Context
A collaborative studio with Bullard: Future casting firefighting protection gear.
Bullard’s unique expertise with firefighter helmets led me to pursue a project in head protection.
Contribution
User research Ideation & Prototyping CAD & Rendering
Team
Individual
Tools
SolidWorks Fusion 360 SLA & FDM printing Adobe Photoshop, AI, and ID Keyshot
Traditional firefighting helmets can take from 1-3 minutes to equip SCBA gear. This time is crucial for saving lives.
Research
User Interviews: Key Takeaways
Helmets get caught on things all the time
Firefighters worry about additional weight on the helmet
Like the idea of integrating the helmet with the SCBA
Concerned about communication quality
Center of gravity is high and wobbles around
If there was a way to integrate the mask and keep our identity (front badge), me and most firefighters would switch to safer helmets.
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Mask Integration Precedents
MSA Ultra Elite
American firefighters don’t like the European style
Does’nt work with American gear
Avon HMK 150
Made for riot protection in Europe
Adjustable rubber straps
External comm systems can be attached
Tiger 8500 Respirator
Made for construction work
Quick disconnect mic.
Ideation
LED Buddy Lights
Never lose your crew.
Back to the fire station:
They loved the added functionality of the SCBA integration and light
