The Windmaker is an innovative, patented (U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,534,005 & 7,178,932) welder’s helmet designed to create a filtered clean air space inside while keeping the user’s view illuminated and clear of obstruction. Photovoltaic cells recharge the helmet’s batteries from the light emitted by the welding flash, to increase battery life. Additionally, this state-of-the-art helmet is equipped with wireless communication capability, video recording and on-board data storage.
Salient Technologies, Inc. reviewed the requirements of Universal Healthier Helmets and developed a proof-of-concept prototype. The prototype is fully functional and includes an auto-dimming screen, LED illumination, filtered air intakes and an exhaust system that the user can direct at the workspace, diverting fumes and smoke out of their field of view. The design was sketched out with the client and modeled in SolidWorks 3D CAD, allowing the design to be thoroughly investigated while still only existing virtually. Using Rapid Prototyping and RTV molding processes, STI combined off-the-shelf components and rapid-molded proprietary components into a functional and aesthetic prototype to demonstrate to potential private and government customers. The proof-of-concept prototype has proved to be invaluable in communicating the uses and benefits of the Windmaker.
“I appreciate Salient’s professionalism and our excellent working relationship while designing and building the Windmaker welding helmet prototype. I … look forward to using your services again in the future.” – Michael Buckman, Universal Healthier Helmets
NOTE: The Windmaker is not yet in production and is unavailable for sale at this point. If you are interested in manufacturing this product or licensing the technology, please contact Salient.
Popular Science Magazine 2013 Invention Awards: Fume Fighter