PPE Adapter for AR Headsets Under Surgical Face Shields
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing AR devices and lighting systems face challenges when used in surgical environments with full face coverings, as they adversely affect spatial imaging and lighting performance due to the presence of face shields, particularly impacting the center camera and light reflection.
Innovation Solution
A PPE adapter system that securely attaches to AR devices and lighting systems, allowing for the use of face shields without interfering with spatial imaging and lighting functionality by using snap-over hooks, indexing posts, and hook-and-loop fasteners, enabling easy attachment and removal, and allowing for precise alignment of face shields to minimize reflections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a face shield is worn in surgical environments, then personal protective equipment requirements are met, but spatial imaging performance deteriorates due to reflections and artifacts affecting the center camera
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an adapter as an intermediary component between the AR device and the face shield. This adapter includes a mounting structure that attaches to the AR device and a face shield interface that secures the shield, creating a controlled interface that minimizes reflections and maintains camera functionality while providing PPE protection
Solution Approach 2:
The system is divided into separate functional components: the AR device, the adapter (with mounting structure and face shield interface), and the face shield. This segmentation allows the adapter to specifically address the imaging problem by creating an optimized interface between the device and shield, isolating the camera from direct interaction with the reflective shield surface
2Adaptability or versatility
If the AR device is modified to work with face shields, then compatibility with PPE is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter is designed as a separate, removable component rather than permanently modifying the AR device. This segmentation allows the base device to remain simple while the adapter provides the necessary PPE compatibility functionality when needed
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter serves multiple functions: it provides structural mounting for the face shield, creates optical optimization to reduce reflections, and enables quick attachment and removal. This multi-functionality in a single component adds versatility without proportionally increasing complexity
3Ease of operation
If the adapter system is designed for easy attachment and removal, then ease of operation is improved, but connection stability may worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting structure incorporates dynamic elements such as spring-loaded arms or snap-fit mechanisms that automatically adjust during attachment to ensure secure engagement. The connection transitions from a simple snap-action to a multi-point secured state, maintaining stability while preserving ease of operation
Solution Approach 2:
The design incorporates curved or rounded interface elements that guide proper alignment during attachment and distribute mechanical stress evenly across the connection points. This geometric approach ensures that quick-attach mechanisms maintain reliable, stable connections without complex fastening procedures
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, methods, and other embodiments for a personal protective equipment (“PPE”) adapter system for use with an augmented/virtual/mixed reality (“AR”) devices and light devices, including an AR device having an AR viewing display and a headband operatively connected to the AR viewing display or a light device having an light module and a headband operatively connected to the light module, and a PPE hood operatively connected to the PPE adapter system, wherein the PPE hood includes a face shield, wherein the face shield is removably connected to the PPE adapter system.