affect the operational state of the corresponding peripheral. For example, each of the peripherals 30 may receive an on / off command. Alternatively, the peripherals 30 may receive commands to change one or more settings thereof. This configuration allows the wearer of the surgical helmet 20 to control the operational state of the various peripherals 30 during a surgical procedure. In one specific example, if the peripheral is a ventilation assembly 30, the ventilation assembly 30 may be configured to receive various commands to control the operation of and / or adjust the speed of a fan within the ventilation assembly 30. Alternatively, if the peripheral is a cooling device 30, the cooling device 30 may be configured to receive commands to control the intensity of the cooling output provided by the cooling strip. If the peripheral device is a microphone 30, the microphone 30 may be configured to receive commands that control the volume of the audible signal that the microphone generates. If the peripheral device is a light 30, the light 30 may be configured to receive commands that control the direction and / or intensity of the light that is emitted. Of course, the peripheral device 30 may be configured to respond to other types of commands that control the operation of the peripheral device 30.

[0048] When the surgical apparel system 10, including the surgical gown 12, is placed on a wearer's head, the wearer's normal breathing may inevitably result in an increase in carbon dioxide and temperature within the surgical gown 12. The increased temperature beneath the surgical gown 12 may also increase water vapor on the wearer and / or face shield 18, potentially impairing the wearer's vision. To prevent such undesirable effects, the surgical helmet 20 of the surgical apparel system 10 may be configured to attach to and / or include one or more of the peripheral devices 30 described above, such as ventilation assemblies, cooling devices, etc. Certain features of the surgical helmet 20, peripherals 30, and surgical gown 12 are described in one or more of U.S. Patent Nos. 6,481,019, 6,622,311, 6,973,677, 7,735,156, 7,752,682, 8,234,722, 8,282,234, 8,407,818, 8,819,869, and 9,173,437, which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0049] The ventilation assembly 30 shown in FIG. 2 is one example of a peripheral device 30 that can be incorporated into the surgical helmet 20 of the surgical apparel system 10. While the ventilation assembly 30 is shown as an integral component of the surgical helmet 20, it should be understood that each of the other peripheral devices 30 described above may be an integral component of the surgical helmet 20 or may be removably coupled to the surgical helmet 20. The surgical helmet 20 shown in FIG. 2 includes a ventilation assembly 30 disposed within a central space of a housing 32. The ventilation assembly 30 may include fan blades, an impeller, a propeller, a fan wheel, or a similar blade mechanism configured to induce air movement. The blades may be coupled to a motor configured to rotate the blades when energized by a power source. When the blades are activated, the ventilation assembly 30 is configured to draw air into the central space of the housing 32 through intake openings located at the top of the housing 32. Additional spaces in the housing 32 may be coupled to the central space and function as ducts to distribute the air drawn into the central space.

[0050] The exemplary ventilation assembly 30 may include a front bellows 36 extending forward from a front space at the front of the housing 32 and connecting to a front nozzle 40. The front nozzle 40 may be attached to the front of the headband 22. The ventilation assembly 30 may further include a rear bellows 34 extending from a rear space at the rear of the housing 32 to a rear nozzle (not shown). The rear nozzle may be attached to the rear of the headband 22. When the ventilation assembly 30 of the surgical helmet 20 is activated, the fan draws air through the surgical gown 12 into an opening at the top of the housing 32 and disperses it to the outside through the additional space. For example, the ventilation assembly 30 may be configured to draw air through the filter fabric 16 of the surgical gown 12. The drawn air is then exhausted through the front bellows 36 and the rear bellows 34, respectively. Air flowing through the front bellows 36 is exhausted through the front nozzle 40 in front of the wearer's face. Air discharged through the front nozzle 40 may be discharged against the face shield 18 and / or onto the wearer's face. Air that has flowed through the rear bellows 34 is discharged through the rear nozzle. The rear nozzle is positioned to open below the headband 22. Air discharged from the rear nozzle may be discharged against the back of the wearer's neck.

[0051] The front nozzle 40 of the surgical helmet 20 may include a block 42. The block 42 is the portion of the front nozzle 40 that is attached to the headband 22 or a component of the surgical helmet 20 that is integral with the headband 22. In the illustrated embodiment of the system 10, the block 42 is attached to a strap 44 that is part of the headband 22.

[0052] The front nozzle 40 may further be configured to include a protrusion 46. The protrusion 46 protrudes upward from the front end of the front nozzle 40. As seen in FIG. 2, the protrusion 46 protrudes outward from the top surface of the front nozzle 40. As described in more detail below, the protrusion 46 may be utilized to attach and / or secure the surgical gown 12 to the surgical helmet 20. In other configurations, the protrusion 46 may extend from other portions of the surgical helmet 20, such as the upper beam 29 of the face frame or the housing 32 of the surgical helmet 20.

[0053] The surgical helmet 20 may include a chin bar 24 extending downward from the front of the headband 22. The chin bar 24 may include a first post 26A and a second post 26B. The first post 26A and the second post 26B may include first ends 27A and 27B, respectively, that are coupled to opposite sides of the straps 44 of the headband 22. The first and second posts 26A and 26B may be coupled to the headband 22 via the first ends 27A and 27B and may be configured to extend from opposite sides of the headband 22. The chin bar 24 may be constructed of a generally flexible or pliable material.

[0054] A beam 28 extends between the opposing free ends of posts 26A, 26B. Chin bar 24 is shaped so that beam 28 is positioned below and slightly forward of the chin of a person wearing surgical helmet 20. Beam 28 may be curved outwardly in a bowed manner from the free ends of posts 26A, 26B. Chin bar 24 may extend outward from headband 22 so as to be positioned in front of and generally surround the wearer's face when surgical helmet 20 is secured to the wearer's head.

[0055] A plurality of coupling members 48, such as magnets, hook-and-loop fasteners, metal rivets, snaps, or similar types of fasteners, may be attached to the chin bar 24 and configured to align and / or attach the surgical gown 12 to the face shield 18. Each coupling member 48 may be positioned on the chin bar 24 proximate opposite free ends of the posts 26A, 26B and / or adjacent opposite ends of the beam 28. Alternatively, the coupling members 48 on the surgical helmet 20 may be positioned or configured in any suitable manner to cooperate with complementary attachment elements 58 on the face shield 18 to removably secure the surgical gown 12 to the surgical helmet 20, as described above. For example, the protrusions 46 extending from the front nozzle 40 may be replaced with coupling members 48 configured to cooperate with complementary attachment elements 58 on the surgical gown 12.

[0056] As noted above, with reference to both FIGS. 1 and 2 , in one configuration of system 10, face shield 18 may include openings 56 proximate its upper edge. Openings 56 in face shield 18 may be configured to receive protrusions 46 protruding from front nozzle 40 of surgical helmet 20 or from another portion of the surgical helmet. Openings 56 and protrusions 46 may be configured to removably couple face shield 18 and / or surgical gown 12 to surgical helmet 20. Additionally, openings 56 and protrusions 46 may function as alignment features configured to align face shield 18 with surgical helmet 20 so that face shield 18 is positioned in front of the wearer's face when system 10 is donned. While not shown, it should be understood that face shield 18 may include additional openings 56 and surgical helmet 20 may be configured to include additional protrusions 46 positioned corresponding to openings 56 in face shield 18. For example, multiple protrusions 46 may extend from the headband 22 and / or the front nozzle 40, and the face shield 18 may be configured to include complementary openings 56 that removably mate with the multiple protrusions 46 when the surgical gown 12 is attached to the surgical helmet 20.

[0057] Additionally, as described above, the face shield 18 and / or surgical fabric 14 may include a plurality of attachment elements 58 disposed relative to the surgical gown 12. In the exemplary configuration of the surgical gown 12 shown in FIGS. 1 and 3, the attachment elements 58 of the surgical gown 12 may be disposed and / or positioned on the face shield 18 such that the projections 46 of the surgical helmet 20 are seated in the openings 56 of the face shield 18 and each abut and latch onto a complementary magnet or other suitable coupling member 48 on the surgical helmet 20 when the face shield 18 is flexed along the chin bar 24 and straps 44 of the headband 22. With reference to the exemplary configuration of the system 10 shown in FIG. 1 and the cross-sectional view of the face shield 18 and chin bar 24 in FIG. 3, the surgical gown 12 includes openings 56 adjacent the top of the face shield 18, with a plurality of attachment elements 58 disposed near the periphery of the face shield 18. The attachment elements 58 may be spaced apart near the periphery of the face shield 18 and matingly couple to complementary magnets 48 on the chin bar 24 of the surgical helmet 20. While the surgical gown 12 shown in the figures includes openings 56, it is contemplated that openings 56 may not be required in certain configurations. Alternatively, the attachment elements 58 may be configured to couple and / or align the face shield 18 to the surgical helmet 20.

[0058] In operation, when the openings 56 in the face shield 18 are attached to the projections 46 on the surgical helmet 20, the face shield 18 curves along the surgical helmet 20 and / or chin bar 24, causing the attachment elements 58 spaced about the periphery of the face shield 18 to engage and mate with complementary coupling members 48 on the chin bar 24 of the surgical helmet 20. The size of the face shield 18, as well as the spacing and / or location of the attachment elements 58 on the surgical gown 12, may be varied to change the curvature and / or shape of the face shield 18 when attached to the surgical helmet 20. For example, the attachment elements 58 on the surgical gown 12 may be spaced more closely together to reduce the curvature of the face shield 18 when attached to the surgical helmet 20. Alternatively, the attachment elements 58 on the surgical gown 12 may be spaced farther apart to increase the curvature of the face shield 18 when attached to the surgical helmet 20. Additionally, as shown in FIG. 3 , the coupling member 48 of the chin bar 24 may be part of a protrusion 47 configured to space the face shield 18 a predetermined distance from the chin bar 24 and / or surgical helmet 20. The size of the protrusion 47 may similarly be adapted to manipulate the curvature or arc of the face shield 18. Varying the curvature of the face shield 18 may help reduce glare or increase / reduce peripheral vision through the face shield 18. Although not shown, it should be understood that alternative configurations for securing the surgical gown 12 and / or face shield 18 to the surgical helmet 20 are also contemplated. For example, in one alternative configuration, the face shield 18 may not include the rectangular opening 56, but instead include only a plurality of attachment elements 58, such as rivets or magnets, spaced apart on the face shield 18 and / or surgical gown 12 and configured to couple to complementary magnets or similar coupling members 48 spaced apart on the surgical helmet 20. For example, complementary magnets or similar coupling members 48 may be secured to the housing 32, the headband 22, and / or the chin bar 24.The surgical gown 12 and surgical helmet 20 of the above-described surgical apparel system 10 are typically removably coupled to allow disposal of the surgical gown 12 and reuse of the surgical helmet 20 after surgery or examination.

[0059] 4A and 4B, an exemplary configuration of the system 10 is shown in which the face shield 18 has different curvatures. Each of FIGS. 4A and 4B is a top cross-sectional view of a portion of a surgical helmet 20, including the headband 22, strap 44, headband control assembly 38, headband control member 39, first ends 27A, 27B of posts 26A, 26B of the chin bar 24, and protrusions 47 extending from the first ends 27A, 27B. The face shield 18 is coupled to the headband 22 at the first ends 27A, 27B of the posts 26A, 26B. Because the posts 26A, 26B are coupled to the headband 22, as opposed to the housing 32, and because the headband 22 may have various shapes and sizes, the contour and / or curvature of the face shield 18 on the hood may change as the headband 22 is adjusted. This “dynamic” adjustment may enhance the usability of the face shield 18. For example, the contour and / or curvature of face shield 18 may be adapted to more optimally position it against the wearer's face. Also, although not shown, it is contemplated that the shield may include an array of attachment elements 58 extending across the top of face shield 18 and configured to couple face shield 18 to headband 22 and / or straps 44. In this configuration, headband 22 and / or straps may include an array of fasteners or coupling members configured to couple with the array of attachment elements 58 on face shield 18. This configuration, in turn, allows the contour of shield 18 to change in response to adjustment of headband 22.

[0060] The schematic diagrams of Figures 4A and 4B may illustrate the dynamic curvature shield concept in a useful manner, but should not be construed as limiting. That is, it may be understood that the headband 22 and face shield 18 operate in a manner different from that described below. Figures 4A and 4B show a central axis M1 that bisects the headband 22 and face shield 18 of the surgical helmet 20. A center point C is located along the central axis M1 near the center of the circular or oval-shaped headband 22. A second line may be configured to extend between the center point C and an intersection point P located near the intersection of the face shield 18 and the protrusion 47 on the first end 27A, 27B of the chin bar 24.

[0061] 4A , the headband control member 39 of the headband control assembly 38 may be set to a first position that defines a first circumference and / or shape of the headband 22, with a second line extending between the center point C and the intersection point P intersecting the central axis M1 at a first angle θ1. Referring to FIG. 4B , the headband control member 39 of the headband control assembly 38 may be set to a second position that defines a second circumference and / or shape of the headband 22 that is larger or smaller than the first circumference and / or shape. The second line extending between the center point C and the intersection point P intersects the central axis M1 at a second angle θ2. Assuming the length of the face shield 18 remains generally constant, by manipulating the control member 39 of the headband control assembly 38 to increase or decrease the size or circumference of the headband 22 to fit a particular wearer's head, the arc and / or curvature of the face shield 18 is manipulated by changing the size and / or shape of the headband 22. For example, if the size and / or circumference of the headband 22 is reduced, the intersection angle θ is likely to increase, which is likely to decrease the radius of the arc of the face shield 18 and / or generally increase the bending and / or curvature of the face shield 18. Alternatively, if the circumference of the headband 22 is increased, the intersection angle θ is likely to decrease, which is likely to increase the radius of the arc of the face shield 18 and / or generally flatten the curvature of the face shield 18, as the case may be. Thus, the arc and / or curvature of the face shield 18 is dynamic and is determined, at least in part, by the size and / or shape of the headband 22. As discussed above, the chin bar 24 is generally constructed from a flexible and / or pliable material, allowing components of the chin bar 24 to curve, bend, twist, and / or rotate as needed in response to changes in the size and / or shape of the headband 22.

[0062] Additionally, the curvature and / or arc of the face shield 18 may be modified or accommodated by the size and / or shape of the attachment elements 58 of the face shield 18 and / or the corresponding coupling members 48 of the surgical helmet 20 .

[0063] Referring to FIG. 5 , an alternative configuration of the surgical apparel system 110 is shown. It should be understood that various configurations of the surgical apparel system 110 may include similar elements, which may be identified by reference numbers incremented by 100. It should be understood that these elements, including reference numbers incremented by 100, may have the same characteristics as those described above. The surgical apparel system 110 may include a surgical gown assembly including a surgical gown 112 (which may also be referred to as a medical gown) configured to attach to a surgical helmet 120. As described above, the surgical gown 112 may be configured to provide a barrier, such as a microbial barrier, between the wearer and the surrounding environment. The barrier formed by the surgical gown 112 may benefit both the wearer and the patient. The barrier provided by the surgical gown 112 may substantially eliminate the possibility of the wearer coming into contact with fluid or solid particles of material from the patient that may be generated during a surgical procedure. The barrier may substantially prevent foreign matter expelled by the wearer from being transferred to the patient during a surgical procedure.

[0064] Referring to FIG. 5 , the surgical gown 112 may include a surgical helmet 120 and a fabric 14 (which may also be referred to as a shell) configured to cover at least a portion of the wearer's head. The surgical gown 112 may be configured as a hood, a toga, or other similar medical gown, as described above with respect to the first configuration of the surgical apparel system 10. The surgical gown 112 may further include a face shield 118 and one or more attachment elements 158 disposed on the surgical gown 112. The attachment elements 158 may also be referred to as a second member. The attachment elements 158 may be configured to function as alignment elements and / or centering mechanisms. Additionally, the attachment elements 158 may be disposed on the face shield 118 above the attachment points of the fabric 114 to the face shield 118, ensuring that the fabric 114 covers the attachment elements 158 and maintains the barrier provided by the surgical gown 112 between the wearer and the environment. The attachment elements 158 may be constructed of one of a ferromagnetic material or a magnetic material. It should be understood that the surgical gown 112 and all of its components may be similarly constructed and / or have the features described above for the surgical gown 12 described above.

[0065] 5 and 6, one exemplary configuration of a surgical apparel system 110 will be described in detail. The system 110 may include a surgical gown 112 and a surgical helmet 120. Similar to the system 10 described above, the system 110 configuration shown in FIGS. 5 and 6 may include one or more peripheral devices, such as a ventilation assembly.

[0066] The ventilation assembly 130 shown in FIG. 6 is one example of a peripheral device 130 that may be incorporated into the surgical helmet 120 of the surgical apparel system 110. While the ventilation assembly 130 is shown as an integral component of the surgical helmet 120, each of the other peripheral devices 130 described above may be an integral component of the surgical helmet 120 or may be removably coupled to the surgical helmet 120. The surgical helmet 120 shown in FIG. 6 includes a ventilation assembly 130 disposed within a central space of a housing 132. The ventilation assembly 130 may include fan blades, impellers, propellers, fan wheels, or similar blade mechanisms configured to induce air movement. The blades may be coupled to a motor configured to rotate the blades when energized by a power source. When the blades are activated, the ventilation assembly 130 is configured to draw air into the central space of the housing 132 through intake openings in the top of the housing 132. Additional spaces in the housing 132 may be coupled to the central space and serve as ducts to distribute air drawn into the central space.

[0067] The exemplary ventilation assembly 130 may include a front bellows 136 extending forward from a front space at the front of the housing 132 and connecting to a front nozzle (not shown). The front nozzle may be attached to the front of the headband 122. The ventilation assembly 130 may further include a rear bellows 134 extending from a rear space at the rear of the housing 132 to a rear nozzle (not shown). The rear nozzle may be attached to the rear of the headband 122. When the ventilation assembly 130 of the surgical helmet 120 is activated, the fan draws air through the surgical gown 112, into an opening at the top of the housing 132, and disperses it outward through the additional space. For example, the ventilation assembly 130 may be configured to draw air through the filter fabric 116 of the surgical gown 112. The air is then exhausted through the front bellows 136 and the rear bellows 134, respectively.

[0068] The surgical helmet 120 may further include a controller housing 150, which may be located on the front of the helmet 120 and coupled to the front bellows 136 opposite the ventilation assembly 130, as shown. It is also contemplated that the controller housing 150 may be disposed on or within the chin bar 124. For example, the controller housing 150 may be disposed within the chin bar 124 relative to one or more of the coupling members 148. The controller housing 150 may include a coupling mechanism 146 configured to couple with at least one of the attachment elements 158. The coupling mechanism 146 may also be generally referred to as a helmet coupler, as it may be configured to couple and / or attach items such as the surgical gown 112 to the surgical helmet 120. The controller housing 150 may be coupled to an upper beam 129 that extends from both sides of the controller housing 150 across the front of the surgical helmet 120.

[0069] The surgical helmet 120 may include a chin bar 124 extending downward from the front of the surgical helmet 120. The chin bar 124 may include a first post 126A and a second post 126B. The first post 126A and the second post 126B may include first ends 127A, 127B coupled to opposite sides of the surgical helmet 120. The first and second posts 126A, 126B may be configured to extend from opposite sides of the surgical helmet 120 and coupled via the first ends 127A, 127B to an upper beam 129 extending from the controller housing 150. For example, as shown in FIG. 6 , the first ends 127A, 127B may be coupled to opposite ends of the upper beam 129 extending from the controller housing 150. The chin bar 124 may be generally constructed of a flexible or pliable material.

[0070] A lower beam 128 may extend between the opposing free ends of posts 126A, 126B of chin bar 124. Chin bar 124 may be configured so that lower beam 128 is positioned below and slightly in front of the chin of a person wearing surgical helmet 120. Lower beam 128 may be configured to arc outward from the free ends of posts 126A, 126B. Chin bar 124 may extend outward from upper beam 129 so that it is positioned in front of and generally surrounds the wearer's face when surgical helmet 120 is secured to the wearer's head.

[0071] A plurality of coupling members 148, such as magnets, hook-and-loop fasteners, metal rivets, snaps, or similar types of fasteners, may be attached to the chin bar 124 and configured to align and / or attach the surgical gown 112 to the face shield 118. Each coupling member 148 may be positioned on the chin bar 124 proximate opposite free ends of the posts 126A, 126B and / or adjacent opposite ends of the lower beam 128. Alternatively, the coupling members 148 of the surgical helmet 120 may be positioned or configured in any suitable manner to cooperate with complementary attachment elements 158 of the face shield 118 to removably secure the surgical gown 112 to the surgical helmet 120, as described above.

[0072] 7, a partial perspective view of the surgical gown 112 coupled to the chin bar 124 and controller housing 150 of the surgical helmet 120 is shown. The surgical gown 112 includes a plurality of attachment elements 158 disposed near the periphery of the face shield 118. For example, as shown in FIG. 7, the face shield 118 includes a pair of attachment elements 158 disposed at opposite ends of the lower portion of the face shield 118, each configured to couple with a corresponding coupling member 148 on the chin bar 124. The face shield 118 further includes an attachment element 158 ​​disposed near the center of the upper portion of the face shield 118 and configured to couple with the coupling mechanism 146 of the controller housing 150.

[0073] Referring to FIG. 8 , a partial perspective view of the interior of the controller housing 150 of the surgical apparel system 110 of FIGS. 5 and 6 is shown. A portion of the coupling mechanism 146 of the surgical helmet 120 is at least partially disposed within the controller housing 150. Although not shown in FIG. 8 , additional components of the surgical helmet 120 and at least a portion of the peripherals 130 may be disposed within or attached to the controller housing 150. For example, a light may be attached to the exterior of the controller housing 150 or another portion of the surgical helmet 120. Additionally, at least a portion of a memory device, circuit board, or other electrical component utilized in the operation of the surgical helmet 120 and / or the peripherals 130 may be disposed within the controller housing 150.

[0074] 9A and 9B each show an enlarged cross-sectional view of the first configuration of the coupling mechanism 146. More specifically, FIG. 9A is a cross-sectional view of the first configuration of the coupling mechanism in a first state, i.e., when the attachment element 158 ​​of the surgical gown 112 is not coupled to the coupling mechanism 146 of the surgical helmet 120. On the other hand, FIG. 9B is a cross-sectional view of the first configuration of the coupling mechanism in a second state, i.e., when the surgical gown 112 is coupled to the coupling mechanism 146.

[0075] The first configuration of the coupling mechanism 146 may include a distal surface 147 configured to removably couple to an attachment element 158 ​​on the surgical gown 112. The distal surface 147 may be configured with any number of shapes configured to couple at least in part to a corresponding attachment element 158 ​​on the surgical gown 112. For example, the distal surface 147 may be configured as a generally flat surface configured to couple to an attachment element 158 ​​on the surgical gown 112 including a flat rivet. Alternatively, the distal surface 147 may be curved, arcuate, spherical, and / or hemispherical and configured to matingly couple to a complementary shaped attachment element 158. While the distal surface 147 shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B is generally formed as a concave or inwardly facing hemisphere, it is contemplated that the distal surface 147 may also be formed as a convex, outwardly projecting hemisphere, semi-cylindrical, or other similar shape. For example, the distal surface 147 may be curved, arcuate, or spherical, resulting in a convex distal surface 147 that projects outward from the exterior surface of the controller housing 150. The corresponding attachment element 158 ​​of the surgical gown 112 may include a concave surface configured to matingly couple with the convex distal surface 147 of the coupling mechanism 146.

[0076] The helmet may include an enclosure 152 configured to define a space. The enclosure 152 may be configured in a generally cylindrical or tubular shape. Alternatively, the housing 152 may be configured in a generally rectangular or similar polygonal shape. As shown in Figures 9A and 9B, the housing 152 is configured in a generally cylindrical shape, with the distal surface 147 forming a portion of the distal end of the housing 152.

[0077] The space defined by housing 152 may be divided into one or more regions. For example, as shown in Figures 9A and 9B, housing 152 may be divided by a first line 160 to define first and second regions 162 and 164 of the space. First region 162 may be disposed on a side of first line 160 that is generally proximal to surgical helmet 120 and away from distal surface 147. In contrast, second region 164 may be disposed on a side of first line 160 that is generally distal to surgical helmet 120 and proximal to distal surface 147.

[0078] The coupling mechanism 146, which is at least partially disposed within the controller housing 150 of the surgical helmet 120, may further include a first member 154 movably disposed within the housing 152. The first member 154 may be configured to move within a space defined by the housing 152. For example, the first member 154 and the housing 152 may be configured such that the first member 154 is movable between a first region 162 and a second region 164 of the space defined by the housing 152. The first member 154 may be made of one of a ferromagnetic material or a magnetic material, and the attachment element 158 ​​may be made of the other of a ferromagnetic material or a magnetic material. For example, the first member 154 may be made of a magnetic material, and the attachment element 158 ​​may be made of a ferromagnetic material. Alternatively, the first member 154 may be made of a ferromagnetic material, and the attachment element 158 ​​may be made of a magnetic material. In either configuration, the first member 154 and the attachment element 158 ​​may be configured such that the attachment element 158 ​​and the first member 154 may be magnetically attracted to one another when the attachment element 158 ​​is positioned proximate the distal surface 147. For example, when the attachment element 158 ​​is positioned proximate the distal surface 147 of the coupling mechanism 146, the magnetic force between the first member 154 and the attachment element 158 ​​may serve to attach and / or couple the surgical gown 112 to the surgical helmet 120.

[0079] The first member 154 and the housing 152 may be sized and / or shaped to allow the first member to slide within the housing 152. For example, as shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B , the first member 154 may be shaped like a circular or polygonal disk configured to match the shape defined by the sides of the housing 152. The first member 154 may further include an opposing rear surface. For example, as shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B , the opposing front and rear surfaces are flat. Alternatively, although not shown, the opposing front and rear surfaces of the first member 154 may correspond to the distal surface 147 of the housing 152. For example, the front surface of the first member 154 may be concave or hemispherical to correspond to the shape of the distal surface 147. The rear surface of the first member 154 may be flat. Alternatively, if distal surface 147 is convex, the front surface of first member 154 may be convex or hemispherical to correspond to the shape of distal surface 147. The rear surface of first member 154 may be flat.

[0080] Coupling mechanism 146 may further include a detector 170, such as a mechanical switch, disposed at least partially within the space defined by housing 152 and positioned proximate first region 162. Alternatively, detector 170 may be positioned proximate second region 164. It is further contemplated that detector 170 may be positioned adjacent to and / or outside the perimeter defined by housing 152. Detector 170 may further include a toggle member 172 movable between a first position and a second position. As shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B , toggle member 172 is configured to extend through a face of housing 152 opposite distal face 147. In this configuration, toggle member 172 may be configured to move proximally and distally relative to distal face 147 and generally parallel to a longitudinal axis defined by toggle member 172. Although not shown, it is contemplated that detector 170 may be positioned adjacent a side of housing 152. In this configuration, toggle member 172 may be configured to extend through the side of housing 152 such that at least a portion of toggle member 172 is disposed within housing 152, while detector 170 may be positioned outside the periphery defined by housing 152. Detector 170 may be positioned adjacent a side such that at least a portion of toggle member 172 is disposed within first region 162 or second region 164 of the space defined by housing 152. In this configuration, toggle member 172 may be configured to move proximally and distally relative to distal surface 147 and generally perpendicular to a longitudinal axis defined by toggle member 172. Detector 170 may further include a biasing member, such as a spring, configured to move toggle member 172 to and / or hold toggle member 172 in the second position when no additional force is applied to toggle member 172. The detector 170 may be configured to detect the position of the toggle member 172 and output a signal based at least in part on the position of the toggle member 172 .

[0081] In operation, first member 154 may be configured to operably and / or slidably couple to toggle member 172 of detector 170 and move toggle member 172 between a first position and a second position. For example, as shown in FIG. 9A , first member 154 may be configured to couple to toggle member 172 when in first region 162 of space and overcome the force of a biasing member to move toggle member 172 to and / or hold toggle member 172 in the first position. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 9B , first member 154 may be configured to disengage from toggle member 172 when in second region 164 of space, allowing the biasing member of toggle member 172 to move toggle member 172 to and / or hold toggle member 172 in the second position. As described above, the detector 170 may be configured to detect the position of the toggle member 172 and output a signal based on the toggle member 172 being in the first position and / or the second position. In other words, the detector 170 is configured to determine whether the toggle member 172 is in the first position or the second position, which corresponds to whether the surgical gown 112 is coupled to the surgical helmet 120.

[0082] Coupling mechanism 146 may also include a third member 156 disposed proximate detector 170 and / or toggle member 172. Third member 156 may be configured as a disk disposed at the distal tip of toggle member 172 or as a ring configured to surround at least a portion of toggle member 172. As shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B , third member 156 may be configured as a loop, ring, or similar circular shape disposed adjacent a wall or face of housing 152 opposite distal face 147. Third member 156 may surround at least a portion of toggle member 172 and / or detector 170 or may be adjacent to toggle member 172 or detector 170. While third member 156 shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B is shown as being at least partially disposed within housing 152, it is contemplated that third member 156 may be disposed outside of housing 152. Additionally, a surface of the housing 152 opposite the distal surface 147 may be configured as the third member 156. For example, the surface of the housing 152 opposite the distal surface 147 may be integrally formed with the third member 156. The third member 156 may be configured of one of a ferromagnetic material and a magnetic material such that the third member 156 and the first member 154 are magnetically attracted to each other. The magnetic attraction between the first member 154 and the third member 156 provides sufficient force to overcome the biasing member of the toggle member 172. For example, the magnetic attraction between the first member 154 and the third member 156 is sufficient to allow the first member 154 to move and / or hold the toggle member 172 in the first position, as shown in FIG. 9A , when no additional force is applied to the first member 154.

[0083] Additionally, the magnetic attraction between the mounting element 158 ​​and the first member 154 is sufficient to overcome the magnetic attraction between the first member 154 and the third member 156. The mounting element 158 ​​and the third member 156, when each constructed from a ferromagnetic material, may be configured to have different magnetic masses. For example, the mounting element 158 ​​may be configured to have a greater magnetic mass than the third member 156 so that the magnetic attraction between the first member 154 and the mounting element 158 ​​is greater than the magnetic attraction between the first member 154 and the third member 156. Alternatively, the mounting element 158 ​​and the third member 156, when each constructed from a magnetic material, may be configured to have magnetic fields of different strengths. For example, the magnetic attraction between the first member 154 and the attachment element 158 ​​may be greater than the magnetic attraction between the first member 154 and the third member 156, so that the attachment element 158 ​​utilizes a stronger magnetic field than the third member 156 to pull the first member 154 away from the third member 156.

[0084] In operation, when attachment element 158 ​​is positioned adjacent distal surface 147 of coupling mechanism 146, as shown in FIG. 9B , the magnetic attraction force generated between first member 154 and attachment element 158 ​​is sufficient to overcome the magnetic attraction force between first member 154 and third member 156. The magnetic attraction force between first member 154 and attachment element 158 ​​overcomes the magnetic attraction force between first member 154 and third member 156, thereby moving first member 154 from first region 162 to second region 164 of space. This moves toggle member 172 from the second position to the first position. That is, first member 154 and toggle member 172 move from the configuration shown in FIG. 9A to the configuration shown in FIG. 9B . This change in position is detected by detector 170. The detector 170 is in communication with a controller 180 on the surgical helmet 120, which communicates with the peripherals 130. The operation of the controller 180 is described in more detail below.

[0085] 10A and 10B each show an enlarged cross-sectional view of the second configuration of coupling mechanism 246. More specifically, FIG. 10A shows a cross-sectional view of coupling mechanism 246 in the first state, i.e., the second configuration, when surgical gown 112 is not coupled to coupling mechanism 246. Meanwhile, FIG. 10B shows a cross-sectional view of coupling mechanism 246 in the second configuration, i.e., when surgical gown 112 is coupled to coupling mechanism 246.

[0086] The second configuration of the coupling mechanism 246 may include a distal surface 247 configured to removably couple to an attachment element 158. The distal surface 247 may be configured with any number of shapes configured to couple to a corresponding attachment element 158 ​​on the surgical gown 112. For example, the distal surface 247 may be configured as a generally flat surface configured to couple to a flat rivet-configured attachment element 158 ​​on the surgical gown 112. Alternatively, the distal surface 247 may be curved, arcuate, spherical, and / or hemispherical and configured to matingly couple to a reciprocally configured attachment element 158. While the distal surface 247 shown in FIGS. 10A and 10B is generally formed as a concave hemispherical shape, it is contemplated that the distal surface 247 may also be formed as a convex hemispherical shape or other similar shapes.

[0087] Coupling mechanism 246 includes a housing 252 configured to define a space. Distal surface 247 may comprise all or a portion of at least one surface of housing 252. Housing 252 may be configured in a generally cylindrical or tubular shape. Alternatively, housing 252 may be configured in a generally rectangular or similar polygonal shape. As shown in FIGS. 10A and 10B , housing 252 is configured in a generally cylindrical shape, with distal surface 247 forming a portion of the distal end of housing 252.

[0088] The space defined by housing 252 may be divided into one or more regions. For example, as shown in Figures 10A and 10B, housing 252 may be divided by a first line 260 to define first and second regions 262 and 264 of the space. First region 262 may be disposed on a side of first line 260 that is generally proximal to surgical helmet 120 and away from distal surface 247. In contrast, second region 264 may be disposed on a side of first line 260 that is generally distal to surgical helmet 120 and proximal to distal surface 247.

[0089] The coupling mechanism 246 disposed within the controller housing 150 of the surgical helmet 120 may further include a first member 254 movably disposed within the housing 252. The first member 254 may be configured to move within a space defined by the housing 252. For example, the first member 254 and the housing 252 may be configured such that the first member 254 is movable between a first region 262 and a second region 264 of the space defined by the housing 252. The first member 254 may be made of one of a ferromagnetic material or a magnetic material, and the attachment element 158 ​​may be made of the other of a ferromagnetic material or a magnetic material. For example, the first member 254 may be made of a magnetic material, and the attachment element 158 ​​may be made of a ferromagnetic material. Alternatively, the first member 254 may be made of a ferromagnetic material, and the attachment element 158 ​​may be made of a magnetic material. In either configuration, the first member 254 and the attachment element 158 ​​may be configured such that when the attachment element 158 ​​is positioned proximate the distal surface 247, the attachment element 158 ​​and the first member 254 may be magnetically attracted to one another. For example, when the attachment element 158 ​​is positioned proximate the distal surface 247 of the coupling mechanism 246, the magnetic force between the first member 254 and the attachment element 158 ​​may help to attach and / or couple the surgical gown 112 to the surgical helmet 120. The first member 254 may be formed in a size and / or shape similar to that described above with respect to the first member 154.

[0090] Coupling mechanism 246 may also include a third member 256 disposed proximate a surface of housing 252 opposite distal surface 247. For example, a surface of housing 252 opposite distal surface 247 may be integrally formed with third member 256. While third member 256 is shown in FIGS. 10A and 10B as being at least partially disposed within housing 252, it is contemplated that third member 256 may be disposed outside of housing 252. Third member 256 may be constructed of one of a ferromagnetic material and a magnetic material such that third member 256 and first member 254 may be magnetically attracted to each other. The magnetic attraction between first member 254 and third member 256 provides a force sufficient to move and / or hold first member 254 in first region of space 262 when no additional force is applied to first member 254. For example, when no additional force is applied to first member 254, the attractive force between first member 254 and third member 256 holds first member 254 in first region 262 of space, as shown in FIG. 10A.

[0091] Alternatively, the magnetic attraction between the mounting element 158 ​​and the first member 254 is sufficient to overcome the magnetic attraction between the first member 254 and the third member 256. The mounting element 158 ​​and the third member 256, when each constructed from a ferromagnetic material, may be configured to have different magnetic masses. For example, the mounting element 158 ​​may be configured to have a greater magnetic mass than the third member 256 so that the magnetic attraction between the first member 254 and the mounting element 158 ​​is greater than the magnetic attraction between the first member 254 and the third member 256. Alternatively, the mounting element 158 ​​and the third member 256, when each constructed from a magnetic material, may be configured to have different magnetic fields. For example, the mounting element 158 ​​may exhibit a stronger magnetic field than the third member 256 so that the magnetic attraction between the first member 254 and the mounting element 158 ​​is greater than the magnetic attraction between the first member 254 and the third member 256.

[0092] 10B, when attachment element 158 ​​is positioned adjacent distal surface 247 of coupling mechanism 246, the magnetic attraction force generated between first member 254 and attachment element 158 ​​is sufficient to overcome the magnetic attraction force between first member 254 and third member 256. The magnetic attraction force between first member 254 and attachment element 158, when positioned adjacent distal surface 247, overcomes the magnetic attraction force between first member 254 and third member 256, causing first member 254 to move from first region 262 to second region 264 of space.

[0093] Coupling mechanism 246 may further include a detector 270 disposed adjacent to housing 252 and configured to detect the position of first member 254. For example, detector 270 may comprise a proximity detector, radar, optical sensor, Hall effect sensor, or similar sensor. Detector 270 may be disposed near or next to housing 252. Detector 270 may be disposed within housing 252 or outside the perimeter defined by housing 252. For example, as shown in FIGS. 10A and 10B , detector 270 may be disposed adjacent a side of housing 252 and proximate second region of space 264. Alternatively, detector 270 may be disposed adjacent a side of housing 252 and proximate first region of space 262. It is further contemplated that detector 270 need not be attached to or coupled to housing 252. For example, detector 270 may be radially spaced from a side of housing 252. When detector 270 is configured as a proximity detector, such as a Hall Effect sensor, it is contemplated that detector 270 may be positioned anywhere within and / or proximate to controller housing 150 such that detector 270 is able to detect and / or identify movement and / or position of first member 254 within housing 252. Although not shown, it is contemplated that detector 270 may be positioned adjacent to a face of housing 252 opposite distal face 247 and / or a face of housing 252 proximate third member 256.

[0094] However, depending on the type of sensor utilized, the placement of the detector 270 may provide operational advantages. For example, if the detector 270 is configured as a Hall Effect sensor configured to determine whether the first member 254 is located in the first region 262 or the second region 264 of space, placing the Hall Effect sensor adjacent a side of the housing 252 may enable the Hall Effect sensor to more accurately detect whether the first member 254 is located in the first region 262 or the second region 264. In one exemplary configuration of the coupling mechanism 246 in which the first member 254 is constructed of a magnetic material, a magnetic field is formed surrounding an outer surface of the first member 254. The coupling mechanism 246 is configured such that at least one outer surface of the first member 254 slides adjacent a side of the housing 252. By positioning the detector 270, i.e., the Hall effect sensor, adjacent to a side of the housing 252, the Hall effect sensor can more accurately detect minute changes in the magnetic field surrounding the first member 254 when the first member 254 is in the first region 262 or the second region 264. For example, the Hall effect sensor may be positioned adjacent to a side of the housing 252 adjacent to the first region 262. In this configuration, the Hall effect sensor is more likely to detect the magnetic field generated by the first member 254 when the first member 254 is in the first region 262. Alternatively, the Hall effect sensor is more likely to detect the absence of a magnetic field when the first member 254 is in the second region 264. The detector may be configured to generate a signal indicative of the position of the first member 254 based on the presence or absence of a magnetic field. In another example, the Hall effect sensor may be positioned adjacent to a side of the housing 252 adjacent to the second region 264. In this configuration, the Hall effect sensor is likely to detect a magnetic field generated by the first member 254 when the first member 254 is in the second region 264. Alternatively, the Hall effect sensor is likely to detect the absence of a magnetic field when the first member 254 is in the first region 262. Again, the detector 270, i.e., the Hall effect sensor, may be configured to generate a signal indicative of the position of the first member 254 based on the presence or absence of a magnetic field.

[0095] In yet another configuration, as described above, detector 270, i.e., a Hall effect sensor, may be located on or proximate to the surface of housing 252 opposite distal surface 247. In this configuration, if first member 254 comprises a magnetic material, the Hall effect sensor is likely to detect a magnetic field generated by first member 254 when first member 254 is in first region 262. Alternatively, the Hall effect sensor is likely to detect the absence of a magnetic field when first member 254 is in second region 264. Detector 270 may be configured to generate a signal indicative of the position of first member 254 based on the presence or absence of a magnetic field. In the above configuration, if first member 254 is composed of a ferromagnetic material and third member 256 is composed of a magnetic material, the Hall effect sensor is likely to detect a magnetic field generated by third member 256. In this configuration, the magnetic field generated by the third member 256 will likely vary based on the position of the first member 254 relative to the third member 256. For example, if the first member 254 is located in the first region 262 and proximate to the third member 256, the third member will likely generate a first magnetic field. Alternatively, if the first member 254 is located in the second region 264 and distal from the third member 256, the third member will likely generate a second magnetic field. The detector 270 may be configured to detect whether the first magnetic field or the second magnetic field surrounds the third member 256.

[0096] In operation, the first member 254 may be configured to operatively and / or slidably move between the first region 262 and the second region 264 of space. For example, as shown in FIG. 10A , the first member 254 may be disposed in the first region 262 of space. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 10B , the first member 254 may be disposed in the second region 264 of space. In the above example, the detector 270 may be configured as a proximity sensor, such as a Hall Effect sensor. As the first member 254 moves between the first region 262 and the second region 264, the characteristics of the magnetic field surrounding the first member 254 may change, and the detector 270 may be configured to detect or identify the position of the first member 254 based at least in part on the detected magnetic field.

[0097] Alternatively, the detector 270 may be configured as an optical sensor, and the side of the housing 252 includes an opening and / or a transparent window. The opening and / or transparent window may be positioned on the side of the housing 252 proximate the first region 262 or the second region 264 of the space. The optical sensor may be positioned adjacent to the housing 252 in alignment with the opening and / or transparent window so as to view at least a portion of the space within the housing 252. For example, if the opening or window in the housing 252 is positioned so that the optical sensor can view a portion of the second region 264 of the space, the optical sensor may be configured to detect the presence or absence of the first member 254 in the second region 264. The optical sensor may then be configured to output a signal identifying whether the first member 254 is present in the second region 264. In certain configurations, it may be necessary to position a light emitter opposite the optical sensor. In this configuration, the light emitter may generate a signal that is received and / or detected by the optical sensor. The light projector and the optical sensor may be positioned relative to one another such that they are configured to block and / or interrupt a signal from the light projector to the optical sensor when the first member 254 is located in the first region 262 or the second region 264. The optical sensor may then be configured to generate a signal based on receipt or non-receipt of a signal from the light projector, indicating whether the first member 254 is located in the first region 262 or the second region 264. For example, the light projector and the optical sensor may be positioned relative to one another such that they may block and / or interrupt a signal from the light projector to the optical sensor when the first member 254 is located in the first region 262. In this configuration, the optical sensor may be configured to generate a signal indicating that the first member 254 is in the first region 262 if it does not receive a signal from the light projector. Alternatively, the optical sensor may generate a signal indicating that the first member 254 is in the second region 264 if it receives a signal from the light projector.The optical sensor and light projector may be configured to identify the position of the first member 254 even when positioned to block and / or interrupt a signal from the light projector to the optical sensor when the first member 254 is located in the second region 264.

[0098] As described above with respect to the various configurations of detector 270 of coupling mechanism 246, detector 270 may be configured to detect the movement and / or position of first member 254. Detector 270 may be in communication with controller 180 on helmet 120, which is in communication with peripheral device 130. Detector 270 may be further configured to communicate a signal to controller 180 based at least in part on the position and / or movement of first member 254. Operation of controller 180 is described in more detail below.

[0099] FIG. 11 illustrates an enlarged cross-sectional view of a third configuration of the coupling mechanism 346. The coupling mechanism 346 may be at least partially disposed within the controller housing 150 of the surgical helmet 120. The third configuration of the coupling mechanism 346 may include a first member 354 including a distal surface 347 configured to removably couple to one of the attachment elements 158 of the surgical gown 112. The distal surface 347 of the first member 354 may be at least partially recessed within the controller housing 150 of the surgical helmet 120. For example, as shown in FIG. 11 , the distal surface 347 may be formed in a generally concave hemispherical shape. It is also contemplated that the distal surface 347 may be formed in a convex hemispherical shape or other similar curved shape configured to receive a complementary shaped attachment element 158 ​​of the surgical gown 112. While the distal surface 347 shown in FIG. 11 is generally concave or inwardly facing, hemispherical, it is contemplated that the distal surface 347 may be convex or outwardly projecting, hemispherical, semi-cylindrical, or other similar shape. For example, the distal surface 347 may be curved, arcuate, or spherical such that it projects outward from the outer surface of the controller housing 150 to form a convex distal surface 347. The corresponding attachment element 158 ​​of the surgical gown 112 may include a concave surface configured to matingly couple with the convex distal surface 347 of the coupling mechanism 346. Alternatively, the distal surface 347 of the first member 354 may be generally flat and circular.

[0100] The first member 354, and thus the distal surface 347, of the coupling mechanism 346 may be constructed of either a ferromagnetic material or a magnetic material. For example, the first member 354 may be constructed of a magnetic material and the attachment element 158 ​​may be constructed of a ferromagnetic material. Alternatively, the first member 354 may be constructed of a ferromagnetic material and the attachment element 158 ​​may be constructed of a magnetic material. In either configuration, the first member 354 and the corresponding attachment element 158 ​​may be configured such that the first member 354 and the attachment element 158 ​​are magnetically attracted to each other. The magnetic attraction between the first member 354 and the attachment element 158 ​​provides sufficient force to releasably couple the surgical gown 112 to the surgical helmet 120. The distal surface 347 of the first member 354 may be configured with a hemispherical or similar curved shape, as described above, to improve the retention between the first member 354 and the attachment element 158 ​​when coupled.

[0101] Coupling mechanism 346 may further include a detector 370, such as a mechanical switch, at least partially disposed within controller housing 150. Detector 370 may be positioned adjacent first member 354 and proximate distal face 347. Detector 370 may further include a toggle member 372 movable between a first position and a second position. Toggle member 372 may include a biasing member, such as a spring, configured to move toggle member 372 to and / or hold toggle member 372 in the second position when no additional force is applied to toggle member 372. Detector 370 may be configured to detect the position of toggle member 372 and output a signal based at least in part on the position of toggle member 372.

[0102] In operation, the attachment element 158 ​​of the surgical gown 112 may be configured to operably couple to the toggle member 372 of the detector 370 and move the toggle member 372 between a first position and a second position. For example, the attachment element 158 ​​may be configured to couple to the toggle member 372 when the attachment element 158 ​​is positioned adjacent the distal surface 347 of the first member 354. The attractive force between the first member 354 and the attachment element 158 ​​may be sufficient to overcome the force of the biasing member to move and / or retain the toggle member 372 in the first position while the attachment element 158 ​​is coupled to the coupling mechanism 346. Alternatively, the biasing member of the toggle member 372 may move and / or retain the toggle member 372 in the second position when the attachment element 158 ​​is not positioned adjacent the distal surface 347 of the first member 354. As described above, detector 370 may be configured to detect the position of toggle member 372. Detector 370 may be in communication with controller 180 on helmet 120, which is in communication with peripheral device 130. The operation of controller 180 is described in more detail below. Detector 370 may be configured to communicate a signal to controller 180 based at least in part on whether toggle member 372 is in the first position and / or the second position.

[0103] FIG. 12A illustrates an enlarged cross-sectional view of a fourth configuration of the coupling mechanism 446. The coupling mechanism 446 may be at least partially disposed within the controller housing 150 of the surgical helmet 120. The fourth configuration of the coupling mechanism 446 may include a first member 454 including a distal surface 447 configured to removably couple to one of the attachment elements 158 of the surgical gown 112. The distal surface 447 of the coupling mechanism 446 may be at least partially recessed within the controller housing 150 of the surgical helmet 120. For example, as shown in FIG. 12A, the distal surface 447 may be formed in a generally concave hemispherical shape. It is also contemplated that the distal surface 447 may be formed in a convex hemispherical shape or other similar curved shape configured to receive a complementary attachment element 158 ​​of the surgical gown 112. 12A is generally concave or inwardly hemispherical, it is contemplated that the distal surface 447 may be convex or outwardly protruding hemispherical, semi-cylindrical, or other similarly shaped. For example, the distal surface 447 may be curved, arcuate, or spherically shaped to result in a convex distal surface 447 that protrudes outward from the outer surface of the controller housing 150. The corresponding attachment element 158 ​​of the surgical gown 112 may include a concave surface configured to matingly couple with the convex distal surface 447 of the coupling mechanism 446. Alternatively, the distal surface 447 of the first member 454 may be generally flat and circular in shape.

[0104] The first member 454, and thus the distal surface 447, of the coupling mechanism 446 may be composed of a ferromagnetic material or a magnetic material alone. For example, the first member 454 may be composed of a magnetic material and the attachment element 158 ​​may be composed of a ferromagnetic material. Alternatively, the first member 454 may be composed of a ferromagnetic material and the attachment element 158 ​​may be composed of a magnetic material. In either configuration, the first member 454 and the attachment element 158 ​​may be configured such that they are magnetically attracted to each other. The magnetic attraction between the first member 454 and the attachment element 158 ​​provides sufficient force to removably couple the surgical gown 112 to the surgical helmet 120. The distal surface 447 of the first member 454 may be configured with a hemispherical or similar curved shape, as described above, to partially enhance the retention between the first member 454 and the attachment element 158 ​​when they are coupled together. Additionally, the hemispherical or similarly curved distal surface 447 of the first member 454 may help align the attachment element 158 ​​with the center of the first member 454 .

[0105] Alternatively, referring to FIG. 12B , an enlarged cross-sectional view of a fifth configuration of coupling mechanism 546 is shown. A distal surface 547 of first member 554 may define an opening. First member 554 may include distal surface 547. First member 554, and thus distal surface 547, of coupling mechanism 546 may be constructed of one of a ferromagnetic material or a magnetic material. In contrast, at least a portion of attachment element 558 of face shield 118 may be constructed of the other of a ferromagnetic material or a magnetic material. For example, first member 554 may be constructed of a magnetic material and attachment element 558 may be constructed of a ferromagnetic material. Alternatively, first member 554 may be constructed of a ferromagnetic material and attachment element 558 may be constructed of a magnetic material. In either configuration, first member 554 and attachment element 558 may be configured such that first member 554 and attachment element 558 can be magnetically attracted to each other.

[0106] The distal surface 547 may further define an opening disposed proximate the center of the generally planar distal surface 547, such that the first member 554 has a ring shape. The opening may define an opening axis relative to the first member 554. The first member 554 may further include a transverse axis generally perpendicular to the opening axis. The first member 554 may also include an outer surface 549 oriented generally parallel to the transverse axis. In this configuration of the coupling mechanism 546, the attachment element 558 may be configured to include a protrusion 562 extending from a base 560. The protrusion 562 may be composed of one of a ferromagnetic material or a magnetic material. Alternatively, the protrusion 562 may be composed of a plastic, polymeric material, or other non-magnetic material. For example, the protrusion 562 may be composed of a polymeric material, and the base 560 of the attachment element 558 may be composed of a magnetic material to generate a magnetic attraction with the first member 554 of the coupling mechanism 546. In yet another configuration, protrusion 562 may be comprised of a combination of magnetic and non-magnetic materials. For example, the interior of protrusion 562 may be comprised of a magnetic material, and the exterior of the magnetic material may be coated with a non-magnetic material, such as a plastic polymer. The interior of protrusion 562 comprised of a magnetic material may be magnetically attracted to first member 554 of coupling mechanism 546.

[0107] The protrusion 562 of the mounting element 558 may be configured to matingly couple with an opening in the distal surface 547 of the first member 554, and the opening in the distal surface 547 may be configured to receive the protrusion 562 of the mounting element 558. Further, the opening may be configured to align and / or position the mounting element 558 relative to the center of the coupling mechanism 546 and / or the first member 554.

[0108] In both the fourth and fifth configurations of the coupling mechanism 446, 546 described above, the coupling mechanism 446, 546 may further include a detector 470, 570, such as a proximity sensor or Hall Effect sensor, disposed at least partially within the controller housing 150. The detector 470, 570 may be positioned adjacent a side of the first member 454, 554, respectively, and proximate the distal face 447, 547. The detector 470, 570 may be configured to detect a change in the magnetic field surrounding the first member 454, 554 that occurs depending on whether the attachment element 158, 558 of the surgical gown 112 is positioned adjacent the distal face 447, 547. For example, when configured as a Hall Effect sensor, the detector 470, 570 may be configured to determine whether the mounting element 158, 558 is positioned adjacent the distal surface 447, 547 of the first member 454, 554 based on the magnetic field surrounding the first member 454, 554. By positioning the Hall Effect sensor adjacent a side of the first member 454, 554 and incorporating an alignment feature on the distal surface 447, 547 to align the center of the mounting element 158, 558 with the center of the first member 454, 554, the Hall Effect sensor may be able to more accurately detect subtle changes in the magnetic field surrounding the first member 454, 554 that result from whether the mounting element 158, 558 is positioned adjacent the distal surface 447, 547. Furthermore, when configured as a proximity detector, such as a Hall Effect sensor, the detector 470, 570 may be located anywhere within and / or proximate to the controller housing 150 such that the detector 470, 570 can detect and / or identify changes in the magnetic field surrounding the first member 454, 554. Although not shown, it is contemplated that the detector 470, 570 may be located adjacent to the distal face 447, 547 and / or proximate to the first member 454, 554.

[0109] In operation, the attachment elements 158, 558 of the surgical gown 112 may be configured to removably couple with the first members 454, 554 such that they can be positioned adjacent the distal surfaces 447, 547 when the surgical gown 112 is coupled to the surgical helmet 120. For example, when the attachment elements 158, 558 are positioned adjacent the distal surfaces 447, 547 of the first members 454, 554, a third magnetic field may surround the first members 454, 554. The detectors 470, 570 may be configured to detect this third magnetic field. Alternatively, when the attachment elements 158, 558 are not positioned adjacent the distal surfaces 447, 547 of the first members 454, 554, a fourth magnetic field may surround the first members 454, 554. The detectors 470, 570 may similarly be configured to detect this fourth magnetic field. As described above, the detectors 470, 570 can be in communication with the controller 180 on the surgical helmet 120, which communicates with the peripheral device 130. The detectors 470, 570 can be configured to communicate a signal to the controller 180 indicating the presence or absence of the surgical gown 112 based on whether they detect the third magnetic field or the fourth magnetic field. The operation of the controller 180 is described in more detail below.

[0110] Each of the various configurations of the surgical apparel system 110 described above may further include an energy source 182. Because each of the various configurations of the system 10, 110 described above may include an energy source 182, a general schematic diagram of the energy source 182 in communication with the controller 180 is shown in phantom in FIG. 8. The energy source 182 may be configured to connect or interconnect with the system 10, 110 and / or the surgical helmet 20, 120. The energy source 182, such as a battery, may be configured to be portable. The energy source 182 of the system 10, 110 may be rechargeable and / or replaceable so that it may be replaced or replaced.

[0111] Each of the various configurations of the surgical apparel system 110 described above may also include an energy sensor 186 in communication with the controller 180 and / or the energy source 182. Because each of the various configurations of the systems 10, 110 described above may include an energy sensor 186, a general schematic diagram of the energy sensor 186 in communication with the controller 180 and the energy source 182 is shown in phantom in FIG. 8. The energy sensor 186 may be configured to detect a characteristic of the energy source 182. The energy source characteristic detected by the energy sensor 186 may include, but is not limited to, a remaining power level, a remaining charge, a state of charge, a voltage, a capacity, a state, a current draw, or similar characteristics associated with the energy source 182. The energy sensor 186 may further be configured to generate or generate an energy signal based on the detected characteristic. The energy sensor 186 may also be configured to communicate the energy signal to the controller 180. The energy sensor 186 may be configured to communicate the energy signal to the controller 180 based on a default or user-defined threshold. For example, the energy sensor 186 may be configured to detect the remaining charge of the energy source 182, with a threshold defined as fifteen percent (15%) of the remaining charge. In this configuration, the energy sensor 186 may be configured to transmit an energy signal to the controller 180 when the remaining charge reaches and / or falls below fifteen percent (15%) of that threshold. The energy sensor 186 may also be configured to generate energy signals at multiple different thresholds. For example, in the configuration described above, the energy sensor 186 may be configured to generate multiple energy signals based on the remaining charge of the energy source 182.In operation, the energy sensor 186 may be configured to generate a first energy signal when the energy source 182 reaches and / or falls below 50% remaining charge, generate a second energy signal when the energy source 182 reaches and / or falls below 25% remaining charge, and generate a third energy signal when the energy source 182 reaches and / or falls below 10% remaining charge. In this configuration, the first, second, and / or third energy signals generated by the energy sensor 186 and communicated to the controller 180 may be indicative of the remaining charge of the energy source 182.

[0112] The controller 180 may be configured to generate a signal communicable to a user display, such as an LCD screen, a digital display, or a plurality of lights, and the user display may be configured to display an indication of the remaining charge. For example, if the user display is configured with an LCD screen, the LCD screen may be configured to display an indication of the remaining charge, such as "50%, " "25%, " etc. Alternatively, if the user display is configured with a plurality of lights, the lights may each have a different color, with each colored light representing a different level of remaining charge in the energy source 182. For example, the user display may be configured with a yellow light, an orange light, and a red light, and the controller 180 may be configured to communicate a signal to the user display to illuminate the yellow light when the remaining charge reaches and / or falls below 50%. The controller 180 may be configured to communicate a signal to the user display to illuminate the orange light when the remaining charge reaches and / or falls below 25%. The controller 180 may be configured to transmit a signal to a user display to illuminate a red light when the remaining charge reaches and / or falls below 10%. Based on which light is illuminated, the user may determine the approximate remaining charge of the energy source 182. The remaining charge may also be communicated via a speaker.

[0113] Each of the various configurations of the coupling mechanism 146, 246, 346, 446, 546 described above includes a detector 170, 270, 370, 470, 570 configured to detect a characteristic of the coupling mechanism 146, 246, 346, 446, 546 that can be used to identify whether the surgical gown 112 is coupled to the surgical helmet 120. The detector 170, 270, 370, 470, 570 may be further configured to output a signal based on the detected characteristic to indicate the presence or absence of the surgical gown 112 coupled to the surgical helmet 120. For example, the detector 170, 270, 370, 470, 570 may be configured to detect and / or determine when the surgical gown 112 is coupled to the surgical helmet 120 and output a signal indicative of whether the surgical gown 112 is coupled to the surgical helmet 120. In one exemplary configuration, detector 170, 270, 370, 470, 570 may be configured to output a signal when surgical gown 112 is coupled to surgical helmet 120. In another exemplary configuration, detector 170, 270, 370, 470, 570 may be configured to output a signal when surgical gown 112 is not coupled to or separated from surgical helmet 120. In yet another exemplary configuration, detector 170, 270, 370, 470, 570 may be configured to output a first signal when surgical gown 112 is coupled to surgical helmet 120 and output a second signal when surgical gown 112 is not coupled to or separated from surgical helmet 120.

[0114] In each embodiment and / or configuration of the coupling mechanism 146, 246, 346, 446, 546 described above, the detectors 170, 270, 370, 470, 570 may be in communication with the controller 180. The controller 180 may further be in communication with one or more of the peripherals 130 of the surgical helmet 120 described above. It should be understood that the controller 180 may be located anywhere on the surgical helmet 120. For example, the controller 180 may be located adjacent to the detectors 170, 270, 370, 470, 570 within the controller housing 150. Alternatively, the controller 180 may be located within the interior of the housing 132 of the surgical helmet 120.

[0115] Controller 180 may be configured to communicate operational commands to detectors 170, 270, 370, 470, 570, as well as receive signals from detectors 170, 270, 370, 470, 570 related to characteristics of the signals detected by detectors 170, 270, 370, 470, 570. Controller 180 may also be connected to one or more peripherals 130 of surgical helmet 120, such as ventilation assembly 130, and configured to communicate operational commands to or from ventilation assembly 130 or other peripherals 130 based on signals received from detectors 170, 270, 370, 470, 570. For example, controller 180 may be configured to adjust the amount of power sent to ventilation system 130 to control the speed of fan blades. It is further contemplated that two separate controllers may be utilized.

[0116] Regardless of the configuration of coupling mechanism 146, 246, 346, 446, 546, detectors 170, 270, 370, 470, 570 may be configured to communicate a signal to controller 180 based on the presence, absence, and / or change in a characteristic detected by detector 170, 270, 370, 470, 570. For example, detectors 170, 370 of coupling mechanism 146 in the first configuration and / or coupling mechanism 346 in the third configuration may be configured to detect the presence or absence of surgical gown 112 based on the position of toggle member 172, 372. Alternatively, detectors 270, 470, 570 of coupling mechanism 246 in the second configuration, coupling mechanism 446 in the fourth configuration, and / or coupling mechanism 546 in the fifth configuration may be configured to detect the presence or absence of surgical gown 112 based on a change in the magnetic field surrounding first member 254, 454, 554 of coupling mechanism 246, 446, 546. The controller 180 may be configured to communicate commands or adjust operating characteristics of the peripheral device 130 based on signals received from the detectors 170 , 270 , 370 , 470 , 570 .

[0117] In one configuration, the controller 180 may be configured to interpret signals received from the detectors 170, 270, 370, 470, 570 and control the transmission of energy from the energy source to the peripheral device 130. For example, the controller 180 may be configured to prevent the transmission of energy from the energy source to the peripheral device 130 if the controller 180 determines that the surgical gown 112 is not present on the surgical helmet 120 based on signals received from the detectors 170, 270, 370, 470, 570 or the absence of signals from the detectors 170, 270, 370, 470, 570. Operational disadvantages of the system 110 that are eliminated by this feature include the generation of unwanted noise that may be generated by the peripheral device 130 when the peripheral device 130 is not performing a useful function. A second disadvantage that may be eliminated by preventing activation of the peripheral device 130 before attaching the surgical gown 112 to the surgical helmet 120 is that the charge of the energy source 182 is drawn down when activation of the peripheral device 130 is not required. Alternatively, the controller 180 may be configured to allow the transmission of energy to the peripheral device 130 when it determines that the surgical gown 112 is coupled to the surgical helmet 120 based on signals received from the detectors 170, 270, 370, 470, 570 or the absence of signals from the detectors 170, 270, 370, 470, 570. Furthermore, the controller 180 may control the operation of the peripheral device 130 based on signals received from the detectors 170, 270, 370, 470, 570.

[0118] The surgical apparel system 110 may further include a memory device 184 coupled to the surgical helmet 120 and in communication with the controller 180. The memory device 184 may be located within the surgical helmet 120 or any portion of the surgical helmet 120. For example, the memory device 184 may be located within the controller housing 150. Alternatively, the memory device 184 may be located within the housing 132 of the surgical helmet 120. The memory device 184 may be configured to store data associated with the operation of the peripherals 130. For example, the memory device 184 may store operating conditions associated with each peripheral 130, such as operating conditions based on various types of surgical gowns 112 that may be attached to the surgical helmet 120. The operating conditions stored in the memory device 184 may include maximum and / or minimum operating speeds of the peripherals 130 of the surgical helmet 120 for various types of surgical gowns 112. For example, the memory device 184 may store various operating fan speeds for a toga and a hood. Memory device 184 may also be configured to store operating instructions or programming steps configured to be executed by controller 180. Memory device 184 may also store individual user settings or preferences for operating one or more of peripherals 130. For example, a user setting stored in memory device 184 may include the most recent fan speed of a ventilation assembly selected by an individual user wearing surgical helmet 120.

[0119] In each of the various embodiments and / or configurations of the surgical apparel system 110 and coupling mechanisms 146, 246, 346, 446, 546 described above, the system 110 may include additional mechanisms and / or components in operative communication with the controller 180 and configured to prevent operation of the surgical helmet 120 and / or any peripheral devices 130 of the surgical helmet 120 based on determined characteristics. For example, the controller 180 may be configured to prevent operation of the peripheral devices 130 until after the surgical gown 112 is donned on the surgical helmet 120. Alternatively, the controller 180 may be configured to prevent operation of the peripheral devices 130 if a used or ill-fitting surgical gown 112 is coupled to the surgical helmet 120.

[0120] 13A and 13B, there is shown an alternative configuration of a surgical apparel system 610. It should be understood that the various configurations of the surgical apparel system 610 may include elements similar to the systems described above, which may be identified by reference numbers incremented by 100. It should be understood that these elements, including reference numbers incremented by 100, may have the same and / or similar features as described above.

[0121] A third configuration of the surgical apparel system 610 may include a surgical gown assembly including a surgical gown 612 configured to attach to a surgical helmet 620. As described above, the surgical gown 612 may provide a barrier, such as a microbial barrier, between the wearer and the surrounding environment. The barrier formed by the surgical gown 612 may benefit both the wearer and the patient. The barrier provided by the surgical gown 612 may substantially eliminate the possibility of the wearer coming into contact with fluid or solid particles of material from the patient that may be generated during a surgical procedure. The barrier may substantially prevent any foreign material expelled by the wearer from transferring to the patient during a surgical procedure.

[0122] 13A, 13B, and 14, a surgical gown 612 may include a surgical helmet 620 and fabric 614 configured to cover at least a portion of a wearer's head. The surgical gown 612 may be configured as a hood, a toga, or other similar medical gown, similar to the configurations of the surgical apparel systems 10, 110 described above. The surgical gown 612 may further include a face shield 618 (also referred to as a transparent face shield) and one or more attachment elements 658 disposed on the surgical gown 612. The attachment elements 658 may also be referred to as second members or gown fasteners. The attachment elements 658 may function as alignment elements configured to removably couple the surgical gown 612 to the surgical helmet 620. Additionally, the attachment elements 658 may be positioned proximate the periphery of the face shield 618 such that the fabric 614 covers the attachment elements 658. This can help ensure that the fabric 614 covers the attachment elements 658 and maintains the barrier provided by the surgical gown 612 between the wearer and the environment.

[0123] The mounting element 658 may include a ferromagnetic material. In other words, the mounting element may include iron, nickel, cobalt, gadolinium, dysprosium, or alloys thereof, or combinations thereof. It should be understood that in certain configurations, the mounting element may include a material, i.e., atoms, that are attracted to the magnetic field exhibited by the magnetic material disposed on the helmet. In certain embodiments, it is contemplated that the entire mounting element 658 may be comprised of a ferromagnetic material. It is also contemplated that the mounting element 658 may include both ferromagnetic and diamagnetic materials. For example, the mounting element 658 may be comprised of a diamagnetic material coated with a ferromagnetic material. Alternatively, the mounting element 658 may be formed with a ferromagnetic material as a core and then coated with a plastic or similar non-magnetic coating configured to provide a sterile and / or wear-resistant surface. Other arrangements of diamagnetic and magnetic materials are also contemplated for the mounting element 658. It should be understood that the surgical gown 612 and all of its components may be configured similarly to and / or include similar features as the surgical gowns 12, 112 described above.

[0124] The surgical gown 612 may also include tabs 655A, 655B. The tabs 655A, 655B may be disposed on the wearer's side or on the interior of the surgical gown 612. The tabs 655A, 655B may include a pair of opposite edges 643A, 643B and define openings 656A, 656B. As shown in FIG. 13A , the tab 655A may be formed as part of the face shield 618. The tab 655A may define at least a portion of the opening 656A, or a portion of the opening 656A may be defined by the face shield 618. It is also contemplated that the opening 656A may be formed or defined entirely within the tab 655A.

[0125] Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 13B, the tab 655B may be formed separately from the face shield 618. In this configuration, the tab 655B may be bonded directly to the inner surface of the fabric 614 of the surgical gown 612. The tab 655B may be formed of a plastic similar to that of the face shield 618 and may be bonded to the surgical gown 612 with epoxy, glue, or a similar adhesive. Alternatively, the tab 655B may be formed of a fabric similar to the fabric 614 of the surgical gown 612 and may be sewn to the surgical gown 612 or bonded with an adhesive. Furthermore, the opening 656B may be defined entirely by the tab 655B.

[0126] 13A, 13B, and 14, one exemplary configuration of a surgical apparel system 610 will be described in detail. The system 610 may include a surgical gown 612 and a surgical helmet 620. Similar to the systems 10, 110 described above, the system 610 configuration shown in FIGS. 13A, 13B, and 14 may include one or more peripherals 630, such as a ventilation assembly.

[0127] The ventilation assembly 630 shown in FIG. 14 is one example of a peripheral device 630 that can be incorporated into the surgical helmet 620 of the surgical apparel system 610. While the ventilation assembly 630 is shown as an integral component of the surgical helmet 620, it should be understood that each of the other peripheral devices 130 described above may be an integral component of the surgical helmet 120 or may be removably coupled to the surgical helmet 620. The surgical helmet 620 shown in FIG. 14 includes a ventilation assembly 630 disposed within a cavity of a housing 632. The ventilation assembly 630 may include fan blades, an impeller, a propeller, a fan wheel, or a similar blade mechanism configured to induce air movement. The blades may be coupled to a motor configured to rotate the blades when powered by a power source. When the blades are actuated, the ventilation assembly 630 is configured to draw air into the cavity of the housing 632 through an intake opening at the top of the housing 632. Additional spaces in the housing 632 may be coupled to the spaces and act as ducts to disperse air drawn into the spaces to the wearer.

[0128] 14, 15A, and 15B, the surgical helmet 620 may include an upper beam 629 configured to be disposed forward of a housing 632 of the surgical helmet 620 and extend across the front of the surgical helmet 620. The upper beam 629 may further include a recess. The recess of the upper beam 629 may include a pair of laterally spaced-apart side walls 639A, 639B and a proximal surface 637 disposed proximally from the distal surface 631 of the upper beam 629. The side walls 639A, 639B and the proximal surface 637 may define an alignment channel 645 configured to receive tabs 655A, 655B disposed on the interior of the surgical gown 612 to align and / or orient the surgical gown 612 relative to the surgical helmet 620. As described above, tab 655A may be integrally formed with and configured to extend from face shield 618. Alternatively, tab 655B may be formed independently of face shield 618 and configured to be coupled to interior fabric 614 of surgical gown 612, although other configurations are contemplated. Spaced-apart side walls 639A, 639B of alignment channel 645 are spaced apart a distance greater than the width of tabs 655A, 655B, allowing tabs 655A, 655B to be positioned between spaced-apart side walls 639A, 639B.

[0129] The upper beam 629 may further include a coupling mechanism 646 configured to removably couple to the face shield 618 and / or the surgical gown 612. The coupling mechanism 646 may include a protrusion, a magnetic member, a ferromagnetic member, a hook-and-loop fastener, or a similar coupling mechanism configured to removably couple to the openings 656 in the tabs 655A, 655B to align and / or couple the surgical gown 612 to the surgical helmet 620. For example, as shown in FIGS. 15A and 15B, the coupling mechanism 646 is embodied as a protrusion 646 extending from an alignment channel 645 in the upper beam 629. Here, the upper beam 629 defines the alignment channel 645 described above, and the coupling mechanism 646 may be at least partially disposed within the alignment channel 645, as shown in FIGS. 14, 15A, and 15B. The coupling mechanism 646 may be disposed within the alignment channel 645 such that the top of the top surface of the coupling mechanism 646 is disposed or positioned below the top of the alignment channel 645 and / or the upper surface of the upper beam 629. The combination of the spaced-apart side walls 639A, 639B of the alignment channel 645 and the coupling mechanism 646 may help to align and / or orient the face shield 618 and / or surgical gown 612 on the surgical helmet 620. More specifically, the spaced-apart side walls 639A, 639B of the alignment channel 645 may help to guide the tabs 655A, 655B such that the openings 656 in the tabs 655A, 655B are directed toward coupling with the coupling mechanism 646 when the surgical gown 612 is placed on the surgical helmet 620.

[0130] The surgical helmet 620 may include a chin bar 624 extending downward from the front of the surgical helmet 620. The chin bar 624 may include a first post 626A and a second post 626B. The first and second posts 626A, 626B may be coupled to an upper beam 629, which may be configured to extend across the front of the surgical helmet 620. For example, as shown in FIG. 14 , the first and second posts 626A, 626B may be coupled to opposite ends of the upper beam 629. The chin bar 624 may be constructed of a generally flexible or pliable material.

[0131] The chin bar 624 may further include a lower beam 628 that may extend between the opposing free ends of the posts 626A, 626B. The chin bar 624 is shaped so that the lower beam 628 is positioned below and slightly in front of the chin of a person wearing the surgical helmet 620. The lower beam 628 may arch outward from the free ends of the posts 626A, 626B. The chin bar 624 may extend outward from the upper beam 629 so that it is positioned in front of and generally covers the wearer's face when the surgical helmet 620 is secured to the wearer's head. The upper beam 629, the posts 626A, 626B, and the lower beam 628 may collectively be referred to as a face frame because they generally define an opening that is positioned in front of the wearer's face when the surgical helmet is placed on the wearer's head.

[0132] A plurality of coupling members 648 may be attached to or within the chin bar 24. The coupling members 648 are constructed of a magnetic material and configured to align and / or attach the face shield 618 of the surgical gown 612 to the surgical helmet 620. Each coupling member 648 may be positioned on the chin bar 624 proximate opposing posts 626A, 626B and / or adjacent opposite ends of the lower beam 628. Alternatively, the coupling members 648 of the surgical helmet 620 may be positioned or configured in any suitable manner to cooperate with complementary attachment elements 658 on the surgical gown 612 to removably secure the surgical gown 612 to the surgical helmet 620. For example, as shown in FIG. 14 , the coupling members 648 may be positioned on the chin bar 624 at opposite ends of the lower beam 628 proximate where each of the posts 626A, 626B is coupled to the lower beam 628. 14 utilizes two coupling members 648, it is contemplated that the surgical helmet 620 may include a single coupling member 648 on the chin bar 624, or in other configurations, three or more coupling members 648 may be spaced apart on the chin bar 624 and / or upper beam 629. It is contemplated that other types of coupling members 648 may be used, such as hook-and-loop fasteners, snaps, coupling members comprising ferromagnetic material, or similar types of fasteners, instead of and / or in addition to coupling members comprised of magnetic material. Other configurations are also contemplated.

[0133] 16A and 16B, various views of one exemplary configuration of coupling member 648 disposed within chin bar 624 are shown. Coupling member 648 may include a distal surface 647. Chin bar 624 may include a recess 627 configured to receive coupling mechanism 648. For example, as shown in FIGS. 16A and 16B, coupling member 648 may be disposed within the recess of chin bar 624 such that its distal surface 647 is disposed proximate distal surface 625 of chin bar 624.

[0134] The coupling member 648 may include one of a ferromagnetic material or a magnetic material. This may include the coupling member 648 being formed or constructed of a ferromagnetic or magnetic material. It is also contemplated that only a portion of the coupling member 648 may be constructed of a ferromagnetic or magnetic material. For example, the coupling member 648 may be injection-molded plastic and coated with a ferromagnetic or magnetic material. Alternatively, the coupling member 648 may be formed of a ferromagnetic or magnetic material and then coated with a plastic or similar coating to provide a sterile and / or wear-resistant surface. It is also contemplated that a magnet may be “overmolded” with a plastic material to form the coupling member 648. Generally, the coupling member 648 may include a ferromagnetic or magnetic material that opposes the attachment element 658 of the surgical gown 612, thereby creating a magnetic attraction between the coupling member 648 and the attachment element 658 to couple the surgical gown 612 to the surgical helmet 620.

[0135] The surgical helmet 620 may further include a controller or processor (not shown), which may be disposed on or within the chin bar 624 or upper beam 629. Alternatively, the controller may be located in any suitable location within the surgical helmet 620. For example, the controller may be located on the lower beam 628 of the chin bar 624. The controller may be in communication with one or more detectors 670, such as Hall Effect sensors, located within the chin bar 624 adjacent to the coupling member 648. The detectors 670 may be configured to detect a property of the coupling member 648. For example, if the detectors 670 are Hall Effect sensors, they may be configured to detect any changes in the magnetic field surrounding the coupling member 648. In operation, the detectors 670 may be configured to detect changes in the magnetic field surrounding the coupling member 648 caused by the presence or absence of the attachment element 658 of the surgical gown 612 located adjacent to the coupling member 648.

[0136] 16A and 16B show only a portion of the chin bar 624 including a single coupling member 648, as described above, the chin bar 624 may include multiple coupling members 648. Similarly, the chin bar may include multiple detectors 670. It is also contemplated that the surgical helmet 620 may include a single detector 670 positioned adjacent to a single coupling member 648. It is also contemplated that in configurations of the surgical helmet 620 including multiple coupling members 648, the surgical helmet 620 may include a single detector 670 positioned adjacent to one of the multiple coupling members 648. Alternatively, the detector 670 may be positioned adjacent to two or more of the coupling members 648. The use of multiple detectors may provide redundancy in the event that a detector 670 is damaged.

[0137] FIG. 16B is a partial cross-sectional view of coupling member 648 disposed within recess 627 of jaw bar 624. Recess 627 of jaw bar 624 may define a first dimension D1, such as a diameter. Coupling member 648 may be sized to generally fit within dimension D1 of the opening in jaw bar 624. Additionally, outer perimeter 653 of distal surface 647 and outer perimeter 651 of proximal surface 657 of coupling member 648 may define axis Axis-A passing through center C1 of proximal surface 657 and center C2 of distal surface 647 of coupling member 648. A transverse plane may be oriented parallel to axis Axis-A and extend through proximal surface 657 and distal surface 647 of coupling member 648 to define opposing side halves of coupling member 648. In configurations in which coupling member 648 includes a magnetic material, the transverse plane may define a separation between poles of the magnetic material.

[0138] 16A and 16B, the distal surface 647 of the coupling member 648 may have a generally curved shape. For example, the distal surface 647 may be configured with a generally convex surface. Alternatively, the distal surface 647 may be configured with a generally convex or polyaxial surface, such as having a generally rounded surface extending outward from the center of the coupling member 648. Although not shown in FIGS. 16A and 16B, it is contemplated that the distal surface 647 of the coupling member 648 may include a concave surface. Various exemplary configurations of the coupling member 648, including concave or convex surfaces, are described in more detail below.

[0139] 17A and 17B, one exemplary configuration of a coupling member 648 is shown. The coupling member 648 may have a generally circular cross-sectional shape including opposed proximal and distal surfaces 657 and 647. As described above, the distal surface 647 may have a curved shape. The coupling member 648 may also include one or more recesses 649A, 649B in the distal surface 647. The recesses 649A, 649B may be configured as grooves, recesses, openings, notches, or similar shapes. The coupling member 648 may include a single recess or, as shown in FIGS. 17A and 17B, may include a pair of recesses 649A, 649B. It is also contemplated that the coupling member 648 may include three or more recesses 649A, 649B. Indentations 649A, 649B may function as structural and / or visual alignment features to position coupling member 648 relative to jaw bar 624 and / or detector 670. For example, in configurations in which coupling member 648 includes a magnetic material, indentations 649A, 649B or other indicators may provide a visual identifier regarding the orientation and / or location of the magnetic poles of coupling member 648. It will be appreciated that this configuration contributes to improved manufacturability in that coupling member 648 may be easily and accurately positioned within the recesses of jaw bar 624 such that the poles of coupling member 648 are properly oriented relative to detector 670.

[0140] 17B , the coupling member may also define a transverse axis Axis-L1 configured to intersect the axis Axis-A of the coupling member 648. The transverse axis Axis-L1 may also be oriented to be generally perpendicular to the axis Axis-A of the coupling member 648. For example, the transverse axis Axis-L1 may be oriented generally horizontally to define opposing lateral halves of the coupling member 648. The coupling member 648 may have a first magnetic pole P1 and an opposing second magnetic pole P2 defined by the lateral halves of the coupling member 648 separated by the transverse axis Axis-L1. For example, one lateral half of the coupling member 648 may define a volume representing the first magnetic pole P1, and the opposing lateral half of the coupling member 648 may define a volume representing the second magnetic pole P2.

[0141] Alternatively, it is contemplated that each magnetic pole P1, P2 of the magnetic material may be represented by an individual point. The point defining each of the magnetic poles P1, P2 may be defined as the point within each lateral half of the coupling member 648 where the magnetic moment of each pole P1, P2 is strongest. For example, both magnetic poles P1, P2 of the magnetic material of the coupling member 648 may be defined as individual points within each lateral half of the coupling member 648. In this exemplary configuration, it is also contemplated that each of the first magnetic pole P1 and the second magnetic pole P2 may be positioned within each lateral half of the coupling member 648 such that the point defining each pole P1, P2 is closer to the outer periphery of the coupling member than the farthest point of the distal surface 647 (shown as C2 in FIG. 16B ). It is also contemplated that each of the magnetic poles P1, P2 may be positioned within a respective lateral half of the coupling member 648 such that the point defining each of the magnetic poles P1, P2 is closer to the detector 670 than the farthest point C2 of the distal surface 647.

[0142] 18A, 18B, 18C, and 18D, one exemplary configuration of a face shield 618A for use with a surgical gown 612 is shown in detail. Similar to the face shields 18, 118 described above, the face shield 618A may form part of the surgical gown 612, allowing the wearer to see through the barrier provided by the surgical gown 612. The face shield 618A may be a generally sheet-like structure and may have a thickness of approximately 1 mm or less. The face shield 618A may be fitted and / or attached to an opening or cutout formed in the surgical fabric 614 of the surgical gown 612. The surgical fabric 614 may be attached around the outer periphery or edges of the face shield 618A by stitching, snaps, hook-and-loop fasteners, adhesive, welding, or a combination thereof. The face shield 618A may be constructed of a transparent material, such as polycarbonate. One such polycarbonate is sold by Sabic under the trademark LEXAN™. Additionally, the face shield 618A of the surgical gown 612 may be tinted to protect the wearer's eyes from high exposure to bright light, and may be flexible so that it can bend to accommodate various head sizes, as described below.

[0143] The face shield 618A may further include a tab 655A, as described above with respect to the surgical gown 612 of FIG. 13A. The tab 655A may extend from the top of the face shield 618A and at least partially define an opening 656. The opening 656 may be generally rectangular. Although not shown, it is contemplated that the opening 656 may be circular, oval, square, or any similar polygonal shape. The opening 656 may also be located approximately centrally between the ends of the face shield 618A and function as an alignment element configured to interact with the alignment channel 645 of the helmet 620 described above. The opening 656 may be positioned on the face shield 618A above the attachment point of the surgical fabric 614 to the face shield 618A, such that the surgical fabric 614 covers the opening 656 and maintains the barrier provided by the surgical gown 612 between the wearer and the environment. 18A-18D, as described above with reference to FIG. 13B, tab 655B may be formed separately from face shield 618B and coupled directly to the interior of surgical gown 612. In addition to being formed separately from face shield 618B, tab 655B may also include all of the same or similar features of tab 655A formed as part of face shield 618A. Face shield 618A may include one or more openings 619 located at a bottom thereof and configured to couple attachment element 658A to face shield 618A.

[0144] As shown in FIGS. 18B-18D, attachment element 658A may include a head 660. Head 660 may define a second dimension D2 that is smaller than first dimension D1 of the opening in chin bar 624 (shown in FIG. 16B), with second dimension D2 sized to be inserted within the opening in chin bar 624 when coupled to coupling member 648. Head 660 of attachment element 658A may also define a distal surface 665 and an opposing proximal surface 659. Head 660 may further define a recess 661A. Head 660 defines a concave surface 674A disposed distally from proximal surface 659. Head 660 may further include a rim 663 that may be defined at least in part by proximal surface 659. Rim 663 may at least partially surround recess 661A. The recess 661A may increase the contact area between the attachment element 658A and the coupling member 648 when they are coupled together. Increasing the contact area may increase the strength and / or force of the magnetic coupling between the attachment element 658A and the coupling member 648 (the force required to separate the attachment element 658A and the coupling member 648). This may reduce accidental or unintended separation of the attachment element 658A and the coupling member 648 during use of the surgical gown 612 and the surgical helmet 620. The size and / or shape of the recess 661A may also allow the attachment element 658A and the coupling member 648 to interact at various angles, as will be described in more detail below.

[0145] The recess 661A may be defined as a recessed portion, portion, or space, such as a depression, bay, or alcove. Generally, the recess 661A may represent a space or lack of material. With respect to the mounting element 658A described above, the recess 661A may represent a space or lack of material in the head 660. The size and shape of the space representing the recess 661A in the head 660 of the mounting element 658A may be defined by the concave surface 674A. However, the recess 661A is not limited to being formed by a single component, such as the head 660 of the mounting element 658A. Any combination of components that define a space or lack of material is contemplated as the recess 661A. For example, in one configuration, the space representing the recess 661A may be defined by the combination of the head 660 and the post 667. In yet another configuration, the space representing the recess 661A may be defined by the combination of the head 660 and the face shield 618, as described below with respect to FIGS. 28A and 28B. Various exemplary configurations of the mounting element 658A and recess 661A are described in more detail below.

[0146] In one exemplary configuration, the recess 661A may be formed in and entirely defined by the head 660 of the attachment element 658A, although, as noted above, alternative configurations are contemplated. The recess 661A may removably receive at least a portion of the protruding surface 647 of the coupling member 648 to removably couple the surgical gown 612 to the surgical helmet 620. The recess 661A may be formed in a variety of shapes and sizes, as will be described in more detail below.

[0147] Mounting element 658A may further include a post 667 extending distally from its distal surface 665. Post 667 may include a proximal portion 669 and a distal portion 671, with proximal portion 669 having a third dimension D3 and distal portion 671 having a fourth dimension D4. Post 667 may be configured such that third dimension D3 of proximal portion 669 is greater than fourth dimension D4 of distal portion 671 to form a shoulder. Distal portion 671 of post 667 is configured to fit within opening 619 in face shield 618A to facilitate coupling of mounting element 658A to face shield 618A.

[0148] In a configuration of post 667 in which the third dimension D3 of proximal portion 669 is greater than the fourth dimension D4 of distal portion 671, the shoulder formed by proximal portion 669 of post 667 is intended to space head 660 of mounting element 658A a distance D5 from face shield 618. The shoulder can be utilized to space mounting element 658A from face shield 618, allowing face shield 618 to flex relative to distal surface 665 of mounting element 658A. This flexibility allows for a more secure attachment between mounting element 658A and coupling member 648 in that face shield 618 can flex from its attached position on coupling member 648 without loosening mounting element 658A.

[0149] Although the exemplary configuration of mounting element 658A shown in FIG. 18D includes post 667 having a third dimension D3 at proximal portion 669 that is larger than a fourth dimension D4 at distal portion 671, it is also contemplated that post 667 may have a single uniform dimension configured to fit into opening 619 in face shield 618A.

[0150] 18D , the attachment element 658A may be coupled to the face shield 618 by a retention feature 673. The retention feature 673 may have the form of a cap or similar fastener configured to couple to the distal end of the post 667. For example, as shown in FIG. 18D , the post 667 may be inserted through the opening 619 in the face shield, and the retention feature 673 may be applied to the distal end of the post 667 to secure the attachment element 658A to the face shield 618.

[0151] 19A, 19B, and 19C, another configuration of an attachment element 658A is shown in detail. Similar to the attachment element 658 described above, a first configuration of the attachment element 658A includes a head 660 having a distal surface 665 and an opposing proximal surface 659. The recess 661A of the attachment element 658A may have a generally concave shape that curves inward to define a space or lack of material in the head 660 of the attachment element 658A. The size and / or shape of the recess 661A may be defined by the concave surface 674 of the head 660. Furthermore, the size and / or shape of the recess 661A may be defined relative to the size and / or shape of the protruding surface 647 of the coupling member 648. It is also contemplated that the depth and / or radius of the recess 661A may vary such that the recess 661A can matingly receive the protruding surface 647 of the coupling member 648 when coupled. For example, it is contemplated that recess 661A may define a space having a volume that is at least ten percent (10%) of the volume defined by protruding surface 647 of coupling member 648 such that at least a portion of protruding surface 647 may be disposed within recess 661A of mounting element 658A. However, recess 661A may define a space having a volume that is twenty percent (20%), thirty percent (30%), or more of the volume defined by protruding surface 647.

[0152] In one exemplary configuration of the mounting element 658A, the recess 661A may define a space that allows the protruding surface 647 to be spaced apart within the recess 661A of the mounting element 658A. For example, the recess 661A may define a space that allows the farthest point of the protruding surface 647 (shown as C2 in FIG. 16B ) to be located distally of the proximal surface 659 of the head 660. Specifically, the protruding surface 647 may be positioned within the recess 661A of the mounting element 658A such that the farthest point of the protruding surface 647 (shown as C2 in FIG. 16B ) is located at least one millimeter (1 mm) distal to the proximal surface 659 of the head 660. However, the farthest point of the protruding surface 647 (shown as C2 in FIG. 16B ) may be located two millimeters (2 mm), three millimeters (3 mm), four millimeters (4 mm), or more distal to the proximal surface 659 of the head 660.

[0153] In another exemplary configuration of the attachment element 658A, the recess 661A may define a space that allows a portion of the protruding surface 647 to be disposed within the recess 661A of the attachment element 658A. For example, the recess 661A may define a space that allows at least ten percent (10%) of the protruding surface 647 to be located distal to the proximal surface 659 of the head 660. However, the protruding surface 647 may be disposed within the recess 661A of the attachment element 658A such that twenty percent (20%), thirty percent (30%), or more of the protruding surface 647 is located distal to the proximal surface 659 of the head 660. These various dimensions may provide a robust coupling of the surgical gown 612 to the surgical helmet 620 that can resist lateral and axial forces that may separate the attachment element 658A from the coupling member 648. Additional exemplary configurations for the recess 661A of the attachment element 658A are described in more detail below.

[0154] 20A , 20B , 20C , and 20D , one exemplary configuration of retention feature 673 is shown in detail. Retention feature 673 may include an opening 675 extending at least partially therethrough. The opening 675 of retention feature 673 may be defined by one or more tabs 677. Tabs 677 are sized to define opening 675 such that opening 675 provides a friction fit with distal portion 671 of post 667 when distal portion 671 is inserted through opening 675 to couple mounting element 658A to face shield 618. For example, referring again to FIG. 18D , distal portion 671 of post 667 may be adapted to be inserted through opening 619 in face shield 618, and retention feature 673 may be coupled to mounting element 658A by inserting distal portion 671 of post 667 into opening 675 of retention feature 673.

[0155] Although not shown, mounting element 658A may also be coupled to face shield 618 by inserting post 667 through opening 619 in face shield 618 and stamping the distal end of post 667 that extends beyond the distal face of face shield 618A so as to form a flange from head 660 of mounting element 658A to the opposite side of face shield 618. This flange may abut the face of face shield 618 and act as a retention feature 673 for mounting element 658A.

[0156] Alternatively, in configurations where the face shield 618 does not include an opening, the attachment element 658A may be coupled to the face shield 618 with glue, epoxy, sealant, or other similar adhesive. Additionally, the attachment element 658A may be welded to the face shield 618 or mechanically attached by another method. One exemplary configuration is shown in Figures 28A and 28B, where the attachment element 1358 is secured to the fabric 614 or face shield 618 with an adhesive.

[0157] Alternatively, the mounting element 658A may be coupled to the face shield 618 by inserting the post 667 through the opening 619 in the face shield 618 and applying adhesive to the post 667 distal to the face shield 618 to secure the mounting element 658A to the face shield 618.

[0158] 21A-21C, perspective views of various stages of coupling a face shield 618A, and thus a surgical gown 612, to a surgical helmet 620 are shown. As described above, the surgical gown 612 may include tabs 655A, 655B that define an opening 656. The tab 655A may be formed as part of the face shield 618A, as shown in FIGS. 13A and 21A-21C. Alternatively, the tab 655B may be a separate component that is independently coupled to the surgical gown 612, as shown in FIG. 13B. The upper beam 629 includes a pair of laterally spaced side walls 639A, 639B and a proximal surface 637 of the surgical helmet 620 that defines an alignment channel 645. A protrusion 646 may extend from the proximal surface 639. The face shield 618 includes a plurality of attachment members 658A (not visible) secured to the outer edge of the face shield 618 by retention mechanisms 673.

[0159] To couple the surgical gown 612 to the surgical helmet 620 when the tab 655A is formed as part of the face shield 618A, the face shield 618A may be positioned such that the opening 656 of the tab 655A is positioned above the alignment channel 645 and the protrusion 646 (see FIG. 21A). The tab 655A, and thus the face shield 618A, may then be lowered onto the surgical helmet 620 such that at least a portion of the tab 655A is disposed within the alignment channel 645 between a pair of laterally spaced side walls 639A, 639B. The tab 655A is positioned within the alignment channel 645 such that the protrusion 646 is disposed within the opening 656 of the tab 655A (see FIG. 21B). The bottom of the face shield 618A, including the attachment element 658A, may then be manipulated to couple the attachment element 658A to a complementary coupling member 648 located on the chin bar 624 (see FIGS. 21B and 21C). For example, when the tab 655A is positioned within the alignment channel 645 and the protrusion 646 is disposed within the opening 656 in the tab 655A, the face shield 618 may be rotated about the protrusion 646 to position the attachment element 658A adjacent to the complementary coupling member 648. This is one example of a method for coupling the surgical gown 612 to the surgical helmet.

[0160] Alternatively, if the tab 655B is formed separately from the face shield 618B (see the surgical gown 612 in FIG. 13B ), the surgical gown 612 may be coupled to the surgical helmet 620 in a similar manner. The tab 655B coupled to the wearer's side of the surgical gown 612 may be positioned above the alignment channel 645 and the protrusion 646. The tab 655B, and thus the surgical gown 612, may then be lowered onto the surgical helmet 620 such that at least a portion of the tab 655B is positioned within the alignment channel 645 between the pair of laterally spaced side walls 639A, 639B. The tab 655B is positioned within the alignment channel 645 such that the protrusion 646 is disposed within the opening 656 of the tab 655B. The attachment element 658A may then be coupled to a complementary coupling member 648 located on the chin bar 624 by manipulation of the lower portion of the face shield 618B that includes the attachment element 658A.

[0161] 22A, there is shown a partial cross-sectional view of an attachment element 658A of a surgical gown 612 coupled to a coupling member 648 of a chin bar 624. The coupling member 648 is disposed in a recess in the chin bar 624. The coupling member 624 includes a protruding surface 647 disposed proximally relative to a distal surface 625 of the chin bar 624.

[0162] The protruding surface 647 of the coupling member 648 may extend at least partially within the space defined by the recess 661A of the attachment element 658A. The complementary shapes of the protruding surface 647 of the coupling member 648 and the concave surface 674A of the attachment element 658A may be configured for sliding contact when the surgical gown 612 is coupled to the surgical helmet 620. Alternatively, a space or gap (gap) may exist between all or a portion of the protruding surface 647 and the concave surface 674A. For example, the protruding surface 647 may include a sharp tip with a small radius, and the concave surface 674A may include a concave shape with a radius larger than the radius of the protruding surface 647. In this configuration, the tip or apex of the protruding surface 647 may contact a portion of the concave surface 674A while there is a gap between the other portion of the protruding surface 647 and the concave surface 674A.

[0163] The complementary shapes of the protruding surface 647 of the coupling member 648 and the recessed portion 661A of the attachment element 658A may allow the attachment element 658A to pivot about the coupling member 648 and maintain coupling with the coupling member 648 at various angles. This may provide additional freedom of movement and / or positioning of the face shield 618 when coupling the attachment element 658A to the corresponding coupling member 648 by manipulation or bending, such as during removal of one or more film layers from the face shield 618. Furthermore, the complementary shapes of the protruding surface 647 of the coupling member 648 and the recessed portion 661A of the attachment element 658A are designed to promote and / or maintain contact of the surgical gown 612 with the surgical helmet 620 during a medical procedure. By adding curvature (bending) to the coupling member 648 and / or the complementary recess 661A of the attachment element 658A of the surgical gown 612, when the coupling member 648 and / or attachment element 658A are mated and placed in shear, a force is transferred into the physical material comprising the coupling member 648 and / or attachment element 658A, increasing the retention force. The curved and / or concave surfaces provide additional retention because they can rotate in a position where the magnetic material provides optimal magnetic retention in interaction with the ferromagnetic material. Thus, by allowing the attachment element 658A to rotate relative to the coupling member 648, the force (moment arm) generated by shear is eliminated. The additional retention force is provided by the increased area of ​​contact or proximity resulting from the curved surface being bent relative to a flat surface.

[0164] In certain configurations, to couple the surgical gown 612 to the surgical helmet 620, at least a portion of the head 660 of the attachment element 658A may be disposed within the recess 627 of the chin bar 624 such that the recess 661 of the attachment element 658A contacts the protruding surface 647 of the coupling member 648. The proximal surface 659 of the head 660 may be disposed within the recess 627 of the chin bar 624 such that it is positioned at least two millimeters (2 mm) proximal to the distal surface 625 of the chin bar 624. Additionally, the proximal surface 659 of the head 660 may be positioned three millimeters (3 mm) or more proximal to the distal surface 625 of the chin bar 624. Additionally, when mounting element 658A is coupled to coupling member 648 at an angle permitted by complementary surfaces 647, 674 of each mounting element 658A and coupling member 648, the portion of head 660 of mounting element 658A disposed within recess 627 of chin bar 624 may be defined as the percentage of head 660 disposed within recess 627. For example, at least ten percent (10%) of the volume of head 660 of mounting element 658A may be disposed within recess 627 of chin bar 624. Having at least a portion of mounting element 658A within recess 627 increases the force required to separate mounting element 658A from coupling member 648 because sidewalls of recess 627 in chin bar 624 may provide additional resistance to separation of coupling member 648 and mounting element 658A. For example, the sidewalls of recess 627 in chin bar 624 may prevent mounting element 658A from disengaging from coupling member 648. This may be especially true if a shear or lateral force is applied to face shield 618. For example, if face shield 618 includes multiple removable layers for removing debris or the like from face shield 618, face shield 618, and therefore attachment element 658A, may be subjected to shear or lateral forces. The side walls of recess 627 in chin bar 624 may prevent any lateral movement of attachment element 658A relative to coupling member 648. This may be achieved by configuring dimension D1 of recess 627 in chin bar 624 to be at least slightly larger than dimension D2 of head 660 of attachment element 658A.This can prevent the mounting element 658A from sliding laterally a sufficient distance to cause the head 660 of the mounting element 658A to become separated from the coupling member 648.

[0165] As described above, because coupling member 648 includes one of a ferromagnetic material or a magnetic material and mounting element 658A includes the other of a ferromagnetic material or a magnetic material, coupling member 648 and mounting element 658A may be magnetically attracted to each other. In the illustrated configuration, coupling member 648 may include a magnetic material, such that a magnetic field may be generated from or by coupling member 648. When coupling member 648 is coupled to mounting element 658A, the magnetic field surrounding a component including a magnetic material will be changed when a component including a ferromagnetic material is placed adjacent.

[0166] Detector 670, positioned adjacent coupling member 648, may comprise a Hall Effect sensor configured to detect a change in a magnetic field indicating that surgical gown 612 has been coupled to surgical helmet 620. For example, if coupling member 648 comprises a magnetic material and attachment element 658A comprises a ferromagnetic material, detector 670 may detect a first configuration of the magnetic field surrounding coupling member 648 when attachment element 658A is separated from coupling member 648. Detector 670 may then detect a second configuration of the magnetic field surrounding coupling member 648 when attachment element 658A is adjacent coupling member 648, indicating that surgical gown 612 has been coupled to surgical helmet 620. Alternatively, if coupling member 648 comprises a ferromagnetic material and attachment element 658A comprises a magnetic material, detector 670 may detect the absence of a magnetic field surrounding coupling member 648 when attachment element 658A is separated from coupling member 648. The detector 670 may then detect the presence of a magnetic field when the attachment element 658A is adjacent the coupling member 648, indicating that the surgical gown 612 is coupled to the surgical helmet 620. As described above, the controller may be configured to communicate operational commands to the detector 670 as well as receive a signal from the detector 670 associated with the characteristic detected by the detector 670. The signal may be based on the presence, absence, and / or change in the characteristic detected by the detector 670, which may be associated with the presence or absence of the surgical gown 612 coupled to the surgical helmet 620. The controller may also be connected to one or more peripheral devices 630 of the surgical helmet 620, such as the ventilation assembly 630, and configured to communicate operational commands to or from the ventilation assembly 630 or other peripheral devices 630 based on the signal received from the detector 670. For example, the controller may be configured to adjust the amount of power sent to the ventilation system 630 to control the speed of the fan blades.

[0167] 22B and 22C, a magnetic field surrounding a coupling member 648 including a magnetic material is schematically illustrated. FIG. 22B illustrates an exemplary magnetic field surrounding the coupling member 648 when the attachment element 658A is separated or uncoupled from the coupling member 648. As described above, the detector 670 may detect a first configuration of the magnetic field. In contrast, FIG. 22C illustrates an exemplary magnetic field surrounding the coupling member 648 when the attachment element 658A is positioned adjacent to the coupling member 648. As described above, the detector 670 may detect a second configuration of the magnetic field. Based on the magnetic field detected by the detector 670, the detector 670 may generate a signal indicative of whether the surgical gown 612 is coupled to the surgical helmet 620.

[0168] 23A and 23B, a second configuration of the mounting element 658B is shown in detail. Similar to the mounting element 658 described above, the second configuration of the mounting element 658B includes a head 660 having a distal surface 665 and an opposing proximal surface 659. The head 660 may include a concave surface 674B that defines a recess 661B. The concave surface 674B that defines the recess 661B of the mounting element 658B may be formed to have a multi-sided shape. The concave surface 674B of the head 660 may include two or more surfaces that cooperate to define the recess 661B. The number of surfaces in the multi-sided recess 661B may vary so that the recess 661B can matingly receive the protruding surface 647 of the coupling member 648 when coupled together.

[0169] 24A and 24B, a third configuration of the mounting element 658C is shown in detail. Similar to the mounting element 658 described above, the third configuration of the mounting element 658C includes a head 660 having a distal surface 665 and an opposing proximal surface 659. The head 660 may include a concave surface 674C defining a recess 661C. The recess 661C of the mounting element 658C has a cylindrical shape. The depth and / or diameter of the cylindrical recess 661C may vary such that the recess 661C can matingly receive the protruding surface 647 of the coupling member 648 when coupled together. While the surface 674C of the recess 661C shown in FIGS. 24A and 24B is flat, the concave surface 674C defining the recess 661C may be arcuate.

[0170] 25A and 25B, a fourth configuration of the mounting element 658D is shown in detail. Similar to the mounting element 658 described above, the fourth configuration of the mounting element 658D includes a head 660 having a distal surface 665 and an opposing proximal surface 659. The head 660 may include a concave surface 674D defining a recess 661D. The recess 661D of the mounting element 658D has a bowl-like shape including a flat surface. The flat surface may be disposed proximate a center and / or an apex of the recess 661D. The depth and / or radius of curvature of the bowl-like shaped recess 661D may vary such that the recess 661D can matingly receive the protruding surface 647 of the coupling member 648 when coupled together.

[0171] 26A and 26B, a fifth configuration of the mounting element 658E is shown in detail. Similar to the mounting element 658 described above, the fifth configuration of the mounting element 658E includes a head 660 having a distal surface 665 and an opposing proximal surface 659. The head 660 may include a concave surface 674E defining a recess 661E. The head 660 may also include a rim 663 at least partially surrounding the recess 661E. The recess 661E of the mounting element 658E has a generally concave shape. The radius of curvature and / or depth of the recess 661E shown in FIGS. 26A and 26B are not intended to be limiting. The depth and / or radius of the recess 661E may vary such that the recess can matingly receive the protruding surface 647 of the coupling member when coupled together.

[0172] As described above, the mounting element 658 includes both ferromagnetic and diamagnetic materials. At least a portion of the head 660 and / or the mounting element 658E may include a diamagnetic material, or the head 660 and / or the mounting element 658 may be coated with a ferromagnetic material configured to interact with the coupling member 648, which includes a magnetic material. Alternatively, the head 660 of the mounting element 658E may include a diamagnetic material and further include a ferromagnetic material disposed within the diamagnetic material of the head 660. The fifth configuration of the mounting element 658E shown in FIGS. 26A and 26B is one exemplary configuration of such a mounting element 658E. The mounting element 658E may further include a plurality of spaced inserts 633 disposed on a rim 663 surrounding the recess 661E. The head 660 of the mounting element 658 may be formed of a diamagnetic material. The insert 633 may include a ferromagnetic material and be disposed at least partially within the head 660. The ferromagnetic material of the insert 633 may be configured to interact with the coupling member 648 via magnetic force. The position and orientation of the insert 633 shown in FIGS. 26A and 26B are merely one exemplary configuration. The number of inserts 633 may be increased or decreased as needed to generate the necessary magnetic attraction between the coupling member 648 and the attachment element 658E. One or more inserts 633 may be disposed on or within the proximal surface 659 and / or rim 663 of the head 660. The inserts 633 may also be disposed and / or at least partially disposed within the concave surface 674E of the head 660 of the attachment element 658E. Furthermore, although the inserts 633 shown in FIGS. 26A and 26B are disposed on the proximal surface 659 and / or rim 663 as well as the concave surface 674E of the head 660, they may be disposed only on the proximal surface 659 and / or rim 663 or only on the concave surface 674E. Furthermore, although at least a portion of insert 633 is shown as constituting part of proximal surface 659, rim 663, and / or concave surface 674E, insert 633 may be positioned such that it is entirely disposed within head 660 and / or entirely surrounded by head 660.Alternatively, if the coupling member 648 includes a ferromagnetic material, the head 660 may be constructed of a diamagnetic material and the insert 633 may be constructed of a magnetic material configured to interact with the coupling member 648 via magnetic force.

[0173] 27A and 27B, a sixth configuration of mounting element 758 is shown in detail. Similar to mounting element 658 described above, the sixth configuration of mounting element 758 includes a head 760 having a distal surface 765 and an opposing proximal surface 759. However, unlike mounting element 658 described above, head 760 of mounting element 758 may be configured as a ring, washer, or similar shape defining an opening therethrough. Mounting element 758 may further include a post 767 having a proximal portion 769. Proximal portion 769 may be coupled to proximal surface 765 of head 760. Proximal portion 769 of post 767 may have an arc-like, U-shaped, or similar curved shape with both ends coupled to distal surface 765 of head 760. The combination of head 760 and proximal portion 769 of post 767 may define a recess 761 in attachment element 758 that receives protruding surface 647 of coupling member 648. The depth and / or radius of head 760 may vary such that, when coupled together, recess 761 can matingly receive protruding surface 647 of coupling member 648.

[0174] 28A and 28B, a seventh configuration of the mounting element 858 is shown in detail. Similar to the mounting element 658 described above, the seventh configuration of the mounting element 858 includes a head 860 having proximal surfaces 859A, 859B. However, unlike the mounting elements 658, 758 described above, the head 860 of the mounting element 858 may have an arc-like, U-shaped, or similarly curved shape terminating at both ends in the proximal surfaces 859A, 859B. The head 860 of the mounting element 858 may include two legs 863A, 863B that define a recess 861 in the mounting element 858 configured to receive the protruding surface 647 of the coupling member 648. Thus, the mounting element 858 may still define the recess 861 even if it does not include a surface that surrounds the recess 861 360 degrees. The depth and / or radius of the legs 863A, 863B of the head 860 may vary such that the recess 861 can matingly receive the protruding surface 647 of the coupling member 648 when joined together.

[0175] 29A and 29B, an eighth configuration of the mounting element 958 is shown in detail. Similar to the mounting elements 658, 758, and 858 described above, the eighth configuration of the mounting element 958 includes heads 960A, 960B having a distal surface 965 and an opposing proximal surface 959. However, unlike the mounting elements described above, the mounting element 958 may be configured without a post. The heads 960A, 960B of the mounting element 958 may include two or more similar arcuate portions that at least partially define a ring or similar circular shape to define the recess 961 in the head 960. While the heads 960A, 960B of the mounting element 958 shown in FIGS. 29A and 29B include two head portions 960A, 960B, they may also be configured as solid rings or similar polygonal shapes that define openings therethrough. Alternatively, the heads 960A, 960B may be configured as three or more sections configured and / or arranged to define a ring or similar polygonal shape that in combination with the face shield 618 defines the recess 961.

[0176] Although the exemplary configuration of the attachment element 958 shown in Figures 29A and 29B does not include a post, portions of the heads 960A, 960B may be directly coupled to the face shield 618. For example, the distal surfaces 965A, 965B may be directly coupled to the face shield 618 using an epoxy, glue, sealant, or similar adhesive. However, portions of the heads 960A, 960B may include a post configured to couple the portions of the heads 960A, 960B to the face shield 618 through corresponding openings arranged to orient the portions of the heads 960A, 960B in a similar configuration, as shown in Figures 29A and 29B.

[0177] In this configuration, the combination of the portions of the heads 960A, 960B with the face shield 618 and / or surgical gown 612 may cooperate to define a recess 961 in the attachment element 958 configured to receive the protruding surface 647 of the coupling member 648. The depth and / or radius of the portions of the heads 960A, 960B of the attachment element 958 may vary such that the recess 961 can matingly receive the protruding surface 647 of the coupling member 648 when coupled together.

[0178] The above-described configurations of coupling member 648 and mounting elements 658, 758, 858, 958 include a coupling member 648 including a mounting element 658, 758, 858, 958 having a protruding surface 647 and a recessed portion 661, 761, 861, 961. However, the reverse relationship between the coupling member and mounting element is also contemplated. Referring to FIG. 30 , a partial schematic diagram of a ninth configuration of a mounting element 1058 coupled to a coupling member 1048 is shown. The mounting element 1058 may include a head 1060 having a proximal surface 1059 and an opposing distal surface 1065. The proximal surface 1059 may be configured to have a generally convex, hemispherical, or similar curved shape. The mounting element 1058 may also include a post 1067 extending distally from the distal surface 1065 of the head 1060. The post 1067 may include a proximal portion 1069 and a distal portion 1071. As described above, the proximal portion 1069 and the distal portion 1071 may have different dimensions. For example, the post 1067 may be configured such that the proximal portion 1069 has a larger dimension than the distal portion 1071 to form a shoulder. At least the distal portion 1071 of the post 1067 is intended to fit into the opening 619 in the face shield 618 to couple the mounting element 1058 to the face shield 618. While the exemplary configuration of the mounting element 1058 shown in FIG. 30 includes the post 1067 with the proximal portion 1069 having a larger dimension than the distal portion 1071, the post 1067 may have a single, uniform dimension configured to fit into the opening 619 in the face shield 618. The distal portion of the post 1067 may further include a retention feature 1073 configured to couple the mounting element 1058 to the face shield 618. The retention feature 1073 may include a nut, cap, friction fit, or similar fastener. Alternatively, the distal end of the distal portion 1071 may mushroom out to define the retention feature 1073.

[0179] The coupling member 1048 may include a distal surface 1047 having a concave or similar curved shape configured to define a recess 1061 that receives the proximal surface 1059 of the attachment element 1048 .

[0180] 31 , a partial schematic diagram of a tenth configuration of an attachment element 1158 coupled to a coupling member 1148 is shown. The attachment element 1158 may include a head 1160 having a proximal surface 1159 and an opposite distal surface 1165. The proximal surface 1159 may have a generally convex shape including a flat portion 1161. The proximal surface 1159 may be configured such that the flat portion 1161 is disposed proximate to the apex of the convex proximal surface 1159. The attachment element 1158 may also include a post 1167 extending distally from the distal surface 1165 of the head 1160. The post may include a proximal portion 1169 and a distal portion 1171. As described above, the proximal portion 1169 and the distal portion 1171 may have different dimensions. For example, the post 1167 may be configured such that the proximal portion 1169 has a larger dimension than the distal portion 1171 to form a shoulder. At least the distal portion 1171 of the post 1167 is configured to fit within the opening 619 in the face shield 618 to couple the mounting element 1158 to the face shield 618. While the exemplary configuration of the mounting element 1158 shown in FIG. 31 includes the post 1167 with the proximal portion 1169 having a larger dimension than the distal portion 1171, the post 1167 may have a single, uniform dimension configured to fit within the opening 619 in the face shield 618. The distal portion of the post 1167 may further include a retention feature 1173 configured to couple the mounting element 1158 to the face shield 618. The retention feature 1173 may include a nut, cap, friction fit, or similar fastener. Alternatively, the distal end of distal portion 1171 may mushroom out to define retention feature 1173 .

[0181] The coupling member 1148 may include a distal surface 1147 having a concave or similar curved shape configured to define a recess 1161 that receives the proximal surface 1159 of the attachment element 1148 .

[0182] 32, a partial schematic view of an eleventh configuration of an attachment element 1258 coupled to a coupling member 1248 is shown. The attachment element 1258 may include a head 1260 having a proximal surface 1259 and an opposite distal surface 1265. The proximal surface 1259 may have a generally convex, hemispherical, or similar curved shape. The attachment element 1258 may also include a post 1267 extending distally from the distal surface 1265 of the head 1260. The exemplary configuration of the attachment element 1258 shown in FIG. 32 includes a post 1267 having a single, uniform dimension configured to fit into the opening 619 in the face shield 618. However, as described above, the post 1267 may include a proximal portion and a distal portion, and the proximal portion may have a different dimension than the distal portion to form a shoulder.

[0183] As described above, the distal portion of the post 1267 may further include a retention feature 1273 configured to couple the mounting element 1258 to the face shield 618. The retention feature 1273 may include a nut, cap, friction fit, or similar fastener. Alternatively, the distal end of the distal portion 1271 may mushroom out to define the retention feature 1273.

[0184] The coupling member 1248 may include a distal surface 1247 having a concave or similar curved shape configured to define a recess that receives the proximal surface 1259 of the attachment element 1248 .

[0185] 33 , a partial schematic diagram of a twelfth configuration of an attachment element 1358 coupled to a coupling member 1348 is shown. The attachment element 1358 may include a head 1360 having a proximal surface 1359 and an opposite distal surface 1365. The proximal surface 1359 may have a generally convex shape including a plurality of flats 1361A, 1361B. The proximal surface 1359 may be configured such that at least one flat 1361B is disposed proximate to an apex of the convex-shaped proximal surface 1359. Another flat 1361A may be disposed on the periphery of the head 1360 proximate to the intersection of the proximal surface 1350 and the distal surface 1365. The attachment element 1358 may also include a post 1367 extending distally from the distal surface 1365 of the head 1360. The exemplary configuration of the attachment element 1358 shown in FIG. 33 includes a post 1367 having a single, uniform dimension configured to fit into the opening 619 in the face shield 618. However, as described above, the post 1367 may include a proximal portion and a distal portion, with the proximal portion having a different dimension than the distal portion to form a shoulder. The distal portion of the post 1367 may further include a retention feature 1373 configured to couple the attachment element 1358 to the face shield 618. The retention feature 1373 may include a nut, cap, friction fit, or similar fastener. Alternatively, the distal end of the distal portion 1371 may mushroom out to define the retention feature 1373.

[0186] The coupling member 1348 may include a distal surface 1347 having a concave or similar curved shape configured to define a recess 1361 that receives the proximal surface 1359 of the attachment element 1358 .

[0187] In each of the various configurations shown in Figures 30-33, the attachment elements 1058, 1158, 1258, 1358 include proximal surfaces 1059, 1159, 1259, 1359 having a generally convex, hemispherical, or similarly curved shape, and the complementary coupling members 1048, 1148, 1248, 1348 include distal surfaces 1047, 1147, 1247, 1347 having a concave or similarly curved shape. Similar to the configurations of the mounting elements and coupling members described above, the configurations of the mounting elements 1058, 1158, 1258, 1358 and coupling members 1048, 1148, 1248, 1348 in Figures 30-33 allow the mounting elements 1058, 1158, 1258, 1358 to pivot or rotate relative to the coupling members 1048, 1148, 1248, 1348. This allows the mounting elements 1058, 1158, 1258, 1358 to be coupled to the coupling members 1048, 1148, 1248, 1348 at various angles without compromising the strength of the magnetic coupling between the mounting elements 1058, 1158, 1258, 1358 and the coupling members 1048, 1148, 1248, 1348. This may increase the force required to separate the attachment element 1058 , 1158 , 1258 , 1358 from the coupling member 1048 , 1148 , 1248 , 1348 .

[0188] A method of operating any of the above-described surgical apparel systems.

[0189] A method of operating the surgical apparel system 110 may include providing any of the configurations of the surgical apparel system 110, 610 described above. For example, the method may include providing a surgical helmet 120, 620 configured to be worn on an individual's head and a surgical gown 112, 612 removably coupled to the surgical helmet 120, 620 and configured to provide a microbial barrier between the medical environment and the wearer. The surgical helmet 120, 620 may include one or more peripherals 130, 630 configured to facilitate movement of an individual wearing the surgical helmet 120, 620 during a surgical procedure. The surgical helmet 120, 620 may also include a detector 170, 270, 370, 470, 570, 670 configured to detect coupling of the surgical gown 112, 612 to the surgical helmet 120, 620 and to communicate a signal based at least in part on the presence or absence of the surgical gown 112, 612 coupled to the surgical helmet 120, 620. A controller 180, 680 may also be coupled to the surgical helmet 120, 620 and configured to communicate with the detector 170, 270, 370, 470, 570, 670 and / or the peripheral device 130, 630. The system 110, 610 may also include a portable energy source 182 removably interconnected with the surgical helmet 120, 620. The portable energy source 182 may be configured to communicate with the controller 180.

[0190] The method may further include attaching or coupling a portable energy source 182 to the system 110, 610. For example, the energy source 182, such as a battery pack, may be coupled to a battery receptacle of the surgical helmet 120, 620 or may be disposed in electrical communication with the surgical helmet 120, 620.

[0191] The method may include utilizing a detector 170, 270, 370, 470, 570, 670 to detect and / or determine whether the surgical gown 112, 612 is coupled to the surgical helmet 120, 620. This may be accomplished using any of the various configurations of detectors 170, 270, 370, 470, 570, 670 described above or other configurations not specifically described herein. For example, the presence or absence of the surgical gown 112 coupled to the surgical helmet 120 may be accomplished using a first configuration of detector 170, where first member 154 is configured to selectively couple to a toggle member 172 of detector 170 based at least in part on the proximity of attachment element 158 ​​to distal surface 147 of coupling mechanism 146. Alternatively, the presence or absence of the surgical gown 112 coupled to the surgical helmet 120 may be achieved using a second configuration of the detector 270, where the first member 254 is configured to selectively move between a first region and a second region based at least in part on the proximity of the attachment element 158 ​​to the distal surface 247 of the coupling mechanism 246. In yet another example, the presence or absence of the surgical gown 612 coupled to the surgical helmet 620 may be achieved using one of a combination of attachment elements and coupling members with the detector 670, where the detector 670 is configured to sense or detect a change in the magnetic field surrounding the coupling members 648, 748, 848, 948, 1048 based on the proximity of the attachment elements 658, 758, 858, 958, 1058, 1158, 1258, 1358 to the coupling members 648, 748, 848, 948, 1048.

[0192] The method may further include controlling an operational characteristic of the peripheral device 130, 630 based at least in part on whether the detector 170, 270, 370, 470, 570, 670 indicates that the surgical gown 112, 612 has been coupled to the surgical helmet 120, 620. The controller 180 may be configured to selectively control one or more operational characteristics of the peripheral device 130, 630. The controller 180 may be configured to control (e.g., allow) the transfer of power to and / or from the energy source 182 to the peripheral device 130, 630. In other words, the controller 180 may control whether the peripheral device 130, 630 is activated. The method may also include controlling a maximum and / or minimum operational speed of the peripheral device 130, 630. For example, the controller 180 may be configured to prevent the transmission of energy and / or limit the amount of energy transmitted to the peripheral device 130, 630 (such as by limiting voltage) until the detector 170, 270, 370, 470, 570, 670 indicates that the surgical gown 112, 612 is coupled to the surgical helmet 120, 620.

[0193] As described above, the surgical helmet 120, 620 of the system 110, 610 may further include a memory device 184 coupled to the surgical helmet 120, 620 and in communication with the controller 180. The memory device 184 may be configured to store data associated with the operation of the peripherals 130, 630. The data in the memory device 184 may include the current operational settings of the peripherals, such as fan speed, cooling intensity, and / or whether lights are on. The data in the memory device 184 may also include maximum and minimum operating conditions for each of the peripherals 130, 630 of the surgical helmet 120, 620.

[0194] Also, as described above, the system 110, 610 may include an energy sensor 186 in communication with the controller 180 and / or the energy source 182. The energy sensor 186 may be configured to detect a characteristic of the energy source 182 and communicate an energy signal to the controller 180 based on the detected characteristic of the energy source 182. For example, the energy sensor 186 may be configured to communicate an energy signal to the controller 180 when the remaining power falls below a threshold. The threshold may be set by the controller 180 or by a user. For example, the energy sensor 186 may be configured to communicate an energy signal to the controller 180 when the remaining power level falls below 15 percent (%).

[0195] The method may further include coupling the surgical gown 112, 612 to the surgical helmet 120, 620 such that at least a portion of the surgical gown 112, 612 is disposed above the surgical helmet 120, 620. The surgical gown 112, 612 may be coupled to the surgical helmet 120, 620 using any of the configurations of attachment elements 158, 558, 658, 758, 858, 958, 1058, 1158, 1258, 1358, coupling members 148, 648, 748, 848, 948, 1048, and coupling mechanisms 146, 246, 346, 446, 546 described above, or other configurations not specifically described. This involves positioning the attachment elements 158, 558, 658, 758, 858, 958, 1058, 1158, 1258, 1358 of the surgical gown 112, 612 adjacent to the coupling members 148, 648, 748, 848, 948, 1048 and / or coupling mechanisms 146, 246, 346, 446, 546 of the surgical helmet 120, 620.

[0196] Upon connecting the energy source 182 to the system 110, 610, the method may further include transmitting an energy signal from the energy sensor 186 to the controller 180, the energy signal indicating a characteristic of the energy source 182, such as a remaining power level of the energy source 182. The method may then include storing (memorizing) at least one user setting for the peripheral device 130, 630 based on the energy signal. For example, the controller 180 may be configured to store at least one user setting for the peripheral device 130, 630 based on the energy signal upon each occurrence of an energy signal indicating a 10 percent (%) decrease in the remaining power level. Alternatively, the controller 180 may be configured to store at least one user setting for the peripheral device 130, 630 when the energy signal indicates that the remaining power level has fallen below a threshold, such as when the power remaining drops to 15 percent (%). The controller 180 may be configured to store the current user setting for the peripheral device 130, 630 in the memory device 184. More generally, this feature allows user settings on a peripheral device 130, 630 to be saved before the battery goes into a low power state or becomes inoperable.

[0197] The method may further include replacing the energy source 182 with a second energy source 182 while the surgical gown 112, 612 is coupled to the surgical helmet 120, 620. The controller 180 may be configured to provide a signal to the peripheral 130 based on user settings for the peripheral 130, 630 from the memory device 184, e.g., most recently stored user settings, when the second energy source 182 is connected to the system 110, 610. Further, the controller 180 may be configured to restart the peripheral 130, 630 based on the most recently stored user settings after replacing the energy source 182. This may be conditioned on the controller not receiving a signal from the detector 170, 670 indicating that the surgical gown 112, 612 remained coupled to the surgical helmet 120, 620 while the energy source 182 was being replaced, i.e., not receiving a signal from the detector indicating that the gown was detached from the surgical helmet 120, 620 while the first or second energy source was in communication with the controller. For example, if a user is operating a peripheral device 130, 630, such as a ventilation assembly, at a third fan speed setting, the controller 180 may be configured to restart the ventilation assembly 130, 630 at the third fan speed setting when the second energy source 182 is connected. This system configuration may further include a capacitor or auxiliary backup energy source in communication with the detector 170, 270, 370, 470, 570, 670 and configured to temporarily provide power to the detector 170, 270, 370, 470, 570, 670 while the energy source 182 is detached. This allows the detector 170, 270, 370, 470, 570, 670 to continue to detect a characteristic that indicates whether the surgical gown 112, 612 remains coupled to the surgical helmet 120, 620.

[0198] The method may also include clearing user settings of the peripheral 130 stored in the memory device 184 when the detector 170, 270, 370, 470, 570, 670 indicates that the surgical gown 112, 612 has been separated from the surgical helmet 120, 620, that the surgical gown 112, 612 is no longer coupled to the surgical helmet 120, 620, and / or that the energy source 182 or a subsequent energy source 182 has been disconnected from the system 110, 610. When both the surgical gown 112, 612 and the energy source 182 are removed from the surgical helmet 120, 620, stored user settings associated with the operation of the peripheral 130, 630 may be cleared from the memory device 184, resetting the peripheral 130, 630 to its respective default settings.

[0199] In another exemplary configuration, the method may further include storing user settings for the peripheral device 130, 630 in the memory device 184 and separating the surgical gown 112, 612 from the surgical helmet 120, 620 while the energy source 182 is in communication with the controller 180. The controller 180 may stop providing power to the peripheral device 130, 630 when the detector 170, 270, 370, 470, 570, 670 determines that the surgical gown 112, 612 has been separated from the surgical helmet 120, 620. After removing the first surgical gown 112, 612, a second surgical gown 112, 612 may be coupled to the surgical helmet 120, 620 while the energy source 182 continues to communicate with the controller 180. The controller 180 may be configured to communicate the most recently stored user settings from the memory device 184 to the peripherals 130, 630 following coupling of the second surgical gown 112, 612 with the surgical helmet 120, 620. The controller 180 may then be configured to restart the peripherals 130, 630 based on the most recently stored settings prior to removal of the first surgical gown 112, 612.

[0200] The method may further include erasing user settings of the peripherals 130, 630 stored in the memory device 184 when the detectors 170, 270, 370, 470, 570, 670 indicate to the controller 180 that the surgical gown 112, 612 has been separated from the surgical helmet 120, 620 and the energy source 182 has been disconnected from the surgical helmet 120, 620. This may return or reset the peripherals 130, 630 to their respective initial settings.

[0201] In yet another exemplary configuration, the system may include a memory device 184 configured to store data associated with one or more configurations of the surgical gown 112, 612. The method may include using the detector 170, 270, 370, 470, 570, 670 to identify one of a plurality of configurations of the surgical gown 112, 612 coupled to the surgical helmet 120, 620, communicating the identified configuration of the surgical gown 112, 612 to the controller 180, and communicating a command associated with at least one operational characteristic of the peripheral device 130, 630 based at least in part on the identified configuration of the surgical gown 112, 612. For example, the controller 180 may be configured to control the operational characteristic of the peripheral device 130, 630 based on a thickness or density of the fabric 114 / 116, 614 / 616 of the surgical gown 112, 612 coupled to the surgical helmet 120, 620. This may include increasing the speed of peripherals 130, 630, such as ventilation assemblies 130, 630, when a surgical gown 112, 612 including high-density filter fabric 116, 616 material is coupled to a surgical helmet 120, 620.

[0202] In another exemplary method of operating the system 110, 610, the method may include coupling the surgical gown 112, 612 to the surgical helmet 120, 620 such that at least a portion of the surgical gown 112, 612 is disposed over the surgical helmet 120, 620. The method may further include receiving a signal from the detector 170, 270, 370, 470, 570, 670 indicating that the surgical gown 112, 612 has been coupled to the surgical helmet 120, 620, and delaying transmission of power from the energy source 182 to the peripheral device 130, 630 for a defined first period of time after receiving the signal from the detector 170, 270, 370, 470, 570, 670. In other words, the controller 180 is configured to transmit power to the peripheral device 130, 630 only after the surgical gown 112, 612 is coupled to the surgical helmet 120, 620 and a first period of time has elapsed. The length of the first period of time may be adjusted based on a user's preference or the expected time required to complete a task prior to transmitting power to the peripheral device 130, 630. For example, the controller 180 may be configured to delay the transmission of energy from the energy source 182 to the peripheral device 130, 630 for five seconds after a signal from a detector 170, 270, 370, 470, 570, 670 indicates that the surgical gown 112, 612 has been coupled to the surgical helmet 120, 612. This may allow the wearer additional time to properly attach and / or adjust the surgical gown 112, 612 prior to initiating operation of the peripheral device 130, 630, such as a ventilation assembly. This may prevent microorganisms from circulating in the operating room before an appropriate sterile barrier is in place.

[0203] The method may also include separating the surgical gown 112, 612 from the surgical helmet 120, 620. The method may include receiving a signal from a detector 170, 270, 370, 470, 570, 670 indicating that the surgical gown 112, 612 has been separated from the surgical helmet 120, 620, and continuing to transmit power to the peripheral device 130, 630 for a second defined period of time after receiving the signal from the detector 170, 270, 370, 470, 570, 670. For example, the controller 180 may be configured to continue transmitting energy from the energy source 182 to the peripheral device 130, 630 for five seconds after receiving a signal from the detector 170, 270, 370, 470, 570, 670 indicating that the surgical gown 112, 612 has been separated from the surgical helmet 120, 620. This may allow the peripheral device 130, 630, such as a ventilation assembly, to continue operating temporarily after the surgical gown 112, 612 is removed to remove any debris from the peripheral device 130, 630.

[0204] Additional features, components, and / or subassemblies may be incorporated into or combined with any of the above-described surgical apparel systems 10, 110, 610. A number of general components for use with the surgical apparel systems are shown in Figures 34, 35, and 36 and are described below with respect to the general system 1410. It should be understood that any of the components and / or features of the general system 1410 described below may be incorporated into and / or combined with any of the above-described surgical apparel systems 10, 110, 610.

[0205] The system 1410 may further include a transceiver 1490 coupled to the surgical helmet 1420 and in communication with the controller 1480. The controller 1480 may be operatively coupled to the transceiver 1490 and configured to communicate data with the transceiver 1490.

[0206] The system 1410 may further include an electromagnetic tag 1492 attached to the surgical gown 1412 or medical gown. For example, the electromagnetic tag 1492 may include an RFID tag or similar tag configured to include identifying information associated with the particular surgical gown 1412. The electromagnetic tag 1492 may be located anywhere on the surgical gown 1412. For example, the electromagnetic tag 1492 may be attached to a filter fabric 1416 of the surgical gown 1412. Alternatively, the electromagnetic tag 1492 may be attached to a surgical fabric 1414 of the surgical gown 1412 or to a controller housing of the surgical gown 1412. In one configuration, the tag 1492 may be attached to the surgical gown 1412 at the wearer's side to reduce the possibility of introducing non-sterile or contaminated items to the environmental side of the barrier defined by the surgical gown 1412. Alternatively, it is contemplated that the tag 1492 may be attached to the surgical gown 1412 on the environmental side of the barrier defined by the surgical gown 1412 .

[0207] The electromagnetic tag 1492 may be configured to transmit or communicate information, including information associated with a particular surgical gown 1412, to a transceiver 1490 coupled to the surgical helmet 1420. In one exemplary configuration, the electromagnetic tag 1492 may be configured to activate upon receiving a signal from the transceiver 1490, such as a request to transmit data. Once activated, the electromagnetic tag 1492 may transmit a signal back to the transceiver 1490 that includes data associated with the surgical gown 1412 associated with the electromagnetic tag 1492. In this configuration, the transceiver 1490 may be configured to actively broadcast a signal requesting the transmission of data. The signal may be broadcast up to a defined distance from the transceiver 1490, and the electromagnetic tag 1492 may be configured to transmit a return signal including data associated with the surgical gown 1412 when within the defined distance from the transceiver 1490. In one exemplary configuration, the electromagnetic tag 1492 may be positioned on the surgical gown 1412 such that when the surgical gown 1412 is attached to the surgical helmet 1420, the electromagnetic tag 1492 may be positioned in proximity to the transceiver 1490. This arrangement may enable transmission of data from the electromagnetic tag 1492 to the transceiver 1490 when the surgical gown 1412 and the surgical helmet 1420 are coupled to one another. For example, in an exemplary arrangement of the electromagnetic tag 1492 and the transceiver 1490, the electromagnetic tag 1492 may be attached to the filter fabric 1416 and the transceiver 1490 may be housed within the housing 1432 of the surgical helmet 1420.

[0208] As described above, the electromagnetic tag 1492 may be configured to store data and / or identifiers associated with the surgical gown 1412, such as a serial number that identifies the particular surgical gown 1412. The electromagnetic tag 1492 may also be configured to store information identifying the type of surgical gown 1412 associated with the electromagnetic tag 1492. The electromagnetic tag 1492 may also store data regarding optimal operating parameters for the peripherals 1430 to operate on the surgical helmet 1420 based on characteristics of the particular surgical gown 1412 that will be attached to the surgical helmet 1420, such as the size of the surgical gown 1412, the type of fabric, and whether the surgical gown 1412 is a hood or a toga.

[0209] The transceiver 1490 of the helmet 1420 may be operatively connected to the controller 1480 and configured to transmit data and / or information received from the electromagnetic tag 1492 to the controller 1480. As described above, the information received from the electromagnetic tag 1492 may be associated with an identifier for the individual surgical gown 1412. The controller 1480, which is also connected to one or more peripheral devices 1430 of the surgical helmet 1420, may be configured to communicate operational commands to the peripheral devices 1430 based at least in part on information related to the surgical gown 1412 received from the transceiver 1490. For example, the controller 1480 may be configured to generate operational commands to activate the peripheral devices 1430 of the surgical helmet 1420 only after the surgical gown 1412 has been attached to the surgical helmet 1420, as confirmed by the transceiver 1490 identifying the electromagnetic tag 1492 of the surgical gown 1412. In other words, the controller 1480 may be prevented from generating operational commands and / or transmitting energy to one or more of the peripheral devices 1430 until the transceiver 1490 transmits a signal corresponding to the appropriate identifier read on the surgical gown 1412. The transceiver 1490 reads the electromagnetic tag 1492 when the surgical gown 1412 is placed in proximity to the surgical helmet 1420, thereby eliminating disadvantages associated with providing the surgical apparel system 1410 with a peripheral device 1430, such as a ventilation assembly 1430, that is activated prior to placement of the surgical gown 1412 on the surgical helmet 1420. As discussed above with respect to the function of the coupling mechanisms 146, 246, 346, 446, among other disadvantages are the generation of noise generated by the ventilation assembly 1430 when it is not usefully performing its function. A second disadvantage that may be eliminated by preventing activation of the peripheral device 1430 prior to attaching the surgical gown 1412 to the surgical helmet 1420 is that the charge on the energy source 182 is drawn down when activation of the peripheral device 1430 is not required.

[0210] In another exemplary configuration, a wearable surgical gown 1412 (which may also be referred to as a medical gown) for use with a surgical helmet 1420 may further include an electromagnetic tag 1492 configured to store data associated with the surgical gown 1412. The electromagnetic tag 1492 may be configured to exchange data with a transceiver 1490 (which may also be referred to as an electromagnetic reader) of the surgical helmet 1420 when the electromagnetic tag 1492 and the transceiver 1490 are in some proximity to one another. The stored data in the electromagnetic tag 1492 associated with the surgical gown 1412 may include an identifier unique to the surgical gown 1412. Operation of the peripheral device 1430 of the surgical helmet 1420 may be based at least in part on the stored identifier. The stored data in the electromagnetic tag 1492 associated with the surgical gown 1412 may further include usage data indicating whether the surgical gown 1412 has been coupled to the surgical helmet 1420. The usage data may also indicate the number of times the surgical gown 1412 has been coupled to the surgical helmet 1420 in the past. The data stored in the electromagnetic tag 1492 associated with the surgical gown 1412 may further include authentication data indicating whether the surgical gown 1412 is compatible with the surgical helmet 1420. Authentication data may include the size of the surgical gown 1412, the type of gown, the manufacturer of the gown, etc. The stored data associated with the surgical gown 1412 may also include data used to generate operational commands for the peripheral devices 1430 of the surgical helmet 1420, including at least the operational data on which the commands are generated. The operational data may include specific operational modes for the peripheral devices 1430 of the surgical helmet 1420 based on the characteristics of the surgical gown 1412. For example, the operational data associated with a particular surgical gown 1412 stored in the electromagnetic tag 1492 may include minimum and maximum settings for each peripheral device 1430 based on the characteristics of the surgical gown 1412. The stored data associated with the surgical gown 1412 may further include an identifier utilized to identify and / or track the use of the surgical gown 1412. For example, the identifier may include a serial number unique to the surgical gown 1412, allowing the use and location of the surgical gown 1412 to be tracked.The controller 1480 may prevent operation of the peripheral device 1430 if usage data associated with the surgical gown 1412 indicates that the particular surgical gown 1412 has been used more than a predetermined number of uses or threshold number of uses (e.g., one time). Alternatively, the controller 1480 may be configured to allow a particular type of surgical gown 1412 to be worn multiple times (e.g., three times) before being configured to prevent operation of the peripheral device 1430.

[0211] In another exemplary configuration, the surgical apparel system 1410 may include a surgical helmet 1420 worn on the wearer's head. The surgical helmet 1420 may include a peripheral device 1430 and a transceiver 1490. The system 1410 may further include a surgical gown 1412 (which may also be referred to as a medical gown) disposed at least in part over the surgical helmet 1420 and including a surgical fabric 214 / 216 or shell configured to provide a microbial barrier between the medical environment and the wearer. An electromagnetic tag 1492 may be coupled to the surgical gown 1412 and may be configured to store an identifier associated with the surgical gown 1412. An antenna may be operably coupled to the transceiver 1490 and configured to communicate with the electromagnetic tag 1492 and receive the identifier associated with the surgical gown 1412. The surgical apparel system 1410 may further include a controller 1480 operably coupled to the peripheral device 1430 and the transceiver 1490. The controller 1480 may be configured to communicate an operating command to the peripheral device 1430 based at least in part on an identifier associated with the surgical gown 1412. The electromagnetic tag 1492 may be configured to store and transmit usage data for the surgical gown 1412, and the controller 1480 may be configured to determine if the surgical gown 1412 has been previously worn with the surgical helmet 1420. The controller 1480 may be configured to prevent operation of the peripheral device 1430 if the surgical gown 1412 has been previously worn, based at least in part on the stored usage data. The electromagnetic tag 1492 may also be configured to store authentication data for the surgical gown 1412, and the controller 1480 may be configured to determine if the surgical gown 1412 is compatible with the surgical helmet 1420. The controller 1480 may be configured to prevent operation of the peripheral device 1430 if the surgical gown 1412 is incompatible with the surgical helmet 1420 based at least in part on the stored authentication data.If the identifier is associated with a type of surgical gown 1412, the controller 1480 may be configured to determine an operational mode (generate an operational command) for the peripheral device 1430 based at least in part on the type of surgical gown 1412 attached to the surgical helmet 1420. For example, the controller 1480 may be configured to increase or decrease power output to the peripheral device 1430 based at least in part on the type of surgical gown 1412 attached to the surgical helmet 1420. In one exemplary configuration in which the peripheral device 1430 is a ventilation assembly, the controller 1480 may be configured to increase power output to the ventilation assembly if the type of surgical gown 1412 includes a thick fabric 1414 / 1416 and / or is a large size (implying a large volume of space beneath the surgical gown 1412).

[0212] The transceiver 1490 may also be coupled to a memory device 184 of the surgical helmet 1420. The memory device 184 may be configured to store data received from the electromagnetic tag 1492 of the surgical gown 1412. The information stored in the memory device 184 may be used to identify when a previously worn surgical gown 1412 is reattached to the surgical helmet 1420. For example, the surgical gown 1412 may be attached to the surgical helmet 1420 by a wearer. The memory device 184 may be configured to store and later use data received from the electromagnetic tag 1492 of the surgical gown 1412 (such as a serial number, identifier, model number, gown characteristics, or similar information). The data stored in the memory device 184 may be used to prevent operation of the peripheral device 1430 if a previously worn surgical gown 1412 is later reattached to the surgical helmet 1420. For example, in operation, if the surgical gown 1412 is attached to the surgical helmet 1420 and the transceiver 1490 receives data from the electromagnetic tag 1492 of the surgical gown 1412, the memory device 184 will store the data. This data may include an identifying characteristic, such as a serial number. If the wearer attempts to reattach the same surgical gown 1412 to the surgical helmet 1420, the memory 184 will already contain the same data when the transceiver 1490 receives the data from the electromagnetic tag 1492. When the transceiver 1490 transmits the data from the memory device 184 to the controller 1480, the controller 1480 may be configured to recognize a second input of data regarding the surgical gown 1412. Upon recognizing the second input regarding the surgical gown 1412, the controller 1480 may be configured to prevent operation of the peripheral device 1430 until a new surgical gown 1412 is attached to the surgical helmet 1420.

[0213] The energy source or power source 182 of the system 1410 may be depleted during a medical procedure, potentially resulting in a false positive identification of a reused surgical gown 1412 when the system is restarted. For example, if the energy source 182, such as a battery, of the system 1410 is depleted mid-surgery, when a new battery is installed and a new signal is sent from the electromagnetic tag 1492 to the transceiver 1490, the memory 184 will likely indicate that the attached surgical gown 1412 has been used. As described above, in this scenario, the controller 1480 may be configured to prevent operation of the peripheral device 1430. To prevent deactivation of the peripheral device 1430 based on a false positive identification of the surgical gown 1412, the system 1410 may further include a capacitor operably coupled to the controller 1480 and configured to store energy. The controller 1480 may be configured to identify that the energy source 182 of the system 1410 has just been removed if the capacitor currently stores energy. Based on an identification that the energy source 182 has just been removed, the controller 1480 may be configured to allow operation of the peripheral device 1430 even though the data from the memory device 184 suggests that the surgical gown 1412 has been donned. The controller 1480 may also be configured to allow operation of the peripheral device 1430 even though the data from the memory device 184 suggests that the surgical gown 1412 has been donned based on the time between a first time that the surgical gown 1412 is identified as being attached to the surgical helmet 1420 and a second time that the surgical gown 1412 is identified as being attached to the surgical helmet 1420. For example, the controller 1480 may be configured to allow operation of the peripheral device 1430 if it identifies that the time between a first time point at which the surgical gown 1412 is donned and a second time point at which the surgical gown 1412 is donned is less than two hours, and may prevent operation of the peripheral device 1430 with the surgical gown 1412 being worn if the time between the first time point and the second time point is more than two hours.However, this time may be set to 1 hour, 24 hours, etc., as is reasonable and appropriate for a given industry based on the usage of the surgical gown 1412.

[0214] Other configurations of the system 1410 may have various subassemblies such that peripherals 1430, such as a ventilation assembly, may operate only when the surgical gown 1412 is attached to the surgical helmet 1420. For example, it should be understood that the surgical helmet 1420 may include additional and / or alternative gown detectors in addition to the detectors 170, 270, 370, 470, 570, 670 described above. Gown detectors may include pressure sensors, load sensors, or similar types of sensors configured to detect attachment of the surgical gown 1412 to the surgical helmet 1420. For example, the chin bar 1424 may include a gown detector in the form of a pressure sensor configured to detect attachment of the surgical gown 1412 to the surgical helmet 1420.

[0215] In another exemplary configuration of the system 1410, the system 1410 may be configured such that, once the energy source 182 is attached to the surgical helmet 1420, the controller 1480 may activate the peripheral device 1430 for a predetermined period of time. This may allow the controller 1480 to complete a status check and verify that the peripheral device 1430 is functioning properly. Once the controller 1480 completes the status check, the controller 1480 may be configured to prevent further activation of the peripheral device 1430 until it receives a signal from the gown detector indicating that the surgical gown 1412 has been attached to the surgical helmet 1420. Once the controller 1480 receives a signal from the gown detector indicating that the surgical gown 1412 has been attached to the surgical helmet 1420, the controller 1480 may be configured to generate an operation command that enables the transfer of energy from the energy source 182 to the peripheral device 1430.

[0216] For example, in operation, a wearer may place a surgical helmet 1420, including peripherals 1430 such as a ventilation assembly, on their head and attach an energy source 182 to the surgical helmet 1420. The controller 1480 may then activate the ventilation assembly 1430 and verify that the ventilation assembly 1430 is operating properly. The controller 1480 may then deactivate the ventilation assembly 1430. The wearer may then attach a surgical gown 1412 to the surgical helmet 1420. The attachment of the surgical gown 1412 to the surgical helmet 1420 may be detected by a pressure sensor, switch, or transceiver 1490, or similar detector configured to detect the presence of an electromagnetic tag, such as an RFID tag 1492, on the surgical gown 1412, as described above. The detector may then send a signal to the controller 1480 to confirm that the surgical gown 1412 has been attached to the surgical helmet 1420. The controller 1480 may then activate the ventilation assembly 1430 .

[0217] In yet another configuration of the system 1410, the surgical gown 1412 and the surgical helmet 1420 may each include complementary conductors. When the surgical gown 1412 is attached to the surgical helmet 1420, the conductors integral with the surgical gown 1412 close the connection between the surgical gown 1412 and the surgical helmet 1420. For example, the conductors of the surgical gown 1412 may be integrally formed with the face shield 1418, and complementary conductors may be included in the chin bar 1424 such that a circuit is closed when the conductors of the face shield 1418 couple to the conductors of the chin bar 1424. Further, the conductors may be in magnetic communication with magnets / ferromagnetic elements of the attachment element 1458 and / or the corresponding coupling member 1448 of the chin bar 1424. A gown detector may be configured to detect closure of the circuit between the attachment element 1458 of the face shield 1418 and the surgical helmet 1420. In response to detecting this change in circuit state, the gown detector may generate a signal to the controller 1480 indicating that the circuit is closed and ready for operation. In certain configurations, the controller 1480 may generate an operation command signal to activate the peripheral device 1430 only upon receiving this signal.

[0218] In some configurations of the system 1410, removing the surgical gown 1412 from the surgical helmet 1420 may again open the circuit between the attachment elements 1458 of the surgical gown 1412 and the surgical helmet 1420, respectively. In response to detecting this reopening of the circuit, the gown detector may generate a signal to the controller 1480 indicating that the system 1410 is in an open state. In response to receiving a signal from the gown detector, the controller 1480 may be configured to return the peripherals 1430 of the surgical helmet 1420 to an off state. Thus, a further feature of these configurations of the system 1410 is that when the surgical gown 1412 is removed from the surgical helmet 1420 and use of the peripherals 1430, such as a ventilation assembly, is no longer required, the peripherals 1430 are automatically shut off or deactivated. Similar modes of operation are contemplated for the other gown detector assemblies described above.

[0219] In some forms of the surgical apparel system 1410, the controller 1480 may regulate activation of other peripherals 1430 based on whether a surgical gown 1412 is detected / attached to the surgical helmet 1420. That is, the controller 1480 may prevent activation of one or more of the light assembly, communication unit, or cooling strips based on whether the appropriate surgical gown 1412 is attached to the surgical helmet 1420.

[0220] The above is not directed to any particular configuration of the surgical apparel system 10, 110, 610, 1410. It should be understood that the individual features of the various configurations of the system 10, 110, 610, 1410 can be combined to form alternative configurations of the system 10, 110, 610, 1410.

[0221] Additionally, while the surgical apparel system 10, 110, 610, 1410 is generally intended to provide a barrier between a physician and a patient during a medical or surgical procedure, its use is not limited thereto. It is within the scope of this disclosure that the surgical apparel system 10, 110, 610, 1410 may also be used in other endeavors where it is desirable to provide a barrier between an individual and the surrounding environment. An alternative endeavor in which it may be desirable to use the system 10, 110, 610, 1410 includes those where it is desirable to provide a barrier between an individual and hazards in the environment in which the individual works.

[0222] An additional configuration of the surgical apparel system includes a surgical gown for use with a surgical helmet and including attachment elements for coupling to the surgical helmet. In describing this system, it should be understood that features and / or structures having the same reference number and / or last two digits may have the same features and / or functionality as the helmet, gown, and / or system described above.

[0223] Referring to FIG. 37, an exemplary configuration of a surgical helmet, such as the surgical helmet of FIGS. 14-17B described above, is shown. The surgical helmet 620 may include an upper beam 629 configured to be disposed forward of the housing 632 of the surgical helmet 620 and extend across the front of the surgical helmet 620. The upper beam 629 may further include a recess. The recess of the upper beam 629 may include a pair of laterally spaced-apart side walls and a proximal surface disposed proximally from the distal surface of the upper beam 629. The side walls and the proximal surface may define an alignment channel 645 configured to receive a tab 655 disposed inside the surgical gown 612 to align and / or orient the surgical gown 612 relative to the surgical helmet 620. As described above, the tab 655 may be integrally formed with and extend from the face shield 618. Alternatively, the tabs 655 may be formed separately from the face shield 618 and configured to be coupled to the interior fabric 614 of the surgical gown 612, although other configurations are contemplated. The spaced side walls of the alignment channel 645 are spaced apart a distance greater than the width of the tabs 655, thereby allowing the tabs 655 to be positioned within the alignment channel 645.

[0224] The upper beam 629 may further include a coupling mechanism 646 configured to removably couple to the face shield 618 and / or the surgical gown 612. The coupling mechanism 646 may include a protrusion, a magnetic member, a ferromagnetic member, a hook-and-loop fastener, or a similar coupling mechanism configured to removably couple to the tab 655 to align and / or couple the surgical gown 612 to the surgical helmet 620. For example, the coupling mechanism 646 may be embodied as a protrusion 646 extending from an alignment channel 645 of the upper beam 629. Here, the upper beam 629 may include the alignment channel 645 as described above, and the coupling mechanism 646 may be at least partially disposed within the alignment channel 645. The coupling mechanism 646 may be disposed within the alignment channel 645 such that the uppermost point of the uppermost surface of the coupling mechanism 646 is positioned or located below the uppermost point of the alignment channel 645 and / or the upper surface of the upper beam 629. The combination of the spaced-apart side walls of the alignment channel 645 and the coupling mechanism 646 can help to align and / or orient the face shield 618 and / or surgical gown 612 relative to the surgical helmet 620. More specifically, the spaced-apart side walls of the alignment channel 645 can help guide the tab 655 such that the opening 656 in the tab 655 mates with the coupling mechanism 646 when the surgical gown 612 is placed over the surgical helmet 620.

[0225] The surgical helmet 620 may include a chin bar 624 extending downward from the front of the surgical helmet 620. The chin bar 624 may include a first post 626A and a second post 626B. The first and second posts 626A, 626B may be coupled to an upper beam 629, which may be configured to extend across the front of the surgical helmet 620. For example, as shown in FIG. 37 , the first and second posts 626A, 626B may be connected to opposite ends of the upper beam 629. The chin bar 624 may be constructed of a generally flexible or pliable material.

[0226] The chin bar 624 may further include a lower beam 628 that may extend between the opposing free ends of the posts 626A, 626B. The chin bar 624 is configured to position the lower beam 628 below and slightly in front of the chin of a person wearing the surgical helmet 620. The lower beam 628 may be configured to arc outward from the free ends of the posts 626A, 626B. The chin bar 624 may extend outward from the upper beam 629 to be positioned in front of and generally covering the wearer's face when the surgical helmet 620 is secured to the wearer's head. Because the upper beam 629, the posts 626A, 626B, and the lower beam 628 generally define an opening that is positioned in front of the wearer's face when the surgical helmet 620 is placed on the wearer's head, the combination may be collectively referred to as a face frame.

[0227] A plurality of coupling members 648 may be mounted on or within the chin bar 624. The coupling members 648 comprise a magnetic material and are configured to align and / or attach the face shield 618 of the surgical gown 612 to the surgical helmet 620. Each coupling member 648 may be positioned on the chin bar 624 proximate opposing posts 626A, 626B and / or adjacent opposite ends of the lower beam 628. Alternatively, the coupling members 648 of the surgical helmet 620 may be arranged or configured in any suitable manner to cooperate with complementary attachment elements 658 of the surgical gown 612 to removably secure the surgical gown 612 to the surgical helmet 620. For example, as shown in FIGS. 37-38B, the coupling members 648 may be positioned on the chin bar 624 at opposite ends of the lower beam 628 proximate where the posts 626A, 626B, respectively, connect to the lower beam 628. 37 utilizes two coupling members 648, the surgical helmet 620 may be configured such that the chin bar 624 includes a single coupling member 648, or in other configurations such that three or more coupling members 648 are spaced apart on the chin bar 624 and / or upper beam 629. Other types of coupling members 648 may be used in place of and / or in addition to coupling members including magnetic material, such as hook-and-loop fasteners, snaps, coupling members including ferromagnetic material, or similar types of fasteners. Other configurations are also contemplated.

[0228] 38A and 38B, one exemplary configuration of a coupling member 648 disposed within the chin bar 624 is shown. The coupling member 648 may include a distal surface 647. The chin bar 624 may include a recess 627 configured to receive the coupling mechanism 648. For example, as shown in FIGS. 38A and 38B, the coupling member 648 may be disposed within the recess of the chin bar 624 such that the distal surface 647 of the coupling member 648 is disposed proximate to the distal surface 625 of the chin bar 624.

[0229] The coupling member 648 may include one of a ferromagnetic material or a magnetic material. This may include the coupling member 648 being formed or constructed of a ferromagnetic or magnetic material. Alternatively, only a portion of the coupling member 648 may be constructed of a ferromagnetic or magnetic material. For example, the coupling member 648 may be injection-molded plastic and coated with a ferromagnetic or magnetic material. Alternatively, the coupling member 648 may be formed of a ferromagnetic or magnetic material and then coated with a plastic or similar coating to provide a sterile and / or wear-resistant surface. Alternatively, the coupling member 648 may comprise a magnet "overmolded" with a plastic material. Generally, the coupling member 648 may include a ferromagnetic or magnetic material that corresponds to the attachment element 658 of the surgical gown 612, thereby generating a magnetic force between the coupling member 648 and the attachment element 658 to couple the surgical gown 612 to the surgical helmet 620.

[0230] The surgical helmet 620 may further include a controller or processor (not shown), which may be disposed on or within the chin bar 624 or upper beam 629 of the surgical helmet 620. Alternatively, the controller may be located in any suitable location within the surgical helmet 620. For example, the controller may be located on the lower beam 628 of the chin bar 624. The controller may be in communication with one or more detectors 670, such as Hall Effect sensors. As shown in FIGS. 37 and 38A , the detector 670 may be located adjacent to the coupling member 648 within the chin bar 624. The detector 670 may be configured to detect a characteristic of the coupling member 648. For example, if the detector 670 is a Hall Effect sensor, it may be configured to detect a change in the magnetic field surrounding the coupling member 648. In operation, the detector 670 may be configured to detect a change in the magnetic field surrounding the coupling member 648 caused by the presence or absence of an attachment element 658 of the surgical gown 612 positioned adjacent to the coupling member 648. For example, as shown in FIGS. 37 and 38A, detector 670 may be positioned on the side of lower beam 628 adjacent coupling member 648.

[0231] 38A and 38B show only a portion of the chin bar 624 including a single coupling member 648, as described above, the chin bar 624 may include two or more coupling members 648. Similarly, the chin bar may include two or more detectors 670. The surgical helmet 620 may include a single detector 670 positioned adjacent to a single coupling member 648. Also, in configurations of the surgical helmet 620 including multiple coupling members 648, the surgical helmet 620 may include a single detector 670 positioned adjacent to one of the multiple coupling members 648. Alternatively, the detector 670 may be positioned adjacent to two or more of the coupling members 648. The use of multiple detectors may provide redundancy in the event that a detector 670 is damaged.

[0232] FIG. 38B is a partial cross-sectional view of coupling member 648 disposed within recess 627 of jaw bar 624. Recess 627 of jaw bar 624 may define a first dimension D1, such as a diameter. Coupling member 648 may be sized generally to fit within dimension D1 of the opening in jaw bar 624. Additionally, outer perimeter 653 of distal surface 647 and outer perimeter 651 of proximal surface 657 of coupling member 648 may define an axis Axis-A that passes through a center C1 of proximal surface 657 and a center C2 of distal surface 647 of coupling member 648. A transverse plane may be oriented parallel to Axis-A and extend through proximal surface 657 and distal surface 647 of coupling member 648 to define opposing side halves of coupling member 648. In configurations in which coupling member 648 includes a magnetic material, the transverse plane may define a separation between poles of the magnetic material.

[0233] Additionally, as seen in FIG. 38B , the distal surface 647 of the coupling member 648 may have a generally curved shape. For example, the distal surface 647 may include a generally convex surface. Alternatively, the distal surface 647 may include a generally convex or polyaxial surface, such as a generally rounded surface extending outward from the center of the coupling member 648. Although not shown in FIG. 38B , the distal surface 647 of the coupling member 648 may include a concave surface. Various exemplary configurations of the coupling member 648, including concave or convex surfaces, are described in more detail below.

[0234] Coupling member 648 may also include one or more indentations. The indentations may serve as structural and / or visual alignment features for positioning coupling member 648 relative to chin bar 624 and / or detector 670. For example, in configurations in which coupling member 648 includes a magnetic material, the indentations or other indicators may provide a visual identifier regarding the orientation and / or location of the magnetic poles of coupling member 648. It will be appreciated that this configuration contributes to manufacturing enhancements in that coupling member 648 may be easily and accurately positioned within the recesses of chin bar 624 such that the poles of coupling member 648 are properly oriented relative to detector 670.

[0235] 39A and 39B, an exemplary configuration of the transparent face shield 618 of the surgical gown described above is shown. The surgical gown 612 may include a tab 655. The tab 655 may be disposed on the wearer's side or on the interior of the surgical gown. The tab 655 may include a pair of opposite edges and define an opening 656. As shown in FIG. 39A, the tab 655 may be formed as part of the face shield 618. The tab 655 may define at least a portion of the opening 656, or a portion of the opening 656 may be defined by the face shield 618. The opening 656 may also be entirely formed or defined within the tab 655. Although not shown, the tab 655 including the opening 656 may be a separate component from the transparent face shield 618. In certain configurations of the transparent face shield 618 and / or the surgical gown 612, the tab 655 may be omitted.

[0236] The surgical gown 612 may also include one or more attachment elements 658. The attachment elements 658 may also be referred to as second members or gown fasteners. The attachment elements 658 may be coupled to the transparent face shield 618. The attachment elements 658 may function as alignment elements configured to removably couple the surgical gown 612 to the surgical helmet 620. Additionally, the attachment elements 658 may be positioned proximate the periphery of the transparent face shield 618 so that fabric covers the attachment elements 658. This may help ensure that fabric covers the attachment elements 658 and maintain the barrier provided by the surgical gown 612 between the wearer and the environment. Also, although not shown, the attachment elements 658 may be coupled to the surgical fabric 614 of the surgical gown 612, as opposed to being coupled to the transparent face shield 618. The attachment elements 658 would still function in the same manner to removably couple the surgical gown 612 to the surgical helmet 620.

[0237] The mounting element 658 may include a ferromagnetic material capable of generating a magnetic attraction and / or bonding with a magnetic material. For example, the mounting element 658 may be made of AISI 1006 low-carbon steel, which has an iron content of approximately 99%. Alternatively, the mounting element 658 may be made of other suitable materials, such as alloys containing iron, nickel, cobalt, carbon, gadolinium, dysprosium, or alloys thereof, or combinations thereof. However, regardless of the specific alloy composition, the mounting element 658 includes at least one ferromagnetic material in a weight amount sufficient to generate a magnetic attraction with the magnetic material. For example, the alloy of the mounting element 658 may have a composition that includes at least 75% iron. Specifically, the mounting element 658 may have a composition that includes at least 85% iron. More specifically, the mounting element 658 may have a composition that includes at least 95% iron. Even more specifically, the mounting element 658 may have a composition that includes at least 98% iron or more.

[0238] In certain configurations, the attachment element 658 may be composed of a material, i.e., atoms, that are attracted to the magnetic field exhibited by the magnetic material disposed on the helmet 620. In certain configurations, the attachment element 658 may be composed entirely of a ferromagnetic material. Also, the attachment element 658 may be composed of both ferromagnetic and diamagnetic materials. For example, the attachment element 658 may be composed of a diamagnetic material coated with a ferromagnetic material. Alternatively, the attachment element 658 may be formed with a ferromagnetic material as a core and then coated with a plastic or similar non-magnetic coating configured to provide a sterile and / or wear-resistant surface. Other configurations of diamagnetic and magnetic materials are also contemplated for the attachment element 658. The attachment element 658 may also be formed of a magnetic material. As described above, the coupling member 648 of the surgical helmet 620 may be composed of a magnetic material. If the attachment element 658 is formed of a magnetic material, the coupling member 648 may be formed of a ferromagnetic material capable of forming a magnetic attraction with the attachment element 658. Alternatively, both the coupling member 648 and the attachment element 658 may be formed of magnetic material. In this configuration, the coupling member 648 and the attachment element 658 may be oriented such that the polarity of the magnetic materials is reversed, allowing the two magnetic materials to magnetically couple. In either of these configurations of the coupling member 648 and the attachment element 658, the placement of the attachment element 658 adjacent to the coupling member 648 may be configured to activate a detector 670, such as a Hall Effect sensor, as described above. The surgical gown 612 and all of its components may be configured similarly to and / or have the features of the surgical gowns 12, 112, 612 described above.

[0239] As shown in FIG. 39B , the attachment element 658 may be coupled to the transparent face shield 618. The transparent face shield 618 includes a first surface 621 and an opposite second surface 623. The first surface 621 is proximal to the user on a wearer side of the barrier formed by the surgical gown 612, and the second surface 623 is distal to the user on an environmental side of the barrier. The attachment element 658 may include a head 660. The head 660 may be sized to be inserted into the opening in the chin bar 624 when coupled to the coupling member 648 by defining a dimension smaller than the dimension of the recess 627 in the chin bar 624. The head 660 of the attachment element 658 may also define a distal surface 665 and an opposite proximal surface 659. The proximal surface 659 of the head 660 may further define a recess 661. A first point 662 may be disposed on the proximal surface 659 of the head 660. The first point 662 may be located at the center of the proximal surface 659. Alternatively, the first point 662 may be located at a position on the proximal surface 659 that intersects with the first axis (Axis-E) of the attachment element 658. The first axis (Axis-E) may also be the longitudinal axis of the attachment element 658. Second points 664A, 664B may also be located on the proximal surface 659 of the head 660. As shown in FIG. 39B , the proximal surface 659 may include multiple second points 664A, 664B spaced apart on the proximal surface 659. In general, the second points 664A, 664B may be located on the proximal surface 659 such that they are spaced apart from the first point 662 on the proximal surface 659. For example, if the proximal surface 659 of the head 660 has a generally circular profile, the first point 662 may be located at the center of the proximal surface 659, and the one or more second points 664A, 664B may each be located radially away from the first point 662. Further, the first point 662 may define a first distance D6 from the first surface 621 of the transparent face shield 618, and the second points 664A, 664B may define a second distance D7 from the first surface 621 of the transparent face shield 618.The proximal surface 659 of the head 660 may be formed such that a first distance D6 defined by the first point 662 is less than a second distance D7 defined by the second points 664A, 664B, thereby defining a recess 661 in the proximal surface 659. For example, in one exemplary configuration of the attachment element 658, the head 660 may have a diameter of approximately 10 millimeters and a height of approximately 3 millimeters. The recess 661 may be generally centered on the proximal surface 659 of the head 660 and have a concave shape. The recess 661 may have a diameter of approximately 8 millimeters and a depth relative to the head 660 of approximately 1.5 millimeters. The shape of the proximal surface 659 may be configured such that at least a portion of the portion of the proximal surface 659 of the head 660 including the second points 664A, 664B can be disposed within the recess 627 of the chin bar 624 when the surgical gown 612 is coupled to the surgical helmet 620. For example, when the surgical gown 612 is coupled to the surgical helmet 620, the portion of the proximal surface 659 of the head 660 including the second points 664A, 664B may be located at least two millimeters (2 mm) proximal to the distal surface 625 of the chin bar 624.

[0240] The head 660 of the attachment element 658 is formed from at least 50, 75, 85, or 90 weight percent alloy including at least 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 95, or 99 weight percent ferromagnetic material that can be magnetically attracted to the magnet-containing coupling member 648. It is also contemplated that the head 660 of the attachment element 658 includes at least 70, 80, or 90 weight percent ferritic or martensitic stainless steel or other steel sufficient to be attracted to a magnet and to hold the surgical gown 612 to the surgical helmet 620. It is further contemplated that the head 660 of the attachment element 658 includes at least 0.5, 0.6, 0.7, 0.8, 0.9, 1, 1.2, 1.4, 1.5, or 1.8 grams of ferromagnetic material that can be magnetically attracted to the magnet-containing coupling member 648. Examples of suitable ferromagnetic materials include iron, nickel, cobalt, carbon, gadolinium, dysprosium, or alloys thereof, or any combination thereof.

[0241] Referring to FIG. 40 , the head 660 may further include a rim 663, which may be defined at least in part by a proximal surface 659 of the head 660. The rim 663 may at least partially surround the recess 661. The recess 661 may increase the contact area between the attachment element 658 and the coupling member 648 when they are coupled together. The increased contact area may increase the strength and / or force of the magnetic coupling between the attachment element 658 and the coupling member 648 (the force required to separate the attachment element 658 and the coupling member 648). This may reduce accidental or unintended separation of the attachment element 658 and the coupling member 648 during use of the surgical gown and surgical helmet 620. Additionally, the size and / or shape of the recess 661 may allow the attachment element 658 and the coupling member 648 to interact at various angles.

[0242] The recess 661 may be defined as a recessed portion, portion, or space, such as a depression, bay, or alcove. In general, the recess 661 may represent a space or an absence of material. With respect to the attachment element 658 described above, the recess 661 may represent a void or absence of material in the head 660. The size and shape of the space representing the recess 661 in the head 660 of the attachment element 658 may be defined by the proximal surface 659. However, the recess 661 is not limited to being formed by a single component, such as the head 660 of the attachment element 658. Any combination of components that defines a space or absence of material is considered the recess 661. For example, in one configuration, the space representing the recess 661 may be defined by the combination of the head 660 and the post 667. In yet another configuration, the space representing the recess 661 may be defined by the combination of the head 660 and the face shield 618. Various exemplary configurations of the proximal surface 659 of the mounting member 658 (such as the recess 661) are described in more detail below.

[0243] The mounting element 658 may further include a post 667 extending distally from the distal surface 665 of the mounting element 658. The post 667 may include a proximal portion 669 and a distal portion 671. As described above, the proximal portion 669 of the post 667 may have a third dimension D3 and the distal portion 671 may have a fourth dimension D4. The post 667 may be configured such that the third dimension D3 of the proximal portion 669 is greater than the fourth dimension D4 of the distal portion 671 to form a shoulder. The distal portion 671 of the post 667 is configured to fit within the opening 619 of the face shield 618 to facilitate coupling of the mounting element 658 to the face shield 618.

[0244] In a configuration of post 667 in which the third dimension D3 of proximal portion 669 is greater than the fourth dimension D4 of distal portion 671, the shoulder formed by proximal portion 669 of post 667 is intended to space head 660 of mounting element 658 away from face shield 618. The shoulder is available to space head 660 away from face shield 618, allowing face shield 618 to flex relative to distal surface 665 of head 660. This flexibility allows for a more secure attachment between mounting element 658 and coupling member 648 in that face shield 618 can flex from its attached position on coupling member 648 without loosening mounting element 658. For example, one exemplary configuration of post 667 may extend approximately 3 millimeters from distal surface 665 of head 660. Distal portion 671 of post 667 may be approximately 3 millimeters in diameter and approximately 2 to 2.5 millimeters in length. The proximal portion 669 of the post 667 may be approximately 5 millimeters in diameter and approximately 0.5 millimeters in length.

[0245] 39B , the mounting element 658 may be coupled to the face shield 618 by a retention feature 673. The retention feature 673 may be in the form of a cap or similar fastener configured to couple to the distal end of a post 667. For example, as shown in FIG. 39B , the post 667 may be inserted through an opening 619 in the face shield, and the retention feature 673 may be applied to the distal end of the post 667 to secure the mounting element 658 to the face shield 618. Although not shown, the mounting element 658 may be coupled to the transparent face shield 618 in other manners. For example, the post 667 and / or head 660 of the mounting element 658 may be coupled to the transparent face shield 618 with epoxy, glue, or a similar type of adhesive. Alternatively, the post 667 may be shaped such that its distal portion 671 can be deformed or pressed after being inserted through the opening 619 in the transparent face shield 618 to secure the mounting element 658 to the transparent face shield 618.

[0246] 40 , there is shown a partial cross-sectional view of a surgical gown attachment element 658 coupled to a coupling member 648 of a chin bar 624. The coupling member 648 is disposed in a recess in the chin bar 624. The coupling member 648 includes a protruding surface 647 disposed proximally relative to the distal surface 625 of the chin bar 624.

[0247] The protruding surface 647 of the coupling member 648 may extend at least partially into a recess 661 defined by the proximal surface 659 of the attachment element 658. The complementary shapes of the protruding surface 647 of the coupling member 648 and the proximal surface 659 of the attachment element 658 may be configured for sliding contact when the surgical gown 612 is coupled to the surgical helmet 620. Alternatively, a gap or gap may exist between all or a portion of the protruding surface 647 and the proximal surface 659. For example, the protruding surface 647 may include a sharp tip with a small radius, and the proximal surface 659 may include a concave shape with a radius larger than the radius of the protruding surface 647. In this configuration, the tip or apex of the protruding surface 647 may contact a portion of the proximal surface 659 while there is a gap between the remaining portion of the protruding surface 647 and the proximal surface 659.

[0248] The complementary shapes of the protruding surface 647 of the coupling member 648 and the proximal surface 659 of the attachment element 658 may allow the attachment element 658 to pivot about the coupling member 648 and maintain coupling with the coupling member 648 at various angles. This may provide additional degrees of freedom for movement and / or positioning of the face shield 618 when the attachment element 658 is coupled to the corresponding coupling member 648 by manipulation or bending, such as during removal of one or more membrane layers from the face shield 618. Furthermore, the complementary shapes of the protruding surface 647 of the coupling member 648 and the proximal surface 659 of the attachment element 658 are designed to promote and / or maintain contact of the surgical gown 612 with the surgical helmet 620 during a medical procedure. Adding curvature to the coupling member 648 and / or complementary proximal surface 659 of the attachment element 658 of the surgical gown 612 increases retention by transferring forces into the physical material comprising the coupling member 648 and / or attachment element 658 when the coupling member 648 and / or attachment element 658 are mated and placed in shear. The curved and / or concave surfaces provide additional retention because they can rotate in a position where optimal magnetic retention is provided by the magnetic material in interaction with the ferromagnetic material. Thus, allowing the attachment element 658 to rotate relative to the coupling member 648 eliminates shear-induced forces (moment arms). The additional retention is provided by the increased area of ​​contact or proximity resulting from the curved surface being bent relative to a flat surface.

[0249] In certain configurations, to couple the surgical gown 612 to the surgical helmet 620, at least a portion of the head 660 of the attachment element 658 may be disposed within the recess 627 of the chin bar 624 such that the proximal surface 659 of the attachment element 648 contacts the protruding surface 647 of the coupling member 648. A portion of the proximal surface 659 of the head 660 may be disposed within the recess 627 of the chin bar 624 such that the proximal surface 659 is positioned at least two millimeters (2 mm) proximal of the distal surface 625 of the chin bar 624. Additionally, the proximal surface 659 of the head 660 may be positioned three millimeters (3 mm) or more proximal of the distal surface 625 of the chin bar 624. Additionally, when mounting element 658 is coupled to coupling member 648 at an angle permitted by complementary surfaces 647, 659 of each mounting element 658 and coupling member 648, the portion of head 660 of mounting element 658 disposed within recess 627 of chin bar 624 may be defined as the percentage of head 660 disposed within recess 627. For example, at least ten percent (10%), 20, 30, 40, or 50% of the volume of head 660 of mounting element 658 may be disposed within recess 627 of chin bar 624. Additionally, coupling member 648 may be exposed at chin bar 624 such that it may be placed in contact with mounting element 658.

[0250] As described above, because coupling member 648 includes one of a ferromagnetic material or a magnetic material and mounting element 658 includes the other of a ferromagnetic material or a magnetic material, coupling member 648 and mounting element 658 may be magnetically attracted to each other. In the illustrated configuration, coupling member 648 may include a magnetic material, such that a magnetic field may be generated from or by coupling member 648. When coupling member 648 is coupled to mounting element 658, the magnetic field surrounding a component including a magnetic material will be changed when a component including a ferromagnetic material is placed adjacent.

[0251] As shown in FIG. 40 , detector 670 may be positioned adjacent to coupling member 648. Detector 670 may include a Hall Effect sensor configured to detect a change in a magnetic field indicating that surgical gown 612 has been coupled to surgical helmet 620. For example, if coupling member 648 includes a magnetic material and attachment element 658 includes a ferromagnetic material, detector 670 may detect a first level of a magnetic field surrounding coupling member 648 when attachment element 658 is separated from coupling member 648. Detector 670 may then detect a second level of a magnetic field surrounding coupling member 648 when attachment element 658 is adjacent coupling member 648, indicating that surgical gown 612 has been coupled to surgical helmet 620. Alternatively, if coupling member 648 includes a ferromagnetic material and attachment element 658 includes a magnetic material, detector 670 may detect the absence of a magnetic field surrounding coupling member 648 when attachment element 658 is separated from coupling member 648. The detector 670 may then detect the presence of a magnetic field when the attachment element 658 is adjacent the coupling member 648, indicating that the surgical gown 612 is coupled to the surgical helmet 620. As described above, in addition to transmitting operational commands to the detector 670, the controller may also be configured to receive a signal from the detector 670 related to the characteristic detected by the detector 670. The signal may be based on the presence, absence, and / or change in the characteristic detected by the detector 670, which may be related to the presence or absence of the surgical gown 612 coupled to the surgical helmet 620. The controller may also be connected to one or more peripheral devices 630 of the surgical helmet 620, such as the ventilation assembly 630, and configured to transmit operational commands to or from the ventilation assembly 630 or other peripheral devices 630 based on the signal received from the detector 670. For example, the controller may be configured to adjust the amount of power / voltage / current sent to the ventilation system 630 to control the speed of the fan blades.

[0252] The following is a description of various alternative shapes and configurations of attachment elements for a surgical gown assembly. It should be understood that any and all features, characteristics, and / or components of the systems, assemblies, and attachment elements described above may be applied to and / or incorporated into the various configurations of attachment elements described below. Referring to FIGS. 41A and 41B, perspective and side views of a thirteenth configuration of an attachment element 1558 are shown. Similar to the attachment element 658 described above, the thirteenth configuration of the attachment element 1558 includes a head 1560 having a distal surface 1565 and an opposing proximal surface 1559. The head 1560 of the attachment element 1558 may have a generally cylindrical shape. The proximal surface 1559 of the head 1560 may include a first point 1562 that defines a first distance D6 between the proximal surface 1559 and the first surface 621 of the transparent face shield 618. Additionally, the proximal surface 1559 of the head 1560 may include second points 1564A, 1564B that define a second distance D7 between the proximal surface 1559 and the first surface 621 of the transparent face shield 618. Although not shown, the first surface 621 of the transparent face shield 618 may be disposed distal to the distal surface 1565 of the head 1560. The proximal surface 1559 of the attachment element 1558 may be shaped such that the first distance D6 defined by the first point 1562 is less than the second distance D7 defined by the second points 1564A, 1564B. For example, the attachment element 1558 may include a cylindrical head 1560 including a distal end and a proximal end. The proximal end may include the proximal surface 1559 having a first surface that extends angled proximally from a central plane of the cylindrical head to a first edge. The proximal surface 1559 may also have a second surface that extends at an angle proximally from the central surface of the cylindrical head to the second edge. The first point 1562 may be located on the proximal surface 1559 at the central surface, and the second points 1564A, 1564B may be located on the proximal surface 1559 at points on at least one of the first and / or second surfaces that extend at an angle proximally. The first and second surfaces of the proximal surface may generally define a recess 1561 in the head 1560 of the attachment element.The depth and / or diameter of the recess 1561 in the cylindrical head can vary based on the respective angles of the first and second surfaces of the proximal face 1559 such that when joined together, the proximal face 1559 can matingly receive the protruding surface 647 of the coupling member 648. While the first and second surfaces of the proximal face shown in FIGS. 41A and 41B are generally flat, the proximal face 1559 may define the recess 1561 to exhibit an arcuate shape.

[0253] 42A and 42B , perspective and side views of a fourteenth configuration of the attachment element 1658 are shown. Similar to the attachment element 658 described above, the fourteenth configuration of the attachment element 1658 includes a head 1660 having a distal surface 1665 and an opposing proximal surface 1659. The head 1660 of the attachment element 1658 may have a generally cylindrical shape. The proximal surface 1659 of the head 1660 may include a first surface 1662, and a point on the first surface 1662 may define a first distance D6 between the first surface 1662 and the first surface of the transparent face shield 618. Additionally, the proximal surface 1659 of the head 1660 may include second surfaces 1664A, 1664B, and points on the second surfaces 1664A, 1664B may define a second distance D7 between the second surfaces 1664A, 1664B and the first surface 621 of the transparent face shield 618. Although not shown, the first surface 621 of the transparent face shield 618 may be disposed distal to the distal surface 1665 of the head 1660. The proximal surface 1659 of the attachment element 1658 may be formed such that the first distance D6 defined by the points on the first surface 1662 is less than the second distance D7 defined by the points on the second surfaces 1664A, 1664B. For example, the mounting element 1658 may include a cylindrical head including a distal end and a proximal end, and the proximal end may define a proximal surface 1659 including a flat surface 1662 having a first side and a second side. The proximal surface may also include a first surface 1664A extending proximally from the first side of the flat surface 1662 at an angle to a first edge, and a second surface 1664B extending proximally from the second side of the flat surface 1662 at an angle to a second edge. The flat surface 1662 may be generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (axis Axis-E) of the mounting element 1658. The proximal surface 1659 may be generally formed such that the first surface 1662 and the first and second surfaces 1664A, 1664B may define a recess 1661 in the head 1660 of the mounting element 1658. The depth and / or diameter of the recess 1661 can vary based on the first surface 1662 of the proximal surface 1659 and the respective angles of the first and second surfaces 1664A, 1664B so that the proximal surface 1659 can matingly receive the protruding surface 647 of the coupling member 648 when coupled together.While the first face 1662 and the first and second faces 1664A, 1664B of the proximal face 1659 shown in Figures 42A and 42B are generally flat, the proximal face 1659 may define a recess 1661 so as to exhibit an arcuate shape.

[0254] 43A and 43B , perspective and side views of a fifteenth configuration of the attachment element 1758 are shown. Similar to the attachment element 658 described above, the fifteenth configuration of the attachment element 1758 includes a head 1760 having a distal surface 1765 and an opposing proximal surface 1759. The head 1760 of the attachment element 1758 may have a generally cylindrical shape. The proximal surface 1759 of the head 1760 may include a first surface 1762, which may be spaced a first distance D6 from the first surface of the transparent face shield 618. The proximal surface 1759 of the head 1760 may also include second surfaces 1764A, 1764B, which may be spaced a second distance D7 from the first surface of the transparent face shield 618. Although not shown, the first surface 621 of the transparent face shield 618 may be disposed distal to the distal surface 1765 of the head 1760. The proximal surface 1759 of the attachment element 1758 may be formed such that the first distance D6 defined by the first surface 1762 is less than the second distance D7 defined by the second surfaces 1764A, 1764B. For example, the attachment element 1758 may include a cylindrical head 1760 having a distal end and a proximal end, and the proximal end may define the proximal surface 1759 including a planar surface 1762 having a first side and a second side. Additionally, the proximal surface 1759 may include a first leg including a first surface 1764A proximally spaced from a first side of the planar surface 1762 and a second leg including a second surface 1764B proximally spaced from a second side of the planar surface 1762 to a second edge. The planar surface 1762 may be generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (axis Axis-E) of the mounting element 1758. The proximal surface 1759 may be generally formed such that the first surface 1662 and the first and second surfaces 1764A, 1764B may define a recess 1761 in the head 1760 of the mounting element 1758. The depth and / or diameter of the recess 1761 can vary based on the respective angles of the first and second surfaces 1762, 1764A, 1764B of the proximal surface 1759 such that, when coupled together, the proximal surface 1759 can matingly receive the protruding surface 647 of the coupling member 648. While the first surface 1762 and the first and second surfaces 1764A, 1764B of the proximal surface 1759 shown in FIGS. 43A and 43B are generally flat, the proximal surface 1759 may define the recess 1761 to exhibit an arcuate shape.

[0255] 44A-44C , various views of a sixteenth configuration of the attachment element 1858 are shown. Similar to the attachment element 658 described above, the sixteenth configuration of the attachment element 1858 includes a head 1860 having a distal surface 1865 and an opposing proximal surface 1859. The head 1860 of the attachment element 1858 may have a generally cylindrical shape. The proximal surface 1859 of the head 1860 may include a first point 1862 that defines a first distance D6 between the proximal surface 1859 and the first surface of the transparent face shield 618. The proximal surface 1859 of the head 1860 may also include a second point 1864A that defines a second distance D7 between the proximal surface 1859 and the first surface of the transparent face shield 618. Although not shown, the first surface 621 of the transparent face shield 618 may be disposed distal to the distal surface 1865 ...

Claims

1. A surgical helmet for use with a surgical gown, comprising: the surgical gown includes a transparent face shield with tabs having attachment openings for fastening the surgical gown to the surgical helmet to form a microbial barrier for the wearer; The surgical helmet includes a face frame, The face frame is an upper beam extending across the width of the face frame, the upper beam including a pair of laterally spaced side walls and a proximal surface defining an alignment channel for receiving the tab of the transparent face shield; a protrusion disposed within the alignment channel, extending distally from the upper beam, and disposed within the mating opening to removably secure the transparent face shield to the face frame; a projection extending transversely from the projection to hold the transparent face shield adjacent to the face frame; Including, surgical helmet.

2. the alignment channel is defined by a pair of laterally spaced sidewalls and a proximal surface; The surgical helmet of claim 1 , wherein the projection extends from a proximal face.

3. a chin bar extending from the upper beam and including a distal surface and a recess in the distal surface; a first coupling member disposed within the recess of the chin bar, the first coupling member including a distal surface and formed of a magnetic material coupling the transparent face shield to the face frame; 10. The surgical helmet of claim 1, further comprising:

4. The protrusion is a first surface extending distally from the projection; a second surface extending perpendicularly from a distal portion of the first surface and having a sloped profile defining a slope that merges with an outer surface of the projection to assist a wearer in inserting the projection into the mating opening of the transparent face shield to position the transparent face shield adjacent to the face frame; 4. The surgical helmet of claim 3, comprising:

5. A shell (732); a ventilation assembly (730) coupled to the shell (732); a power coupler (810) coupled to the shell (732) and in electrical communication with the ventilation assembly (730), the power coupler having a post (834); 10. The surgical helmet of claim 1, comprising:

6. further comprising a power source (826); The power source (826) A battery (828); a wiring harness (830) extending from the battery (828); a plug (832) coupled to the wiring harness (830) opposite the battery (828) and configured to removably couple to the power coupler (810) of the surgical helmet to power the ventilation assembly (730); Including, the post (834) and the plug (832) do not include a key and keyway, respectively, so that they may be mated in any radial orientation; the post (834) and the plug (832) include complementary retention features (824, 842) that allow the plug (832) to rotate about the post (834) without breaking an electrical connection; 6. A surgical helmet as claimed in claim 5.

7. 7. The surgical helmet of claim 6, wherein the plug (832) and the post (834) are disposed on a wearer side of the microbial barrier when at least a portion of the surgical gown is disposed over the surgical helmet.

8. 8. The surgical helmet of claim 6 or 7, wherein the post (834) has a substantially cylindrical form having an axis of rotation and includes a first side (836) and an opposing second side (838), the second side (838) being coupled to the shell (732) and the first side (836) being configured to removably couple to the plug (832).

9. the first surface (836) includes a plurality of conductive tracks (852) forming arcs each having a center substantially coincident with the axis of rotation of the post (834); 9. The surgical helmet of claim 8, wherein the plug (832) includes a plurality of contacts (846), at least one of the plurality of contacts (846) configured to mechanically and electrically couple with a corresponding one of the plurality of conductive tracks (852), and each of the plurality of contacts (846) configured to move axially independent of the other contacts (846).

10. 10. The surgical helmet of claim 9, wherein at least two of the plurality of conductive tracks (852) are concentrically arranged to allow the plug (832) to rotate about the post (834) without breaking an electrical connection between the plug (832) and the post (834).

11. 1. A surgical apparel system comprising: A surgical helmet, A face frame disposed on the surgical helmet, an upper beam including a pair of laterally spaced side walls and a proximal surface extending across the width of the face frame and defining an alignment channel; a protrusion aligned with said alignment channel; A face frame including: a surgical gown assembly disposed at least in part over the surgical helmet and providing a microbial barrier between a medical environment and a wearer, the surgical gown assembly comprising: a surgical fabric defining an opening configured to be positioned in front of the wearer's face when at least a portion of the surgical fabric is disposed over the surgical helmet; a transparent face shield disposed within the opening in the surgical garment and having an upper portion and a lower portion; a tab extending from a periphery of the top portion of the transparent face shield; a surgical gown assembly including: Including, the tab defines at least a portion of a mating opening sized to receive at least a portion of the projection; the tab and the alignment channel have complementary sizes to allow the tab to be positioned within the alignment channel and the mating opening to slide over the protrusion. Surgical apparel system.

12. further comprising a protrusion extending transversely from said projection; The protrusions are configured to hold the transparent face shield adjacent to the face frame. The surgical apparel system of claim 11.

13. A shell (732); a ventilation assembly (730) coupled to the shell (732); a power coupler (810) coupled to the shell (732) and in electrical communication with the ventilation assembly (730), the power coupler having a post (834); The surgical apparel system of claim 11 further comprising:

14. further comprising a power source (826); The power source (826) A battery (828); a wiring harness (830) extending from the battery (828); a plug (832) coupled to the wiring harness (830) opposite the battery (828) and configured to removably couple to the power coupler (810) of the surgical helmet (720) to power the ventilation assembly (730); Including, the post (834) and the plug (832) do not include a key and keyway, respectively, so that they may be mated in any radial orientation; the post (834) and the plug (832) include complementary retention features (824, 842) that allow the plug (832) to rotate about the post (834) without breaking an electrical connection; 14. The surgical apparel system of claim 13.

15. 15. The surgical apparel system of claim 14, wherein the plug (832) and the post (834) are disposed on a wearer side of the microbial barrier when at least a portion of the surgical gown assembly is disposed over the surgical helmet.

16. 16. The surgical apparel system of claim 14 or 15, wherein the post (834) has a substantially cylindrical form having an axis of rotation and includes a first side (836) and an opposing second side (838), the second side (838) coupled to the shell (732) and the first side (836) configured to removably couple to the plug (832).

17. the first surface (836) includes a plurality of conductive tracks (852) forming arcs each having a center substantially coincident with the axis of rotation of the post (834); 17. The surgical apparel system of claim 16, wherein the plug (832) includes a plurality of contacts (846), at least one of the plurality of contacts (846) configured to mechanically and electrically couple with a corresponding one of the plurality of conductive tracks (852), and each of the plurality of contacts (846) configured to move axially independent of the other contacts (846).

18. 18. The surgical apparel system of claim 17, wherein at least two of the plurality of conductive tracks (852) are concentrically arranged to allow the plug (832) to rotate about the post (834) without breaking an electrical connection between the plug (832) and the post (834).

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