Adaptive signal routing in personal protective equipment networks

Abstract

A control unit for a worker wearing personal protective equipment is presented. The control unit includes a PPE network creator that creates a network when activated. The control unit also includes a PPE device identifier configured to detect a first PPE associated with the worker and a second PPE associated with the worker. The first PPE has a first speaker and a first microphone. The second PPE has a second speaker and a second microphone. The control unit also includes a PPE network connector that facilitates the first PPE and the second PPE connecting the network. The control unit also includes a preferred configuration selector that automatically selects a preferred speaker for the worker and a preferred microphone for the worker. The preferred speaker is the first speaker or the second speaker. The preferred microphone is the first microphone or the second microphone. The control unit also includes a network communication component that automatically communicates first device parameter settings to the first PPE and second device parameter settings to the second PPE. The first device parameter settings and the second device parameter settings are based on the selected preferred speaker and preferred microphone.

Description

Background Technology

[0001] There are many types of personal protective equipment (PPE). The PPE industry is increasingly offering new ways to protect workers in certain environments. Many PPE products include microphones or speakers. Summary of the Invention

[0002] This invention provides a control unit for a worker wearing personal protective equipment (PPE). The control unit includes a PPE network creator that creates a network when activated. The control unit also includes a PPE device identifier configured to detect a first PPE and a second PPE associated with the worker. The first PPE has a first speaker and a first microphone. The second PPE has a second speaker and a second microphone. The control unit further includes a PPE network connector that facilitates connection of the first and second PPEs to the network. The control unit also includes a preferred configuration selector that automatically selects a preferred speaker and a preferred microphone for the worker. The preferred speaker is either the first speaker or the second speaker. The preferred microphone is either the first microphone or the second microphone. The control unit also includes a network communication component that automatically transmits first device parameter settings to the first PPE and second device parameter settings to the second PPE. The first and second device parameter settings are based on the selected preferred speaker and preferred microphone.

[0003] The foregoing description is not intended to depict every exemplary embodiment or every implementation of this disclosure. Further features and advantages are disclosed in the following embodiments. The accompanying drawings and detailed description illustrate more specifically certain embodiments using the principles disclosed herein. Attached Figure Description

[0004] Figure 1 A dual hearing protection system according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0005] Figure 2 This is a block diagram of a dual hearing protection system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0006] Figure 3 A diagram of a PPE system according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0007] Figure 4 A method for entering the dual hearing protection mode of the hearing protection unit system is shown.

[0008] Figure 5 A method for selecting a preferred signal routing arrangement according to the implementation scheme described herein is illustrated.

[0009] Figures 6A to 6F Different combinations of PPE garments that workers can wear in the embodiments described herein are shown.

[0010] Figure 7 A block diagram of a PPE network according to the embodiment described herein is shown.

[0011] Figures 8A to 8F Different preferred signal routing arrangements according to the embodiments described herein are shown. Detailed Implementation

[0012] Many types of personal protective equipment (PPE) include speakers, microphones, or both. Speakers provide the user with the received audio transmission, while microphones capture audio from the wearer. Different forms of PPE use microphones and speakers of varying quality. Furthermore, wearing different types of PPE can interfere with the microphone's ability to pick up audio and the speaker's ability to transmit audio. For example, a shoulder microphone can broadcast incoming audio signals to the wearer. However, if the wearer is forced to wear earplugs due to ambient noise, they will not hear the broadcast. Additionally, over-ear headphones may have a boom microphone, but if the user also needs to wear a respirator or mask, there may be interference and / or the wearer's voice may be masked by the mask. Instead, in the first embodiment, it is better for audio to be transmitted through earplugs, and in the second embodiment, it is better for audio to be picked up by a microphone within the mask rather than a boom microphone.

[0013] Currently, wearers of PPE need to manually turn microphones and speakers on and off to provide a preferred signal routing configuration. However, for workers who need to frequently change PPE as they move between tasks in the workplace, this manual switching can be cumbersome. A system that automatically switches to a preferred signal routing configuration when PPE enters or leaves a worker's personal area network is desirable.

[0014] An example of a dual hearing protection system is described in detail in U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62 / 909989, filed October 3, 2019 (incorporated herein by reference). As described herein, a dual hearing protection system is an exemplary scenario in which signal routing is important. When both an in-ear hearing protection unit and an over-ear hearing protection unit are detected, the personal area network needs to be adjusted to reflect that the in-ear device will provide the final audio to the wearer, while the over-ear hearing protection unit will pick up the audio signal from the wearer.

[0015] Active hearing protection includes one or more microphones that receive ambient sounds from the user's surroundings and reproduce those sounds using one or more speakers at a safe level. Active hearing protection devices use electronic circuitry to pick up ambient sounds through microphones, convert those sounds to a safe level, and then play them to the user through speakers. Additionally, active hearing protection may include filtering unwanted sound content, such as actively reducing gunshots, while providing human speech at a substantially constant volume.

[0016] First, the sound signal is received by the microphone in the active hearing protection unit. The received sound signal is converted into an electronic signal for processing. After the sound signal is processed to ensure that all frequencies are within safe levels, the sound signal is reproduced and played back to the user through a speaker.

[0017] Some active hearing protection units are level-dependent, allowing the electronic circuitry to adapt to sound pressure levels. Level-dependent hearing protection units help filter out impulse noise, such as gunshots, from ambient noise and / or continuously adjust it to the appropriate level before reproducing all received ambient sounds to the user. Active hearing protection units, especially level-dependent ones, may be necessary for communication in noisy environments, environments where noise levels may vary significantly, or environments where high-impulse sounds could cause hearing damage. Users may need to hear nearby ambient sounds, such as machine noise or speech, while also being protected from harmful noise levels.

[0018] While active hearing protection units can be provided using earplugs or earmuffs, it may not be possible to provide sufficient protection using only one type of hearing protection device (such as earplugs or earmuffs). However, optimally combining multiple hearing protection devices is not as simple as wearing earplugs and earmuffs alone. Active hearing protection involves circuitry that is typically designed to operate independently of any other hearing device. For example, without programming an active hearing earmuff set for a user wearing passive earplugs, the user may not be able to hear reproduced sounds, making communication with others difficult.

[0019] Additionally, if a user wears active earbuds and active earmuffs that are not aware of each other, the earbuds may function as if they are receiving both ambient sounds and further processed sounds already processed by the earmuffs, resulting in sound distortion. Besides not being natural sound, excessively distorted sound can cause nausea and discomfort for the user.

[0020] If used together, the speakers of traditional level-dependent earmuffs, as designed, will no longer deliver sound directly to the ear canal, resulting in a distorted sound experience. Furthermore, the two level-dependent functions of the earmuffs and earbuds will be cascaded, with the earmuffs' sound output exciting the level-dependent earbuds' sound input, leading to unpredictable steady-state and transient behavior.

[0021] The problem becomes more complicated when additional PPE (partial physical protection) items are added to the assembly. For example, a shoulder microphone may produce sound, but may become inaudible once the user wears it and activates the dual hearing protection unit. Additionally, a respirator can interfere with the audio pickup of the boom microphone in over-ear headphones.

[0022] A system is needed that allows the simultaneous use of multiple PPE artifacts. This system needs to detect each PPE artifact as it enters the network and determine whether the new PPE artifact is the preferred PPE artifact for receiving or providing audio to the wearer.

[0023] Figure 1 A dual hearing protection system according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. A person 10 may be in an environment with multiple sounds 50. For example... Figure 1 As shown, different sounds 50 may have different noise levels associated with them. Some noises 50 may be safe for hearing at ambient levels, while others may be unsafe. In fact, some sounds 50 may be loud enough that a single hearing protection system is insufficient to keep them at a safe level.

[0024] In one embodiment, a person 10 wears both a first hearing protection system 20 and a second hearing protection system 30. The first hearing protection system 20 is shown as a pair of earmuffs, while the second hearing protection system 30 is shown as a pair of in-ear plugs. Both the first hearing protection system 20 and the second hearing protection system 30 are active hearing protection systems, configured to detect each other and enter a dual protection mode once detected. Although both the first hearing protection system 20 and the second hearing protection system 30 are configured to operate as independent level-dependent hearing protection systems, they are also configured to enter a dual protection mode and coordinate the hearing protection functions.

[0025] In the dual protection mode, the first hearing protection system 20 first receives ambient sound 50. The first hearing protection system 20 performs a first processing operation and generates a first processed sound. The first processed sound is received by the second hearing protection system 30, which performs a second processing operation to generate a second processed sound provided to the user 10. As described herein, "first processed sound" refers to an electronic signal directly supplied to the earpiece by the first hearing protection system 20, or a sound signal supplied through a speaker, which is then picked up by the earpiece.

[0026] For the second processed sound to resonate naturally with user 10, it is important that the first hearing protection system 20 and the second hearing protection system 30 know each other and are programmed to operate in series to provide additional hearing protection. As described in more detail below, both hearing protection systems 20 and 30 are configured to detect the availability of the other hearing protection system and enter a dual protection mode. In dual protection mode, each of the first and second hearing protection systems adjusts its operating parameters to compensate for the presence of the other. For example, this helps reduce distortion and other undesirable audio artifacts, such as sound pumping. For instance, the second hearing protection system 30 operates knowing that it is receiving the first processed sound signal rather than ambient sound 50, which reduces the distortion that would otherwise be experienced using two active hearing protection units.

[0027] The dual hearing protection system may also include one or more microphones 40. Figure 1 The central microphone 40 is shown positioned to pick up the voice of the user 10. However, other microphones (not shown) may be positioned to pick up ambient sound 50. Additionally, each of the first hearing protection system 20 and the second hearing protection system 30 may have one or more of its own microphones 40.

[0028] Figure 2 This is a block diagram of a dual hearing protection system according to an embodiment of the present invention. System 100 can be used with other PPE devices. Control unit 180 may have a stored preferred list of PPE articles, depending on different combinations of PPE articles worn by the user. For example, if a respirator is detected, it is preferred to use the microphone in the respirator. Similarly, if an in-ear plug is detected, it is preferred to have the in-ear plug deliver the audio signal to the user. Preferred options may be based on maintaining signal quality, reducing interference, or providing maximum noise reduction. Figure 2 An example of dual hearing protection is shown; however, it is clearly conceivable that, as discussed in more detail below, similar concepts could be extended to additional PPE articles.

[0029] System 100 is configured to receive ambient sound 102 from the environment (which may include continuous or impulsive sounds at an unsafe level) and transmit a safe sound 112 to the user. System 100 includes a first hearing protection system 130 and a second hearing protection system 160, each configured to operate independently. However, in one embodiment, both the first hearing protection system 130 and the second hearing protection system 160 are also configured to operate in a dual protection mode.

[0030] The first hearing protection system 130 includes a first microphone 132 and a first speaker 134. The first microphone is configured to receive ambient sound 102 from the user's surroundings. The received ambient sound 102 is converted into an electrical signal, which is then provided by the microphone 132 to a first sound processor 136. The electronic signal is then compressed by the sound processor 136 according to a compression curve, such that safe-level sounds remain at the safe level, and excessively loud sounds are compressed. In some embodiments, some safe-level sounds are actually amplified. The processed electronic signal is then converted back into an audio signal, which is provided to the user by the first speaker 134. The compression curves used by each of the first and second hearing systems are different when they operate in dual protection mode compared to when they operate in independent mode.

[0031] In one embodiment, the first hearing system 130 further includes a dual hearing sensor 140 configured to detect the second hearing system 160. For example, in one embodiment, the dual hearing sensor 140 may detect a corresponding dual hearing sensor 170 of the second hearing system 160. In another embodiment, the sensor 140 is not physically part of the first hearing system 130, but rather part of another device configured to detect the presence of both the first hearing system 130 and the second hearing system 160, and to provide instructions for both the first hearing system 130 and the second hearing system 160 to enter a dual hearing protection mode. However, once the second hearing protection system 160 is detected, the dual hearing sensor 140 may send a command to the sound processor 136 for the first hearing protection system 130. In standalone mode, the sound processor 136 may use a first set of level-dependent functions to adjust the received sound 102 to a safe sound level. However, in dual protection mode, the sound processor 136 can use a second set of level-dependent functions to modulate the received sound 102 for use in the second hearing protection system 160. For example, the first compression curve (part of the first level-dependent function group) may differ from the second compression curve (part of the second level-dependent function group). Additional level-dependent functions that can vary between standalone mode and dual hearing protection mode may include equalization, frequency response, or other noise reduction functions.

[0032] The second hearing protection system 160 has a second microphone 162 and a second speaker 164. The second microphone 162 is configured to receive processed sound from the first speaker 134. The second microphone 162 converts the received processed sound into an electrical signal and provides the electrical signal to a second sound processing unit 166. The second sound processing unit 166 performs a second compression on the sound signal, which is then converted into a safe sound signal 112 and provided to the user by the second speaker 164. The second hearing protection system 160 is configured to operate in standalone mode as the sole hearing protection device, or in dual hearing protection mode in conjunction with the first hearing protection system 130. When the dual hearing sensor 170 senses that the first hearing protection system 130 is also in operation, the second hearing protection system 160 is switched from standalone mode to dual hearing protection mode. When operating in dual hearing protection mode, the second sound processing unit 166 uses a different compression profile than when operating in standalone mode. The dual-protection mode compression curve used by the second sound processor 166 takes into account the compression curve used by the first sound processing system 136, so that the safe sound 112 is natural and has reduced distortion compared to when the first hearing protection system 130 and the second hearing protection system 160 operate independently.

[0033] In one embodiment, both the first hearing protection system 130 and the second hearing protection system 160 are level-dependent. Both the first hearing protection system 130 and the second hearing protection system 160 have power supplies 138 and 168, respectively. However, although power supplies 138 and 168 are shown as independent power supplies, it is also conceivable that a single source could power both the first hearing protection system 130 and the second hearing protection system 160.

[0034] In one embodiment, the control unit 180 is configured to: create a network, detect both the first hearing protection system 130 and the second hearing protection system 160, and facilitate their connection to the network, and provide commands via the network for entering dual protection mode for the dual hearing sensors 140, 170. However, although the control unit 180 is shown as a separate device for clarity, it is contemplated that any of the PPE articles worn by the user could include the control unit, such that one PPE article sends commands to each of the other PPE systems. In one embodiment, the commands also include a compression profile used in dual hearing protection mode.

[0035] Although systems 130 and 160 are described as single units, it is also clearly contemplated that each includes two hearing protection units (e.g., the first hearing protection system 130 may include a set of earmuffs configured to be worn on a user's ear), and the second hearing protection system 160 may include a set of earplugs configured to be worn inside a user's ear. In an embodiment where the second hearing protection system 160 includes two unconnected earplugs, it is contemplated that the control unit 180 may be positioned in any of the earmuffs, the left earplug, or the right earplug.

[0036] Figure 3 A diagram of a PPE system according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. The PPE system is worn by a worker 200 who may require one or more PPE articles for a given operation or in a given work environment.

[0037] The PPE system includes a master device 210, which is responsible for forming the PPE network and accepting new PPE articles into the network. The master device 210 is also responsible for determining which function of each new PPE article is automatically enabled or disabled based on other PPE articles already in the network. For example, it is important that even if multiple PPE articles in the network may have microphone functionality, only one microphone is active in the PPE network. If multiple microphones are active, they can create feedback in the audio stream. Additionally, it is expected that the master device 210 is responsible for automatically selecting the preferred microphone to maintain its function and disabling the function of non-preferred microphones. This prevents the user 200 from having to remove at least some PPEs to readjust settings. For example, if both the in-ear hearing protector 250 and the over-ear headphones have microphones, and the user 200 forgets to disable the microphone feature of the in-ear hearing protector when wearing them, this problem will only arise when the user 200 speaks. The user 200 may then need to remove the hearing protector 240 to access the microphone 254. If user 200 is operating in dual hearing protection mode, this could expose user 200 to loud sounds that are not processed by the headset 240, while the microphone 254 is turned off. This could cause hearing damage to wearer 200, in addition to the additional time deducted from operation.

[0038] The main device 210 allows different PPE articles 220, 230, 240, and 250 to enter and leave the network when the wearer 200 needs them or does not need them (depending on the environment). For example, an officer can respond to a scene using a shoulder microphone 220, which has a speaker 222 for broadcasting sound to the officer 200 and a microphone 224 for receiving audio from the officer 200.

[0039] Officer 200 may need to wear an in-ear hearing protector 250, for example, if the incoming audio includes sensitive information that should not be heard by others, or if the situation becomes loud enough that hearing protection may be necessary. Each in-ear hearing protector 250 may have a microphone 252 for picking up speech from Officer 200 and a speaker 254 for broadcasting sound into the wearer's ear. When a master device 210 detects the devices 250 and allows them to connect to the PPE network, the master device may determine that the incoming audio should be presented to Officer 200 through the in-ear device 250. However, a shoulder microphone 222 may be more suitable for picking up speech from the wearer 200. Therefore, the master device 210 may allow the devices 250 to connect to the network and automatically turn on the speaker 254, turn off the microphone 252, and turn off the speaker 224. This transition can occur seamlessly so that Officer 200 does not experience an interruption in incoming audio.

[0040] Additional hearing protection may be required, for example, if Officer 200 is in a very loud area where dual hearing protection is necessary. The officer may then need to add an over-ear headset 240, which also includes a microphone 244 and a speaker 242. The main unit 210 can determine the need for dual hearing protection mode and set dual hearing protection as described above when it detects that device 240 is available for network connection. Additionally, the main unit 210 can also route incoming audio directly to speaker 254 when dual hearing protection may not be necessary in noisy environments. Furthermore, the main unit 210 can determine that microphone 244 is more suitable for picking up speech from Officer 200 when it is closer to the wearer 200's mouth and therefore less likely to pick up interference. Therefore, when the over-ear headset 240 is connected to the network and microphone 244 is on, microphone 222 is off. Again, this transition occurs seamlessly, allowing Officer 200 to experience virtually uninterrupted incoming or outgoing audio.

[0041] Officer 200 may also need to enter potentially unsafe areas requiring the use of respirator 230. For example, areas filled with smoke or gas with disrupted air. Device 210 can detect that respirator 230 is available for network connectivity and has a microphone 234 capable of picking up speech from officer 200 and a speaker 232 capable of broadcasting incoming sound. While microphone 234 may be better suited than microphone 244 for picking up audio from officer 200, many respirators still lack the good speaker quality of speaker 232 because respirator 230 can interfere with speech picked up by microphone 244. Additionally, if dual hearing protection is still required, and devices 250 and 240 are still within the PPE network, it is preferable that incoming audio is still routed to the in-ear hearing protection device. Therefore, speaker 254 remains active, microphone 244 is off, and microphone 234 is on.

[0042] Compared to Figure 3 An exemplary scenario is described in which a PPE device enters a network created and maintained by control device 210. However, it is clearly conceivable that... Figure 3 Other PPE devices not shown may access or connect to the network, and are not... Figure 3 All the artifacts shown can be used in every scenario that Officer 200 can enter.

[0043] Figure 4 A method for entering the dual hearing protection mode of the hearing protection unit system is shown. Figure 4 A method for entering a dual hearing protection mode of a hearing protection unit system is shown. Method 400 can be used, for example, for two level-dependent hearing protection systems configured to operate in independent mode or dual protection mode.

[0044] In block 410, a first hearing protection system detects a second hearing protection system. The first and second hearing protection systems can be selected from either an active earplug hearing protection system or an active earmuff hearing protection system. In one embodiment, detection may include: the first hearing protection system directly detecting the presence of the second hearing protection system. In another embodiment, detection may include: the first hearing protection system detecting a network and becoming aware of the second hearing protection system through that network.

[0045] In box 420, both the first and second hearing protection systems enter a dual hearing protection mode. For example, each system can be configured to operate in independent mode after power-on and only enter dual protection mode if the second hearing protection system is detected. Alternatively, if the second hearing protection system is detected, each system can be configured to search for and enter dual protection mode after power-on.

[0046] In box 430, active hearing protection is provided to the user. In one embodiment, both the first and second hearing protection systems are configured to perform level-dependent operation on sound at at least some sound levels. Additional details regarding dual hearing protection devices and their operation can be found in U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62 / 909989, filed October 3, 2019.

[0047] Figure 5 A method for adjusting communication signal routing as described in the embodiments herein is illustrated. For example, method 500 can be used in control units in environments where workers need to change, add, or remove PPE articles during routine operations, such as those described above. Figure 3 The methods described herein. In one embodiment, method 500 is implemented in a control unit associated with the worker. The control unit may be worn by a wearer and is capable of setting up a wireless network that can be connected to by other PPE devices. In some embodiments, the network is a wireless network. The network may utilize WiFi technology, Bluetooth, Zigbee, NFMI, or other suitable wireless technologies. However, it is also clearly envisioned that some PPE devices may use wired connections to connect to the control device. The control device may be the only device in the PPE network that communicates with other workers' PPE garments or other workers' control devices. While many PPE devices may have two-way communication technology or other wireless communication technologies, the control unit may disable such functionality when the PPE garment is connected to the network.

[0048] In block 510, the network is initialized by the control unit. In one embodiment, the network is a wireless network. However, the control unit may be configured to accept at least some wired connections from PPE articles, sensors, other communication devices, etc.

[0049] In box 520, a new PPE article is detected. For example, when the control unit creates a network, it may "listen" for or search for connection requests from personal protective equipment articles. In some embodiments, the PPE article detects the network and sends a transmission request to connect to that network, which can be accepted or rejected by the control unit. However, other configurations may also be suitable, such as the PPE sending an active request. In another embodiment, for example, the PPE article may be detectable as soon as it is turned on. For example, using... Or other suitable technologies, once the activation device is turned on and If other suitable technologies are effective, the enabling device can be detected via a network. Alternatively, detecting a new PPE article may include: the PPE article detecting the network and requesting a connection.

[0050] When PPE products are detected, such as Figure 5As shown, information about the functionality of PPE products can be provided. However, it is also clearly conceivable that such information could be retrieved from a database by the control unit based on the brand and model of the detected PPE product, or that such information could not be retrieved before the PPE device is connected to the network.

[0051] The detected PPE article may have known functions. For example, the PPE may have: at least one microphone 512 for picking up voice from the wearer, at least one speaker 514 for delivering sound to the wearer, at least one sensor 516 for detecting information about the wearer, the PPE's function, or the environment, and other functions 518.

[0052] In box 530, the PPE article is connected to the network. Network connection can be easily made via a control unit and may require certification.

[0053] In box 540, a preferred configuration for the PPE is determined. The preferred configuration may include preferred signal routing within the network and preferred device functions. For example, if both in-ear and over-ear hearing protection units are detected, dual-mode hearing protection can be enabled, and the device can be adjusted accordingly. Regarding preferred signal routing, the control unit selects a preferred microphone 542 for picking up speech from the wearer and a preferred speaker 544 for delivering incoming audio to the wearer. Additionally, a preferred sensory output 546 can be selected for the new PPE based on whether the sensory information has already been collected by other PPE devices. Avoiding duplicate sensory collection avoids duplicate data storage and preserves battery life. The selection of the preferred microphone 542 and speaker 544 can be based on several factors, including maintaining signal fidelity, signal-to-noise ratio, audio quality, and interference from other PPE devices or environmental conditions, such as wind interference. Furthermore, the preferred microphone 542 and speaker 544 can be selected based on device parameters such as remaining battery life. While determining the preferred configuration in… Figure 5 While shown as occurring after the device is connected to the network, it is also clearly conceivable that the preferred configuration could be determined in block 520 once the PPE device is detected and identified. Other arrangements of the steps in method 500 are also conceivable.

[0054] In box 550, the control unit modifies device parameters of any affected device within the network. For example, when a function of an incoming PPE device is activated, similar functions in other devices need to be deactivated to avoid interference. As noted in box 552, this change can occur automatically and seamlessly, ensuring a substantially uninterrupted audio experience for the wearer. However, this change can also occur semi-automatically (e.g., the control unit can indicate that a new device is available and that a preferred signal route is also available). The switch may not occur until the user approves it, or a period of time may be provided before the switch occurs automatically. For example, the control unit can provide an audible indication via an existing audio channel or haptic feedback via one or more affected devices. Notification can be provided if a device with heads-up display or other display is detected within the network.

[0055] In box 560, the PPE network is monitored by the control unit. Monitoring may include monitoring PPE device functionality, and this method may be at least partially repeated based on changing device parameters. For example, if low battery power is detected, the control unit may switch to a device that can provide similar functionality (even at a reduced quality level) to maintain the necessary PPE device's battery level. The control unit may also track and prompt when workers switch away from preferred functions. For example, if a particular wearer dislikes a boom microphone, they may always switch to a different microphone function. The control unit may store such information and select a suboptimal signal routing configuration from an audio quality perspective based on user preferences. Additionally, as... Figure 5 As shown, monitoring the PPE network may also include actively or passively monitoring new PPE devices that may be ready to connect.

[0056] Figures 6A to 6F Different combinations of PPE garments that workers can wear in the embodiments described herein are shown. Although Figures 6A to 6F This paper illustrates some potential combinations of PPE that workers may need, but it is clearly conceivable that other configurations of PPE can be worn by workers in other environments. For example, fall protection devices, fire-resistant equipment, helmets, goggles, face shields, gloves, or hoods may also have sensory outputs and speakers, microphones, or other functions.

[0057] In addition, as mentioned above, relative to Figure 3 As stated above, it is clearly conceivable that worker 600 could work during the workday. Figures 6A to 6F Switch between configurations.

[0058] exist Figure 6A In the middle, worker 600 is wearing a control device 610 and a pair of in-ear hearing protection devices. Figure 6B In the middle, worker 600 is wearing an over-ear hearing protection device 630 and a control unit 610. Figure 6CIn this scenario, worker 600 wears both an in-ear hearing protection device 620 and an over-ear hearing protection device 630, which can operate in dual hearing modes based on signals from the control unit 610. Figure 6D In the middle, worker 600 is wearing a shoulder microphone 640 and a control unit 610. Figure 6E In the middle, worker 600 wears an in-ear hearing protection device 620 and a respirator 650, both controlled by a control unit 610. Figure 6F In the middle, worker 600 is wearing an over-ear hearing protection device 630, as well as a respirator 650 and a control unit 610.

[0059] Figure 7 An exemplary block diagram of a PPE network according to an embodiment of this document is shown. The PPE network 700 may be associated with workers wearing one or more PPE devices 720 and a control unit 710. The PPE devices 720 may include, but are not limited to: in-ear protectors, over-ear protectors, helmets, face shields, respirators, shoulder microphones, fall protection equipment, hoods, or any other personal protective equipment having any of a microphone 722, a speaker 724, a sensor 726, or other functions 725.

[0060] The control unit 710 is designed to be worn or carried by workers as they move through the work site or work environment. The control unit uses a PPE network creator 702 to create a PPE network, which is a wireless network and can use Wi-Fi. The PPE network 700 operates via NFC, NFMI, Zigbee, or any other suitable wireless communication protocol. The PPE network 700 extends far enough that the PPE device 720 can connect to the network when worn by a worker. The PPE network can be limited to a range so that a PPE device associated with another worker does not accidentally connect to the PPE network 700. In some embodiments, a pairing cycle exists, such that a new PPE article can only connect during a specific period when the control unit is powered, for example, to limit accidental connections. For example, the NFMI network is limited to approximately 2 meters. The network range can be manually limited, for example, by detecting that the network signal strength is below a required threshold.

[0061] PPE device identifier 712 identifies the PPE device 720 before it is connected to the network in some embodiments, or in other embodiments, it identifies the PPE device as it is being connected to the network by PPE network connector 714. Identifying PPE device 720 may include authentication steps to ensure that PPE device 720 can connect to the network, for example, based on range from control unit 710 or other suitable criteria. Identifying PPE device 720 may also include retrieving information about PPE device 720 from PPE device 720 itself or from a database (not shown). PPE device information may include information about the presence of components 722, 724, and 726 and the quality level provided by each.

[0062] PPE network communication component 704 can use communication component 728 to exchange device parameter information with PPE device 720. Device parameter information may include commands for activating / deactivating any of components 722, 724, 726, or other device functions 725, or for changing their operating parameters. These commands may be sent based on a preferred configuration selector 708, which determines the preferred operation of device 720 and the preferred signal route between control unit 710 and device 720 by accessing a preferred configuration database 716. The preferred configuration database may contain preferred signal route patterns selected by the preferred configuration selector 708 based on known or received information about device 720.

[0063] Control unit 710 is also configured to receive incoming audio from a source outside PPE network 700 using external network component 706, and to send outgoing audio to a source outside PPE network 700. For example, microphone 722 picks up voice from the wearer and sends it to control unit 710 using communication component 728. Control unit 710 receives communication via PPE network communication component 704 and provides it to an external source via external communication component 706. External communication component can communicate with other control units associated with other nearby or remote workers using any number of suitable communication protocols, including cellular networks, 2G networks, 3G networks, 4G networks, or 5G networks, wireless communication protocols, or any other suitable communication protocols.

[0064] This invention provides a control unit for a worker wearing personal protective equipment (PPE). The control unit includes a PPE network creator that creates a network when activated. The control unit also includes a PPE device identifier configured to detect a first PPE and a second PPE associated with the worker. The first PPE has a first speaker and a first microphone. The second PPE has a second speaker and a second microphone. The control unit further includes a PPE network connector that facilitates connection of the first and second PPEs to the network. The control unit also includes a preferred configuration selector that automatically selects a preferred speaker and a preferred microphone for the worker. The preferred speaker is either the first speaker or the second speaker. The preferred microphone is either the first microphone or the second microphone. The control unit also includes a network communication component that automatically transmits first device parameter settings to the first PPE and second device parameter settings to the second PPE. The first and second device parameter settings are based on the selected preferred speaker and preferred microphone.

[0065] This control unit can be implemented to make the network a personal local area network.

[0066] The control unit can be implemented to make the network a wireless network.

[0067] The control unit can be implemented such that PPE device identifier detection of the first PPE or the second PPE associated with the worker includes: detecting the first PPE or the second PPE within the range of the control unit.

[0068] The control unit can be implemented such that the preferred configuration selector selects the preferred speaker and the preferred microphone based on the detected types of the first PPE and the second PPE.

[0069] The control unit can be implemented such that the first PPE is selected from the group consisting of: in-ear hearing protectors, over-ear hearing protectors, covers, face shields, respirators, and shoulder microphones.

[0070] The control unit can be implemented such that the second PPE is selected from the group consisting of: in-ear hearing protectors, over-ear hearing protectors, covers, face shields, respirators, and shoulder microphones.

[0071] The control unit can be implemented such that one of the preferred speaker and the preferred microphone can be selected based on the detected brand or model of the first PPE and the second PPE.

[0072] The control unit can be implemented to select the preferred speaker and the preferred microphone based on reducing expected interference, maintaining audio fidelity, or remaining battery life.

[0073] The control unit may be implemented such that it further includes an external communication component that receives incoming audio from a source outside the network and sends outgoing audio from the microphone to that source.

[0074] The control unit can be implemented such that the preferred configuration selector selects the configuration at least in part by referring to a database of PPE data.

[0075] This control can be implemented such that the database of PPE data includes lookup tables for preferred microphones and preferred speakers for selection based on the first PPE and the second PPE.

[0076] The control unit can be implemented such that the parameter settings of the first device include sensor output settings.

[0077] The control unit can be implemented such that the parameter settings of the first device include device function settings.

[0078] The control unit can be implemented such that the first PPE is an in-ear hearing protection device and the second PPE is an over-ear hearing protection device. The parameter settings for the first device and the second device include settings corresponding to the operation of the first PPE and the second PPE in dual hearing protection mode.

[0079] The control unit can be implemented such that the transmission of the first device parameter setting and the second device parameter setting includes instructions for automatically implementing the first device parameter setting and the second device parameter setting.

[0080] The control unit can be implemented to automatically implement the first device parameter setting and the second device parameter setting, including implementing a seamless transition for the worker.

[0081] The control unit can be implemented such that the first PPE is a hearing protection device and the second PPE is a respirator. Incoming audio is routed to the hearing protection device. The respirator's speaker is turned off.

[0082] The control unit can be implemented such that the first PPE is a hearing protection device and the second PPE is a shoulder microphone. Incoming audio is routed to the hearing protection device. The speaker of the shoulder microphone is turned off.

[0083] A method for controlling parameters of personal protective equipment (PPE) is proposed, comprising: detecting a new PPE device connected to a network controlled by a control unit; identifying a communication feature of the new PPE device using the control unit, the communication feature being a microphone or a speaker; automatically comparing the identified communication feature with a current signal routing configuration within the network using a comparison module of the control unit, the current signal routing configuration including a current microphone for capturing speech and a current speaker for broadcasting incoming sound; determining, based on the comparison, that the communication feature of the new PPE device is superior to the current microphone or the current speaker; and adjusting device parameters of the current PPE and the new PPE by sending communications from the control unit to each of the new PPE and the current PPE, such that a preferred speaker broadcasts incoming sound and a preferred microphone captures speech.

[0084] The method can be implemented such that adjusting device parameters includes: automatically sending a current PPE configuration command to the current PPE and a new PPE configuration command to the new PPE to change device parameters.

[0085] This method can be implemented to allow the current PPE and the new PPE to automatically change their configurations based on received configuration commands. This adjustment is essentially seamless.

[0086] This method can be implemented such that the current PPE is selected from the group consisting of: in-ear hearing protectors, over-ear hearing protectors, covers, face shields, respirators, and shoulder microphones.

[0087] This method can be implemented such that the new PPE is selected from the group consisting of: in-ear hearing protectors, over-ear hearing protectors, covers, face shields, respirators, and shoulder microphones.

[0088] This method can be implemented to select the preferred speaker and the preferred microphone based on the detected brand or model of the current PPE and the new PPE.

[0089] This method can be implemented to select the preferred speaker and the preferred microphone based on reducing expected interference, maintaining audio fidelity, or remaining battery life.

[0090] This method can be implemented such that the current PPE is an in-ear hearing protector and the new PPE is an over-ear hearing protector. The current PPE configuration command and the new PPE configuration command include putting the current PPE and the new PPE into a dual hearing protection mode.

[0091] The method can be implemented such that the preferred microphone is the linkage microphone of the over-ear hearing protector.

[0092] This method can be implemented such that the current PPE is a shoulder microphone, the new PPE is a hearing protector, and the preferred speaker is a hearing protector speaker. The current PPE configuration command includes deactivating the shoulder microphone speaker.

[0093] The method can be implemented such that it includes: monitoring the network used for the new PPE.

[0094] The method can be implemented such that it further includes: initializing the network, which is a wireless network.

[0095] This method can be implemented to make the network a personal local area network.

[0096] The method can be implemented such that it further includes: detecting that the current PPE device or the new PPE device has left the network; determining a new preferred speaker and a new preferred microphone; and adjusting device parameters to enable the new preferred speaker to broadcast incoming sound and the new preferred microphone to receive speech.

[0097] A personal protective equipment (PPE) network is proposed, comprising: a first device having a first microphone and a first speaker; a second device having a second microphone and a second speaker; and a control unit. The control unit: activates the PPE network and connects the first device and the second device to the network; connects the first device and the second device to the network; selects a preferred microphone based on a comparison of the first microphone and the second microphone; selects a preferred speaker based on a comparison of the first microphone and the second microphone; and sends control commands to the first device and the second device to enable the preferred microphone and the preferred speaker. Both the first device and the second device are PPE devices.

[0098] The personal protective equipment network can be implemented such that the first speaker is the preferred speaker, and the control command disables the second speaker.

[0099] The personal protective equipment network can be implemented such that the control unit also receives incoming sound signals from outside the network and provides the incoming sound signals to the preferred speaker.

[0100] The personal protective equipment network can be implemented such that the control unit also receives voice signals from the preferred microphone and provides the voice signals to sources outside the network.

[0101] The personal protective equipment network can be implemented such that the first device and the second device are different and each is selected from the group consisting of: in-ear hearing protectors, over-ear hearing protectors, hoods, face shields, respirators, and shoulder microphones.

[0102] The personal protective equipment network can be implemented to select the preferred speaker and the preferred microphone based on the brand or model of the detected first and second devices.

[0103] This personal protective equipment network can be implemented to allow the selection of the preferred speaker and the preferred microphone based on reducing expected interference, maintaining audio fidelity, or remaining battery life.

[0104] The personal protective equipment network can be implemented such that the first device is an in-ear hearing protector and the second device is an over-ear hearing protector. The current PPE configuration command and the new PPE configuration command include putting the current PPE and the new PPE into dual hearing protection mode.

[0105] This personal protective network can be implemented such that the preferred microphone is the linkage microphone of the over-ear hearing protector.

[0106] This personal protective network can be implemented such that the first device is a hearing protection device. The preferred microphone is the first microphone.

[0107] This personal protective network can be implemented such that the first device is a respirator. The second speaker is the preferred speaker.

[0108] Example

[0109] Figures 8A to 8F Different preferred signal routing arrangements are shown in different exemplary operations described in this paper. However, Figures 8A to 8F An exhaustive scope is not shown. For example, throat microphones and bone conduction microphones and speakers are some other exemplary PPE articles not shown herein but which may be part of the personal protective equipment network.

[0110] Example 1

[0111] Figure 8A Embodiment 1 shown includes an in-ear headset worn by a user, having at least some parameters controlled by a control unit. Incoming communication is provided to the in-ear headset, wherein a left audio signal is sent to the left in-ear earpiece and a right audio signal is sent to the right in-ear earpiece. Outgoing speech is recorded by the microphone of the left in-ear earpiece and provided to the control unit, which then forwards it outside the PPE network.

[0112] Example 2

[0113] Figure 8BEmbodiment 2 shown includes a control unit and over-ear headphones. A left audio signal is sent to the left earcup, and a right audio signal is sent to the right earcup. Outgoing speech is recorded by a linkage microphone and transmitted to the control unit, which then redirects it outside the PPE network.

[0114] Example 3

[0115] Figure 8C Embodiment 3 shown includes both an in-ear hearing aid and an over-ear hearing protection device operating in a dual hearing protection mode determined by the control unit. Incoming communication is transmitted directly to the in-ear unit, with the left audio signal transmitted directly to the left in-ear unit and the right audio signal transmitted directly to the right in-ear unit. Outgoing speech is recorded by the linkage microphone of the over-ear hearing protection device.

[0116] Example 4

[0117] Figure 8D Embodiment 4 shown includes a shoulder microphone and a control unit. The control unit sends incoming communications to the shoulder microphone, which broadcasts the incoming communications to the wearer. Transmitted voice is recorded by the shoulder microphone and provided to the control unit, which then transmits it externally.

[0118] Example 5

[0119] Figure 8E Embodiment 5 shown includes a pair of in-ear protective devices and a respirator. Because respirators are known to have poor microphone quality, outgoing speech is recorded by the left in-ear microphone and provided to the control unit. Incoming audio is provided from the control unit, wherein a left audio signal is provided to the left in-ear device and a right audio signal is provided to the right in-ear device.

[0120] Example 6

[0121] Figure 8F Embodiment 6 shown includes: a pair of in-ear and over-ear hearing protection devices operating in a dual hearing protection mode as specified by the control unit; and a respirator. Outgoing audio is provided to the control unit by a microphone in the respirator unit. Incoming audio is provided from the control unit to the over-ear hearing protection device, which processes it in a dual hearing protection mode, wherein a left audio signal is sent to the left earmuff and a right audio signal is sent to the right earmuff.

Claims

1. A control unit for a worker wearing personal protective equipment, the control unit comprising: PPE network creator, which creates a network when activated; PPE device identifier, the PPE device identifier being configured to detect a first PPE associated with the worker and a second PPE associated with the worker, wherein the first PPE has a first speaker and a first microphone, and wherein the second PPE has a second speaker and a second microphone; A PPE network connector facilitates the connection of the first PPE and the second PPE to the network. A preferred configuration selector that automatically selects a preferred speaker and a preferred microphone for the worker, wherein the preferred speaker is either the first speaker or the second speaker, and wherein the preferred microphone is either the first microphone or the second microphone; and A network communication component that automatically transmits a first device parameter setting to the first PPE and a second device parameter setting to the second PPE, wherein the first device parameter setting and the second device parameter setting are based on a selected preferred speaker and preferred microphone.

2. The control unit according to claim 1, wherein the network is a personal local area network.

3. The control unit according to claim 1, wherein the network is a wireless network.

4. The control unit of claim 1, wherein the PPE device identifier detection of the first PPE or the second PPE associated with the worker comprises: The first PPE or the second PPE is detected within the range of the control unit.

5. The control unit of claim 1, wherein the preferred configuration selector selects the preferred speaker and the preferred microphone based on the detected types of the first PPE and the second PPE.

6. The control unit of claim 5, wherein the first PPE is selected from the group consisting of: in-ear hearing protectors, over-ear hearing protectors, covers, face shields, respirators, and shoulder microphones.

7. The control unit of claim 5, wherein the second PPE is selected from the group consisting of: in-ear hearing protectors, over-ear hearing protectors, covers, face shields, respirators, and shoulder microphones.

8. The control unit of claim 5, wherein the preferred speaker and the preferred microphone are selected based on the detected brand or model of the first PPE and the second PPE.

9. The control unit of claim 5, wherein the preferred speaker and the preferred microphone are selected based on reducing expected interference, maintaining audio fidelity, or remaining battery life.

10. The control unit according to claim 1, further comprising: An external communication component that receives incoming audio from a source outside the network and sends outgoing audio from the microphone to the source.

11. The control unit of claim 1, wherein the preferred configuration selector selects the configuration at least in part by referring to a database of PPE data.

12. The control unit of claim 11, wherein the database of PPE data includes a lookup table of preferred microphones and preferred speakers for selection based on the first PPE and the second PPE.

13. The control unit according to claim 1, wherein the first device parameter setting includes sensor output setting.

14. The control unit according to claim 1, wherein the first device parameter setting includes device function setting.

15. The control unit of claim 1, wherein the first PPE is an in-ear hearing protection device and the second PPE is an over-ear hearing protection device, and wherein the first device parameter setting and the second device parameter setting include settings corresponding to the operation of the first PPE and the second PPE in dual hearing protection mode.

16. The control unit of claim 1, wherein communicating the first device parameter setting and the second device parameter setting includes instructions for automatically implementing the first device parameter setting and the second device parameter setting.

17. The control unit according to claim 16, wherein automatically implementing the first device parameter setting and the second device parameter setting includes: The implementation allows the workers to experience a seamless transition.

18. The control unit of claim 1, wherein the first PPE is a hearing protection device, the second PPE is a respirator; and wherein incoming audio is routed to the hearing protection device, and wherein the speaker of the respirator is turned off.

19. The control unit of claim 1, wherein the first PPE is a hearing protection device, the second PPE is a shoulder microphone, and wherein incoming audio is routed to the hearing protection device, and wherein the speaker of the shoulder microphone is turned off.

20. A method for controlling parameters of personal protective equipment, the method comprising: Detect new PPE devices connected to a network controlled by a control unit; The control unit is used to identify the communication features of the new PPE device, wherein the communication features are a microphone or a speaker. The comparison module of the control unit automatically compares the identified communication features with the current signal routing configuration within the network, wherein the current signal routing configuration includes the current microphone for capturing speech and the current speaker for broadcasting incoming sound; Based on the comparison, it is determined that the communication features of the new PPE device are superior to the current microphone or the current speaker; as well as The device parameters of the new PPE device and the current PPE device are adjusted by sending communications from the control unit to each of the new PPE device and the current PPE device, such that the incoming sound is preferably broadcast by a speaker and the speech is preferably captured by a microphone.

21. The method of claim 20, wherein the adjusting device parameters include: The system automatically sends the current PPE configuration command to the current PPE device and sends the new PPE configuration command to the new PPE device to change the device parameters.

22. The method of claim 21, wherein the current PPE device and the new PPE device automatically change configuration based on the received configuration command, and wherein the adjustment is substantially seamless.

23. The method of claim 20, wherein the present PPE device is selected from the group consisting of: in-ear hearing protectors, over-ear hearing protectors, covers, face shields, respirators, and shoulder microphones.

24. The method of claim 20, wherein the new PPE device is selected from the group consisting of: in-ear hearing protectors, over-ear hearing protectors, covers, face shields, respirators, and shoulder microphones.

25. The method of claim 20, wherein the preferred speaker and the preferred microphone are selected based on the detected brand or model of the current PPE device and the new PPE device.

26. The method of claim 20, wherein the preferred speaker and the preferred microphone are selected based on reducing expected interference, maintaining audio fidelity, or remaining battery life.

27. The method of claim 21, wherein the current PPE device is an in-ear hearing protector, the new PPE device is an over-ear hearing protector, and wherein the current PPE configuration command and the new PPE configuration command include the current PPE device and the new PPE device entering a dual hearing protection mode.

28. The method of claim 27, wherein the preferred microphone is a linkage microphone of the over-ear hearing protector.

29. The method of claim 21, wherein the current PPE device is a shoulder microphone, and wherein the new PPE device is a hearing protector, and wherein the preferred speaker is a hearing protector speaker, and wherein the current PPE configuration command includes deactivating the shoulder microphone speaker.

30. The method of claim 20, further comprising: Monitor the network used for the new PPE device.

31. The method of claim 20, further comprising: Initialize the network, wherein the network is a wireless network.

32. The method of claim 31, wherein the network is a personal local area network.

33. The method of claim 20, further comprising: The current PPE device or the new PPE device has been detected as having left the network; Identify new preferred speakers and new preferred microphones; as well as Adjust the device parameters to enable the new preferred speaker to broadcast incoming sound and the new preferred microphone to receive speech.

34. A personal protective equipment network, the personal protective equipment network comprising: A first device having a first microphone and a first speaker; A second device having a second microphone and a second speaker; and Control unit, the control unit: Activate the personal protective equipment network and connect the first device and the second device to the network; Connect the first device and the second device to the network; The preferred microphone is selected based on a comparison between the first microphone and the second microphone; The preferred speaker is selected based on a comparison between the first microphone and the second microphone; as well as Send control commands to the first device and the second device to enable the preferred microphone and the preferred speaker; and Both the first device and the second device are personal protective equipment.

35. The personal protective equipment network of claim 34, wherein the first speaker is the preferred speaker, and the control command disables the second speaker.

36. The personal protective equipment network of claim 34, wherein the control unit further receives an incoming sound signal from outside the network and provides the incoming sound signal to the preferred speaker.

37. The personal protective equipment network of claim 34, wherein the control unit further receives a voice signal from the preferred microphone and provides the voice signal to a source outside the network.

38. The personal protective equipment network of claim 34, wherein the first device and the second device are different and each is selected from the group consisting of: in-ear hearing protectors, over-ear hearing protectors, hoods, face shields, respirators, and shoulder microphones.

39. The personal protective equipment network of claim 34, wherein the preferred speaker and the preferred microphone are selected based on the detected brand or model of the first and second devices.

40. The personal protective equipment network of claim 34, wherein the preferred speaker and the preferred microphone are selected based on reducing expected interference, maintaining audio fidelity, or remaining battery life.

41. The personal protective equipment network of claim 35, wherein the first device is an in-ear hearing protector as the current PPE, the second device is an over-ear hearing protector as the new PPE, and wherein the current PPE configuration command and the new PPE configuration command include the current PPE and the new PPE entering a dual hearing protection mode.

42. The personal protective equipment network of claim 41, wherein the preferred microphone is the boom microphone of the over-ear hearing protector.

43. The personal protective equipment network of claim 35, wherein the first device is a hearing protection device, and wherein the preferred microphone is the first microphone.

44. The personal protective equipment network of claim 35, wherein the first device is a respirator, and wherein the second speaker is the preferred speaker.

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