If no one told you about it, you’d think this picture was taken from a new sci-fi TV show. Yet, the futuristic looking helmet was designed by a pair of siblings wanting to protect their loved ones and peers amid the Covid-19 pandemic. Yezin and Dina Al-Qaysi, the founders of Vyzr Technologies, created this 360-degree shielded helmet with a built-in air purification system for maximum protection.
According to CTV National News, Diana and her brother created the BioVYZER helmet because they were concerned about their immunocompromised mother. “We put this together for people like her who needed that extra protection,” Dina said.
The helmet features filtered vents with a battery powered fan that can push out “stale” air. The BioVYZER fully encloses the wearer’s head, and stretches down to the chest with a clear piece of plastic over the front and side panels for peripheral viewing.
“It just sits on your shoulders like a vest or a backpack,” Yezin explained. He also said that he has been wearing the helmet around Toronto for months, despite getting curious glances from onlookers.
With no mask and anti-fog technology, others can clearly see the wearer’s full face. And just in case you were wondering, the design also features a way for you to scratch your face if needed. “We developed these reversible gloves; these are two little openings on the side so if anything kind of itches you can put your fingers through the reversible glove and scratch your nose, put on glasses, adjust your hair,” Yezin said.
How Much Would It Cost?
As one can imagine, it’s a pretty expensive piece of equipment. Unlike N95 masks that cost a few dollars, the helmet with shipping will set consumers back about $500, according to the company’s website.
Yezin said they have since sold “tens of thousands of units” of the BioVYZER across the world. While the duo acknowledged that the helmet is “not for everybody,” they say the design is largely aimed at those working in higher risk environments.
Dentists and healthcare staff are just some of the professionals who have ordered the BioVYZER. Some students in Texas also recently pooled their money together to buy one for their teacher.
With no end in sight regarding Covid-19, demand for such products will likely keep increasing.