Surgical helmet

Abstract

The present disclosure relates a portable surgical helmet for a surgical cover suit comprising a head support configured to extend about a user head and secure the helmet on the user's head, said head support comprises a frontal frame and a top head structure wherein the frontal frame comprises a forehead section and a mandibular section, being the top head structure connected to the forehead section; wherein the top head structure comprising: a blower and a plurality of air channels that extend from the blower to the frontal frame; a gyroscope arranged adjacent to the blower and configured to regulate the blower speed according to the movement of the user's head; the frontal frame comprises a plurality of air channel for conducting the air received from the blower to a plurality of air outlets arranged on the mandibular section, the air outlets being configured to cool the user and demist a face shield, and further comprises at least two speakers.

Description

D E S C R I P T I O NSURGICAL HELMET, METHOD OF OPERATION AN D USES THEREOFTECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a surgical helmet, specifically one that integrates cooling functions that are hands-free regulated, and head support to enhance the comfort and efficiency of medical professionals during surgical procedures.BACKGROUND

[0002] Healthcare professionals are at major risk for infectious diseases transmission but, at the moment, personal protection equipment against higher risk microorganisms consists of protective barriers like masks, face shields or gowns that are uncomfortable to wear, can cause skin injuries and do not integrate advanced digital features such as video recording, voice communication or augmented reality.

[0003] At the moment, the current systems do not provide certified protection against high-risk microorganisms, such as a pandemic setting like COVID-19.

[0004] Traditional surgical helmets often lack advanced features such as cooling systems, AR integration, and magnification options, which are increasingly valuable for precision work in complex surgical environments. Additionally, ensuring sterility and ease of maintenance are critical for surgical efficiency.

[0005] Document EP4223171A1 discloses a surgical helmet assembly securable to a mixed or augmented reality device and includes an inner frame, an outer frame, and a surgical hood. The inner frame is securable to the mixed or augmented reality device. The outer frame is releasably securable to the inner frame, where at least a portion of a lens of the mixed reality device is exposed through the inner frame and the outer frame. The surgical hood is connected to the outer frame and is configured to cover at least a portion of a head of a user.

[0006] The document WO2021163039 discloses a self-contained digital system which includes a head-worn display device to be worn by a user during medical procedures. The system includes a display generator for generating a visual display on the display device and may also include a sensor suite with at least one tracking camera. The system also includes a communication system with in-built microphone and speakers. The system further includes a belt module including a user-replaceable, modular battery that is removably, insertable into a housing of the belt module; and a processor unit configured to receive data from the sensor suite and the microphone and export it to other connected devices, such as smartphones. The support module is electrically coupled to the head-worn display device to provide power and data to the head-worn display device and the speakers. The display device and the support module together comprise the entire sensing and computing capability of the system.

[0007] Some of the disadvantaged of the identified solutions are: no integration with other technology devices that can aid in decision making, education, training, etc; limited protection levels that can give a false sense of safety to the user in higher-risk settings.

[0008] These facts are disclosed in order to illustrate the technical problem addressed by the present disclosure.GENERAL DESCRIPTION

[0009] The present disclosure overcomes the disadvantages of the prior art by providing a comfortable personal protective equipment for healthcare professionals to use in possibly contaminated settings, without the need of face masks, while simultaneously providing a hub to integrate advanced digital features.

[0010] The present disclosure provides a surgical helmet equipped with a cooling system that is hands-free regulated, a head support system designed to secure the helmet comfortably on the user's head. The head support system includes a frontal frame and a top head structure that extends around the user's head for stability. The frontal frame comprises both a forehead section and a mandibular section, with the top head structure connected to the forehead section.

[0011] It is important for the user to have a clean view of the surrounding. Not only to see what is around, but also for information obtained for the augmented reality device and the camera correct function.

[0012] The surgical helmet comprises a gyroscope that regulates not only the cooling system but also the camera image stabilization, if any. The combination of features of the helmet of the present solution contributes both to visual stabilization and to adaptive airflow regulation. This dual functionality provides a simplified system architecture in which one single sensor performs multiple roles, thereby improving overall efficiency, enhancing user ergonomics and reducing component complexity.

[0013] The gyroscopic stabilizer allows controlling the ventilation fan speed, adjusting to the user's needs of cooling and shield defogging, reducing user fatigue and improving accuracy during intricate procedures.

[0014] The gyroscopic stabilizer is used to control the blower, when the user moves the head. By moving the head, the blower speed can increase or decrease, increasing the air flow or decreasing the hair flow, respectively.

[0015] When the user needs to refresh or reduce the air speed that goes out from the blower, he can move the head backwards or forwards and the gyroscope will interact with the blower and reduce or increase the speed of said blower. The gyroscope is configured to regulate the blower speed in response to movement of the user's head.

[0016] Having a cooling system that is hands-free regulated allows the user to obtain a clear view of the surrounding without removing the hands from the patient.

[0017] The cooling system further allows the user to refresh.

[0018] The present disclosure relates to a portable surgical helmet to enhance precision, comfort, and protection for medical professionals. The helmet includes a cooling system that is hands-free regulated, and may include an audio communication system with speakers and microphone and preferably comprising an augmented reality device and a camera. A dischargeable cover suit is also included to provide high level protection against microorganisms. The portable surgical helmet comprises a head support that includes a frontal frame with forehead and mandibular sections, secured by a top head structure housing a blower and air channels to provide cooling airflow.The portable device of the present disclosure enhances user efficiency for defogging the face shield, comfort, and sterility in surgical environments.

[0019] In an embodiment, the dischargeable cover suit, constructed from sterilizable material, provides an additional protective barrier, easily removed post-operation.

[0020] None of the prior art solutions integrate digital features such as voice communication, video recording or augmented reality.

[0021] Some of the main advantages of the present disclosure are:Protection against micro-organisms including pandemic agents such as COVID-19 (other systems had to issue a declaration during the pandemic, disclaiming that their equipment was not suited to be used to protect users against this virus).Hub to technology integration, with a built-in mini-processor allowing device connection such as audio speakers and microphone for voice transmission, video camera for streaming or recording or glasses for augmented reality.Full protection for the healthcare worker without the need of skin injuring protective equipment, such as currently available masks, goggles or togas.Hands-free airflow regulation system that automatically adapts to the surgeon's movements and physiological needs, while the integrated gyroscopic control can simultaneously stabilize the augmented reality and camera systems to ensure clear and accurate visual feedback throughout surgical procedures. Being hands-free allows both hands to remain sterile and engaged in surgical tasks.

[0022] The present disclosure relates to a portable surgical helmet for a surgical cover suit comprising a head support configured to extend about a user head and secure the helmet on the user's head, said head support comprises a frontal frame and a top head structure wherein the frontal frame comprises a forehead section and a mandibular section, being the top head structure connected to the forehead section; wherein the top head structure comprising: a blower and a plurality of air channels that extend from the blower to the frontal frame;a gyroscope arranged next or adjacent to the blower, for regulating the blower speed according to the movement of the user's head; the frontal frame comprises a plurality of air channels for conducting the air received from the blower to a plurality of air outlets arranged on the mandibular section, for cooling the user and to demist a face shield, and at least two speakers.

[0023] In an embodiment, the head support is a strap that can be adjusted to the user's head.

[0024] In an embodiment, the air outlets and speakers are at the internal surface of the mandibular section, particularly the surface of the mandibular section that is closer to the user face.

[0025] In an embodiment, the helmet comprises a data processor configured to receive a helmet orientation signal from the gyroscope; regulate the blower speed as a function of the helmet orientation signal.

[0026] In an embodiment, the helmet comprises an augmented reality device.

[0027] In an embodiment, the top head structure further comprises at least one camera for capturing images.

[0028] Preferably the gyroscope controls the blower speed based on head movement and can be further configured to provide camera image stabilization for augmented reality (AR) or visual information display.

[0029] In an embodiment, the helmet further comprises at least one light source protruding from the top head structure.

[0030] In an embodiment, the helmet further comprises a microphone, preferably the microphone is arranged on the mandibular section.

[0031] In an embodiment, the augmented reality device is a pair of goggles.

[0032] In an embodiment, the helmet a power device to be placed on the user's waist, particularly the power device is connected to the helmet by means of a cable.

[0033] In an embodiment, the cable is connected to a printed circuit board arranged on the top head structure.

[0034] In an embodiment, the helmet further comprises a magnifying loupe connected into the helmet and adjustable within the user's field of view for enhanced magnification.

[0035] In an embodiment, the air outlets are arranged on a top part of the mandibular section, for refreshing the cheeks zone of the user face.

[0036] In an embodiment, the helmet comprises at least one hook for receiving a face shield from a cover suit.

[0037] In an embodiment, the helmet comprises a fitting for moving or adjusting the light resource, preferably the first fitting is arranged on the forehead section of the frontal frame. Preferably the fitting is a handle.

[0038] In an embodiment, the helmet comprises a further fitting arranged on the forehead section of the frontal frame for adjusting the camera direction. Preferably the fitting is a handle.

[0039] In an embodiment, the number of outlets are preferably 6.

[0040] It is also disclosed a cover suit comprising the helmet.

[0041] In an embodiment, the cover suit comprises an air filter arranged on a top part of the cover suit, particularly arranged on the top part of the suit that rests above the blower of the helmet.

[0042] In an embodiment, the air filter is made of laminated fabric, preferably polypropylene.

[0043] In an embodiment, the cover suit comprises a face shield.

[0044] In an embodiment, the cover suit is a surgical gown.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0045] The following figures provide preferred embodiments for illustrating the disclosure and should not be seen as limiting the scope of invention.

[0046] Figure 1: Schematic representation of an embodiment of the helmet, namely the head support, frontal frame and top head structure.

[0047] Figure 2: Schematic representation of an embodiment of the helmet.

[0048] Figure 3: Schematic representation of a cross-section view of an embodiment of the helmet.

[0049] Figure 4: Schematic representation of a section view of an embodiment of the cooling system.

[0050] Figure 5: Schematic representation of a section view of an embodiment of frontal air duct of the helmet.

[0051] Figure 6: Schematic representation of a section view of an embodiment of the frontal air duct of the helmet.

[0052] Figure 7: Schematic representation of a section view of an embodiment of the frontal air duct of the helmet.

[0053] Figure 8: Schematic representation of a section view of an embodiment of the helmet, particularly of air duct running along the user face. It is displayed the speakers and three air outlets that allow the air to flow to the face of the user.

[0054] Figure 9: Schematic representation of a section view of an embodiment of a section of the mandibular section of the frontal frame comprising a further air outlet for the face shield demisting.

[0055] Figure 10: Schematic representation of a section view of an embodiment of the helmet, comprising the fittings for the height regulation of the light source and camera.

[0056] Figure 11: Schematic representation of a section view of an embodiment of the helmet, comprising the fittings for the height regulation of the light source and camera and also the camera and light source.DETAILED DESCRIPTIONThe present disclosure relates to a medical helmet and a coverall suit. This structure enhances the protection, comfort, and operational efficiency of healthcare personnel during procedures. It relates to a portable surgical helmet to enhance precision, comfort, and protection for medical professionals. The helmet includes a cooling system hands-free regulated and preferably an augmented reality device, a camera, a frontal light source, and a dischargeable cover suit. The portable surgical helmet comprises a head support that includes a frontal frame with forehead and mandibular sections, secured by a top head structure housing a blower and air channels to provide cooling airflow.

[0057] The present disclosure offers full personal protection in different healthcare settings, including pandemic or high-risk contamination environments, while at the same time the user is comfortable with the equipment and can have full visual contact with the patient and co-workers.

[0058] In addition, it also provides the possibility of remote assistance, education, access to decision-making tools, visualization of medical records and imaging or realtime form filling. This can aid in improving performance and save time and resources.

[0059] The present disclosure relates to a surgical helmet comprising a head support configured to extend around the user's head to secure the helmet, the head support including a frontal frame and a top head structure; the frontal frame comprising a forehead section and a mandibular section, with the top head structure connected to the forehead section; the top head structure further comprising a blower, a plurality of air channels extending from the blower to the frontal frame and a gyroscope arranged on the blower; the frontal frame comprising a plurality of air channels to conduct the air from the blower to a plurality of air outlets on the mandibular section to cool the user and demist a face shield.

[0060] It relates to a portable surgical helmet for a surgical cover suit comprising a head support configured to extend about a user head and secure the helmet on the user's head, said head support comprises a frontal frame and a top head structurewherein the frontal frame comprises a forehead section and a mandibular section, being the top head structure connected to the forehead section; wherein the top head structure comprising: a blower and a plurality of air channels that extend from the blower to the frontal frame; a gyroscope arranged adjacent to the blower and configured to regulate the blower speed according to the movement of the user's head; the frontal frame comprises a plurality of air channel for conducting the air received from the blower to a plurality of air outlets arranged on the mandibular section, the air outlets being configured to cool the user and demist a face shield, and further comprises at least two speakers.

[0061] In an embodiment the gyroscope is arranged adjacent or next to the blower and configured to regulate the blower speed in response to movement of the user's head.

[0062] In an embodiment the helmet comprises at least two speakers positioned within the helmet and a microphone.

[0063] In an embodiment, the surgical helmet comprises an augmented reality device configured to provide surgical information to the user in real-time.

[0064] In an embodiment, the helmet comprises a fan and a plurality of air channels that provide air circulation from the back (fan) to the front of the user's face; a communication system with speakers and microphone; a frontal light source that may be assembled when needed and a micro-processor that allows connection with devices such as a video camera and augmented reality glasses. The connection provides energy power to the devices, as well as integration with other equipment, such as a smartphone.

[0065] The helmet incorporates at least two speakers for direct audio communication, enhancing collaboration and access to real-time guidance without external equipment.

[0066] In an embodiment, the blower is positioned within the top head structure to optimize airflow through the plurality of air channels for user cooling and demisting.

[0067] In an embodiment, the plurality of air channels is arranged to direct airflow to the frontal frame, providing uniform cooling across the user's face.

[0068] In an embodiment, the helmet is made of lightweight materials to reduce strain on the user during extended surgical procedures.

[0069] In an embodiment, the forehead section comprises a first hook for receiving a face shield from a cover suit.

[0070] In an embodiment, the forehead section comprises a first fitting, preferably a small handle, for moving or adjusting the light resource.

[0071] In an embodiment, the forehead section comprises a second fitting, preferably a second handle, for adjusting the camera direction.

[0072] In an embodiment, the top head structure comprises a Printed Circuit Board. Particularly, the printed circuit board is arranged next to the blower.

[0073] It is also disclosed a system comprising a power module and a coverall suit.

[0074] In an embodiment, the power module of the system to be used at the waist level and consists of a rechargeable battery that provides energy to the helmet and connected devices.

[0075] In an embodiment, the coverall suit, may comprise a filter on the top part, next to the fan. This filter provides air filtering to the user. On the front part of the coverall suit, a face shield acts as a physical barrier and allows for a 180° clear field of view.

[0076] Preferably the coverall suit comprises a transparent polymer as a face shield.

[0077] In an embodiment, the remaining toga is made of certified fabric for surgical gowns, with reinforced layers on the front torso and arms.

[0078] The helmet system includes a dischargeable cover suit extending from the helmet to cover the user's upper body.

[0079] The cover suit is made from sterilizable, breathable material that adheres to surgical sterility standards.

[0080] The cover suit is designed for quick detachment, allowing the user to easily dispose it post-surgery, maintaining a sterile environment.

[0081] The ventilation speed is controlled by the user with head movements to change the speed level. The air is conducted by the plurality of air channels to the front, where small openings close to the user's face provide thermal comfort and prevent face shield fogging.

[0082] In an embodiment, the helmet structure is made of a resistant and easy to clean plastic polymer; preferably transparent polycarbonate film, more preferable transparent polycarbonate film with a thickness of around 375p.m.

[0083] In an embodiment, the hood top of the coverall suit, and the air filter are made of laminated fabric to provide FFP3 level protection, preferably the laminated fabric is selected from non-woven polypropylene or similar fabrics to provide this level of protection. The hood is made of laminated fabric, preferably polypropylene for surgical gowns.

[0084] In an embodiment, the remaining suit is made of certified fabric for surgical gowns.

[0085] In an embodiment, the helmet comprises an audio speaker to transmit sound from a connected external device, such as a smartphone, allowing audio input from another helmet or remotely.

[0086] In an embodiment, the helmet comprises a microphone for audio output from the user. This can be used for voice communication with other users, as well as with speech to text conversion applications, allowing real-time reports' elaboration or form filling features.

[0087] Preferably the microphone is located at the mandibular section of the frontal frame.

[0088] In an embodiment, the helmet comprises also a video camera for recording or live streaming, providing a user POV that can be used for remote assistance or demonstration, such as in educational or training settings.

[0089] In an embodiment, Figure 1 represents an embodiment of the helmet, 1 is the head support, 2 is the top head structure, 3 is the forehead section of the frontalframe and 4 is the mandibular section of the frontal frame. Preferably 1 is an adjustment strap.

[0090] In an embodiment, Figure 2 represents the helmet comprising all the modular components. In Figure 2 it is represented 1 is the head support, 2 is the top head structure, 5 is the air intake, 6 are the air outlets, 7 is the augmented reality goggles, 8 is the camera, 9 is the light source, 10 is the hook for receiving the visor or face shield and 11 are the fittings for adjusting the angle position of the camera and the light source position.

[0091] In an embodiment, Figure 3, 6 represents the air outlets, 9 the light source, 12 the speakers and 13 the air intake cover. Preferably the blower is a fan.

[0092] In an embodiment, Figure 4 represents an embodiment of the cooling system, where a circulation fan admits the air that flows through the air channels to the air outlets. Particularly, 14 represents the upper air duct of the top head structure, 15 is the lower air duct of the top head structure, 16 is the module and duct interface, 17 is the blower and 18 is the blower housing.

[0093] In Figure 5 it is represented 4 the mandibular section of the frontal frame, 20 is an air conduct, 21 is the interface front and structure sealer; 22 is the air duct for the air outlets; 23 is the diffusor mask sealer. Preferably the diffusor mask sealer prevents the air from escaping.

[0094] Figure 6 represents an embodiment, where 3 is the forehead section of the frontal frame and 4 is the mandibular section of the frontal frame, 7 is the augmented reality goggles, 22 is the air conduct for the air outlets, 24 is a harness fixation point of the strap; 25 is the hygienic front pad and 26 is a harness fixation struct. Preferably the helmet comprises a pad 25 at the forehead section.

[0095] The embodiment of Figure 7 shows the air duct 22.

[0096] In Figure 8 it is represented a section of the mandibular section. It is shown the air outlets 6, the speakers 12 and the air duct 27.

[0097] In Figure 9 it is represented an embodiment of the mandibular section of the frontal frame 4 comprising another air outlet for demisting the face shield. In this embodiment, the mandibular section comprises the air outlet 6 near the cheeks of theuser and a further air outlet 28 near the chin of the user. The air outlets 28 allows the demisting of the face shield while the air outlets 6 allows the refreshing of the user.

[0098] In Figure 10, the first fitting 11a and the second fitting lib are shown. The are arranged on the forehead section of the frontal frame, and allows the adjustment of the camera angle position and the light source position

[0099] In Figure 11 are shown some examples of the modular devices to be connected to the helmet, namely a camera and a frontal light source. It is represented 8 the camera, 9 the light source, 11 the handle of the fitting, 29 the accessories clip, 30 a clip on, 31 a fixed arm, 32 an angled pivot arm, 33 an extensor arm to be coupled to the handle, 34 is a fastener. In an embodiment the fittings comprise the handle 11 and the extensor arm 33.

[0100] The helmet also features connection with augmented reality devices.

[0101] The helmet provides a frame to hold these devices in place and acts as a power source.

[0102] The term "comprising" whenever used in this document is intended to indicate the presence of stated features, integers, steps, components, but not to preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, components or groups thereof.

[0103] The disclosure should not be seen in any way restricted to the embodiments described and a person with ordinary skill in the art will foresee many possibilities to modifications thereof. The above-described embodiments are combinable.

[0104] The following claims further set out particular embodiments of the disclosure.

Claims

C L A I M S1. Portable surgical helmet for a surgical cover suit comprising a head support configured to extend about a user head and secure the helmet on the user's head, said head support comprises a frontal frame and a top head structure wherein the frontal frame comprises a forehead section and a mandibular section, being the top head structure connected to the forehead section; wherein the top head structure comprising: a blower and a plurality of air channels that extend from the blower to the frontal frame; a gyroscope arranged adjacent to the blower and configured to regulate the blower speed according to the movement of the user's head; the frontal frame comprises a plurality of air channel for conducting the air received from the blower to a plurality of air outlets arranged on the mandibular section, the air outlets being configured to cool the user and demist a face shield, and further comprises at least two speakers.

2. Helmet according to the previous claim comprising a data processor configured to receive a helmet orientation signal from the gyroscope; regulate the blower speed as a function of the helmet orientation signal.

3. Helmet according to any of the previous claims comprising an augmented reality device.

4. Helmet according to any of the previous claims wherein the top head structure further comprises at least one camera for capturing images.

5. Helmet according to any of the previous claims further comprising at least one light source protruding from the top head structure.

6. Helmet according to any of the previous claims further comprising a microphone, preferably the microphone is arranged on the mandibular section.

7. Helmet according to any of the previous claims wherein the augmented reality device is a pair of goggles.

8. Helmet according to any of the previous claims comprising a power device to be placed on the user's waist, particularly the power device is connected to the helmet by means of a cable.

9. Helmet according to the previous claim wherein the cable is connected to a printed circuit board arranged on the top head structure.

10. Helmet according to any of the previous claims further comprising a magnifying loupe connected into the helmet and adjustable within the user's field of view for enhanced magnification.

11. Helmet according to any of the previous claims wherein the air outlets are arranged on a top part of the mandibular section.

12. Helmet according to any of the previous claims comprising a first hook for receiving a face shield from a cover suit.

13. Helmet according to any of the previous claims comprising a fitting for moving or adjusting the light resource, preferably the first fitting is arranged on the forehead section of the frontal frame.

14. Helmet according to any of the previous claims comprising further fitting arranged on the forehead section of the frontal frame for adjusting the camera direction.

15. Helmet according to any of the previous claims wherein the number of air outlets are preferably 6.

16. Cover suit comprising the helmet according to any of the previous claims.

17. Cover suit according to the previous claim comprising an air filter arranged on a top part of the cover suit, particularly arranged on the top part of the suit that rests above the blower of the helmet.

18. Cover suit according to the previous claim wherein the air filter is made of laminated fabric, preferably polypropylene.

19. Cover suit according to any of the claims 16-18 comprising a face shield.

20. Cover suit according to any of the previous claims 16-19 wherein the cover suit is a surgical gown.

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