Systems and methods for use with personal protective equipment articles

Abstract

A system includes a personal protective equipment (PPE) article that includes a function that is selectively configurable using a subscription service. The system also includes a first computing device that includes a first processor and a second computing device that includes a second processor. The first processor generates a subscription message that includes a request to enable the function of the PPE article in response to determining a selection of the function. The second processor determines whether a credential corresponding to the PPE article and / or a user associated with the PPE article has been pre-registered with the subscription service. The second processor determines a subscription status of the PPE article corresponding to the function. The second processor sends a configuration message based on the subscription status and the pre-registration with the subscription service. The first processor enables the function of the PPE article based at least in part on the configuration message.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to systems and methods for use with personal protective equipment. Background Technology

[0002] Personal protective equipment (PPE) may be used by personnel working in hazardous or potentially hazardous environments. PPE may include hearing protection devices (such as headphones) for use by personnel operating in noisy environments. Some headphones may include wireless communication capabilities, enabling them to communicate with each other or with a network or remote server. Headphones typically include some features or functionalities provided by the manufacturer. However, in some cases, headphones may require additional features not provided by the manufacturer. Such additional features may not be readily accessible to users. Furthermore, such additional features may be difficult to integrate into existing headphones. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In one aspect, a system is described. The system includes at least one personal protective equipment (PPE) article, the at least one PPE article including at least one function that can be selectively configured using a subscription service. The system also includes a first computing device communicatively coupled to the at least one PPE article and including a first processor and a first memory. The system further includes a second computing device associated with the subscription service and communicatively coupled to the first computing device. The second computing device includes a second processor and a second memory. The first memory includes first instructions, which, when executed by the first processor, cause the first processor to generate a subscription message in response to determining a selection of the at least one function that can be configured using the subscription service, the subscription message including a request to enable the at least one function of the at least one PPE article. The second computing device is configured to receive the subscription message, and the second memory includes second instructions, which, when executed by the second processor, in response to receiving the subscription message, cause the second processor to determine whether credentials corresponding to at least one of the at least one PPE article and a user associated with the at least one PPE article are pre-registered with the subscription service to enable the at least one function of the at least one PPE article. The second processor is further configured to determine, from a subscription server communicatively coupled to the second computing device, the subscription status of the at least one PPE artifact corresponding to the at least one function. The second processor is also configured to, based on the subscription status and in response to determining a credential corresponding to at least one of the at least one PPE artifact and a user associated with the at least one PPE artifact, pre-register with the subscription service to enable the at least one function of the at least one PPE artifact, and send a configuration message to the first computing device. The configuration message includes configuration data for enabling the at least one function of the at least one PPE artifact. The first memory includes a first instruction, which, when executed by the first processor, causes the first processor, in response to receiving the configuration message, to enable the at least one function of the at least one PPE artifact, at least in part, based on the configuration data in the configuration message.

[0004] In another aspect, a method is described. The method includes generating a subscription message via a first computing device in response to determining a selection of at least one function that can be selectively configured using a subscription service. The subscription message includes a request to enable at least one function of at least one PPE artifact. The method also includes receiving the subscription message at a second computing device associated with and communicatively coupled to the first computing device. The method further includes determining, via the second computing device, whether credentials corresponding to at least one of the at least one PPE artifact and a user associated with the at least one PPE artifact have been pre-registered with the subscription service to enable the at least one function of the at least one PPE artifact. The method also includes determining, via a subscription server, the subscription status of the at least one PPE artifact corresponding to the at least one function. The subscription server is communicatively coupled to the second computing device. The method further includes sending a configuration message via the second computing device to the first computing device based on the subscription status and in response to determining that credentials corresponding to the at least one of the at least one PPE artifact and a user associated with the at least one PPE artifact have been pre-registered with the subscription service to enable the at least one function of the at least one PPE artifact. The configuration message includes configuration data for enabling at least one function of the at least one PPE article. The method also includes enabling the at least one function of the at least one PPE article by the first computing device, at least in part, based on the configuration data of the configuration message.

[0005] In another aspect, a system is described. The system includes at least one personal protective equipment (PPE) article, which includes at least one function that can be selectively configured using a subscription service. The system also includes a first computing device communicatively coupled to the at least one PPE article and including a first processor and a first memory. The system further includes a second computing device associated with and communicatively coupled to the first computing device. The second computing device includes a second processor and a second memory. The system also includes a positioning device communicatively coupled to the first processor and configured to generate a location signal based on the location of the at least one PPE article. The first memory includes first instructions that, when executed by the first processor, cause the first processor to generate a subscription message in response to determining a selection of the at least one function that can be configured using the subscription service, the subscription message including a request to enable the at least one function of the at least one PPE article. The second computing device is configured to receive the subscription message, and the second memory includes a second instruction, which, when executed by the second processor, in response to receiving the subscription message, causes the second processor to determine whether credentials corresponding to at least one of the at least one PPE artifact and the user associated with the at least one PPE artifact have been pre-registered with the subscription service to enable at least one function of the at least one PPE artifact. The second processor is also configured to determine, from a subscription server communicatively coupled to the second computing device, the subscription status of the at least one PPE artifact corresponding to the at least one function. The second processor is further configured to, based on the subscription status and in response to determining that credentials corresponding to the at least one of the at least one PPE artifact and the user associated with the at least one PPE artifact have been pre-registered with the subscription service to enable at least one function of the at least one PPE artifact, send a configuration message to the first computing device. The configuration message includes configuration data for enabling at least one function of the at least one PPE artifact. The first memory includes the first instruction, which, when executed by the first processor, causes the first processor to enable at least one function of the at least one PPE article in response to receiving the configuration message, at least in part based on the configuration data in the configuration message. The first processor is also configured to receive the position signal from the positioning device and, based on the position signal of the at least one PPE article, at least in part restrict the at least one function.

[0006] Details of one or more examples of this disclosure are shown in the accompanying drawings and the following description. Other features, objectives, and advantages of this disclosure will become apparent from the specification, drawings, and claims. Attached Figure Description

[0007] The exemplary embodiments disclosed herein can be more fully understood in light of the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. The drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale. Similar numbers used in the drawings refer to similar parts. However, it should be understood that the use of numbers to refer to parts in a given drawing is not intended to limit parts labeled with the same numbers in another drawing.

[0008] Figure 1 This is a schematic block diagram illustrating one embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0009] Figure 2 This illustrates another embodiment according to this disclosure. Figure 1 A schematic block diagram of the system;

[0010] Figure 3 This is a block diagram illustrating a system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0011] Figure 4 This is a schematic block diagram illustrating a PPE article according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0012] Figure 5A and Figure 5B This is a schematic block diagram illustrating a cryptographic protocol for configuration messages according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0013] Figure 6 This illustrates another embodiment according to this disclosure. Figure 3 The system block diagram; and

[0014] Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating a method according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0015] In the following description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part thereof, and various embodiments are illustrated therein. It should be understood that other embodiments can be conceived and made without departing from the scope or spirit of this disclosure. Therefore, the following detailed description should not be considered limiting.

[0016] According to various aspects of this disclosure, the system includes at least one personal protective equipment (PPE) article, which includes at least one function that can be selectively configured using a subscription service. The system also includes a first computing device communicatively coupled to the at least one PPE article and including a first processor and a first memory. The system further includes a second computing device associated with and communicatively coupled to the first computing device. The second computing device includes a second processor and a second memory. The first memory includes first instructions, which, when executed by the first processor, cause the first processor to generate a subscription message in response to determining a selection of the at least one function that can be configured using the subscription service, the subscription message including a request to enable the at least one function of the at least one PPE article. The second computing device is configured to receive the subscription message, and the second memory includes second instructions, which, when executed by the second processor, in response to receiving the subscription message, cause the second processor to determine whether credentials corresponding to at least one of the at least one PPE article and a user associated with the at least one PPE article are pre-registered with the subscription service to enable the at least one function of the at least one PPE article. The second processor is further configured to determine, from a subscription server communicatively coupled to the second computing device, the subscription status of the at least one PPE artifact corresponding to the at least one function. The second processor is also configured to, based on the subscription status and in response to determining a credential corresponding to at least one of the at least one PPE artifact and a user associated with the at least one PPE artifact, pre-register with the subscription service to enable the at least one function of the at least one PPE artifact, and send a configuration message to the first computing device. The configuration message includes configuration data for enabling the at least one function of the at least one PPE artifact. The first memory includes a first instruction, which, when executed by the first processor, causes the first processor, in response to receiving the configuration message, to enable the at least one function of the at least one PPE artifact, at least in part, based on the configuration data in the configuration message.

[0017] This system allows the at least one PPE product to enable at least one function through the subscription service. Therefore, users of the at least one PPE product can access several additional features not yet available for that PPE product. Furthermore, users do not need to purchase multiple PPE products separately to access different functions. Moreover, users may only need to purchase one PPE product and can purchase features or functions depending on changing application needs. This arrangement facilitates the adaptability of the at least one PPE product to different applications. This reduces the need for multiple versions of the PPE product, as multiple functions can be enabled through the subscription service.

[0018] The second processor associated with the subscription service can check whether the credentials corresponding to the at least one PPE product or the user associated with the at least one PPE product have been pre-registered with the subscription service. This improves the security of the system, ensuring that only the pre-registered PPE product can access the at least one function.

[0019] The second processor can also check whether the user of the at least one PPE article has subscribed to the at least one function through the subscription server by obtaining the subscription status corresponding to the at least one function. This ensures that the user can access the correct function that the user intends to subscribe to.

[0020] As used herein, the term "network" generally refers to any type of telecommunications or data network, including but not limited to hybrid fiber-coaxial (HFC) networks, satellite networks, telecommunications networks, and data networks (including MAN, WAN, LAN, WLAN, the Internet, and intranets). Such networks, or portions thereof, may utilize any one or more different topologies (e.g., ring, bus, star, loop, etc.), transmission media (e.g., wired / RF cable, RF wireless, millimeter wave, optical, etc.), and / or communication or networking protocols (e.g., SONET, DOCSIS, IEEE 802.3, ATM, X.25, Frame Relay, 3GPP, 3GPP2, WAP, SIP, UDP, FTP, RTP / RTCP, H.323, etc.). The term "network" may be associated with the transmission of messages, packets, signals, and / or other forms of information between and / or within one or more network devices. In some examples, a network may include one or more wired and / or wireless networks operating in accordance with any known or feasible or becoming known or feasible communication standard.

[0021] As used herein, the term "server" can refer to any computerized component, system, or entity of any kind adapted to provide data, files, applications, content, or other services to one or more other devices or entities on a network.

[0022] As used herein, the term "subscription server" can refer to any computerized component, system, or entity of any kind adapted to provide subscription information to one or more other devices or entities over a network. Subscription information may include, but is not limited to, information such as, but not limited to, authorized subscribers, any special permissions / restrictions based on subscriber type, a list of services and the types of services to be offered, payment data, payment transaction files, content, or other transaction-related services.

[0023] As used herein, the term “user interface” may refer to, but is not limited to, any visual, graphical, tactile, auditory, sensory or other means of providing information to and / or receiving information from a user or any other entity.

[0024] As used herein, the term "wireless" may refer to any wireless signal, data, communication, or other interface, including but not limited to Wi-Fi. 3G, HSDPA / HSUPA, TDMA, CDMA (e.g., IS-95A, WCDMA, etc.), FHSS, DSSS, GSM, PAN / 802.15, WiMAX (802.16), 802.20, Narrowband / FDMA, OFDM, PCS / DCS, Analog Cellular Systems, CDPD, Satellite Systems, Millimeter Wave or Microwave Systems, Acoustic and Infrared (i.e., IrDA).

[0025] As used herein, the terms “World Wide Web” or “web page” generally refer to both of the following: (i) a distributed collection of interconnected, user-viewable hypertext documents (often referred to as website documents or web pages) accessible via the Internet, and (ii) client and server software components that provide users with access to such documents using standardized Internet protocols.

[0026] As used herein, the term "website" can refer to a computer system that provides information content over a network using standard protocols of the World Wide Web. Typically, a website corresponds to a specific Internet domain name and includes content associated with a particular organization. As used herein, the term is generally intended to encompass both: (i) the hardware / software server components that provide information content over a network, and (ii) the "back-end" hardware / software components (including any non-standard or proprietary components) that interact with the server components to provide services to website users.

[0027] As used herein, the term "message" can refer to any form of electronic communication between two or more computing devices. A message can include text messages, photos, stickers or other icons, videos, recordings, music, voicemails, etc. In one or more embodiments, a message can be an instant message of real-time or near real-time communication.

[0028] Furthermore, the term "subscription message" can generally refer to a message that indicates subscription information that allows a system to initiate a subscription service. For example, a subscription message may include a data packet that includes the service type, sender, receiver, service method, and a format instructing the system how to process the service.

[0029] As used herein, the term "payment transaction" can refer to any type of electronic transaction in which money or credit is exchanged between two or more entities. For example, a payment transaction can be a financial electronic transaction between two users of a payment system. In another example, a payment transaction can be a financial electronic transaction between a user and a financial institution or any other multi-party entity. Additionally, a payment transaction can represent payment for the purchase of goods and / or services, or any other type of currency transfer.

[0030] As used herein, the term “virtual assistant” can refer to any software, hardware, or hybrid hardware / software application that provides assistance to humans in a manner similar to that provided by a human assistant, typically using an intuitive user interface, such as one that allows users to express their needs in natural language.

[0031] As used herein, the term "headphones" may refer to a device that includes one or more speakers and may or may not include a microphone. Headphones may include any suitable type of audio headphones, such as, but not limited to, over-ear headphones, earbuds, ear hooks, in-ear headphones that partially extend into the ear canal, etc.

[0032] As used herein, the term "communication" may refer to any information, data, and / or signals provided, transmitted, received, and / or otherwise processed by an entity and / or shared or exchanged between two or more individuals, devices, and / or other entities.

[0033] As used herein, the term "communication channel" may refer to any means of communication that enables or supports communication interaction or information exchange between two or more devices or parties. The term may also refer to a shared bus configured to allow communication between two or more devices, or a point-to-point communication link configured to allow communication only between two devices or parties.

[0034] As used herein, the term "transceiver" may refer to any one or a set of components capable of at least transmitting and at least receiving communication signals.

[0035] As used herein, the term "application" generally refers to an executable software unit that implements a specific function or subject. The subject of an application can vary widely across any number of subjects and functions (such as on-demand content management, e-commerce transactions, brokerage transactions, home entertainment, calculators, etc.), and an application can have multiple subjects.

[0036] Figure 1This is a schematic block diagram illustrating a system 100 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. System 100 includes at least one personal protective equipment (PPE) article 110A-110N (collectively referred to as PPE article 110). PPE article 110 can be used to protect users 102A-102N (collectively referred to as user 102) from injury or damage caused by various factors in the surrounding environment 104. The at least one PPE article 110 is interchangeably referred to herein as "PPE article 110". In some examples, PPE article 110 is a headset.

[0037] As used herein, the term "protective equipment" can include any type of equipment or clothing that can be used to protect a user from dangerous or potentially dangerous situations. In some examples, one or more individuals (such as user 102) may utilize PPE while performing a task or activity in the surrounding environment 104. In some examples, PPE may be associated with a specific user 102.

[0038] Examples of PPE articles may include, but are not limited to, hearing protection devices (including earplugs and earmuffs), respiratory protection devices (including disposable respirators, reusable respirators, electrically powered air-purifying respirators, self-contained breathing apparatus, and supplied-air respirators), masks, oxygen cylinders, air cylinders, protective eyewear such as goggles, eye shields, filters, or protective shields (any of which may include augmented reality functionality), protective caps such as hard hats, hoods, or helmets, protective footwear, protective gloves, other protective clothing such as coveralls, aprons, coats, vests, suits, boots, and / or gloves, protective articles such as sensors, safety tools, detectors, GPS devices, mining helmet lights, fall protection harnesses, exoskeletons, self-retracting lifelines, heating and cooling systems, gas detectors, and any other suitable equipment configured to protect user 102 from injury. PPE articles may also include any other type of clothing or equipment / devices that user 102 may wear or use to protect against extreme noise levels, extreme temperatures, fire, reduced oxygen levels, explosions, reduced atmospheric pressure, radioactive and / or biohazardous substances.

[0039] In some examples, PPE article 110 may be used by emergency responders, such as firefighters, law enforcement officers, first responders, healthcare professionals, caregivers, HAZMAT workers, security personnel, or other personnel working in hazardous or potentially hazardous conditions (e.g., chemical, biological, nuclear, fire, or other physical environments, such as industrial sites, construction sites, agricultural sites, mining or manufacturing sites).

[0040] As used herein, the term "hazardous or potentially hazardous situation" can refer to environmental conditions that may be harmful to humans, such as high noise levels, high ambient temperatures, lack of oxygen, presence of explosives, exposure to radioactive or biological hazardous substances, and exposure to other hazardous substances. Depending on the type of safety device, environmental conditions, and physiological conditions, appropriate thresholds or levels can be established to help define hazardous and potentially hazardous situations.

[0041] In some examples, PPE article 110 may include one or more headphones. For example, the headphones may be part of a hearing protection device, such as earmuffs, earplugs, etc. In some examples, PPE article 110 includes at least one function F that can be selectively configured using subscription service 150. The at least one function F is interchangeably referred to herein as "function F".

[0042] As used herein, the term “subscription” should be understood to refer to and encompass a variety of legitimate mechanisms. Some relevant examples include, but are not limited to, subscription mechanisms such as time-limited access (where a subscription provides access for a specific period of time, such as one year, in exchange for a corresponding series of payments), event-restricted access (e.g., a subscription provides access for the lifetime of a given subscriber based on a full prepayment, and these access rights terminate upon the subscriber’s removal from the subscription, or, for example, a company purchases a subscription for a key employee, and these corresponding access rights terminate when that key employee leaves the company), and access based on a series of recurring payments (e.g., a subscription provides access for, for example, a period of time scheduled in a regular manner, where the subscriber makes monthly or annual payments in exchange for the corresponding monthly or annual access). Access rights based on a one-time payment (which may occur when a subscriber makes a single payment to obtain access for a duration based on time or event, or if necessary, when a single payment is used to obtain perpetual access that can be retained, transferred, inherited, etc.), access rights based on membership (which may occur when a subscription establishes membership associated with the granted access in accordance with its terms and conditions, such as club membership), and access rights based on portions (which may occur when a subscription is held by multiple subscribers or when separate or indivisible common ownership interests are established among them in accordance with its terms and conditions).

[0043] In some examples, the PPE article 110 is capable of sending and / or receiving data via one or more wired and / or wireless communication interfaces. In some examples, the one or more wireless communication interfaces may include transceivers for sending and receiving radio signals. In some examples, the PPE article 110 may be configured to transmit and / or receive data via wireless communication protocols (such as via the 802.11 Wi-Fi protocol, etc.). (A protocol or any other radio communication protocol) to communicate data.

[0044] In some examples, the surrounding environment 104 may include a network 108 (e.g., a local area network) through which PPE articles 110 can communicate with each other and / or with a subscription service 150. For example, the surrounding environment 104 may be configured with wireless technologies such as 802.11 wireless networks, 802.15 ZigBee networks, and / or the like.

[0045] exist Figure 1 In this example, the surrounding environment 104 includes a wireless local area network (WLAN) that provides a packet-based transmission medium to allow communication with the subscription service 150 via network 108. Furthermore, the surrounding environment 104 includes multiple wireless access points 108A, 108B that may be geographically distributed throughout the surrounding environment 104 to provide support for wireless communication throughout the environment 104. The PPE article 110 may communicate with the subscription service 150, for example, via wireless access points 108A, 108B.

[0046] In some examples, network 108 may include one or more of the following: wireless network, wired network, local area network (LAN), metropolitan area network (MAN), wide area network (WAN), wireless personal area network (WPAN), WiMax network, direct connection such as via a Universal Serial Bus (USB) port, and / or similar network, and may include a set of interconnected networks that make up the Internet. In some examples, the wireless network may include a cellular network and may employ various technologies, including Enhanced Data Rate Global Evolution (EDGE), General Packet Radio Service (GPRS), Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM), Internet Protocol Multimedia Subsystem (IMS), Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS), etc. In some examples, network 108 may include a circuit-switched voice network, a packet-switched data network, or any other network capable of carrying electronic communications. For example, network 108 may include a network based on Internet Protocol (IP) or Asynchronous Transfer Mode (ATM), etc.

[0047] Examples of communication networks may include, but are not limited to, Personal Area Networks (PANs), Storage Area Networks (SANs), Home Area Networks (HANs), Campus Area Networks (CANs), Enterprise Private Networks (EPNs), the Internet, Global Area Networks (GANs), etc. These examples are intended to include or otherwise cover any type of network, including known and / or subsequently developed technologies for connecting PPE artifacts 110 to each other or to the subscription service 150.

[0048] In some examples, the PPE article 110 can communicate directly with the subscription service 150 via any wired or wireless communication means or via an external network. In some examples, the PPE article 110 can communicate with the subscription service 150 when connected to a charging station or docking station. The charging station or docking station may include wired or wireless communication modules for communicating with the subscription service 150. Thus, the PPE article 110 is able to communicate with the subscription service 150 via the charging station or docking station. In some examples, the PPE article 110 may include various components mounted thereon or otherwise accessible to the PPE article 110, such as a microphone and a speaker. Specifically, the PPE article 110 can transmit voice data via a microphone. Further, the PPE article 110 can receive voice data via a transceiver.

[0049] In some examples, system 100 may also include a user interface 114 configured to allow selection of the at least one function F that can be configured using subscription service 150. For example, user interface 114 may be incorporated into any type of software application, including, for example, desktop applications, mobile applications, or website-based applications (e.g., URLs), to enable user 102 to interact with and control the at least one function F, wherein the at least one function is associated with a PPE artifact 110 that can be configured using subscription service 150. In some examples, one or more user interfaces 114A-114N (collectively, user interface 114) are associated with each of PPE artifacts 110A-110N and / or users 102A-102N.

[0050] In some examples, user interface 114 may be associated with at least one of PPE article 110 and user 102. In some examples, PPE article 110 may communicate with subscription service 150 via any suitable computing device (e.g., personal computer, laptop computer, cellular phone, smartphone, or tablet computer). Such computing device may include user interface 114 for selecting function F. Further, the computing device may include associated wired / wireless communication interfaces for communicating with PPE article 110 and / or subscription service 150. In some examples, PPE article 110 may communicate with subscription service 150 via the aforementioned computing device.

[0051] Figure 2 This is a schematic block diagram illustrating a system 100 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. System 100 includes a PPE article 110, which is transmitted via a network 108 (or...) Figure 1The wireless access points 108A, 108B shown or the wireless Internet gateway may be communicatively coupled to the subscription service 150. As used herein, the terms “Internet” and “Internet of Things” are used interchangeably to refer to interconnected networks, including but not limited to the Internet of Things.

[0052] In some examples, subscription service 150 may include cloud computing services. As used herein, the phrase “cloud computing service” may refer to any service, platform, and / or infrastructure that can provide online and / or third-party hosted services for applications and / or storage. Examples of such cloud computing services may include, but are not limited to, Software as a Service (“SaaS”) systems and Infrastructure as a Service (“IaaS”) systems.

[0053] In some examples, cloud computing services may provide one or more clients with a view of applications and data without giving them full access to all the underlying systems. For instance, a cloud computing service may allow a consumer to specify the service and / or resource requirements of one or more applications and / or virtual machines without requiring and / or allowing the consumer to control the underlying hardware resources. Examples of such cloud computing services may include, but are not limited to, Microsoft Azure IoT Hub and Amazon Web Services Greengrass.

[0054] In some examples, subscription service 150 may enable function F of PPE article 110. For example, subscription service 150 may provide support for function F. System 100 includes a first computing device 120 communicatively coupled to PPE article 110. The first computing device 120 may or may not be located on PPE article 110. For example, the first computing device 120 may be communicatively coupled to PPE article 110 via any wired / wireless communication interface.

[0055] System 100 also includes a second computing device 152 associated with and communicatively coupled to the first computing device 120. In some examples, the first computing device 120 may communicate with the second computing device 152 to enable function F of the PPE article 110, wherein the second computing device is associated with the subscription service 150. For example, the first computing device 120 may send a signal indicating a request to enable function F (e.g., a subscription message SM). The first computing device 120 may be able to communicate with user 102 (e.g., ...) Figure 1 (As shown) This signal is sent when function F is selected via, for example, user interface 114. Figure 2In the example, user interface 114 is communicatively coupled to the first computing device 120. However, it should be understood that user interface 114 may be communicatively coupled to the first computing device 120 and / or PPE article 110. The first computing device 120 and the second computing device 152 may include respective communication interfaces for enabling communication with each other.

[0056] System 100 also includes a subscription server 160 communicatively coupled to the second computing device 152. The subscription server 160 can provide information such as the subscription status of a user 102 or PPE artifact 110 corresponding to a function F to be accessed through the subscription service 150. For example, the subscription status may include the payment status corresponding to function F. In some examples, the subscription service 150 may provide access to function F based on a payment made for function F. In some examples, the subscription service 150 may provide free access to function F. In this case, the second computing device 152 may authorize access to function F based on the subscription status from the subscription server 160. In some examples, when a request to enable function F of PPE artifact 110 is received from the first computing device 120, the second computing device 152 may request subscription information from the subscription server 160.

[0057] System 100 also includes a feature server 170 communicatively coupled to a second computing device 152. The second computing device 152 can send a configuration message CM corresponding to the at least one function F to a first computing device 120 based on the subscription status of user 102 or PPE article 110. The first computing device 120 can configure the at least one function F on the PPE article 110 based on the configuration message CM.

[0058] The feature server 170 may access or include a database storing various functions F associated with the PPE article 110. In some embodiments, the at least one function includes at least one of the following: conference calling function, level-related function, virtual assistant, noise dosimetry function, computer vision function, data collection and analysis function, wireless network calling function, emergency function, security function, FM radio, digital audio broadcasting (DAB) radio, and work equipment profiles.

[0059] In some examples, function F includes a conference calling function that allows user 102 to communicate with multiple other users participating in the conference call. In some examples, PPE article 110 (e.g., headset) can use a cellular network to establish a conference call with other participants. PPE article 110 may include one or more wired and / or wireless communication interfaces that enable the conference calling function. For example, PPE article 110 may be equipped with communication circuitry such as 3G / 4G / LTE / WiMax. In some examples, the one or more wireless communication interfaces may include transceivers for transmitting and receiving radio signals.

[0060] In some examples, PPE article 110 can use a network (e.g., network 108) for conference calling functionality. In some examples, the transceiver may include a two-way radio, which may be portable, such as a handheld two-way radio. In some examples, the two-way radio may include a push-to-talk (PTT) switch. In some examples, function F includes wireless network calling functionality. For example, PPE article 110 can use a network to call another user via VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol).

[0061] In some examples, PPE article 110 may include one or more microphones disposed on PPE article 110. The microphones may pick up sound and noise from the surrounding environment of user 102 of PPE article 110. The noise and sound picked up by the microphones may be relayed to user 102 via a speaker associated with PPE article 110. The incoming sound and noise picked up by the microphones may be processed, such as canceling at least some noise based on the level or intensity of the sound, to produce an output through the speaker. Such functionality may be referred to as level-dependent functionality. Level-dependent functionality may include several profiles that can be selectively configured available to PPE article 110.

[0062] As used herein, the term "sound" may refer to desired audio information, while the term "noise" may refer to undesired audio information. The speaker of PPE article 110 may provide sound, such as desired audio, to user 102. Desired audio may include conversations, commands, warnings, or other communications, such as communication between two persons near PPE article 110. Input from the microphone may be processed to eliminate at least some noise, such as undesired noise. Undesired noise may include mechanical noise, noise from the ventilation system, distant conversations, impulse noise, harsh sounds, sharp sounds, engine noise, gunshots, explosions, and / or other similar noises.

[0063] The output from the speaker can be limited to the maximum output level to protect the ears of user 102. In some examples, the output from the speaker can be limited to 80 dB when the ambient sound level is less than 106 dB, regardless of the speaker volume setting adjusted by user 102. This processing can increase the quality or clarity of the incoming sound, such as by reducing background noise, suppressing impulse noise, or maintaining a constant input level.

[0064] In some examples, PPE article 110 can analyze external noise and sound to determine the level or amplitude of the external noise and sound. After analyzing the external noise and sound, PPE article 110 can apply one or more digital filters to the incoming sound to reduce the external noise. As the amplitude of the external noise and sound increases, the filters can gradually focus on the frequencies of human voices. Reducing bandwidth or focusing on the frequencies of human voices can improve the speech-to-noise ratio and improve the speech intelligibility of spoken commands and dialogues in the presence of external noise.

[0065] In some examples, function F includes virtual assistants. Generally, a virtual assistant is an example of a class of software applications known as natural language interactive applications that interact with human users using natural language. Specifically, for virtual assistants, these applications perform functions similar to those provided by human assistants because they can converse with their users to, for example, provide information, perform routine tasks, or perform other required actions. In some examples, function F may allow changing the language used to communicate with the virtual assistant.

[0066] In some examples, function F includes a noise dose measurement function that allows measurement of the noise exposure of user 102 over an integral period of time. For example, PPE article 110 may be equipped with a noise sensor or sound level monitor that provides user 102 with a noise dose (e.g., sound intensity at a specific time point) and can identify one or more types of noise causing that dose. In some examples, the noise dose measurement function can measure noise level values ​​such as peak noise, threshold, exposure, maximum noise level, predicted dose, minimum noise level, etc.

[0067] In some examples, function F includes computer vision functionality. In computer vision, mathematical techniques are used to detect the presence of various elements and identify elements from a visual scene depicted in a digital image. Local portions of an image (called features) can be used to analyze and classify the image. Low-level features such as points of interest and edges can be computed from the image and used to detect, for example, people, objects, and landmarks depicted in the image. Machine learning algorithms are commonly used for image recognition. In some examples, PPE article 110 may include associated hardware for performing the intended function of the computer vision functionality.

[0068] In some examples, function F includes data acquisition and analysis capabilities. PPE article 110 can measure health and safety data of user 102, such as sound levels or hearing hazards. Further, PPE article 110 can analyze sound levels on a real-time, periodic, or asynchronous basis. Further, PPE article 110 can transmit such sound level data to a field computing device. In some examples, the analysis function may include the identification of outliers or abnormal results. In some examples, PPE article 110 can determine whether a noise threshold has been exceeded and can generate an alarm or notification to user 102 accordingly. Additionally, PPE article 110 can store historical data for future analysis.

[0069] In some examples, the at least one function F includes emergency functions and / or safety functions. In some examples, emergency functions and / or safety functions may include a personal alarm safety system (PASS), fall detection, etc. For example, PPE article 110 may include sensors that can monitor body movement patterns, detect the occurrence of hazardous situations, and / or identify body movement patterns that lead to falls.

[0070] In some examples, function F includes an FM radio or a DAB radio. These functions F allow radio listening functionality on the PPE article 110. The PPE article 110 may include associated hardware for using these functions F.

[0071] In some examples, multiple functions F can be configured on the PPE article 110. It should be understood that the above-described functions F are merely examples, and functions F can vary based on application requirements. In some examples, functions F can be categorized into productivity functions, entertainment functions, and personal safety functions.

[0072] Figure 3 This is a block diagram illustrating a system 200 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. System 200 may be similar to... Figure 1 and Figure 2 System 100, and the same reference numerals are used to denote the same or similar elements. System 200 includes at least one PPE article 210, which includes at least one function F that can be selectively configured using subscription service 250. The at least one PPE article 210 is interchangeably referred to herein as "PPE article 210". System 200 also includes a first computing device 220 communicatively coupled to the at least one PPE article 210. The first computing device 220 includes a first processor 222 and a first memory 224.

[0073] System 200 also includes a second computing device 252 associated with and communicatively coupled to the first computing device 220. In some examples, the first computing device 220 may be communicatively coupled to the subscription service 250. The second computing device 252 includes a second processor 254 and a second memory 256. System 200 also includes a subscription server 260 communicatively coupled to the second computing device 252. In some examples, system 200 also includes a feature server 270 communicatively coupled to the second computing device 252.

[0074] In some embodiments, system 200 further includes a user interface 214 communicatively coupled to a first processor 222. User interface 214 is communicatively coupled to a first computing device 220. In some examples, user interface 214 is configured to allow selection of at least one function F that can be configured using subscription service 250. In some examples, user interface 214 may also be communicatively coupled to PPE article 210.

[0075] The first memory 224 includes a first instruction that, when executed by the first processor 222, causes the first processor 222 to generate a subscription message SM in response to determining the selection of at least one function F that can be configured using the subscription service 250. The subscription message SM includes a request to enable the at least one function F of the PPE article 210. The PPE article 210 and / or the first computing device 220 may include one or more wired or wireless communication interfaces that enable the PPE article 210 to communicate with a second computing device 252 of the subscription service 250. For example, when a user of the PPE article 210 selects function F through a user interface 214, the PPE article 210 may send the subscription message SM to the second computing device 252.

[0076] The second computing device 252 is configured to receive a subscription message SM. The second memory 256 includes a second instruction, which, when executed by the second processor 254, in response to receiving the subscription message SM, causes the second processor 254 to determine whether credentials corresponding to at least one of the at least one PPE article 210 and a user associated with the at least one PPE article 210 have been pre-registered with the subscription service 250 to enable the at least one function F of the at least one PPE article 210. In some examples, the credentials may include a device identifier (ID) or a user identifier (UID) associated with the PPE article 210.

[0077] PPE artifact 210 can be pre-registered with subscription service 250. For example, PPE artifact 210 can be pre-registered with subscription service 250 by the enterprise managing PPE artifact 210. In such an arrangement, the enterprise can manage the types of functions F that can be enabled on PPE artifact 210. In some examples, function F can be enabled based on the user profile of PPE artifact 210. Further, the enterprise can pay for function F of PPE artifact 210 through subscription service 250. In some examples, the cost of function F can be billed after the end of the billing cycle. In some examples, function F can be subscribed to based on a policy. For example, a set of functions F can be co-subscribed to. Further, the cost of function F can be billed based on the usage of function F. For example, if some functions F from a set of functions F are not used by users of PPE artifact 210, the associated costs can be excluded at the end of the billing cycle.

[0078] In some embodiments, the second processor 254 is also configured to pre-register the at least one PPE article 210 with the second computing device 252 to enable the at least one function F of the at least one PPE article 210. The second memory 246 may store credentials corresponding to the PPE article 210. Alternatively or additionally, the manufacturer of the PPE article 210 may provide credentials for the one or more PPE articles 210 to the subscription service 250. Further, the manufacturer may, for example, restrict the functions F that can be enabled on the PPE article 210 based on the usage area or location of the PPE article 210.

[0079] In some examples, users of PPE artifact 210 can license feature F through subscription service 250. For example, a user can obtain a license to enable feature F that meets their specific needs by paying subscription service 250. The payment corresponding to feature F can then be stored in subscription server 260. PPE artifact 210 or first processor 222 can accordingly generate subscription message SM to enable feature F. Subscription service 250 can then determine whether credentials associated with at least PPE artifact 210 or its user have been pre-registered to enable at least one feature F. In some examples, some features of feature F can be obtained without any fee. Furthermore, some features of feature F can be available only to specific users.

[0080] The second processor 254 is also configured to determine, from a subscription server 260 communicatively coupled to the second computing device 252, the subscription status PS of the at least one PPE article 210 corresponding to the at least one function F. In some examples, the subscription service 250 may provide access to function F based on a payment made corresponding to function F. The subscription service 250 may include arrangements for accepting payments corresponding to function F that a user of the PPE article 210 wishes to enable. Further, payment information may be stored in the subscription server 260. The subscription status PS may include payment information associated with function F.

[0081] In some examples, subscription service 250 may provide free access to function F. Subscription server 260 may store information corresponding to PPE artifact 210 or users associated with PPE artifact 210 that are authorized to access function F free of charge. Such information may be provided by subscription server 260 to second processor 254 through the subscription status PS of PPE artifact 210.

[0082] In some implementations, the second processor 254 is also configured to authenticate the at least one PPE article 210 based at least on a pre-shared key K associated with the at least one PPE article 210. The pre-shared key K uniquely identifies the PPE article 210 and is used for secure communication with it. For example, the first processor 222 can use the pre-shared key K available to both the first processor 222 and the second processor 254 to encrypt a subscription message SM. The second processor 254 can then authenticate the PPE article 210 based on the pre-shared key K associated with the subscription message SM.

[0083] As used herein, the term "key" refers to information (e.g., a string) used with a cryptographic algorithm to encrypt or decrypt data. The generation of such a key depends on the cryptographic algorithm used. A key can be a single key used for both encryption and decryption in cryptography. That is, in this type of cryptography, decryption is the inverse process of encryption and uses the same key as encryption. This type of cryptography may be referred to as "traditional cryptography" or "symmetric cryptography." In this cryptography, a single key is shared by the user or process associated with obtaining access to information from the resource and by the security system associated with controlling or providing secure access to the resource. Through this arrangement, the second processor 254 can determine whether the subscription message SM is obtained from a genuine PPE artifact authorized to communicate with the subscription service 250. In some examples, the subscription service 250 may be configured to authenticate the PPE artifact 210 via a single sign-on (SSO) authentication scheme.

[0084] The second processor 254 is further configured to pre-register with the subscription service 250 based on the subscription state PS and in response to determining the credentials corresponding to at least one of the at least one PPE artifact 210 and the user associated with the at least one PPE artifact 210 to enable the at least one function F of the at least one PPE artifact 210, and to send a configuration message CM to the first computing device 220. The configuration message CM includes configuration data CD for enabling the at least one function F of the at least one PPE artifact 210. In some embodiments, the second processor 254 is further configured to send the configuration message CM to the first computing device 220 via a feature server 270. In some examples, the feature server 270 may store the configuration data CD corresponding to the at least one function F.

[0085] The first memory 224 includes the first instruction, which, when executed by the first processor 222, causes the first processor 222 to enable the at least one function F of the at least one PPE article 210 in response to receiving the configuration message CM, at least in part based on the configuration data CD of the configuration message CM. For example, the first processor 222 may allow the at least one PPE article 210 to use the at least one function F based on the receipt of the configuration message CM. Alternatively, in some examples, the configuration data CD of the configuration message CM may restrict the at least one function F already enabled on the PPE article 210. For example, the function F of the PPE article 210 may be restricted based on factors such as the location of the PPE article 210, the user's profile of the PPE article 210, etc. For example, function F may be enabled or activated in one or more predetermined areas and disabled or deactivated outside of the one or more predetermined areas. Figure 3 The dashed box in the figure represents a function F that is disabled or deactivated. Figure 3 The solid box in the text represents a function F that is either disabled or activated.

[0086] In some embodiments, the first processor 222 is also configured to configure the at least one function F based at least in part on the configuration data CD of the configuration message CM. For example, the configuration data CD may include one or more software programs that can update the configuration settings of the PPE article 210 to enable function F of the PPE article 210. The first processor 222 is communicatively coupled to the PPE article 210 and can send the configuration data CD to the PPE article 210.

[0087] Figure 3 The various features and devices shown can also be found in Figure 1 and Figure 2 Enabled in system 100.

[0088] By way of example and not limitation, each of the first memory 224 and the second memory 256 may include RAM, ROM, EEPROM, CD-ROM or other optical disk storage, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage device, flash memory, or any other medium that can be used to store desired program code in the form of instructions or data structures and that can be accessed by a computer or processor.

[0089] Figure 4 This is a schematic block diagram showing PPE article 210. Now refer to... Figure 3 and Figure 4 The PPE article 210 may include a variety of functions F1-FN (collectively referred to as functions F) that can be selectively configured using the subscription service 250. The first processor 222 may configure functions F1-FN based on a configuration message CM that includes configuration data CD received from the second computing device 252.

[0090] exist Figure 4 In the example shown, function F3 can be configured on PPE article 210 upon receipt of configuration data CD. In some examples, configuration data CD may include software for using function F3. Further, in some embodiments, multiple functions F1-FN can be configured simultaneously via configuration data CD. Alternatively, the use of multiple functions F1-FN can be restricted based on the receipt of configuration data CD. For example, one or more functions F1-FN can be disabled on PPE article 210 upon entering a certain location.

[0091] In some embodiments, the first processor 222 is also configured to periodically check one or more configuration messages CM from the second computing device 252 to enable function F of the PPE article 210. For example, the first processor 222 may periodically send subscription messages SM after a predetermined time period. In some examples, the first processor 222 may check for software updates to the configuration of function F already enabled on the PPE article 210. In some embodiments, the first processor 222 is also configured to disable at least one function F of the at least one PPE article 210 if it does not receive the one or more configuration messages CM from the second computing device 252 after a predetermined time period.

[0092] In some implementations, the second processor 254 is also configured to, before sending the configuration message CM to the first computing device 220, base its communication on key K1 ( Figure 3As shown, the configuration message CM is at least partially encrypted or digitally signed. Such an arrangement can be part of "public-key cryptography." Public-key cryptography is cryptography that uses two keys: one for encryption and one for decryption. Users or processes associated with gaining access to resources typically have two keys: a public key, which is publicly available, is typically used to encrypt messages, while a private key, never disclosed, is typically used to decrypt encrypted messages. In public-key cryptography, encryption and decryption utilize two inverse mathematical functions.

[0093] Figure 5A and Figure 5B This is a schematic block diagram illustrating the cryptographic protocol for the configuration message CM. (See reference) Figure 5A The second processor 254 is configured to digitally sign the configuration message 258 at the second computing device 252 based on a private key 264 associated with the second computing device 252, thereby forming the configuration message 262. Figure 5A In the implementation scheme shown, key K1 ( Figure 3 (As shown) is the private key 264 associated with the second computing device 252. For example, the second processor 254 can use the private key 264 to digitally sign the configuration message 258. The private key 264 can be unique and known only to the second computing device 252. The configuration message 262 can then be sent to the first computing device 220.

[0094] In some implementations, the first processor 222 is further configured to verify the digital signature of the configuration message 262 based on the public key 266 corresponding to the private key 264 before enabling the at least one function F on the at least one PPE article 210 (not shown). The first processor 222 can verify the origin of the configuration message 262 via the public key 266. The first processor 222 can convert the configuration message 262 into a configuration message 268 to further obtain the associated configuration data CD.

[0095] refer to Figure 5B The second processor 254 can at least partially encrypt the configuration message 272 to form a key K1 ( Figure 3 (As shown in the image) Encrypted configuration message 274. Figure 5B In the illustrated implementation, key K1 is public key 276 associated with the at least one PPE article 210 (not shown). In some implementations, the first processor 222 is also configured to decrypt configuration message 274 to obtain configuration message 282 based on private key 278 corresponding to public key 276 before enabling the at least one function F on the at least one PPE article 210. Only PPE article 210 with private key 278 will be able to decrypt configuration message 274 encrypted using public key 276 associated with PPE article 210.

[0096] Figure 5A and Figure 5B The encryption and decryption features shown can also be found in Figure 1 and Figure 2 Enabled in system 100.

[0097] Figure 6 This is a block diagram illustrating a system 200 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. System 200 includes a first computing device 220 communicatively coupled to a PPE article 210, and includes a first processor 222 and a first memory 224. System 200 also includes a second computing device 252 associated with and communicatively coupled to the first computing device 220 and a subscription service 250. The second computing device 252 includes a second processor 254 and a second memory 256. System 200 also includes a subscription server 260 and a feature server 270 communicatively coupled to the second computing device 252. System 200 also includes a user interface 214 configured to allow selection of a function F that can be configured using the subscription service 250.

[0098] In some embodiments, system 200 further includes a positioning device 226 communicatively coupled to the first processor 222 and configured to generate a position signal LS based on the location of the at least one PPE article 210. In some examples, the positioning device 226 may be located on the PPE article 210 and / or on the user of the PPE article 210. In some other examples, the positioning device 226 may be located in the surrounding environment of the PPE article 210 (e.g., surrounding environment 104). The positioning device 226 is communicatively coupled to the first processor 222 via any wired or wireless communication interface.

[0099] In some embodiments, the first processor 222 is also configured to receive a location signal LS from the positioning device 226. In some embodiments, the first processor 222 is further configured to generate a subscription message SM based on the location signal LS received from the positioning device 226, the subscription message SM including a request to enable the at least one function F of the at least one PPE article 210. For example, the first processor 222 may generate the subscription message SM when the PPE article 210 enters a location where function F is required. Function F may include, for example, safety features such as PASS, fall detectors, etc. Such functions F can be particularly helpful to emergency responders (e.g., firefighters, law enforcement officers, first responders, HAZMAT personnel, security personnel, or other personnel working in hazardous or potentially hazardous situations).

[0100] In some implementations, the first processor 222 is also configured to at least partially restrict the at least one function F based on the location signal LS of the at least one PPE article 210. For example, the first processor 222 may restrict the use of function F based on the location of the PPE article 210, such as a music player, radio, hearing protection device, etc. In some examples, the first processor 222 may temporarily disable function F based on the location of the PPE article 210. In some other examples, the first processor 222 may temporarily disable function F for a predetermined period of time based on the location of the PPE article 210.

[0101] In some embodiments, system 200 further includes at least one sensor 228 communicatively coupled to the first processor 222. In some embodiments, the at least one sensor 228 is configured to generate a signal SS based on the detection of at least one environmental condition of the at least one PPE article 210. In some embodiments, the at least one environmental condition includes at least one of the following: a hazardous condition, a potentially hazardous condition, and the behavior of other persons near the user of the PPE article 210. In some examples, the behavior of other persons may include any activity that could be harmful to the user of the PPE article 210. In some examples, the at least one sensor 228 may include a temperature sensor, a pressure sensor, a humidity sensor, a sound acquisition device, a video recorder, an image capture device, a gas sensor, a smoke detector, and / or the like.

[0102] The first processor 222 is also configured to receive a signal SS from the at least one sensor 228. In some embodiments, the first processor 222 is further configured to generate a subscription message SM based on the signal SS received from the at least one sensor 228, the subscription message SM including a request to enable the at least one function F of the at least one PPE article 210. For example, when the at least one sensor 228 detects a dangerous or potentially dangerous situation, the at least one function F, as a safety feature (e.g., a safety alarm), can be enabled on the PPE article 210. In such cases, the cost of function F can be billed afterward.

[0103] In some embodiments, system 200 further includes at least one physiological sensor 230 communicatively coupled to the first processor 222. In some examples, the at least one physiological sensor 230 may be located on the PPE article 210 or on a user of the PPE article 210. The at least one physiological sensor 230 is configured to generate a signal HS based on the detection of at least one physiological condition of the user of the PPE article 210. In some examples, the at least one physiological condition may include any condition that could lead to injury and / or death of the individual.

[0104] In some examples, the at least one physiological sensor 230 may include, but is not limited to, a digital potentiometer, a resistance temperature device (RTD), a thermocouple, a thermistor, an infrared (IR) sensor, a pressure sensor, a gas detector, a radiation detector, a biosensor, an optical sensor, a camera, or any other physiological sensor. In some examples, the at least one physiological sensor 230 may be used to monitor various physiological conditions such as respiratory rate, blood oxygen level, core body temperature, heart rate, and / or any other physiological conditions required to identify, monitor, or assess the physiological condition of the user of the PPE article 210.

[0105] The first processor 222 is also configured to receive a signal HS from the at least one physiological sensor 230. The first processor 222 is further configured to generate a subscription message SM based on the signal HS received from the at least one physiological sensor 230, the subscription message SM including a request to enable the at least one function F of the at least one PPE article 210. For example, function F may include a health data analysis function that can monitor and analyze the user's physiological parameters and share these physiological parameters with a central server.

[0106] In some embodiments, at least one other PPE article 232 is communicatively coupled to the at least one PPE article 210. In some examples, the at least one other PPE article 232 may also be communicatively coupled to the first computing device 220. In some embodiments, the first processor 222 is further configured to generate a subscription message SM based on the at least one function F already configured on the at least one PPE article 232. For example, the PPE article 210 may determine that function F is being used by other users near the PPE article 210. The first processor 222 may suggest or automatically enable the same function F on the PPE article 210 by generating the subscription message SM.

[0107] Figure 6 The various features, devices, and sensors shown can also be found in Figure 1 and Figure 2 The system 100 may be enabled. For example, the positioning device 226, the at least one sensor 228, and the at least one physiological sensor 230 may be enabled in the system 100 that includes the at least one PPE article 110. Further, the at least one other PPE article 232 may be located in the vicinity of the at least one PPE article 110.

[0108] Figure 7 A flowchart illustrating method 300 is provided. Method 300 may use... Figures 1 to 3 as well as Figure 6The method is implemented by either system 100 or 200. At step 302, method 300 includes generating a subscription message SM via a first computing device 120 or 220 in response to determining the selection of the at least one function F that can be selectively configured for the use of subscription services 150 or 250. The subscription message SM includes a request to enable the at least one function F of the at least one PPE article 110 or 210.

[0109] At step 304, method 300 further includes receiving a subscription message SM at a second computing device 152, 252 associated with and communicatively coupled to the first computing devices 120, 220. In some embodiments, method 300 further includes pre-registering the at least one PPE article 110, 210 to the second computing devices 152, 252 to enable the at least one function F of the at least one PPE article 110, 210.

[0110] At step 306, method 300 further includes determining, via second computing devices 152, 252, whether credentials corresponding to at least one of the at least one PPE artifact 110, 210 and the user 102 associated with the at least one PPE artifact 110, 210 have been pre-registered with the subscription service 150, 250 to enable the at least one function F of the at least one PPE artifact 110, 210. In some embodiments, method 300 further includes authenticating the at least one PPE artifact 110, 210 at the second computing devices 152, 252, at least based on a pre-shared key K associated with the at least one PPE artifact 110, 210.

[0111] At step 308, method 300 further includes determining the subscription status PS of the at least one PPE article 110, 210 corresponding to the at least one function F via subscription servers 160, 260. Subscription servers 160, 260 are communicatively coupled to second computing devices 152, 252.

[0112] At step 310, method 300 further includes pre-registering with the subscription service 150, 250 based on the subscription status PS and in response to determining a credential corresponding to at least one of the at least one PPE artifact 110, 210 and the user 102 associated with the at least one PPE artifact 110, 210 to enable the at least one function F of the at least one PPE artifact 110, 210, and sending a configuration message CM to the first computing device 120, 220 via the second computing device 152, 252.

[0113] In some embodiments, method 300 further includes encrypting the configuration message CM at least partially based on key K1 before sending it to the first computing devices 120, 220. In some embodiments, key K1 is a public key 276 associated with the at least one PPE artifact 110, 210. In some embodiments, method 300 further includes digitally signing the configuration message based on a private key 264 associated with the second computing devices 152, 252.

[0114] The configuration message CM includes configuration data CD for enabling the at least one function F of the at least one PPE article 110, 210. In some embodiments, method 300 further includes configuring the at least one function F on the at least one PPE article 110, 210 based at least in part on the configuration data CD of the configuration message CM.

[0115] At step 312, method 300 further includes enabling at least one function F of the at least one PPE artifact 110, 210 by the first computing devices 120, 220, at least in part based on the configuration data CD of the configuration message CM. In some embodiments, method 300 further includes decrypting the configuration message CM at the first computing devices 120, 220 based on the private key 278 corresponding to the public key 276 before enabling the at least one function F on the at least one PPE artifact 110, 210. In some embodiments, method 300 further includes verifying the digital signature of the configuration message CM at the first computing devices 120, 220 based on the public key 266 corresponding to the private key 264 before enabling the at least one function F on the at least one PPE artifact 110, 210.

[0116] In some implementations, the at least one function includes at least one of the following: conference calling function, level-related function, virtual assistant, noise dosimetry function, computer vision function, data collection and analysis function, wireless network calling function, emergency function, security function, FM radio, digital audio broadcasting (DAB) radio, and configuration file of work equipment.

[0117] In some embodiments, method 300 further includes generating a position signal LS via positioning device 226 based on the position of the at least one PPE article 110, 210. Method 300 may also include receiving the position signal LS at a first computing device 120, 220. Method 300 may further include generating a subscription message SM via the first computing device 120, 220 based on the position signal LS received from positioning device 226, the subscription message SM including a request to enable the at least one function F of the at least one PPE article 110, 210. In some embodiments, method 300 further includes limiting the at least one function F based on the position signal LS of the at least one PPE article 110, 210.

[0118] In some embodiments, method 300 further includes generating a signal SS via the at least one sensor 228 based on the detection of at least one environmental condition of the at least one PPE article 110, 210. In some embodiments, the at least one environmental condition includes at least one of the following: a hazardous condition, a potentially hazardous condition, and the behavior of other persons near the user 102 of the at least one PPE article 110, 210. Method 300 may also include receiving the signal SS at a first computing device 120, 220. Method 300 further includes generating a subscription message SM via the first computing device 120, 220 based on the signal SS received from the at least one sensor 228, the subscription message SM including a request to enable the at least one function F of the at least one PPE article 110, 210.

[0119] In some embodiments, method 300 further includes generating a signal HS via the at least one physiological sensor 230 based on the detection of at least one physiological condition of the user 102 of the at least one PPE article 110, 210. Method 300 also includes receiving the signal HS at the first computing devices 120, 220. Method 300 further includes generating a subscription message SM via the first computing devices 120, 220 based on the signal HS received from the at least one physiological sensor 230, the subscription message SM including a request to enable the at least one function F of the at least one PPE article 110, 210.

[0120] In some implementations, method 300 further includes generating a subscription message SM based on the at least one function F already configured on the at least one PPE article 232. The at least one other PPE article 232 is communicatively coupled to the at least one PPE article 110, 210.

[0121] In some embodiments, method 300 further includes periodically checking the one or more configuration messages CM from second computing devices 152, 252 via a first computing device 220 to enable the at least one function F of the at least one PPE article 110, 210. In some embodiments, method 300 further includes disabling the at least one function F of the at least one PPE article 110, 210 if the one or more configuration messages CM are not received from the second computing devices 152, 252 after a predetermined time period.

[0122] Systems 100 and 200 allow PPE products 110 and 210 to enable function F through subscription services 150 and 250. Therefore, user 102 of PPE products 110 and 210 can access several additional features not yet provided by PPE products 110 and 210. Furthermore, user 102 can access different functions F without separately purchasing multiple PPE products 110 and 210. This reduces the operating costs for user 102 because multiple functions F can be enabled on PPE products 110 and 210 through subscription services 150 and 250.

[0123] The second processor 254 can also determine whether user 102 of PPE artifacts 110 and 210 has subscribed to function F through subscription servers 160 and 260 by obtaining the subscription status PS corresponding to function F. This ensures that user 102 can access the correct function F that user 102 intends to subscribe to.

[0124] The detailed description of preferred embodiments is referenced to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate specific embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. The illustrated embodiments are not intended to be exhaustive enumeration of all embodiments according to the invention. It should be understood that other embodiments may be utilized, and structural or logical changes may be made, without departing from the scope of the invention. Therefore, the following detailed description should not be considered limiting, and the scope of the invention is defined by the appended claims.

[0125] Unless otherwise specified, all numbers used in this specification and claims to express characteristic dimensions, quantities, and physical properties shall in all cases be understood to be modified by the term “about.” Therefore, unless stated to the contrary, the numerical parameters listed in the foregoing specification and appended claims are approximations, which may vary according to the desired properties sought by those skilled in the art using the teachings disclosed herein.

[0126] Unless otherwise expressly stated, as used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms "a" and "the" cover embodiments having multiple referents. Unless otherwise expressly stated, as used in this specification and the appended claims, the term "or" is generally used in its meaning including "and / or".

[0127] When spatially related terms are used herein, including but not limited to “proximal,” “farthest,” “lower,” “upper,” “below,” “under,” “above,” and “on top,” they are used to conveniently describe the spatial relationship of one or more elements relative to another element. In addition to the specific orientations depicted in the figures and described herein, such spatially related terms cover different orientations of the device during use or operation. For example, if the object depicted in the figures is flipped or inverted, the portion previously described as being below or beneath other elements should now be above or on top of those other elements.

[0128] As used herein, for example, when an element, component, or layer is described as forming a “consistent interface” with another element, component, or layer, or is “on,” “connected to,” “coupled to,” “stacked on,” or “in contact with,” it can be directly on, directly connected to, directly coupled to, directly stacked on, or directly in contact with that element, component, or layer. Alternatively, an intermediate element, component, or layer may be on, connected to, coupled to, or in contact with a particular element, component, or layer. For example, when an element, component, or layer is described, for example, as being “directly on” another element, “directly connected to” another element, “directly coupled to” another element, or “directly in contact with” another element, there is no intermediate element, component, or layer. The techniques disclosed herein can be implemented in a variety of computer devices, such as servers, laptop computers, desktop computers, notebook computers, tablet computers, handheld computers, smartphones, etc. Any component, module, or unit is described to emphasize a functional aspect and does not necessarily need to be implemented by a different hardware unit. The techniques described herein can also be implemented in hardware, software, firmware, or any combination thereof. Any feature described as a module, unit, or component may be implemented together in an integrated logic device or may be implemented independently as discrete but cooperating logic devices. In some cases, various features may be implemented as integrated circuit devices, such as integrated circuit chips or chipsets. Furthermore, although this specification describes a variety of different modules, many of which perform unique functions, all the functions of all modules may be combined into a single module or further split into other additional modules. The modules described herein are merely exemplary and are so described for ease of understanding.

[0129] If implemented in software, the technology can be implemented at least in part by a computer-readable medium comprising instructions that, when executed in a processor, perform one or more of the methods described above. The computer-readable medium may include a tangible computer-readable storage medium and may form part of a computer program product, which may include packaging material. The computer-readable storage medium may include random access memory (RAM) such as synchronous dynamic random access memory (SDRAM), read-only memory (ROM), non-volatile random access memory (NVRAM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), flash memory, magnetic or optical data storage media, etc. The computer-readable storage medium may also include non-volatile storage devices such as hard disks, magnetic tapes, optical discs (CDs), digital multi-purpose optical discs (DVDs), Blu-ray discs, holographic data storage media, or other non-volatile storage devices.

[0130] As used herein, the term "processor" may refer to any or any other of the foregoing structures suitable for implementing the techniques described herein. Furthermore, in some aspects, the functionality described herein may be provided within a dedicated software or hardware module configured to perform the techniques of this disclosure. Even when implemented in software, the technology may utilize hardware for executing the software, such as a processor, and memory for storing the software. In any such case, the computer described herein may define a specific machine capable of performing the particular functions described herein. Additionally, the technology may be fully implemented in one or more circuit or logic elements that can also be considered as processors.

[0131] In one or more examples, the described functionality may be implemented in hardware, software, firmware, or any combination thereof. If implemented in software, these functions may be stored as one or more instructions or code on or transmitted via a computer-readable medium and executed by a hardware-based processing unit. A computer-readable medium may include a computer-readable storage medium, which corresponds to a tangible medium such as a data storage medium, or a communication medium, which includes, for example, any medium that facilitates the transfer of a computer program from one place to another according to a communication protocol. In this manner, a computer-readable medium may generally correspond to (1) a non-transitory tangible computer-readable storage medium or (2) a communication medium, such as a signal or carrier wave. A data storage medium may be any available medium accessible by one or more computers or one or more processors to retrieve instructions, code, and / or data structures for implementing the techniques described in this disclosure. Computer program products may include computer-readable media.

[0132] By way of example and not limitation, such computer-readable storage media may include RAM, ROM, EEPROM, CD-ROM or other optical disc storage, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, flash memory, or any other medium that can be used to store desired program code in the form of instructions or data structures and is accessible by a computer. Furthermore, any connection is appropriately referred to as a computer-readable medium. For example, if instructions are transmitted from a website, server, or other remote source using coaxial cable, fiber optic cable, twisted pair, DSL, or wireless technologies such as infrared, radio, and microwave, then coaxial cable, fiber optic cable, twisted pair, DSL, or wireless technologies such as infrared, radio, and microwave are included in the definition of medium. However, it should be understood that computer-readable storage media and data storage media do not include connections, carrier waves, signals, or other transient media, but rather refer to non-transient tangible storage media. The disks and optical discs used include compact discs (CDs), laser discs, optical discs, digital versatile discs (DVDs), floppy disks, and Blu-ray discs, where disks typically reproduce data magnetically, while optical discs reproduce data optically using lasers. Combinations of the above should also be included within the scope of computer-readable media.

[0133] Instructions can be executed by one or more processors such as one or more digital signal processors (DSPs), general-purpose microprocessors, application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field-programmable arrays (FPGAs), or other equivalent integrated or discrete logic circuits. Therefore, the term "processor" as used may refer to any of the foregoing structures or any other structure suitable for implementing the described techniques. Furthermore, in some aspects, the described functionality may be provided within dedicated hardware and / or software modules. Moreover, these techniques may be implemented entirely within one or more circuit or logic units.

[0134] The technologies disclosed herein can be implemented in a wide variety of devices or apparatuses, including wireless handheld devices, integrated circuits (ICs), or sets of ICs (e.g., chipsets). Various components, modules, or units are described in this disclosure to emphasize functional aspects of devices configured to perform the disclosed technologies, but do not necessarily need to be implemented via different hardware units. Rather, as described above, various combinations of units can be provided in hardware units or via a collection of interoperable hardware units including one or more processors as described above, combined with suitable software and / or firmware.

[0135] It should be recognized that, according to this example, certain actions or events in any of the methods described herein may be performed in a different order, and may be added together, combined, or omitted (e.g., not all described actions or events are necessary for the practice of the method). Furthermore, in some examples, actions or events may be executed simultaneously rather than sequentially, for example, through multithreaded processing, interrupt handling, or multiple processors.

[0136] In some examples, computer-readable storage media include non-transitory media. In some examples, the term "non-transitory" indicates that the storage medium is not embodied in a carrier or propagating signal. In some examples, non-transitory storage media stores data that may change over time (e.g., in RAM or cache).

[0137] Various embodiments have been described. These examples, as well as others, are within the scope of the following claims.

Claims

1. A system for personal protective equipment (PPE) articles, the system comprising: At least one PPE article, said at least one PPE article including at least one function that can be selectively configured using a subscription service; A first computing device, the first computing device being communicatively coupled to the at least one PPE article and including a first processor and a first memory; as well as A second computing device, which is associated with and communicatively coupled to the first computing device and is associated with the subscription service, includes a second processor and a second memory. The first memory includes a first instruction that, when executed by the first processor, causes the first processor to generate a subscription message in response to determining a selection of at least one function that can be configured to use the subscription service, the subscription message including a request to enable at least one function of the at least one PPE article; The second computing device is configured to receive the subscription message, and the second memory includes a second instruction that, when executed by the second processor, causes the second processor to: Determine whether the credentials corresponding to at least one of the at least one PPE product and the user associated with the at least one PPE product are pre-registered with the subscription service to enable the at least one function of the at least one PPE product; The subscription server, which is connected to the second computing device via a communication ground, determines the subscription status of the at least one PPE article corresponding to the at least one function; as well as Based on the subscription status and in response to determining the credentials corresponding to at least one of the at least one PPE artifact and the user associated with the at least one PPE artifact, pre-register with the subscription service to enable the at least one function of the at least one PPE artifact, and send a configuration message to the first computing device, wherein the configuration message includes configuration data for enabling the at least one function of the at least one PPE artifact. The first memory includes the first instruction, which, when executed by the first processor, causes the first processor to enable the at least one function of the at least one PPE article in response to receiving the configuration message, at least in part based on the configuration data in the configuration message.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the at least one function includes at least one of the following: conference calling function, level-related function, virtual assistant, noise dosing measurement function, computer vision function, data collection and analysis function, wireless network calling function, emergency function, security function, FM radio, digital audio broadcasting (DAB) radio, and configuration file of work equipment.

3. The system of claim 1, wherein the first processor is further configured to configure the at least one function based at least in part on the configuration data of the configuration message.

4. The system of claim 1, further comprising a positioning device communicatively coupled to the first processor and configured to generate a position signal based on the position of the at least one PPE article, wherein the first processor is further configured to: Receive the position signal from the positioning device; and The subscription message is further generated based on the location signal received from the positioning device, the subscription message including the request to enable the at least one function of the at least one PPE article.

5. The system of claim 4, wherein the first processor is further configured to at least partially limit the at least one function based on the position signal of the at least one PPE article.

6. The system of claim 1, wherein the second processor is further configured to pre-register the at least one PPE article with the second computing device to enable the at least one function of the at least one PPE article.

7. The system of claim 1, further comprising at least one sensor communicatively coupled to the first processor, the at least one sensor being configured to generate a signal based on the detection of at least one environmental condition of the at least one PPE article, wherein the first processor is further configured to: Receive the signal from the at least one sensor; and The subscription message is further generated based on the signal received from the at least one sensor, the subscription message including the request to enable the at least one function of the at least one PPE article.

8. The system of claim 7, wherein the at least one environmental condition includes at least one of the following: a hazardous condition, a potentially hazardous condition, and the behavior of other persons near the user of the at least one PPE product.

9. The system of claim 1, further comprising at least one physiological sensor communicatively coupled to the first processor, the at least one physiological sensor being configured to generate a signal based on the detection of at least one physiological condition of a user of the at least one PPE article, wherein the first processor is further configured to: Receive the signal from the at least one physiological sensor; and The subscription message is further generated based on the signal received from the at least one physiological sensor, the subscription message including the request to enable the at least one function of the at least one PPE article.

10. The system of claim 1, further comprising at least one other PPE article communicatively coupled to the at least one PPE article, wherein the first processor is further configured to generate the subscription message based on the at least one function already configured on the at least one other PPE article.

11. The system of claim 1, further comprising a user interface communicatively coupled to the first processor, wherein the user interface is configured to allow selection of the at least one function configurable using the subscription service.

12. The system of claim 1, wherein the second processor is further configured to encrypt the configuration message at least partially based on a key before sending the configuration message to the first computing device.

13. The system of claim 12, wherein the key is a public key associated with the at least one PPE article.

14. The system of claim 13, wherein the first processor is further configured to decrypt the configuration message based on a private key corresponding to the public key before enabling the at least one function on the at least one PPE article.

15. The system of claim 1, wherein the second processor is further configured to digitally sign the configuration message based on a private key associated with the second computing device.

16. The system of claim 15, wherein the first processor is further configured to verify the digital signature of the configuration message based on a public key corresponding to the private key before enabling the at least one function of the at least one PPE article.

17. The system of claim 1, wherein the second processor is further configured to authenticate the at least one PPE article based at least on a pre-shared key associated with the at least one PPE article.

18. The system of claim 1, wherein the first processor is further configured to periodically check one or more configuration messages from the second computing device to enable the at least one function of the at least one PPE article.

19. The system of claim 18, wherein the first processor is further configured to disable the at least one function of the at least one PPE article when no configuration message is received from the second computing device after a predetermined time period.

20. The system of claim 1, further comprising a feature server communicatively coupled to the second computing device, wherein the second processor is further configured to send the configuration message to the first computing device via the feature server.

21. A method for using personal protective equipment (PPE) articles, the method comprising: In response to determining the selection of at least one function that can be selectively configured using a subscription service, a subscription message is generated via a first computing device, the subscription message including a request to enable at least one function of at least one PPE article; The subscription message is received at a second computing device that is associated with and communicatively coupled to the first computing device and is connected to the subscription service. The second computing device determines whether a credential corresponding to at least one of the at least one PPE product and the user associated with the at least one PPE product is pre-registered with the subscription service to enable the at least one function of the at least one PPE product. The subscription status of the at least one PPE article corresponding to the at least one function is determined via a subscription server, the subscription server being communicatively coupled to the second computing device; Based on the subscription status and in response to determining the credentials corresponding to at least one of the at least one PPE product and the user associated with the at least one PPE product, pre-register with the subscription service to enable at least one function of the at least one PPE product, and send a configuration message to the first computing device via the second computing device, wherein the configuration message includes configuration data for enabling at least one function of the at least one PPE product; as well as The first computing device enables at least one function of the at least one PPE article based at least in part on the configuration data of the configuration message.

22. The method of claim 21, wherein the at least one function comprises at least one of: conference calling function, level-related function, virtual assistant, noise dosimetry, computer vision function, data collection and analysis function, wireless network calling function, emergency function, security function, FM radio, digital audio broadcasting (DAB) radio, and configuration file of work equipment.

23. The method of claim 21, further comprising configuring the at least one function of the at least one PPE article based at least in part on the configuration data of the configuration message.

24. The method according to claim 21, further comprising: A position signal is generated based on the position of the at least one PPE product via a positioning device; The location signal is received at the first computing device; as well as Further, based on the location signal received from the positioning device, the subscription message is generated via the first computing device, the subscription message including the request to enable the at least one function of the at least one PPE article.

25. The method of claim 24, further comprising limiting the at least one function based on the position signal of the at least one PPE article.

26. The method of claim 21, further comprising pre-registering the at least one PPE article with the second computing device to enable the at least one function of the at least one PPE article.

27. The method according to claim 21, further comprising: Based on the detection of at least one environmental condition of the at least one PPE product, a signal is generated via at least one sensor; The signal is received at the first computing device; as well as Further, based on the signal received from the at least one sensor, the subscription message is generated via the first computing device, the subscription message including the request to enable the at least one function of the at least one PPE article.

28. The method of claim 27, wherein the at least one environmental condition includes at least one of the following: a hazardous condition, a potentially hazardous condition, and the behavior of other persons near the user of the at least one PPE product.

29. The method according to claim 21, further comprising: Based on the detection of at least one physiological condition of the user of the at least one PPE product, a signal is generated via at least one physiological sensor; The signal is received at the first computing device; as well as Further, based on the signal received from the at least one physiological sensor, the subscription message is generated via the first computing device, the subscription message including the request to enable the at least one function of the at least one PPE article.

30. The method of claim 21, further comprising generating the subscription message based on the at least one function already configured on at least one other PPE article, wherein the at least one other PPE article is communicatively coupled to the at least one PPE article.

31. The method of claim 21, further comprising encrypting the configuration message at least partially based on a key before sending the configuration message to the first computing device.

32. The method of claim 31, wherein the key is a public key associated with the at least one PPE article.

33. The method of claim 32, further comprising, prior to enabling the at least one function on the at least one PPE article, decrypting the configuration message at the first computing device based on a private key corresponding to the public key.

34. The method of claim 21, further comprising digitally signing the configuration message based on a private key associated with the second computing device.

35. The method of claim 34, further comprising, prior to enabling the at least one function on the at least one PPE article, verifying the digital signature of the configuration message at the first computing device based on a public key corresponding to the private key.

36. The method of claim 21, further comprising authenticating the at least one PPE article at the second computing device based at least on a pre-shared key associated with the at least one PPE article.

37. The method of claim 21, further comprising periodically checking one or more configuration messages from the second computing device via the first computing device to enable the at least one function of the at least one PPE article.

38. The method of claim 37, further comprising disabling the at least one function of the at least one PPE article when no configuration message is received from the second computing device after a predetermined time period.

39. A system for personal protective equipment (PPE) articles, the system comprising: At least one PPE article, said at least one PPE article including at least one function that can be selectively configured using a subscription service; A first computing device, the first computing device being communicatively coupled to the at least one PPE article and including a first processor and a first memory; A second computing device, which is associated with and communicatively coupled to the first computing device and is associated with the subscription service, includes a second processor and a second memory. as well as A positioning device, communicatively coupled to the first processor and configured to generate a position signal based on the position of the at least one PPE article; The first memory includes a first instruction that, when executed by the first processor, causes the first processor to generate a subscription message in response to determining a selection of at least one function that can be configured to use the subscription service, the subscription message including a request to enable at least one function of the at least one PPE article; The second computing device is configured to receive the subscription message, and the second memory includes a second instruction that, when executed by the second processor, causes the second processor to: Determine whether the credentials corresponding to at least one of the at least one PPE product and the user associated with the at least one PPE product are pre-registered with the subscription service to enable the at least one function of the at least one PPE product; The subscription server, which is connected to the second computing device via a communication ground, determines the subscription status of the at least one PPE article corresponding to the at least one function; as well as Based on the subscription status and in response to determining the credentials corresponding to at least one of the at least one PPE artifact and the user associated with the at least one PPE artifact, pre-register with the subscription service to enable the at least one function of the at least one PPE artifact, and send a configuration message to the first computing device, wherein the configuration message includes configuration data for enabling the at least one function of the at least one PPE artifact. The first memory includes the first instruction, which, when executed by the first processor, causes the first processor to enable the at least one function of the at least one PPE article in response to receiving the configuration message, at least in part based on the configuration data in the configuration message; and The first processor is further configured to receive the position signal from the positioning device and, based on the position signal of the at least one PPE article, to at least partially limit the at least one function.

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