Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
PROTECTIVE APPAREL AND SUPPORT APPARATUS AND METHOD OF USE
[0001]
FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to protective garments
and
garment support systems and more particularly body mounted apparatus to
support
protective apparel.
BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0003] Protective apparel may be worn by surgeons and other care givers
or other
medical personnel in order to protect patients from infection. Orthopedic
procedures and
particularly those involving exposed bone are very susceptible to infection
and
osteomyelitis. Therefore protective apparel may be used to create a sterile
field, typically
achieved by a gown, often referred to as a "toga" that provides a barrier
between the
healthcare professionals and the patient.
[0004] In some cases, helmets may be worn on the head of the surgical
staff
supporting the protective apparel. The helmets however can be heavy and can
result in a
high center of gravity as they extend upwards from the head, resulting in
discomfort and
an un-ergonomic fit. This can lead to undue neck and back strain on the
surgeon.
Further, a face shield and an apparel drape can add weight and drag to a
helmet.
1
CA 2835992 2019-05-21
Protective apparel including a helmet, face shield, and apparel drape often
restricting
movement of the wearer's head due to the added weight and drag.
[0005] Further, the face shield may result in a limited field of vision.
Additionally, as a result of the contours and nature of the helmet alignment
above the
head, the face shield may sit close to the wearer's face and may create an
uncomfortable
and claustrophobic feel. Face shield size may be limited by the outer contours
of the
helmet. Extending portions of the face shield and/or protective apparel that
hang off of
the helmet may cause further drag and undue strain.
[0006] Some solutions incorporate a chin bar on the helmet that couples to
portions
of the apparel; however this may further limit the field of vision of the
surgeon, and may
add more weight to the helmet. Typically patients are positioned below the
surgeon's
head and may be positioned such that the chin bar obstructs the surgeon's view
of the
patient.
[0007] The protective apparel may enclose the wearer's head and may trap in
air
exhausted by the wearer. Fans have been incorporated into the helmet and
positioned on
top of the user's head, and may add even more weight to the helmet further
exacerbating
the weight and center of gravity issues described above. The fan may draw air
in through
the gown material and may result in increased current drain on the fan. This
may result in
reduced battery life or an increased size of the power source to effectively
transport air
into the interior space of the protective suit.
[0008] In some cases the power source must be carried off-helmet in order
to
incorporate enough energy to power the fan. In such case, a cable may run from
the
helmet to the power source, typically on a belt, and may restricting the
wearer's
movement, may rub against the wearer and/or may become unplugged during a
procedure, such as a surgery. These fans may further prevent effective air
circulation as
they may merely force air into the enclosed area around the wearer's head.
[0009] Further, donning procedures may be important in maintaining the
sterile field
about the wearer. Current helmet systems may be cumbersome and may include
unnecessary steps to don the system while maintaining sterility.
[0010] Thus, there is a need for a protective apparel support apparatus
that is light
weight, ergonomically configured and improves the wearer's environment.
According to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided a
protective
apparel and support apparatus, comprising:
2
CA 2835992 2019-05-21
a yoke including a chest member, the chest member comprising a shoe and a
securement device including a yoke receiver, the yoke receiver comprising a
boot,
wherein:
the yoke rests on shoulders of a wearer,
the chest member secures a shield of a gown portion,
the shoe of the chest member is removably disposed within the
boot of the yoke receiver; and
the securement device supports a weight of the yoke and a
weight of the shield.
According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a
protective apparel and support apparatus, comprising:
a gown portion comprising a shield;
a yoke comprising a first chest member and a second chest member; and
a securement device comprising a receiver member, wherein:
the yoke rests on the shoulders of a wearer,
the first and second chest members secure the shield of the gown
portion and comprise an insertion member removeably disposed within the
receiving member of the securement device;
the securement device supports the yoke; and
the first chest member includes a first fan directing an air flow
into an interior barrier space defined by the shield, and the second chest
member includes a second fan directing an air flow out of the interior barrier
space defined by the shield.
According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a
protective apparel and support apparatus, comprising:
a yoke securing a shield of an outer garment, the yoke including a first
connector comprising a shoe and a chest member including an air flow path
directing an
air flow into an interior barrier space defined by the shield; and
an inner garment including a second connector comprising a yoke receiver,
the yoke receiver including a boot,
wherein the second connector receives the first connector.
According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a
protective apparel and support apparatus comprising:
2a
CA 2835992 2019-09-13
a yoke securing a shield of an outer garment, the yoke comprising a first
connector and a
chest member including an air flow path directing an air flow into an interior
barrier space defined by
the shield;
an inner garment including a second connector that receives the first
connector; and
a projector projecting information onto the shield.
According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a
protective
apparel and support apparatus, comprising:
a yoke including a chest member, the chest member comprising a first chest
member, a
second chest member, and a securement device, wherein:
the chest member secures a vision shield of a gown portion,
the first chest member rests at least partially on a first shoulder of a
wearer and the
second chest member rests at least partially on a second shoulder of a wearer,
the first chest member is not in direct contact with the second chest member,
the yoke includes at least one hollow chamber to communicate air within the
yoke,
the yoke includes an air circulation system comprising a first fan positioned
in the first chest
member, the first fan drawing air into an interior barrier space and a second
fan positioned
in the second chest member, the second fan drawing air out of an interior
barrier space,
the vision shield is at least partially secured to the yoke, and
the securement device supports a weight of the yoke and a weight of the vision
shield.
According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a
protective
apparel and support apparatus, comprising:
a first gown portion defining a first barrier, the first gown portion
including an aperture to
receive a securement device of a harness;
the harness including the securement device, the harness removably coupled to
a yoke via the
aperture of the first gown portion;
wherein the yoke rests on shoulders of a wearer, the yoke including:
a chest portion comprising a first chest portion and a second chest portion,
wherein the first chest portion is not in direct contact with the second chest
portion;
wherein the chest portion secures a shield of a second gown portion, the
second
gown portion defining a second barrier and including the shield; and
wherein the chest portion includes a fan, the fan directing an air flow from
outside of
the second barrier to the chest portion,
2b
Date Recue/Date Received 2020-05-05
wherein the chest portion includes a port directing the air flow from the fan
to
inside of the second barrier; and
wherein the shield is secured to the chest portion of the yoke such that a
portion of a
weight of the second gown portion is supported by the yoke.
According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a
protective
apparel and support apparatus, comprising:
a first gown portion defining a first barrier;
a second gown portion defining a second barrier that at least partial encloses
an interior
space;
a yoke configured to rest on the shoulders of a wearer, the yoke comprising:
a first chest member having a forward end and a rearward end, and a second
chest
member having a forward end and a rearward end, wherein:
the first chest member is configured to rest at least partially on a first
shoulder
of a wearer and the second chest member is configured to rest at least
partially on a second shoulder of a wearer;
an air circulation system that receives air from outside the second barrier
and
directs the air to the interior space; and
a transparent vision shield extending from the first chest member to the
second chest
member.
According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a
protective
apparel and support apparatus, comprising:
a first gown portion defining a first barrier;
a second gown portion including a vision shield defining a second barrier;
a yoke configured to rest on the shoulders of a wearer, the yoke comprising:
a chest member, the chest member comprising a first chest member having a
forward end and a rearward end, and a second chest member having a forward end
and a rearward end, wherein:
the chest member at least partially secures the vision shield of the second
gown portion,
the first chest member is configured to rest at least partially on a first
shoulder
of a wearer and the second chest member is configured to rest at least
partially on a second shoulder of a wearer, and
2c
Date Recue/Date Received 2020-05-05
the first chest member forward end is spaced apart from the second chest
member forward end;
wherein the yoke includes at least one hollow chamber to communicate air
within the yoke and the first chest member includes an inlet air port for
receiving air directed from outside the second barrier and the second chest
member includes an outlet air port for receiving air directed from inside of
the second barrier.
According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a
protective
apparel and support apparatus, comprising:
a barrier portion comprising a vision shield;
a yoke configured to rest on the shoulders of a wear, the yoke comprising:
a chest member, the chest member comprising a first chest member having a
forward end and a rearward end, and a second chest member having a forward end
and a rearward end, wherein:
the chest member at least partially secures the vision shield,
the first chest member rests at least partially on a first shoulder of a
wearer and
the second chest member rests at least partially on a second shoulder
of a wearer, and
the first chest member forward end is spaced apart from the second chest
member forward end.
According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a
protective
apparel and support apparatus, comprising:
a barrier portion comprising a vision shield; and
a yoke configured to rest on the shoulders of a wear, the yoke comprising:
a first chest member having a forward end and a rearward end,
a second chest member having a forward end and a rearward end
a rearward yoke portion connected with the first chest member rearward end and
the
second chest member rearward end, and
a gap between the first chest member forward end and the second chest member
forward end.
wherein the barrier portion extends between the first chest member and the
second chest
member.
2d
Date Recue/Date Received 2020-05-05
CA 02835992 2013-12-03
100111 The various
aspects, features and advantages of the disclosure will become
more fully apparent to those having ordinary skill in the art upon careful
consideration of
the following Detailed Description thereof with the accompanying drawings
described
below.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0012] FIG. I is a perspective view of an embodiment of a support yoke of the
invention.
[0013] FIG. 2 is a side view of an embodiment of a yoke donned by a wearer of
the
invention.
[0014] FIG. 3 is a side view of an embodiment of a yoke donned by a wearer of
the
invention.
[0015] FIG. 4 is a side view of an embodiment of a yoke donned by a wearer of
the
invention.
[0016] FIG. 5 is atop view of an embodiment of a yoke of the invention.
[0017] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a gown of the
invention.
[0018] FIG. 7 is a front perspective view of an embodiment of a hood of the
invention.
[0019] FIG. 8 is a rear perspective view of the hood shown in FIG.7.
100201 FIG. 9 is a front perspective view of an embodiment of a wearer donning
the
gown shown in FIG. 6 and the hood shown in FIG. 7.
[0021] FIG. 10 is a front perspective view of an embodiment of a harness of
the
invention.
[0022] FIG. II is an embodiment of a yoke attachment spring bracket of the
invention.
100231 FIG. 12 is a front perspective view of an embodiment of a wearer
donning a yoke
of the invention.
[0024] FM. 13 is a side view of an embodiment of a yoke with a shield of the
invention.
[0025] FIG. 14 is a front view of an embodiment of a shield of the invention.
[0026] FIG. 15 is an exploded view of an embodiment of a yoke of the
invention.
[0027] FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a yoke according to an embodiment.
[0028] FIG. 17 is a top view of the yoke embodiment shown in FIG. 16.
[0029] FIG. 18 is a side view of the yoke embodiment shown in FIG. 16
3
CA 02835992 2013-12-03
100301 FIG. 19A illustrates a first front perspective view of the protective
apparel
embodiment.
[00311 FIG. 19B illustrates a first rear perspective view of an additional
embodiment of a
protective apparel shown in FIG. 19A.
[00321 FIG. 19C illustrates a first front perspective view of an additional
embodiment of
a protective apparel.
[0033] FIG. I 9D illustrates a first rear perspective view of the protective
apparel
embodiment shown in FIG. 19C.
[00341 FIG. 20 is a side view of an embodiment of a yoke donned by a wearer of
the
invention.
[00351 FIG. 21 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a yoke donned by a
wearer of
the invention.
[00361 FIG. 22 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a yoke donned by a
wearer of
the invention.
[00371 FIG. 23 is a side view of an embodiment of a yoke donned by a wearer of
the
invention.
[00381 FIG. 24 is a perspective view of a yoke and securement device donned by
a
wearer according to an embodiment.
[00391 FIG. 25 is a side view of a yoke and securement device donned by a
wearer
according to an embodiment.
[00401 FIG. 26 is a perspective view of a yoke and securement device donned by
a
wearer according to an embodiment.
[00411 FIG. 27 is a side view of yoke coupling to a yoke receiver according to
an
embodiment in a first configuration.
[00421 FIG. 28 is a side view of yoke coupling to a yoke receiver according to
an
embodiment in a second configuration.
[00431 FIG. 29 is a perspective view of yoke coupling to a yoke receiver
according to an
embodiment in the first configuration.
[00441 FIG. 30 is a front perspective view of protective apparel embodiment.
[00451 FIG. 31 is a side view of the protective apparel embodiment shown in
FIG. 30.
4
CA 02835992 2013-12-03
100461 FIG. 32 is a back perspective view of the protective apparel embodiment
shown in
FIG. 30.
CA 02835992 2013-12-03
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
100471 Before describing in detail embodiments that are in accordance with
the
present invention, it should be observed that the embodiments reside primarily
in
combinations of apparatus components and method steps for a protective apparel
and
support system. Accordingly, the apparatus components and method steps have
been
represented where appropriate by conventional symbols in the drawings, showing
only
those specific details that are pertinent to understanding the embodiments of
the present
invention so as not to obscure the disclosure with details that will be
readily apparent to
those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of the description
herein.
100481 In describing the embodiments herein in detail and referring to the
drawings, like numbers indicate like parts throughout the figures. As used in
the
description herein and throughout the claims, the following terms take the
meanings
explicitly associated herein, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise:
the meaning of
"a," "an," and "the" includes plural reference, the meaning of "in" includes
"in" and
"on." Relational terms such as first and second, top and bottom, and the like
may be used
solely to distinguish one entity or action from another entity or action
without necessarily
requiring or implying any actual such relationship or order between such
entities or
actions. While some embodiments described herein reference a user or wearer,
specifically a surgeon, embodiments of a protective apparel and support
apparatus can be
used by any user and/or wearer, for example, surgeons and/or other doctors,
scientists,
students, or any other user that can use protective apparel. In this manner,
while some
embodiments described herein can reference a patient, in other embodiments,
the wearer
may be working on, for example, an experiment, a hazardous material, or any
other
object and/or situation that may prefer protective apparel.
[0049] Some embodiments described herein provide a protective apparel and
support apparatus that provides a number of advantages, including but not
limited to a
more comfortable fit by offering a lower center of gravity, improved ergonomic
design, a
wider stance for improved field of vision, and an effective energy efficient
airflow
system. In such embodiment, the protective apparel and support apparatus
("apparatus")
6
CA 02835992 2013-12-03
can be supported by a off of the head of a user. In such embodiments a
contoured yoke
support structure ("yoke") can rest upon the torso of a user, for example
portions of the
waist, back, shoulders and chest of a user.
[0050] In embodiments, of the invention, the yoke of the protective apparel
and
support apparatus can be substantially free from contact with the wearer's
head. The
yoke support structure can include a frame that can be shaped to fit a user's
shoulders and
shaped to carry and support portions of the protective apparel. The frame can
carry
portions of the protective apparel which may include a transparent vision
shield (e.g., a
face shield or shield), barrier material such as a gown, interior air
replenishment devices
(e.g. a fan), and can distribute the weight of the protective apparel and
support apparatus
about the torso of the wearer. This can provide the wearer with a comfortable,
protective
apparel and support apparatus that has a low center of gravity, that may not
rest on the
wearer's, head and that may provide an ergonomic support to improve
wearability.
[0051] In some embodiments, the yoke can include a first support portion
that can
be configured to rest at least partially on a first shoulder of a wearer and a
second support
portion that can be configured to rest at least partially on a second shoulder
of the wearer.
Protective apparel can be coupled to the first support portion and the second
support
portion of the yoke support structure, and can be configured to include a
vision shield in
front of the wearer's face for viewing and a protective barrier over the
wearer.
[0052] In some embodiments, an air circulation system can be configured to
be
coupled to the yoke, and can be configured to provide air replenishment and
air
conditioning. The air circulation system can include a first fan and a second
fan. The
first fan can be configured to draw air into or out of the interior of a
barrier space and the
second fan can be configured to draw air into or out of an interior barrier
space. The first
fan and the second fan can be disposed away from the wearer's ears and can
reduce noise
generated by the fans. The yoke can include one or more hollow chambers
configured to
communicate air within the yoke. In some embodiments, the first fan and the
second fan
can be disposed within, or coupled to a yoke support structure portion that
can extend
down the back of the wearer. In some embodiments, a single fan may be used to
draw air
out of the interior barrier space or to introduce outside air into the
interior barrier space.
7
CA 02835992 2013-12-03
100531 In some embodiments, an intake fan can be configured to direct air
through a yoke portion and out of a front of the yoke in a direction
substantially parallel
to the wearer's vision, which in some embodiments can be toward the vision
shield. This
can reduce an amount of air blown directly onto the wearer's face. In such an
embodiment, the air may be directed around a curvature of the vision shield in
front of
the wear's face and to another side of the yoke. One or more inlet ports on
the other side
of the yoke can be directed to an exhaust fan that can create negative
pressure that can
result in drawing the air out of the interior of the barrier space_
[00541 In some embodiments, the vision shield has a surface area, i.e. a
field of
vision, of at least 72 inches square and preferably one to four times greater
than 72 inches
square. A lateral distance between the first yoke portion and the second yoke
portion
provides for a greater field of vision as the vision shield spans from the
first yoke portion
to the second yoke portion while the first yoke portion and the second yoke
portion are
supported by the wearer's shoulders.
10055] In other embodiments, the support apparatus couples to a harness
including a waist belt and shoulder straps. The waist belt and shoulder straps
may be
stand alone or incorporate into wearable garments. In other embodiment, the
support
apparatus coupled to a torso securement device such as a jacket, vest, a
shirt, etc.
[0056] FIGS. 1-19 depict various embodiments of protective apparel and
support
apparatus and/or portions of apparatus. An apparatus can include a yoke, one
or more
gowns, togas, and/or hoods (single piece and/or multi-piece), and/or a
harness, etc.
While each embodiment can be described as including certain element or
features, it is
understood that non-mutually exclusive elements and features of any embodiment
can be
included in any other embodiment.
10057] FIG. 1 depicts a yoke support structure ("yoke") 100 of a protective
apparel and support apparatus according to an embodiment. The yoke 100 is a
support
structure that can be configured to rest on the shoulders and upper torso
region of a
wearer (not shown in FIG. 1). The yoke 100 includes a first chest member 102a,
a
second chest member 102b and a lateral chest member 102c. The yoke 100 further
includes a first back member 106a coupled to the first chest member 102a, and
a second
back member 106b coupled to the second chest member 102b. The yoke 100 can be
8
CA 02835992 2013-12-03
configured such that the inner contours I20a, b of the yoke 100 can
substantially rest on
the shoulders of the wearer and can substantially rest adjacent to portions of
the chest and
back of the wearer. The yoke 100can be configured to rest securely on the
upper torso of
the wearer and can be configured to support portions of the protective apparel
(not
shown). The first chest member 102a and the first back member 106a form the
first
shoulder portion 104a. The second chest member 102b and the second back member
106b form the second shoulder portion 104b.
[00581 In this embodiment the first back member 106a is hingedly coupled to
the
first chest member 102a with a first hinge 108a; and the second back member
106b is
hingedly coupled to the second chest member 102b with a second hinge I08b. The
first
hinge 108a and the second hinge 108b can allow the yoke 100 to adjust to the
size of the
wearer by pivoting the chest member and the back member relative to one
another about
hinges 108a, 108b, to change the shoulder opening size of yoke 100. This can
accommodate difference in torso thickness from one wearer to another wearer
while still
allowing the yoke 100 to wrap over the shoulders. In alternative embodiments,
the yoke
100 is a unitary structure and may be flexible such that yoke material bends,
and can
allow the yoke to be "form-fit" to the wearer by bending the unitary
structure. Other
embodiments may incorporate a plurality of members, while some or all may be
flexible
or some or all may be at least semi-rigid, or a combination thereof. For
example, a
portion of the yoke may be a formable wire frame and another portion may be a
plastic
support portion.
100591 The yoke 100 can be configured to rest on the wearer's shoulder at
the
first shoulder portion 104a and at the second shoulder portion 104b. In this
embodiment
the chest members 102a, 102b connect across the chest of the wearer with the
lateral
chest member 102c. In other the chest members 102a, 1026 can rest on the chest
without
interconnecting the first and second chest members 102a, 102b. The yoke 100
can also
partially rest on the chest in varying degrees with the chest members 102a-c.
[0060] FIG. 2 is a side view of a yoke 100 shown positioned on a wearer
200.
The yoke 100 is positioned on the wearer 200's shoulders and include a
substantially
transparent vision shield 202 positioned in front of the wearer 200's face
204. The
vision shield 202 can be configured to maintain barrier protection of the
protective
9
apparel while allowing the wearer 200 to see the patient. The weight of the
vision shield
202 can be supported by the yoke 100 and can be distributed onto the shoulders
and
can transfer the weight of the vision shield 202 to the wearer. The vision
shield 202
position relative to the wearer's face 204 can be a function of a standoff
distance (not
shown) of the vision shield 202 from the chest members 102a-c and an angle 208
of a tilt
away from the yoke 100 and the wearer. Having the vision shield 202 coupled to
the
yoke 100 can offset the vision shield 202 a distance from the wearer's face.
[0061] The first back member 106a and the second back member 106b can act
as
counter weight configured to counteract a moment of force on the front of the
yoke 100
due to the weight of the vision shield 202, a protective garment 302 (see,
e.g., FIG. 3),
and the front portion of the yoke 100. Balancing the yoke 100 minimizes
movement of
the yoke 100 relative to the wearer 200. A length and a weight of the back
members
106a, 106b in conjunction with a weight of one or more batteries (not shown)
and an air
circulation system (not shown) can be configured to counter balance the moment
of force
on the front chest member 102a-c. While some of the force on the front of the
yoke 100
can be imparted from the chest member's 102a-c on to the wearer's chest, the
counter
weight effect of the back members 106a, 106b can counter act the amount of
force on the
wearer's chest and can distribute the weight about the wearer's shoulders. The
yoke 100
can cradle the wearer's torso to minimize movement of the yoke 100 as it is
worn.
[0062] As shown in FIGS. 1-4, the yoke 100 can include a downward u-shape
that can lower the center of gravity of the overall protective apparel and
support
apparatus (not shown) as it sits over the shoulders of the wearer,
distributing the weight
to stabilize the apparatus. Although it is preferred that movement of the
protective
apparel and support apparatus is minimized, some movement of the apparatus
relative to
the wearer may be acceptable. In such embodiments, the vision shield 202 can
be sized
such that some movement does not hinder the wearer's line of sight.
[0063] FIG. 3 is a side view of the yoke 100 shown positioned on a wearer
200
and includes the vision shield 202 and a protective garment 302. The
protective garment
302 can be coupled to the yoke 100, the vision shield 202 and/or a combination
thereof.
In this embodiment the protective garment 302 is coupled to the vision shield
202. The
vision shield 202 can be selectively coupled to the yoke and can be coupled to
the yoke
CA 2835992 2019-05-21
CA 02835992 2013-12-03
after the yoke is fitted on the wearer. In other embodiments, the vision
shield 202 can he
coupled to the yoke prior to the yoke being fitted to the wearer. The
protective garment
302 can be, for example, a hood, a body toga, a gown, an upper torso gown,
combinations
of said protective garments, and/or the like. The protective garment 302 is
positioned
between the patient and the surgeon or care giver. The protective garment 302
and the
vision shield 202 can be configured to form an interior barrier space 314. The
interior
barrier space 314 is generally the space between the protective garment 302
and the
wearer. The wearer's head and at least portions of the upper body of the
wearer are
contained within the interior barrier space 314. The interior barrier space
314 is
separated from an exterior 316 of the system.
[0064] FIG. 4 is a side view of the yoke 100 as it rests on the wearer's
torso,
showing the conforming fit of the yoke 100 to the wearer's upper torso
according to
another embodiment. The back members 106a-b rest on a back portion 402 of the
wearer's torso, the shoulder portions 104a-b, rest at least on the top of the
wearer's
shoulders and the chest members 102a-c rest on a front portion of the wearer's
shoulders
and the chest of the wearer's torso. The first hinge 108a can be configured to
couple the
first back member 106a and first chest member 102a and can allow rotation of
the first
back member 106a relative to the first chest member 102a and can change the
shape of
the yoke 100 (the distance between the first chest member 102a and the first
back
member 106a) to conform more closely to the wearer's torso size and shape.
[0065] FIG. 5 is a top view of a yoke 100. In this embodiment the chest
members
102a-c and the back members 106a-b have internal chambers, a first chest
member
chamber 530, a second chest member chamber 532, a first back member chamber
534
and a second back member chamber 536 ("chambers 532-536"). FIG. 5 further
illustrates
dimensions of the yoke 100.
[0066j The overall width of the yoke 100 can provide a support that is
generally
wider than the wearer's head which can allow for donning of the yoke 100 and
the
accompanying protective apparel (not shown). A first inside dimension of the
yoke W1,
502 measured at the rear of the yoke between the first back member 106a and
the second
back member 106b can be greater than 7.0 inches and preferably can be greater
than 9.0
inches. A first outside dimension W., 503 measured at the outer most dimension
of the
11
front portion of the yoke 100 between an outside of the first chest member
102a and an
outside of the second chest member 102b. The first outside dimension Wo can
affect the
distance the vision shield 202 is positioned relative to the wearer once the
yoke 100 is
donned. The wider the yoke 100 (Wo), the wider the vision shield 202 and
subsequently,
the greater the field of vision, as well as the greater the distance the
shield 202 will be
offset from the wearer's face. A second outside dimension Wb, 504 may be
measured at
the outermost dimension of the rear portion of the yoke 100, and a third
outside
dimension WE, 506 may be measured at the outermost dimension of airports 510,
512.
[0067] Yoke 100, as shown in FIG. 5, further includes air transport ports,
specifically, a first air port 510 and a second air port 512. The first air
port 510 and the
second air port 512 are configured to allow air to be communicated between the
interior
barrier space 514 (or similarly as interior barrier space 314) of the system
to the outside
of the barrier. In this manner, air within the interior barrier space 514 can
be replenished.
In some embodiments one or more fans can be used for air circulation and/or
replenishment. In this embodiment, a first fan 540 (shown in broken line)
draws air into
the interior barrier space 514 through the first external air port 510 while a
second fan
542 (shown in broken line) exhausts air from the interior barrier space 514
through the
second air port 512. The air that enters through the first air port 510 is
communicated
through the chambers 532-536 and then introduced to the interior barrier space
514 by at
least one inlet ports 518. After flowing through the interior barrier space
514, the air that
enters the yoke 100 through one or more outlets 520, travels through the one
or more
other of chambers 532-536 and is exhausted from the yoke 100 by the second
blower fan
542 through the second external port 512.
[0068] The inlet port 518 may be formed in any of the chest members 102a,
102b,
102c. As shown in FIG. 5, yoke 100 includes more than one inlet port 518;
specifically,
first chest member 102a can include a set of inlet ports 518, and second chest
member
102b can include a set of outlet ports 520. While shown in FIG. 5 as including
a certain
shape and/or location, in some embodiments, the shape and/or location of the
one or more
inlet and outlet ports can vary. For example the one or more ports may be one
or more
slots in the yoke 100.
[0069] In this embodiment the inlet ports 518 can introduce air into the
interior
barrier space 514 from first air port 510, while the outlet ports 520 can
remove air that
can be exhausted from the second air port 512. This is in effect a push / pull
system
12
CA 2835992 2019-05-21
CA 02835992 2013-12-03
wherein air is introduced (pushed) into the interior barrier space 514 by the
first air port
510, a first fan (shown later) and the inlet ports 518 and exhausted (pulled)
through the
second set if internal ports 520, a second fan (shown later) and the second
external port
512. In this embodiment the air may be directed from the inlet ports 518
toward the
vision shield 202 and drawn across the shield into the outlet ports 520,
thereby
replenishing the air in the interior barrier space 514. It is also understood
by those of
ordinary skill in the art that ports may be placed throughout the yoke. The
ports may also
be directed at the wearer or directed away from the wearer. Alternatively,
various ports
may be directed in different directions.
[0070] As described herein, a protective apparel and support apparatus can
define
an interior barrier space and a sterile field to substantially separate a
wearer, for example
a surgeon, from a person or thing, for example a patient. In some embodiments
the
apparatus includes a one-piece suit that covers the head and the body portions
of the
wearer. In some embodiments, the apparatus includes multi-piece suits, for
example,
having a hood portion to cover a weatet 's head and/or upper body, and a gown
portion to
cover a wearer's upper body and lower body. In these embodiments the yoke 100
is
placed on the wearer and at least under the head covering portion of the
protective
apparel. In other embodiments the yoke 100 rests on the wearer under all
portions of the
protective apparel.
[0071] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a protective gown 600 that may form
a
portion of the invention. The protective gown 600 can include a front 602 and
a back
(not shown), a neck opening 604, a first sleeve 606a and a second sleeve 606b.
The
protective gown 600 has a chest portion 622, which can be indicated as the
portion above
the dash line 630. The protective gown 600 includes a first yoke receiving
area 610 and a
second yoke receiving area 612. The protective gown 600 also includes an
abdominal
portion 614 and a bottom portion 616. The protective gown may also include a
zipper
618. While shown in FIG. 6 as including a zipper 618, in other embodiments,
protective
gown 600 can include other fastening devices, such as hook and loop fasteners,
adhesive
or the like when the protective gown 600 is configured to fully encloses the
back of the
wearer. While the sleeves 606a, 6061) are depicted in FIG. 6 as being short
sleeves, in
other embodiments, sleeves 606a, 606b can be long sleeves or, in some
embodiments, the
13
gown may not have sleeves at all so long as other protective garment portions
provide
complimentary protection. In such embodiments, the apparatus can include a
second
gown portion including sleeves (see, e.g., FIG. 7). Each sleeve 606a, b may
have an
elastic cuff 620a, b. The protective gown 600 can be used with a second
protective
portion (see, e.g., FIG. 7), which may be a hood.
[00721 FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a second protective gown portion,
specifically, a hood 700. Hood 700 includes a vision shield 702, a head
portion 704, a
body portion 705 which includes a chest area 716, and a pair of sleeves 706a,
b. Hood
700 may include a zipper 710 running from the front of the hood to the back
over a top
712 of the hood 700 and down a back 714 of the hood 700. Hood 700 can include
one or
more elastic elements. Specifically, hood 700 includes a chest elastic 718
included
around the chest area 716 and can include elastic sleeve cuffs 720a, b at
least at the end
of sleeves 706a, b. The first s1eeve706a and the second sleeve 706b are
configured as
long sleeves in this embodiment covering the wearer's arms 730a, b. The chest
area 716
has a bottom edge 707 which defines a chest opening 709. While shown in FIG. 7
as
including long sleeves, in other embodiments, hood 700 can include no sleeves
or short
sleeves. In such embodiments, hood 700 can be included in an apparatus having
a first
gown that includes long sleeves. In this manner, at least one of either the
first gown or the
hood can include long sleeves.
[0073] The hood 700 can include the same material as the protective gown
600 or it
can include different material. For example the hood 700 may be made of a more
breathable material than the protective gown 600. The hood 700 may be made of
a lighter
material than the protective gown 600. In other embodiments, the hood 700 has
a
different barrier protection level than the protective gown 600, for example,-
the hood 700
material may have a protection level in accordance with the Association for
the
Advancement of Medical Instrumentation (AAMI) standards. The material may be
different from gown to gown or even within a single gown, the protective gown
600 may
be rated at different AAMI standard levels. Different portions of each the
hood 700 and
the protective gown 600 may have different materials or protection levels as
well. In
some embodiments, one or both of the protective gown 600 and/or the hood 700
can
include woven, non-woven materials, plastics or the like. In some embodiments,
materials may be biodegradable, compostable or both.
14
CA 2835992 2019-05-21
CA 02835992 2013-12-03
100741 FIG. 8 is a rear perspective view of the hood 700. The hood 700
further
includes a first hood port 802a which is a void in the hood 700. The hood port
802a is
configured to substantially align with and be coupled to an air port of a
yoke, for
example, the first air port 510 of the yoke 100. The hood portion further
includes a
second hood port 802b which is a void in the hood 700. The hood port 802b is
configured to substantially align and is configured to be coupled to an air
port of a yoke,
for example, the second air port 512 of the yoke 100. The hood ports 802a,
802b are
formed by voids in the hood material to allow for the flow of air between the
interior
barrier space and an exterior space. In some embodiments, the flow of air can
be induced
by the at least one fan of the yoke 100. In some embodiments, one or both of
port 802a,
802b can include a porous covering, for example, a mesh and/or a filter.
[00751 As described above, the hood ports 802a, 802b can be configured to
be
coupled to a first air port and/or a second air port of a yoke, for example
the first air port
510 and the second air port 512 of the yoke 100. In such embodiments, the air
ports of
the yoke can be configured to be securcd to the hood ports 802; 802b using
hook and
loop fasteners or another fastening system. In such embodiments, a first hook
or loop
portion can be coupled to the hood adjacent the hood port 802a, 802b, and a
second hook
or loop portion can be coupled to the yoke 100 adjacent the air port 510, 512.
In some
embodiments, securing the air ports of the yoke to the hood ports 802a, 802b
can
maintain the alignment of the air ports with the hood ports. In another
embodiment, the
hood port 802a may have a size smaller than an outside dimension of the first
air port
802a of the yoke 100. In this embodiment the hood port 510 is sized large
enough to slip
over the first air port 510 and may be held in place by a detent (not shown)
in the first air
port 510. In yet another embodiment, the hood port 802a is greater in size
relative to the
first air port 510 of the yoke 100 such that the hood port generally aligns
with the first
port 510 when the hood is donned. In some embodiments, an elastic fastener
(not shown)
can be disposed about one or more of hood ports 510, 512 and can be configured
to
maintain one of more of hood ports 510, 512 in a closed position.
100761 In an apparatus including the hood 700 and the first gown portion
600, the
hood 700 can be donned such that portions of the gown 600 are covered by the
hood 700
to complete the sterile field about the wearer. In such embodiments, the
sleeves 606a, b
CA 02835992 2013-12-03
of the protective gown 600 are overlapped by the sleeves 706a, b of the hood
700. The
overlap can be configured to maintain the sterile filed. The chest elastic 718
of the hood
700 holds the chest area 716 of the hood 700 tight to the chest portion 622 of
the
protective gown 600 such that the there is sufficient material overlap to
maintain the
sterile field. While the hood 700 is shown as including a certain body portion
705 hood
7001ength, in other embodiments, the length of the body portion can be
shorter, or longer,
for example, extending below the chest area for example.
100771 FIG. 9 illustrates a wearer 901 of an apparatus including the
protective
gown 600, the yoke 100, and the hood 700. Specifically, FIG. 9 illustrates the
wearer
901 with the protective gown 600 on and the yoke 100 placed on the wearer over
portions
of the protective gown 600, with the hood portion off. The back members 106a,
b of the
yoke 100 are not connected so as to accommodate rear entry donning of the yoke
100 by
the wearer 901. The wearer 901 slides the yoke 100, indicated by arrow 904, on
from a
front side of the wearer 901 and then down onto the shoulders of the wearer
901. The
wearer 901, in this illustration, is holding the hood 700 in preparation to
don the hood
700 over the yoke 100 and over the gown 600. The hood 700 is shown here in an
open
position to be donned on the wearer 901 such that sterile filed is maintained.
The hood
700 is then closed, by zipping up the hood 700 in this embodiment. The shield
702 has a
yoke receiving element 1404 (see e.g., element 1404 in FIG. 14) that includes
notches or
voids in the shield, adhesive, hook and loop or other securement devices, or a
combination thereof. Hook and loop fasteners 902 may be placed at various
positions on
the shield 702 and the yoke 100 to hold the shield to the yoke 100.
100781 In some embodiments, yoke 100 can be configured to be coupled to a
securement device, specifically a body securement device, such as, for
example, a
harness. In such embodiments, the securement device can be configured to be
worn by a
wearer and can be mechanically coupled to yoke 100 such that the yoke 100 can
be
restrained to the wearer.
[00791 FIG, 10 illustrates a securement device, specifically a harness 1000
configured to be coupled to the yoke 100. Although the configuration of the
yoke 100
can allow it to be a stand alone apparatus, the harness 1000 can supplement
the yoke 100
as part of the apparatus. In some situations, the harness 1000 may provide
improved fit
16
CA 02835992 2013-12-03
for the wearer. In other embodiments the harness 1000 provides additional
ergonomic
features. The harness 1000 includes shoulder straps, specifically a first
shoulder strap
1002a, a second shoulder strap 1002b, and a belt 1006. The first shoulder
strap I002a
includes a first yoke attachment portion I008a and the second shoulder strap
1002b
includes a second yoke attachment portion I008b. The harness 1000 may be used
in
conjunction with the yoke 100 and a protective garment as part of a protective
apparel
and support apparatus. In this embodiment, the belt portion 1006 of the
harness 1000 can
be configured to provide support for the lower back and abdominal regions of
the wearer.
[00801 In this embodiment, the yoke attachment portions 1008a, b comprise a
pair
of attachable straps that comprise a first yoke securement strap 1010a, b and
a second
yoke securement strap 1012a, b for each shoulder strap 1002a, b. The first
yoke
securement strap 1010a and a second yoke securement strap 1012a are configured
to be
selectively coupled to a first side of the yoke 100 and a first yoke
securement strap 1010b
and a second yoke securement strap 1012b are configured to be selectively
coupled to a
second side of the yoke 100.
[00811 In this embodiment, the harness 1000 is worn by the wearer and the
yoke
100 is placed on to the wearer. The yoke can rest adjacent to at least a
portion of the
yoke attachment portions 1008a-b of the harness 1000. The first yoke
securement strap
1010a and a second yoke securement strap 1012a can be wrapped over the yoke
100 and
coupled together by a fastener, which in this embodiment is a hook and loop
fastener. At
least one of the first and second yoke securement straps 1010a, 1012a are
elastic and can
be stretched over the yoke 100 to secure the yoke to the harness 1000. The
same applies
to the first yoke securement strap 1010b and a second yoke securement strap
10I2b
coupling the second side of the yoke 100 to the harness 1000. Once the harness
1000 is
coupled to the yoke 100, the protective apparel may be fitted to the yoke and
the wearer.
In some embodiments, the yoke 100 can be coupled to more than one securement
device,
such as, for example, a backpack, a vest, a jacket, shirt, scrub or the like
generally worn
by the user.
[00821 Other embodiments and means for coupling the yoke to the harness
will be
evident to those of ordinary skill in the art. Some embodiments include
providing hook
and loop fastener on conjoining portions of the yoke and the harness. In this
embodiment
17
=
a first portion of the hook and loop fastener resides on the top of the
shoulder strap and
aligns with a second complimentary hook and loop fastener portion attached to
the
underside of the yoke, selectively coupling together when the yoke is placed
on the
harness 1000.
100831 In yet another embodiment, the yoke attachment portion is a spring
bracket coupled to the shoulder strap of the harness 1000, illustrated in FIG.
11. The
spring bracket 1102 is a u-shaped bracket that receives the yoke 100, holding
the yoke
100 to the harness 1000 through the frictional forces of the spring. An
additionally
securement strap may be placed at the top of the u-shape bracket 1102 in some
embodiments.
[0084] In other embodiments, a yoke can be couple to a harness using, for
example, cover snaps, clips, etc. Further, FIG. 10 depicts the yoke being
coupled to the
harness, other embodiments, the yoke can be coupled to other garments worn by
the
wearer, for example, a shirt.
100851 FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a harness 1000 that is being
coupled to
the yoke 100 as it is donned on the wearer. Once the yoke 100 is in place, the
yoke
securement straps can be wrapped over the yoke portions and secured together.
Harness
1000 can allow the yoke 100 to be secured to the wearer, and may reduce or
eliminate
forces and/or stress on the wearer's head, such that a lens (not shown) can
include an
increased field of vision, and can be spaced apart a distance from the
wearer's face,
configured to improve comfort and maneuverability. In such an embodiment the
yoke
100 can be donned by placing yoke 100 in front of the wearer's chest and neck
region
and then down onto the shoulders of the wearer. The height of the yoke
relative to the
wearer is illustrated in FIG. 12. In some embodiments, the yoke can be brought
up from
in front of the wearer, sliding around the neck and brought to rest on the
shoulders of the
wearer. In some embodiments, the open yoke configuration is that the yoke
need
only be raised enough to clear the shoulders during donning; and it may not be
necessary
to reach over the wearer's head to be donned.
[0086] In one embodiment the yoke 100 is held by the chest portions, and
moved
back and over the shoulders of the wearer and brought to rest on the shoulder.
Once
18
CA 2835992 2019-05-21
CA 02835992 2013-12-03
resting, the yoke 100 may be secured by the yoke attachment portions l 008a-b
for
example.
[00871 FIG. 13 is a side view 1300 of the yoke 100 with the vision shield
202
coupled thereto. The air flow directions and internal portions of the yoke are
represented
in broken line format. Inlet ports 518 (see, e.g. FIG. 5) are shown as a first
internal air
port 1306a, a second internal air port 1306b, a third internal air poit 1306c,
a fourth
internal air port 1306d, and a fifth internal air port 1306e. The internal air
ports are
configured to communicate with the internal chambers 530, 532, 534 and 536.
Some of
the internal air ports can be associated with one or more air baffles. In this
embodiment
the air baffles are located within the yoke 100. The air ports 1306 a-e may be
apertures
in the yoke 100 or the apertures may be complimented by nozzles or the like.
[00881 The first internal air port 1306a is shown as an aperture in the
yoke 100
chest member 102a. A first airflow line 1308a indicates the general direction
of flow of
air as it discharges from the first internal port 1306a.
[00891 The second internal air port 1306b is an aperture in the chest
member
102a. Adjacent to the second port 1306b is a first air baffle I310a. The first
air baffle
1310a is configured to direct at least some of the air out of the internal
port 1306b. The
first air baffle 1310a is also configured in this embodiment to direct air
into the first
internal air port 1306a.
[0090] The third internal air port 1306c is an aperture in the chest member
102a.
Adjacent to the third port 1306c is a second air baffle 1310b configured to
divert air
through the third port 1306c and in the general direction of the third airflow
line 1308c.
The second air baffle 1310b is also configured in this embodiment to direct
air into the
second internal air port 1306b.
[0091] The fourth internal air port 1306d is an aperture in the chest
member 102a.
Adjacent to the fourth port 1306d is a third air baffle 1310c configured to
divert air
through the fourth port 1306d and in the general direction of the fourth
airflow line
1308d. The third air baffle 1310c is also configured in this embodiment to
direct air into
the third internal air port 1306c.
19
CA 02835992 2013-12-03
[0092] The fifth internal air port I 306e is an aperture in the chest
member I 02a.
Adjacent to the fifth port 1306e is the third air baffle 1310c configured to
divert air
through the fifth port 1306e and in the general direction of the fourth
airflow line 1308e.
[0093] In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 13, the internal air ports
1306 a-e are
located in a chest member top 130a of yoke 100. This position in the yoke 100
allows the
air to be directed parallel to the wearer's line of sight and not onto the
wearer directly.
The air flow is directed along the vision shield 202, beginning where the
vision shield
202 meets the yoke 100 at a yoke-shield interface line 1340. The air flow
generally
travels along the shield 202 until the shield curves around to mate with the
second chest
member 102b. Said another way, the shield can include a curvilinear shape; can
extend
from a first side of yoke 100 to a second side of yoke 100; and can curve
around a chest
portion 102a-c. The air can be diverted by the vision shield 202 and can
generally travel
around the shield 202 and can be directed toward the opposite side of the
vision shield
202 and the second chest member 102b. In this embodiment, the air can travel
from one
of internal air ports 1306 a-e on a first side of the yoke 100 to an internal
air port (not
shown) on a second side of the yoke 100.
[0094] The quantity of internal air ports may be fewer than or greater than
those
illustrated in the present embodiment. The size of the apertures may also
vary, and may
further vary from port to port. The air can flow to the internal air ports
1306 a-e via one
or more internal chambers, or internal chamber portions of the yokel 00. The
internal
chamber comprises the first chamber 532 of the chest member 102a which is in
communication with the second chamber 536 of the back member 106a of the yoke
100.
The hinge portion 1330 of the chest member 102a and the back member 106a, is
configured to couple the chest member 102a and the back member 106 a such that
the air
can move between the chest member 102a and the back member 106, and the
internalair
ports and external airports. As shown in FIG. 13, yoke 100 can include a
blower (e.g. a
fan) 1318. Blower 1318 can be disposed within the back member 106a and can be
adjacent to the external air port 510. In this embodiment the blower 1318 can
draw air
into the yoke chamber, the second chamber 536, which then travels through the
hinge
1330 to the first chamber 532 and out the internal air ports 1306a-e.
CA 02835992 2013-12-03
[0095] In this embodiment outlet ports 520 (see FIG. 5) have a similar
arrangement, as with the first chest member 102a of the yoke portions
illustrated in FIG.
13, in the second chest member 102b. A second blower can be disposed in the
back
member 106b however; the second blower can be configured to draw air out of
the
interior barrier space 514 through outlet ports 520, a first and second
chamber of the
second chest member 102b, through the second blower and out the second
external port
512.
[0096] Also illustrated in FIG. 13 is the configuration of the vision
shield 202
relative to the yoke 100. The vision shield 202 may be angled away from the
vertical
axis 1302 at a shield angle 1304, which may be an angle between 0 degrees and
at least
45 degrees. In this embodiment the shield angle 1302 is between 20 and 30
degrees and
may preferably be about 25 degrees from the vertical `11" axis 1302. This
angle 1304 in
conjunction with the configuration of the yoke 100 can offset the vision
shield 202
surface from the wearer's face making the system more comfortable for the
wearer. The
yoke 100 extends in the X direction away from the users face, while the vision
shield 202
further extends away from the face by nature of the angle, both creating the
distance
between the wearer's face and the shield 202 while distributing the weight of
the shield
202 and garment 302 to the upper torso. Further, the shield 202 may support
portions of
the protective apparel that extend beyond the wearer's head, and can hold the
apparel out
of the wearer's face.
[0097] As shown in FIG. 13, yoke 100 can include a power system for the
blower
1318 including one or more batteries 1320 and a switch 1322 coupled between
the
batteries 1320 and the blower 1318. The batteries 1320 and the blower 1318 can
be
positioned within the yoke 100 to provide counter weight to the shield 202 and
the
protective apparel, balancing the yoke on the wearer. The blower 1318 can be a
Sunon
GB0545AFV1-8 with maglev bearing for example. Those of ordinary skill in the
tart
will understand that other fans or blowers may achieve the results intended in
accordance
with this disclosure.
[0098] FIG. 14 illustrates a shield 1402 in accordance with one embodiment
of
the disclosure. Shield 1402 can be similar to and can include similar elements
to shield
202. In this manner, shield 1402 can be part of any protective apparel and
support
21
CA 02835992 2013-12-03
apparatus described herein. The shield 1402 includes atop 1406 and a bottom
1408, a
first side 1410 and a second side 1412. The bottom includes a yoke engagement
element
1404, which can be a void or a notch in the shield 1402 as illustrated in this
embodiment.
This engagement element may mate with a shield receiving element (see 1303 in
FIG.
13). The first side 1410 and the second side 1412 can include portions
configured to
couple to the yoke 100 with securement devices such as fasteners. The
fasteners may
include, and are not limited to those that would secure the shield to the
yoke, such as
hook and loop fasteners, adhesive, buttons, snaps, keyholes, clips an the
like_ The shield
is substantially clear and may have coating such as anti-glare, anti-
reflection,
hydrophobic, anti-fog and the like. The securement devise may be placed on or
incorporated into the shield in the fastener area 1414.
[0099] FIG. 15 is an exploded perspective view of the components of the
yoke
100. The yoke 100 in this embodiment comprises a first chest member first half
1502
and first chest member second half 1504, a second chest member first half 1506
a second
chest member second half 1508, a third chest member first half 1510 and a
third chest
member second half 1512. In this embodiment the third chest member first half
1510 and
the third chest member second half 1512 are coupled together by a hinge 1514.
The
hinge may further include an adjustment device, for example a threaded
adjustment
device configured to adjust the angle of the hinge and hence the angle of the
third chest
member first half 1510 and the third chest member second half 1512_
[00100] The first chest member first half 1502 and first chest member
second half
1504 are coupled together to form the first chest member 102a. The second
chest
member first half 1506 and a second chest member second half 1508 are coupled
together
to form the second chest member 102b. The first chest member 102a and the
second
chest member 102b have an internal chamber enclosed on four sides creating a
hollow
internal air flow chamber. The third chest member 102c includes two single
piece
portions 1510, 1512, which may have a chamber or may be open ended on at least
one
side. The halves may be secured together by screws, adhesive or other
sufficient
securement means as known to those of ordinary skill in the art.
[00101] The yoke 100 in this embodiment includes a first back member first
half
1522 and first back member second half 1524, a second back member first half
1526 and
a second back member second half 1528. A first back member first half 1522 and
first
back member second half 1504 are coupled together to form the first chest
member 106a.
The second chest portion first half 1506 and a second chest member second half
1508 are
coupled together to form the second chest member 106b. The first back member
106a
and the second back member 106b have an internal chamber enclosed on four
sides
creating a hollow internal air flow chamber.
[00102] The first chest member 102a and the first back member 106a are
coupled
together by hinge 108a as shown in FIG. 1, and similarly in FIG. 13 and in
exploded view
in FIG. 15. The first chest member first half 1502 and the first chest member
second half
1504 are assembled to form the first chest member 102a with the first chest
member
hinge at a first end 1546 of the first chest member 102a. The first back
member 106a,
comprising the first back member first half 1522 and the first back member
second half
1524 are assembled such that the back member hinge engages with the chest
member
hinge. In this embodiment the chest member hinge is partially contained within
the back
member hinge, e.g. in a fork like manner.
[00103] The first chest member hinge 1332 includes a first protrusion
1550 and
second opposing protrusions 1552, 1556. The second protrusions 1552, 1556
selectively engages
first opposing voids 1554, 1558 in the first back member hinge 1555. The
second protrusions
1552, 1556 and the first voids 1554, 1558 share a common axis about which is
an axis of
rotation 550 (see FIG. 13) for the first chest member 102a and the first back
member 106a.
[00104] The second protrusion 1550 can engage one of the plurality of
voids,
specifically, a second void, a third void and a fourth void in this
embodiment. The
second protrusion 1550 in combination with one of the second void 1360 third
void 1362
or fourth void 1364, can secure the first chest portion 102a at a first,
second, or third
angel relative to the back member 106a. The Second protrusion 1550 is
configured on
the first end 1546 which may be flexible such that the protrusion may flex
inwards and
disengage the one of the second void 1360, third void 1362 or fourth void
1364. The
second protrusion 1550 can include a button surface that may be accessible to
a wearer's
finger that is pushed on, to disengage the second protrusion from the first
void 1360 of
back member and allow the back member 106a to rotate, until the second
protrusion 1550
23
CA 2835992 2019-05-21
engages another one of the voids e.g. the third void 1362 or the fourth void
1364 of the
back member hinge portion.
= =
[00105] As shown in FIG. 15, the yoke may include a power system for a
first fan
1532 and a second fan 1530. The power system may include one or more batteries
1534,
one or more battery contacts 1540, 1542, a battery compartment cover 1536, and
a
battery switch 1538.
[00106] FIGS. 16¨ 18 are views of a yoke 1501 according to another
embodiment.
Specifically, FIG_ 16 is a perspective view of yoke 1501, FIG. 17 is a top
view of yoke
1501, and FIG. 18 is a side view of yoke 1501. Yoke 1501 includes a first
chest member
1502a, a second chest member 1502b, and a lateral chest member 1502c, a
plurality of
inlets 1518, a plurality of outlets 1520, a vision shield support 1503, a
first fan 1508a and
a second fan 1508b, and a first battery compartment 1510a and a second battery
compartment 1510b. Yoke 1501 can include similar elements with similar
features with
yoke 100. For example, first chest member 1502a can be similar to first chest
member
102a. As seen in FIG. 16-18, and in contrast to yoke 100 described above, yoke
1501
does not include back members. In some embodiments, first battery compartment
1510a
and second battery compartment 1510b can be arranged such that one or more
batteries
(not shown) can be removed and/or otherwise replaced while yoke 1501 is in
use, e.g.,
during a surgery or other procedure. In some embodiments, first fan 1508a,
second fan
1508b, and/or the one or more batteries can be sized to counterbalance first
chest member
102a, second chest member 102b, and/or lateral chest member 102c.
[00107] FIG. 20 is a side view of a yoke 2001 according to an embodiment. Yoke
2001
includes a chest member 2003 that can be disposed on a chest 2012 of a wearer
and can
be close to a front of a neck (not shown) of the wearer's. Chest portion 2003
can be
configured such that a wearer's line of sight 2008 may not be obstructed. As
shown in
FIG. 20, yoke 2001 can primarily and/or completely rest on the wearer's chest
2012. In
some embodiments yoke 2001 can arch over the wearer's shoulders (not shown)
and can
extend to a back (not shown) of the wearer as disclosed in other embodiments
(see, e.g.,
FIG. 4). As shown in FIG. 20, a vision shield 2002 has an upper portion 2004
and a
lower portion 2006. Lower portion 2006 can extend inwardly towards the wearer.
Vision shield 2002 can be configured with a concave bubble shape to provide an
24
CA 2835992 2019-05-21
CA 02835992 2013-12-03
extended field of vision and can maintain a substantially undistorted view of
the subject
and area surrounding the wearer. In this embodiment, vision shield 2002 can be
pre-
formed in the concave shape. As discussed above, in some embodiments, vision
shield
2002 can be other shapes, such as, for example, rectangular, square, etc, and
can be pre-
formed, or formed when vision shield 2002 is coupled to yoke 2001.
1001081 Vision shield 2002 can be coupled to yoke 2001 by an attachment
device, such as
hook and loop, adhesive, buttons, snaps, keyholes, clips, magnets or the like.
As shown
in FIG. 20, yoke 2001 includes hook and loop fasteners 2010. Hook and loop
fastener
2010 can include a first hook or loop fastener carried on the yoke 2001 and an
associated
hook and loop fastener carried on vision shield 2002. Yoke 2001 can be secured
to
vision shield 2002 by any number of hook and look fasteners 2010. In some
embodiments, vision shield 2002 can be sized such that alignment of vision
shield 2002
to yoke 2001 is not critical. Said another way, a small misalignment of vision
shield
2002 may not obstruct lines of sight 2008 of the wearer. Although the size of
vision
shield 2002 can allow for variable alignment relative to yoke 2001, the shape
of the
vision shield can be complimentary to yoke 2001.
[00109] The vision shield 2002, configured in the pre-formed concave manner,
can allow
for stackability during shipping and storage. In one embodiment, vision shield
2002 can
be coupled to the protective apparel (not shown) and can be folded and stacked
together
for storage and shipping to the end user. Vision shield 2002 can be attached
to the
protective apparel with adhesive, stitched, ultrasonically bonded, or the
like. In one
embodiment the garment is made of a non-woven material. In other embodiments,
the
protective apparel can include any materials described herein. In other
embodiments,
vision shield 2002 can be coupled to the protective apparel just prior to
donning on the
yoke, e.g. after manufacture and shipping.
[00110] In some embodiments, vision shield 2002 can include a thickness
between about
0.005 inches and about 0.050 inches. In some embodiments, vision shield 2002
can
includes polycarbonate material. In other embodiments, vision shield 2002 can
includes
polyethylene terephthalate (PET) materials. In some such embodiments, vision
shield
2002 can include polyethylene terephtalate glycol-modified (PET-G) materials.
While
desrcibeb herein as including the above thicknesses and/or materials, in some
embodiments, vision shield 2002 can include other suitable thicknesses and/or
materials.
1001111 While some embodiments depict a chest member including three portions
(see,
e.g., FIG. 1), specifically a first chest member, a second chest member, and a
lateral chest
member, in other embodiments, a yoke may not include a lateral chest member
portion.
FIG. 21 is a perspective view of a yoke 2100 disposed on a wearer. Yoke 2100
includes
first chest member 2101and a second chest member 2101b which are not connected
across the chest of the wear with a lateral chest member. This can increase
visibility
below the wearer's head. In this embodiment, a vision shield 2102 can extend
all the way
to the wearer's chest 2106 at a chest portion 2104, without being obstructed
by a lateral
chest member for example.
[00112] FIG. 22 is a view of a yoke 2201 coupled to a securement device 2202.
The
securement device 2202 may be a garment adapted to couple with the yoke 2201
and/or
with the protective apparel (not shown) portions thereof. Yoke 2201 can be
permanently
coupled to the torso securement device 2202 or may be detachably coupled
thereto.
Embodiments where yoke 2201 is detachably coupled can allow for
interchangeability,
cleaning of securement device 2201. The securement device 2201 can, as
illustrated in
this embodiment be a vest 220, or alternatively for example may be a jacket,
shirt, scrub or other
torso securement device or like generally worn by a user.
[00113] In some embodiments, securement device 2202 can includes a fastening
system,
such as those described herein, to couple a vision shield and/or protective
apparel to
securement device 2202 and/or yoke 2201, and/or to compliment a fastening
system of
yoke 2201. In such embodiments, clips or attachment portions on the securement
device
can mate with complimentary clips or attachment portions on the vision shield
and/or
protective apparel and/or portions thereof.
[00114] While embodiments described herein show heating and/or cooling devices
integral with a yoke, in other embodiments, a heating and/or cooling system
can be
integral to a securement device, and that heating and/or cooling system can
feed into the
yoke. For example, as shown in FIG. 23, a securement device 2302 can include a
fan
2304 configured to direct air through one or more air flow channels 2306 of
securement
device 2302 and into yoke 2301. In such embodiments, securement device 2302
can
26
CA 2835992 2019-05-21
include a heating and/or cooling elements (not shown) to modify a temperature
of the air
flow from fan 2304. Such heating and/or cooling elements can be, for example,
electrical
(e.g., battery or plug elements), chemical (e.g., heat and/or ice packs), etc.
In such
embodiments, securement device 2302 can include pockets and/or phase change
material
used for temperature management.
[00115] In some embodiments, a securement device and/or protective apparel can
include
radiation shielding. For example, as shown in FIG. 24, a yoke 2401 can be
coupled to a
securement device 2402 which can include x-ray protective portion 2404. In
such
embodiments, x-ray protective portion 2404 can include lead to protect the
wearer while
taking x-rays during a procedure. The lead can be attached to securement
device 2402 by
any suitable means for example may be held in pockets or sewn in or adhesively
attached
to the vest, a combination thereof or the like.
[00116] FIG. 25 is a side view of a protective apparel and support apparatus
according to
another embodiment. The apparatus includes a yoke 2501 coupled to a fan 2504
via an
air flow channel 2506. In some embodiments, air flow channel 2506 can be
outside of
and coupled to a securement device 2502. The apparatus can include a vision
shield 2510
and protective apparel 2514. Fan 2504 can supply air flow to yoke 2501 and to
a barrier
space 2512 indirection CC. Fan 2504 can exhaust air from barrier space 2512 in
direction BB and can exhaust air from air flow channel 2506 in direction AA.
[001171 In embodiments with one or more fans, the one or more fans can draw
air into,
and exhaust air out of, a securement device, protective apparel and/or yoke
via ports. Air
channels can be built into and/or coupled to a securement device and/or
protective
apparel. The air flow may be directed over heating or cooling pacts to
condition the air.
If a support is coupled to the vest, an air passage port can be coupled the
air passage of
the vest to the interior of the support to channel air around the support and
about the
wearers head. In some embodiments, a single fan can both intake and exhaust
air from
the apparatus. In some embodiments, a securement device and/or protective
apparent can
include three dimensional (3D) fabrics, wherein air flow is directed within
the 3D fabric,
for example, air channels within around the vest. Channels in the vest can be
defined in
the fabric to direct the air to desired portions.
27
CA 2835992 2019-05-21
CA 02835992 2013-12-03
[00118] In some embodiments, a protective apparel and support apparatus can
include one
or more electronic devices, such as, for example, a camera, a projector, a
microphone, a
speaker, gesture module, network communication device, and/or control device
(e.g., for
controlling a Fan, camera, etc). In such embodiments, the one or more
electronic devices
can be wired, wireless, and/or both wired and wireless. In some embodiments,
the
control device can control the one or more electronic devices. In other
embodiments, the
one or more electronic devices can be controlled remotely via the network
communication device. In some embodiments, environmental and vital readings of
the
wearer can be transmitted via the network communication device. In some
embodiments,
the apparatus can include a single control device configured to control all
electronics
devices. In other embodiments, the apparatus can include multiple control
devices
associated with less than all the electronic devices. The control device can
be a remote
control, can be handheld, can be mounted on the yoke, protective apparel, can
be foot
operated (e.g., a foot pedal) and/or securement device, and/or can be
controlled via a
network connection. In some embodiments, a control device can change a speed
of a fan
and hence airflow in and out of the interior barrier space.
[00119] In some embodiments, a camera can be coupled to the yoke and can be
aimed in
one or more directions. Some camera positions are adjacent to a vision shield
and the
vision shield can include a camera lens portion
[00120] The yoke may have communications modules such as the microphone, the
speaker, the wireless communication device, configured to communicate with a
second
communication device remote from the surgeon, for example other personal
involved in
the procedure whether in the room or not. A voice recognition module can be
configured
to activate the wearer's microphone circuit upon speaking to communicate
without
having to press a button so that the wearer may keep their hands free. The fan
speed
control may be voice activated as well. In one embodiment the wearer can use
voice
commands to activate different functions, such as fan on and off, fan speed,
temperature,
control music, or for other communications.
[00121] For example, the wearer can be able to instruct the system to turn on
the fans by
speaking "fan on." Or change the fan speed by speaking "fan three" or "fan
up." These
are exemplary commands only and it is understood that any commands can be
used.
28
CA 02835992 2013-12-03
Feedback to acknowledge receipt of the command, correctly or erroneously, can
be
issued by audible, visible, tactile, or physical indication may be presented
to the wearer.
For example an audible beep through a speaker or the like can signal that the
command
was heard but not received properly or understood. Alternatively or
additionally, a light
may flash or a vibrator can activate to give a physical response to the
command. Lights,
such a light emitting diodes (LED) can be placed in visible locations to the
wearer to
represent and indicate the existence of predetermined conditions.
[0122] In some embodiments, a gesture module can be incorporated into the
apparatus
so that the wearer can command different functions associated with the system
by making
gestures. Gestures can be detected by accelerometers or a camera system such
as a yoke
mounted camera, yoke mounted accelerometers or a combination thereof. The
accelerometers may be carried on the protective apparel such as the sleeves or
the yoke or
securement device. A camera mounted in the yoke or vest portion may be aimed
at the
wearer, such as the head to detect motion and gestures by the wearer. Moving
the head in
a predefined motion gesture can signal the fan to increase speed for example.
In some
embodiments, electronic devices can be controlled by a combination of voice
and gesture
commands, and or can have redundant commands, for example, a voice command to
change fan speed, as well as a gesture command to change fan speed.
[001231 In some embodiments, a protective apparel and support apparatus can
include one
or more magnets configured to couple a vision shield to a yoke. In some
embodiments a
securement device can include one or more clips to retain the protective hood
/ vision
shield and may not include a yoke. In such embodiments, air can be ported from
the
protective apparel and/or securement device into the inner barrier and around
the wearer.
In such embodiments, a fan can be disposed into a portion of the protective
apparel
and/or securement device. In some embodiments, the apparatus can include LED
lights,
configured to produce low or no heat and can be disposed adjacent to the
vision shield to
prevent glare. In some embodiments, a vision shield can be preformed, e.g. can
hold a
shape when not secured to a yoke, securement device and/or protective apparel.
In some
embodiments, a vision shield can be supported by a yoke, and the vision shield
can
provide the sole direct support of a protective garment. In some embodiments,
a yoke
can include at least one air port directed at the wearer, for example, a neck
of the wearer,
29
CA 02835992 2013-12-03
such that a wearer can know that air flow is present. In some embodiments, a
vision
shield can extend over and around a wearer's head to substantially encapsulate
a wearer's
head such that the wearer can have a substantially panoramic view.
[00124] In some embodiments, a vision shield can include a portion that can
present
and/or otherwise function as a heads-up-display (HUD). A projector can be
configured in
the yoke, securement device, and/or protective apparel that can be aimed at
the vision
shield. The projector can project protective apparel data such as fan speed,
battery power
remaining, or critical patient data such as body temperature, blood pressure,
hear rate /
pulse and the like. A portion of the vision shield can be configured to
display the
information. For example, a portion of the vision can be etched or darkened in
order to
create the HUD effect. A projector can be coupled to a wireless receiver to
receive the
data from monitoring equipment. Each piece of monitoring equipment can include
a
communication module to transmit that data to the projector wireless receiver.
In other
embodiments, monitoring equipment can share a common communication module.
[00125] In some embodiments, an apparatus can include one or more supports
that can
extend up from a waist of a wearer, can be included in a securement device. In
such
embodiments, the supports can hold the yoke off of the shoulders and can
transfer at least
a portion of the load to the waist and hip area of the wearer. In one such
embodiment, a
waist belt can be coupled to a rigid back support that can extend upwards
along the
wearer's back, and up and over a wearer's shoulders, and can be coupled to a
chest brace.
Air tubes or channels can be brought up and over the wearer's body to the
front of the
wearer's face to circulate fresh air to the internal chamber. A vision shield
can be
coupled to the yoke.
[00126] The control device can be located in the front portion of the yoke,
the
protective apparel, and/or securement device as described herein_ The control
device can
be positioned at a location within the sterile field of the wearer such that
accessing the
controls may not require the wearer to breach the sterile field. A switch set
for fan on / of
and up / down speed controls can be located at easy to access positions on the
yoke or
securement device for example. The controls on the control device can be
physical
button switches, virtual buttons, or reed switches or the like. In other
embodiments, as
described above, the control device can accept voice, visual, and/or gesture
commands.
CA 02835992 2013-12-03
1001271 FIG. 26 is a perspective view of a control device 2604 coupled to
a
securement device 2602 including air flow channels 2606. Control device 2604
includes
a plurality of electronics modules 2608a-d. In some embodiments, control
device 2604
can be integral with a yoke, in other embodiments, control device 2604 can be
integral
with securement device 2602 and/or protective apparel. In other embodiments,
control
device 2604 can be separate from, but coupled to any of the yoke, the
protective apparel,
and/or securement device 2602. Electronics modules 2608a-d can include any
input
and/or output device, for example microphone, speaker, lights, fan control,
camera,
and/or projector.
[00128] FIGS. 27-29 depict a yoke 2701 coupling to a yoke receiver 2720,
according to an embodiment. Specifically, FIG. 27 is a side view of yoke 2701
coupling
to yoke received 2720 in a first configuration (prior to coupling), FIG. 28 is
a side view
of yoke 2701 coupling to yoke receiver 2720 in a second configuration (after
coupling);
and FIG. 29 is a perspective view of yoke 2701 coupling to yoke received 2720
in the
first configuration. Yoke 2701 can include shoe 2703 configured to be received
by a boot
2724 of yoke receiver 2720, and a shoulder pad 2705 configured to rest on a
shoulder
plate 2722 of yoke receiver 2720. In some embodiments, yoke receiver can be
integral
to, and/or otherwise coupled to, a securement device (e.g., harness, shirt,
etc). As shown
in FIGS. 27 and 30, yoke 2701 can be moved in direction AA such that shoe 2703
is
moved into boot 2724 and can be moved in direction BB such that shoulder pad
2705 is
disposed on shoulder plate 2720. As shown in FIGS. 27 and 29, shoe 2703 and
boot
2724 can be sized, e.g., can include a complimentary taper, such that shoe
2703 can be
easily maneuvered into boot 2724. In some embodiment, yoke receiver 2720 can
be
monolithically formed, in other embodiments; yoke receiver 2720 can be
separately
formed. Yoke receiver 2720 can include material similar to yoke 2701 and/or
can
include different materials.
[001291 While the present disclosure and what the best modes of the inventions
have been
described in a manner establishing possession hereof by the inventors and
enabling those of
ordinary skill in the art to make and use the same, it will be understood and
appreciated that
there are many equivalents to the exemplary embodiments disclosed herein and
that
modifications and variations may be made thereto without departing from the
scope and
31
CA 02835992 2013-12-03
spirit of the inventions, which are to be limited not by the exemplary
embodiments but by
the appended claims. For example, while references have been made to specific
dimensions, in other embodiments the dimensions can be different. For example,
protective apparel and support apparatus described herein can be manufactured
in sizes,
e.g., small, medium, large, one size fits all, etc. In other examples, any
yoke, vision shield,
protective apparel, and/or securement device can be used with any combination
of yoke,
vision shield, protective apparel, and/or securement device, except for
mutually exclusive
combinations. Furthermore, in some embodiments, a yoke, and/or features of a
yoke, can
be integral with a securement device.
32
