Hearing protection device, collision warning system, and method for retrofitting a hearing protection device with a detection unit

Abstract

The invention provides a hearing protection device (10, 10', 10") with an indication unit (40a, 40b) and a detection unit (30, 30', 30") to transmit a first detection signal, to assign a distance value representing a physical distance to an external device (50, 50') based on a second detection signal of the external device (50, 50'), and to control the indication unit (40a, 40b) to provide an indication to a user (100) in case the assigned distance value is equal to or below a predetermined threshold distance value. Thus, a collision can be easily and reliably prevented by providing an indication to the user (100) such that the risk of losing the relevant sound of a person or object moving is overcome. A collision warning system comprising such a hearing protection device (10, 10', 10") and an external device is also provided. Furthermore, a method of retrofitting a hearing protection device (10'") with such a detection unit (30, 30', 30") is provided.

Description

[0001] This disclosure relates to a hearing protection device having an indicator unit and a detection unit. Furthermore, this disclosure relates to a collision warning system and a method of modifying a hearing protection device using a detection unit.

[0002] Hearing protection devices are typically used in noisy environments to protect the wearer's hearing from noise at potentially harmful levels. Generally, hearing protection devices have two cups or caps that cover the wearer's ears and are connected to each other by a headband. Each cup is also typically formed from a rigid shell equipped with a noise-damping material, such as foam.

[0003] Hearing protection devices are typically intended to be adequate for people who spend extended periods in noisy environments. While noise damping is a fundamental purpose of hearing protection devices, wearers often need to hear certain sounds from their environment, such as acoustic signals from other people or objects, to become aware of people or objects moving toward or approaching them. These acoustic signals can include, for example, voice signals, alarm sounds such as horns or wheelies, and vehicle noise.

[0004] Although active hearing protection devices exist on the market, which have passive noise damping characteristics and are additionally configured to transmit sound from the environment to the earcup via active electronics consisting of a microphone connected to the outside of the earcup and a speaker inside the earcup, there is a risk that such sound signals may not be transmitted to the earcup. This could lead to dangerous situations for the wearer.

[0005] An attempt to address this drawback is that active hearing protection devices can be configured to allow such sounds relevant to the wearer to pass through or even transmit such sounds into the ear cup. WO 2006 / 058319, for example, discloses a hearing protection device comprising a sound attenuation body and an electronic unit having a microphone, an amplifier, and a speaker, wherein the electronic unit is selectively activated and, when activated, receives sounds from the surrounding environment, amplifies the frequency range of the received sounds corresponding to the frequency range of human speech, and modulates the amplification so that the total sound level passing through the body and the electronic unit does not exceed a maximum predetermined sound level. On the one hand, such solutions may make hearing protection devices more complex and expensive; on the other hand, the risk that such relevant sounds may not be apparent to the wearer may still exist.

[0006] Despite the numerous advantages of existing active hearing protection devices, there remains a need for hearing protection devices that overcome the aforementioned drawbacks. Therefore, the object of this disclosure is to provide a hearing protection device that addresses the risk of not hearing warning sounds while wearing the device, as well as the risk of collisions caused by other people or objects moving towards the wearer.

[0007] In a first aspect, this disclosure relates to a hearing protection device comprising two earmuffs or earplugs, an indication unit for providing instructions to a user of the hearing protection device, and a detection unit. The detection unit includes a transmitter for emitting a first detection signal and a receiver for receiving a second detection signal from an external device. The detection unit is configured to assign a distance value representing a physical distance to the external device based on the second detection signal. The detection unit is configured to control the indication unit such that if the assigned distance value is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold distance value, the indication unit provides instructions to the user. In other words, the detection unit is enabled to determine the distance to the external device by receiving the second detection signal from the external device and to compare the determined distance with a stored distance value at which the distance to the external device is considered critical. The advantage of such a hearing protection device is that it easily and reliably minimizes or avoids collisions between the wearer and other people or objects. Furthermore, it compensates for the risk of unintentionally hearing related sounds. Instructions to the user may include optical, auditory, and / or tactile instructions or feedback to the user.

[0008] In a second aspect, this disclosure relates to a collision warning system comprising a hearing protection device according to this disclosure and at least one external device. The external device includes a detection unit comprising a transmitter for emitting a second detection signal and a receiver for receiving a first detection signal transmitted by the hearing protection device. The detection unit is configured to assign a distance value representing the physical distance between the hearing protection device and the at least one external device based on the received first detection signal. The external device optionally includes an indication unit for providing an instruction to a user of the hearing protection device, and wherein the detection unit is configured to control the indication unit such that if the assigned distance value is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold, the indication unit provides an instruction to the user of the hearing protection device. In other words, the detection unit is enabled to determine the distance between the hearing protection device and the external device by receiving the received first detection signal from the hearing protection device (and based on the second detection signal received from the external device), and to compare the determined distance with a stored distance value at which the distance between the hearing protection device and the external device is considered critical. The advantage of such hearing protection devices is that they minimize or prevent collisions between the wearer and other people or objects in an easy and reliable manner. Furthermore, they compensate for the risk of unintentionally hearing related sounds. Instructions may include optical, auditory, and / or tactile indications or feedback to the user.

[0009] In a third aspect, this disclosure relates to a method of modifying a hearing protection device with a detection unit. The method includes the steps of: providing a hearing protection device comprising two earmuffs or earplugs; and providing a detection unit comprising a transmitter for emitting a first detection signal and a receiver for receiving a second detection signal transmitted by an external device. The detection unit is configured to assign a distance value representing a physical distance from the external device based on the received second detection signal. The detection unit is configured to provide an indication to the user of the hearing protection device if the assigned distance value is equal to or below a predetermined threshold. The method also includes the step of attaching the detection unit to the hearing protection device. The advantage of this method of modifying a hearing protection device is that it easily and reliably minimizes or avoids collisions between the wearer and other people or objects, even for hearing protection devices that did not initially possess this function. Furthermore, it compensates for the risk of unintentionally hearing related sounds. The indication may include optical, auditory, and / or tactile indications or feedback to the user.

[0010] Personal protective equipment (PPE) as defined in this disclosure includes protective helmets, welding shields, face shields, and protective clothing such as jackets and gloves. Typically, PPE includes specific protective devices to protect its user or wearer from impacts or injuries. For example, hazards addressed by PPE include physical, electrical, thermal, chemical, biological hazards, and airborne particulate matter. For some working conditions, employers or laws or similar regulations may require PPE.

[0011] Active or passive noise reduction or cancellation, as understood within the scope of this disclosure, refers to measures in headphones that reduce unwanted ambient sounds. This can be achieved through passive measures, such as where the earcups and pads of the headphones include damping material and where the pads cover the user's ears. As an alternative to or complement to passive noise reduction or cancellation, active noise reduction or cancellation uses techniques in which ambient sounds are captured by a microphone and inverted sound waves (i.e., sound waves of exactly out of phase) are generated and played to the user in parallel with the ambient noise reaching the user's ears via a speaker in the headphones. Typically, these opposing sound waves collide and cancel each other out or cancel each other out.

[0012] Hearing protection devices (HPDs) as defined in this disclosure are personal protective equipment that include ear protection devices worn in or on the ear when exposed to hazardous or irritating environmental sounds or noise. HPDs help prevent noise-induced hearing damage or even loss. HPDs may include earmuffs or earplugs. To achieve protection, HPDs typically include active and / or passive noise reduction with cancellation devices as described above. HPDs may also typically include a headband for connecting the two earmuffs or earplugs and keeping them in place when the HPD is worn by a worker or user.

[0013] The external device, as understood in this disclosure, is a separate, preferably independent device spaced apart from the hearing protection device. Such an external device may be able to be attached to a vehicle, a person, and / or personal protective equipment worn by the user. The external device may include certain electronic components for functions desired or required by the user, including detection and / or indicating units. It is also conceivable that the indicating units are spaced apart from the external device in a separate housing.

[0014] Within the meaning of this disclosure, indications are understood to provide signals or feedback to the user or wearer of the device regarding relevant activities, states, or conditions. Such indications may include acoustic indications (e.g., sounds played to the user), optical indications (e.g., light signals emitted so that the user can see them), or tactile indications (e.g., motors that generate vibrations that can be sensed by the user). Depending on the conditions the user is in, it is conceivable to arrange more than one type of indication in parallel. For example, if an acoustic indication might be unintentionally heard due to high noise levels around the user, it may be useful to provide another indication (e.g., an optical or tactile indication) in parallel. Other combinations of indications are also conceivable.

[0015] The physical distance in this disclosure is the shortest distance between two objects measured in meters (m) as a straight line.

[0016] The distance values ​​in this disclosure are values ​​in meters assigned based on the received electronic signals.

[0017] Within the meaning of this disclosure, the predetermined threshold distance value is understood as a value in meters representing a critical distance between two objects (e.g., two users, a user and a vehicle, or two vehicles) at which a collision could occur, causing impact or injury to the user and / or the vehicle, without control measures or reverse steering. "Determined" is understood as a prepared setting based on the user's specific circumstances or needs. For example, this value might be larger if the user is walking compared to a user driving a vehicle. This setting can be performed manually by the user or automatically by a system that takes into account the user and their surrounding environment (including moving objects such as people, vehicles, etc.).

[0018] Within the meaning of this disclosure, the detection signal is an electronic signal emitted by the HPD to an external device. The detection signal can also be emitted by an external device and received by the HPD. Such a detection signal can have different characteristics, such as signal strength, time of flight, etc. These characteristics of the detection signal can depend on the distance the signal is transmitted. For example, signal strength is a characteristic that varies over the distance the signal is transmitted; that is, the longer the distance, the lower the signal strength at the receiving point. According to the physical law, namely the distance law, as with other radiation, the signal strength also decreases with respect to the square of the radius r from the signal source to the signal receiving location. In other words, the strength at the receiving location follows equation I. R ∝(i.e., proportional) 1 / r 2Another example of a distance-dependent characteristic is time of flight. Generally, time of flight is the time delay between the start of a signal transmission and the time it takes for the corresponding signal to be received from a device located at a point spaced apart from the transmission point. The longer the distance, the longer the signal's flight time. Typically, when a signal travels at a constant speed of approximately 300,000 km / s (in a vacuum or in air), there is a proportional relationship between distance and time of flight.

[0019] Ultra-wideband (UWB) is a radio technology used for short-range, high-bandwidth communication between electronic devices. UWB typically uses very low power. Typical applications include data collection, precise positioning, and tracking.

[0020] Bluetooth is a wireless technology standard used for exchanging data between electronic devices over short distances. A specific standard within the Bluetooth standard is Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE or BTLE), which is specifically designed for low power consumption during this exchange.

[0021] In the context of this disclosure, identification (ID) or identification information is understood as signal information used to identify a person or object (or device) sending a signal. Typically, a code including information uniquely associated with the person or object is added to the signal. Thus, object or person identification can be achieved easily and reliably.

[0022] The attachment devices within the scope of this disclosure include means for permanently or temporarily attaching a device or component to another device. For example, a separate unit, such as a detection unit or indicator unit, can be attached separately to headphones or hearing protection devices. Furthermore, such a separate unit can be attached to a vehicle or part thereof, or to personal protective equipment. Suitable attachment devices include mechanical attachment devices such as clips, clamps, hook-and-loop fasteners, screws, bolts, rivets, etc. Additionally, adhesive attachment devices, such as tape or patches applied to the attachment site, sprayed adhesives, or liquid adhesives, are contemplated. If such a specific attachment is required, it is also contemplated to combine mechanical attachment devices and adhesive attachment devices. The selection of the attachment device may depend on whether a permanent attachment is required or whether the unit may need to be separated from another component or device.

[0023] In one embodiment, the detection unit of the hearing protection device is configured to assign a distance value based on the characteristics of the received second detection signal. The advantage of this detection unit is that it enables easy and reliable assignment of distance values. The characteristics of the received detection signal allow the detection unit to perform accurate distance assignment.

[0024] In another embodiment, the first and second detection signals are ultra-wideband (UWB) signals, wherein the characteristic of the received second detection signal is time-of-flight. The advantage of such a UWB signal is that it provides an easy and reliable detection signal that allows for precise assignment of distance values.

[0025] In another embodiment, the first and second detection signals are Bluetooth signals, wherein the characteristic of the received second detection signal is the received signal strength. Preferably, the first and second detection signals are Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) signals. The advantage of such Bluetooth signals is that they provide easy and reliable detection signals that allow for accurate assignment of distance values. A particular advantage of BLE signals is that detection is performed with low power consumption, which helps to conserve power in hearing protection devices that include such detection units that transmit BLE signals.

[0026] In one implementation, where the first and second detection signals are Bluetooth signals and the received second detection characteristic is the received signal strength, this characteristic also includes the orientation of the external device relative to the hearing protection device. Including orientation has the advantage of achieving higher accuracy in both distance value detection and assignment.

[0027] In yet another implementation, the first detection signal and / or the second detection signal includes an ID assigned to the hearing protection device and / or its user. Including the ID in the detection signal has the advantage of enabling easy and reliable object or person identification. This identification can further improve system accuracy, as the system recognizes which people or objects may be moving toward each other.

[0028] In another implementation, the predetermined threshold distance value is set by the user. The advantage of user-set threshold distance values ​​is that they can be set individually according to the user's needs. It should be noted that, considering individual circumstances (e.g., which object, movement speed, etc.), the predetermined threshold distance value may vary for different HPDs and / or external devices. It is conceivable to use additional sensors to detect the object itself or the user's movement, and feed this information to the detection unit to enhance detection accuracy and value setting.

[0029] In another implementation, the predetermined threshold distance value is set by the detection unit, preferably depending on the received ID information, i.e., person, vehicle, etc. The advantage of setting the threshold distance value through the detection unit is that it allows for automatic setting, thus avoiding the risk of user error. As mentioned above regarding individual user settings of the predetermined threshold distance value, it is also possible that the value, for automatic setting, differs for the HPD and external devices based on individual user or device characteristics (e.g., movement speed). Similarly, it is conceivable to use additional sensors to detect the movement of the object itself or the user, and feed this information to the detection unit to enhance detection accuracy and value setting.

[0030] In one embodiment, the hearing protection device includes two earmuffs, each with a cup and a pad, and also includes active and / or passive noise cancellation devices. The advantage of a hearing protection device with noise cancellation is that it provides easy and reliable protection for the user's or worker's ears, thereby preventing hearing loss or damage.

[0031] In a particular embodiment, the hearing protection device includes a headband for connecting the two earmuffs. The advantage of this headband is that it provides an easy and reliable way to connect the earmuffs.

[0032] In one embodiment, the hearing protection device includes an attachment device for attaching two earmuffs to a protective helmet. The advantage of such an attachment device is that the earmuffs can be easily and reliably attached to the helmet, and wearing the helmet does not interfere with the hearing protection device or the earmuffs.

[0033] In another embodiment, the hearing protection device includes a speaker for playing audio signals to the user of the hearing protection device, wherein a detection unit is configured to control the speaker of the hearing protection device such that the speaker provides an indication to the user of the hearing protection device if an assigned distance value is equal to or below a threshold. Such a speaker can provide easy and reliable indication to the user. Furthermore, the speaker can be used for other functions in the hearing protection device, such as voice communication, or can be part of a noise cancellation system or radio equipment. Additionally, some hearing protection devices already include speakers that can be easily used for acoustic indication.

[0034] In another embodiment, the detection and indication units of the hearing protection device are contained in a mounting ring attached to the earcup between the cup and the pad. This arrangement allows for easy, quick, and reliable installation of the detection and indication units, simplifying the retrofitting of the hearing protection device or its overall assembly. Furthermore, it enables a compact design.

[0035] In one embodiment, the indicator unit of the hearing protection device is contained in a separate housing and spaced apart from the hearing protection device. The indicator unit optionally includes attachment means for attaching to a user or for personal protective equipment worn by the user of the hearing protection device. The arrangement of the indicator unit in a separate housing allows for greater design and use freedom, as the two smaller units can be better and easier to place when using personal protective equipment.

[0036] In another embodiment, the indications provided to the user by the indication unit of the hearing protection device include optical indications, auditory indications, and / or tactile indications. The advantage of such indications to the user is that they provide easy and reliable information or feedback regarding the detection. It is conceivable to combine one indication with one or more others at a time to prevent such indications from being overlooked (e.g., in bright environments) or unintentionally heard (e.g., in noisy environments). Providing additional indications helps reduce the risk that the user may not be aware of the indications in certain situations.

[0037] In another embodiment, the first detection signal and / or the second detection signal are transmitted along a constant interval interrupted by a constant interval during which no signal is transmitted. The advantage of this constant interval is that it allows for easy and reliable setup of the detection unit.

[0038] In yet another implementation, the first detection signal and / or the second detection signal are transmitted along a variable interval interrupted by a variable interval in which no signal is transmitted. The advantage of this variable interval is that it allows for higher accuracy, particularly for detection under changing conditions (such as movement), i.e., enhanced accuracy for moving users or objects.

[0039] In one embodiment of the collision warning system, the detection unit of the external device is configured to assign a distance value based on the characteristics of a received first detection signal. The advantage of this detection unit is that it enables easy and reliable assignment of distance values. The characteristics of the received detection signal allow the detection unit to perform accurate distance assignment.

[0040] In another embodiment of the collision warning system, the first and second detection signals are ultra-wideband (UWB) signals, wherein the characteristic of the received first detection signal is time-of-flight. The advantage of this UWB signal is that it provides an easy and reliable detection signal that allows for precise assignment of distance values.

[0041] In another embodiment of the collision warning system, the first and second detection signals are Bluetooth signals, wherein the characteristic of the received first detection signal is the received signal strength. Preferably, the first and second detection signals are Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) signals. The advantage of such Bluetooth signals is that they provide an easy and reliable detection signal that allows for accurate assignment of distance values. A particular advantage of BLE signals is that they are detected with low energy consumption, which helps to conserve power in hearing protection devices that include such detection units that transmit BLE signals.

[0042] In another specific implementation of the collision warning system, the feature also includes the orientation of the external device relative to the hearing protection device. The advantage of including orientation is that it enables higher accuracy in both distance value detection and assignment.

[0043] In another embodiment of the collision warning system, the external device is a hearing protection device that selectively includes two earmuffs and active and / or passive noise cancellation devices, each earmuff having a cup and a pad. The advantage of a hearing protection device with noise cancellation is that it provides easy and reliable protection for the user's or worker's ears, thereby preventing hearing loss or damage.

[0044] In one embodiment of the collision warning system, the hearing protection device includes a headband for connecting the two earmuffs. The advantage of this headband is that it provides an easy and reliable way to connect the earmuffs.

[0045] In another embodiment of the collision warning system, the hearing protection device includes an attachment device for attaching two earmuffs to a protective helmet. The advantage of such an attachment device is that the earmuffs can be easily and reliably attached to the helmet, and wearing the helmet does not interfere with the hearing protection device or the earmuffs.

[0046] In another embodiment of the collision warning system, the first detection signal and / or the second detection signal includes an ID assigned to the hearing protection device and / or its user. Including the ID in the detection signal has the advantage of enabling easy and reliable object or person identification. This identification can further improve system accuracy, as the system recognizes which people or objects may be moving toward each other.

[0047] In another implementation of the collision warning system, the predetermined threshold distance value for the external device is set by the user. The advantage of user-set threshold distance values ​​is that they can be set individually according to the user's needs. It should be noted that, considering individual circumstances (e.g., which object, speed of movement, etc.), the predetermined threshold distance value may vary for different HPDs and / or external devices. It is conceivable to use additional sensors to detect the object itself or the user's movement, and feed this information to the detection unit to enhance detection accuracy and value setting.

[0048] In another embodiment of the hearing protection device, a predetermined threshold distance value for the external device is set by a detection unit, preferably depending on the received ID information, i.e., person, vehicle, etc. The advantage of setting the threshold distance value through the detection unit is that it allows for automatic setting, thus avoiding the risk of user error. As mentioned above regarding individual user settings of the predetermined threshold distance value, it is also possible that the value, for automatic setting, differs for the HPD and the external device based on individual user or device characteristics (e.g., movement speed). Similarly, it is conceivable to use additional sensors to detect the movement of objects or the user, and feed this information to the detection unit to enhance detection accuracy and value setting.

[0049] In one implementation of a collision warning system, the external device is a standalone device that can be attached to a person, vehicle, and / or personal protective equipment. The advantage of such an external device is that it enables a simple, robust, and reliable system for use in collision warning systems.

[0050] In another embodiment of the collision warning system, the external device also includes an indicator unit for providing guidance to the user of the external device. Such guidance may include acoustic guidance (e.g., a sound played to the user), optical guidance (e.g., a light signal emitted so that the user can see it), or tactile guidance (e.g., a motor that generates vibrations that can be felt by the user). Depending on the user's circumstances, it is conceivable to arrange more than one type of guidance in parallel. For example, if an acoustic indication might be inadvertently heard due to high noise levels around the user, it may be useful to provide another indication (e.g., an optical or tactile indication) in parallel. The advantage of such an indicator unit is that it provides reliable guidance to the user of the collision warning system. Other combinations are also conceivable.

[0051] In another embodiment of the collision warning system, the indicator unit is contained in a separate housing and spaced apart from the external device. The indicator unit optionally includes attachment means for attaching to personal protective equipment worn by the user or the user of the external device. The advantage of this type of indicator unit for the external device is that it enables easy and reliable attachment of the indicator unit used within the collision warning system.

[0052] In another embodiment of the collision warning system, the first detection signal and / or the second detection signal are transmitted along a constant interval interrupted by a constant interval during which no signal is transmitted. The advantage of this constant interval is that it allows for easy and reliable setup of the detection unit.

[0053] In another embodiment of the collision warning system, the first detection signal and / or the second detection signal are transmitted along variable intervals interrupted by variable intervals where no signal is transmitted. The advantage of this UWB signal is that it provides an easy and reliable detection signal that allows for precise assignment of distance values.

[0054] In one embodiment of a collision warning system, the external device includes a speaker for playing an audio signal to a user of the external device, wherein a detection unit of the external device is configured to control the speaker such that the speaker provides an indication to the user of the external device if an assigned distance value is equal to or below a threshold. Such a speaker can provide easy and reliable indication to the user. Furthermore, the speaker can be used for other functions in hearing protection devices, such as voice communication, or can be part of a noise cancellation system. Additionally, some hearing protection devices already include a speaker that forms an indication unit, and this indication unit can be readily used for acoustic indication.

[0055] In one implementation, the detection unit in the modification method is configured to assign a distance value based on the characteristics of the received second detection signal. The advantage of this detection unit is that it enables easy and reliable assignment of distance values. The characteristics of the received detection signal allow the detection unit to perform accurate distance assignment.

[0056] In another embodiment, the modification method further includes the step of providing an indication unit for providing an indication to a user of the hearing protection device, wherein the detection unit is configured to control the indication unit such that the indication unit provides an indication to the user of the hearing protection device if the assigned distance value is equal to or below a threshold. It is conceivable to combine one indication with one or more indications at a time to prevent such indications from being ignored (e.g., in bright environments) or unintentionally heard (e.g., in noisy environments). Providing additional indications helps reduce the risk that the user will not be aware of the indication in certain situations.

[0057] In another embodiment, the hearing protection device in the modification method includes a speaker for playing audio signals to the user of the hearing protection device, wherein a detection unit is configured to control the speaker of the hearing protection device such that the speaker provides an indication to the user of the hearing protection device if an assigned distance value is equal to or below a threshold. Such a speaker can provide easy and reliable indication to the user. Furthermore, the speaker can be used for other functions in the hearing protection device, such as voice communication, or can be part of a noise cancellation system or radio equipment. Additionally, some hearing protection devices already include speakers that can be easily used for acoustic indication.

[0058] In another embodiment, the detection unit in the modification method is contained in a mounting ring that is attached to the earcup between the cup and the pad. The advantage of this arrangement is that it allows for easy, quick, and reliable installation of both the detection and indicator units, which can help simplify the modification of hearing protection devices or their overall assembly. Furthermore, it allows for a compact design.

[0059] In yet another specific embodiment, the mounting ring of the modification method also includes an indicating unit. The advantage of this mounting ring is that it further supports a compact design by arranging not only the detection unit but also the indicating unit within the mounting ring.

[0060] The hearing protection device according to this disclosure can be manufactured by arranging a detection unit and its components and units, as well as an indicator unit and its components and units, onto a printed circuit board (PCB) and arranging these PCBs at the location of the hearing protection device. In the case of earcups, the PCB may be located within the hollow shape of one or both earcups. Another method of manufacturing such a hearing protection device is described above under the method of modifying a hearing protection device, wherein a typical hearing protection device is obtained and modified with such a detection unit and such an indicator unit, which are preferably contained in a mounting ring.

[0061] The present invention has been described in the various embodiments described above. Those skilled in the art will understand that one, several, or all of the embodiments described above can be combined with each other.

[0062] The invention will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate specific embodiments of the invention by way of example:

[0063] Figure 1 This is a schematic front view of a hearing protection device according to an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0064] Figure 2 Is it like this? Figure 1 A schematic top view of the detection unit and indicator unit of the hearing protection device shown;

[0065] Figure 3 Wearing according to the implementation scheme of this disclosure, such as Figure 1 Perspective view of a user with a hearing protection device and a user with an external device;

[0066] Figure 4 This is a schematic side view of the external device according to the present disclosure, which shows the second detection signal and the acoustic signal;

[0067] Figure 5 Is it like this? Figure 4 A schematic side view showing an external device attached to personal protective equipment;

[0068] Figure 6 Is it like this? Figure 4 A schematic side view showing an external device attached to personal protective equipment;

[0069] Figure 7 Is it like this? Figure 4 A schematic side view showing an external device attached to personal protective equipment;

[0070] Figure 8 This is a perspective view of a vehicle having an external device indicating a second detection signal according to an embodiment of this disclosure.

[0071] Figure 9 Hearing protection device for detecting a first detection signal according to the embodiments of this disclosure, and as such Figure 8 A perspective view of the vehicle shown;

[0072] Figure 10 This is a perspective view of a hearing protection device that indicates a first detection signal according to an embodiment of the present disclosure and an external device that indicates a second detection signal as a hearing protection device according to the present disclosure;

[0073] Figure 11A This is a schematic side view of a vehicle with an external device indicating a second detection signal according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, and a user with a hearing protection device indicating a first detection signal and a second detection signal according to the present disclosure.

[0074] Figure 11B This is a schematic side view of a user with an external device that serves as an indicator of a second detection signal, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, and of a user with a hearing protection device that serves as an indicator of a first detection signal and a second detection signal, according to the present disclosure.

[0075] Figure 12A This is a schematic side view of a vehicle with an external device indicating a second detection signal according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, and a user with a hearing protection device indicating a first detection signal and a second detection signal according to the present disclosure.

[0076] Figure 12B This is a schematic side view of a vehicle having an external device as an indication of a second detection signal according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, and a user having a hearing protection device indicating a first detection signal and a second detection signal according to the present disclosure.

[0077] Figure 13A This is a schematic side view of two users with hearing protection devices according to an embodiment of this disclosure, the two users being at a certain distance from each other;

[0078] Figure 13B Is it like this? Figure 13A A schematic side view of the situation shown, in which the distances relative to each other have increased;

[0079] Figure 13C Is it like this? Figure 13A A schematic side view of the situation shown, in which the distances relative to each other have been further increased;

[0080] Figure 14A This is a schematic side view of two users with hearing protection devices according to an embodiment of this disclosure, the two users being at a certain distance from each other;

[0081] Figure 14B Is it like this? Figure 14A A schematic side view of the situation shown, in which the distances relative to each other have increased;

[0082] Figure 14C Is it like this? Figure 14A A schematic side view of the situation shown, in which the distances relative to each other have been further increased;

[0083] Figure 15 This is a schematic front view of a conventional hearing protection device according to the prior art, which shows the preparatory steps of a method for modifying a hearing protection device with a detection unit according to the present disclosure;

[0084] Figure 16 This is a schematic front view of an implementation scheme of a hearing protection device, which shows the completion steps of a method for modifying a hearing protection device with a detection unit according to this disclosure;

[0085] Figure 17 A hearing protection device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown in a schematic front view. The hearing protection device includes an earplug.

[0086] Figure 1A schematic front view illustrates a hearing protection device 10 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, comprising two earmuffs 12a, 12b connected by a headband 18. Each of the earmuffs 12a, 12b includes indicator units 40a, 40b, each indicator unit including features for instructing the user 100( Figure 1 Speakers 42a and 42b (not shown) provide acoustic indications (e.g., audio signals). The hearing protection device 10 also includes a detection unit 30 in one of the earmuffs 12b, which includes a transmitter 32 for emitting a first detection signal and a receiver 34 for receiving a second detection signal from an external device (not shown). The detection unit 30 is connected to the indication units 40a and 40b, wherein the detection unit 30 is configured to control the indication units 40a and 40b such that if an assigned distance value is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold distance value, the indication units 40a and 40b provide an indication to the user. Each of the earmuffs 12a and 12b also includes cups 14a and 14b, which in this embodiment are shown as hollow hemispherical shapes. Components of the hearing protection device 10, such as the indication units 40a and 40b, the detection unit 30, and the speakers 42a and 42b, are housed within one or both cups 14a and 14b. The earmuffs 12a and 12b each further include pads 16a and 16b for sealing the earmuffs 12a and 12b of the hearing protection device 10 onto the user's (not shown) ear. Figure 1 In the embodiment shown, the pads 16a and 16b are preferably elliptical in shape. Figure 1 Also shown in a cup 16a is a light-emitting diode (LED) 44a for providing optical indication to the user and a vibration motor 46a for providing tactile indication to the user.

[0087] Figure 2 The detection unit 30 and indicator units 40a and 40b of the hearing protection device 10 are shown schematically in top view. Similar to... Figure 1 In the illustrated embodiment, the detection unit 30 includes a transmitter 32 for emitting a first detection signal and a receiver 34 for receiving a second detection signal from an external device (not shown). The detection unit 30 is connected to indication units 40a and 40b, wherein the detection unit 30 is configured to control the indication units 40a and 40b such that if the assigned distance value is equal to or lower than a predetermined threshold distance value, the indication units 40a and 40b provide an indication to the user. In addition to... Figure 1 In addition to the components of the indicated units 40a and 40b shown, the indicated units 40a and 40b also include amplifiers 43a and 43b connected to the detection unit 30 and connected to the speakers 42a and 42b. The amplifiers 43a and 43b can help enhance the auditory indications provided to the user, such as increasing the volume and / or increasing the quality of the sound signal provided by the speakers 42a and 42b.

[0088] Figure 3 The perspective view shows three users 100, 110, and 120, two of whom are wearing hearing protection devices 10 and 10' according to embodiments of this disclosure. The first user 100 is wearing the hearing protection device 10, which emits a first detection signal as shown in S1. User 100 is working at machine 160. The second user 110 is driving vehicle 150, such as a forklift 150, equipped with an external device 50 (omitted here for simplicity; see details below). Figure 8 The external device emits a second detection signal, as shown in S2. The second user 110 drives the forklift 150 along the lane shown in 152, thereby approaching the first user 100 equipped with the hearing protection device 10. The second detection signal S2 is received by the receiver 34 of the detection unit 30 of the hearing protection device 10 worn by the first user 100. The first user's detection unit 30 assigns a distance value representing the physical distance to the external device 50 attached to the forklift 150 based on the second detection signal S2. The detection unit 30 controls the indicator units 40a and 40b of the first user 100's hearing protection device 10 such that if the assigned distance value is equal to or lower than a predetermined distance threshold (not shown here; see Figures 11a to 14c for details), the indicator units 40a and 40b provide an indication to the user 100. Figure 3 Another user 120 wearing a hearing protection device 10' (not visible here) is also shown, which emits another detection signal as shown in S3. User 120 is working at machine 170. Detection signal S3 is also received by receiver 34 of the first user 100. Because the distance between the first user 100 and the second user 110 is larger than the distance from the first user 100 (in... Figure 3 (Only schematically visible in the diagram), so the detection unit 30 may not provide an instruction to the first user 100 because the assigned distance value is higher than a predetermined threshold distance value. Similarly, the first detection signal S1 emitted by the transmitter 32 of the first user's hearing protection device 10 is received by the receiver of the external device 50 attached to the forklift 150 and the hearing protection device 10' worn by the third user 120. Similar to the first user, when the assigned distance value is equal to or lower than the predetermined threshold distance value, the detection unit of the external device 50 provides an instruction to the second user via the instruction unit of the external device 50. As outlined above, this is not given to the third user 120, and therefore, the detection unit and instruction unit of the third user 120 do not provide an instruction to the third user 120. Figure 3The static scenario is illustrated, but conditions can change as, for example, the forklift 150 is moving and can approach a third user 120 wearing hearing protection device 10', similar to the scenario described above for the first user 100. Simultaneously, the forklift 150 can increase its distance from the first user 100, and thereby the assigned distance value between the first user 100 and the second user 110 exceeds a predetermined threshold distance value, meaning that no further instructions may be provided to the first user 100.

[0089] Figure 4 A schematic side view of an external device 50 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Similar to... Figure 1 and Figure 2 The hearing protection device 10 described herein includes an external device 50 with a detection unit and an indication unit (both omitted here for simplicity). The detection unit further includes a transmitter that emits a second detection signal S2. The external device 50 also includes an indication unit (not shown here) that provides an indication 42d to the user (not shown) of the external device 50. Furthermore, the external device includes a receiver (not shown here) for receiving a first detection signal S1 emitted by the hearing protection device 10, such as... Figure 3 As shown.

[0090] Figure 5 An external device 50 is attached to personal protective equipment 200, shown schematically in a side view. Also... Figure 4 As shown, the external device 50 emits a second detection signal S2 and provides instructions 42d to the user and personal protective equipment 200 of the external device 50, respectively. Figure 5 The personal protective equipment 200 shown is a welding shield or welding helmet 200. The external device 50 is attached to the welding helmet 200 via an attachment device 54.

[0091] Figure 6 An external device 50 is attached to personal protective equipment 300, shown schematically in a side view. Also... Figure 4 As shown, the external device 50 emits a second detection signal S2 and provides instructions 42d to the user and personal protective equipment 200 of the external device 50, respectively. Figure 5 The personal protective equipment 300 shown is a protective helmet 200. An external device 50 is attached to the protective helmet 300 via an attachment device 54. Additionally, Figure 6 The attachment device 56 is shown for attaching the earmuffs 12a' and 12b' of the hearing protection device 10' to the protective helmet 300.

[0092] Figure 7 An external device 50 is attached to personal protective equipment 400, shown schematically in a side view. Also... Figure 4As shown, the external device 50 emits a second detection signal S2 and provides instructions 42d to the user and personal protective equipment 400 of the external device 50, respectively. Figure 7 The personal protective equipment 400 shown is a protective jacket 400. An external device 50 is attached to the protective jacket 400 via an attachment device 54.

[0093] Figure 8 An external device 50' attached to vehicle 150 is shown in a schematic side view. Also... Figure 4 As shown, the external device 50' emits a second detection signal S2. The external device 50' also includes an indicator unit 40', which provides indications 42d to both the external device 50 and the user of the vehicle 150. The external device 50' and the indicator unit 40' are connected as shown... Figures 5 to 7 The difference in the illustrated embodiment is that the indicator unit 40' is housed in a separate housing spaced apart from the external device 50'. The indicator unit 40' is also attached to the vehicle 150 via an attachment device (not shown here). Figure 8 The vehicle 150 shown is a forklift 150. The external device 50' is attached to the forklift 150 via the mounting unit 54.

[0094] Figure 9 A perspective view shows a hearing protection device 10 and an external device 50 attached to a vehicle 150 (e.g., a forklift 150). As can be seen, the hearing protection device 10 transmits a first detection signal via its detection unit 30 and its transmitter 32, as shown in S1. The first detection signal S1 is received by a receiver of the external device 50 attached to the vehicle 150. Subsequently, the external device 50 transmits a second detection signal via its detection unit and its transmitter, as shown in S2. The second detection signal S2 is then received by a receiver 34 of the hearing protection device 10. In addition... Figure 1 In addition to the illustrated embodiment, the hearing protection device 10 also includes a microphone 58 mounted to one earcup of the hearing protection device 10 via a microphone boom 56. Similar to... Figure 2 In the illustrated embodiment, the hearing protection device includes an antenna 36, ​​which can help increase the transmission of the first detection signal S1 and / or the reception of the second detection signal S2.

[0095] Figure 10 The perspective view shows, for example Figure 9The embodiment of this disclosure shown differs in that the external device in this case is a second hearing protection device 10'. As can be seen, the first hearing protection device 10 transmits a first detection signal via its detection unit 30 and its transmitter 32, as shown in S1. The first detection signal S1 is being received by the receiver of the second hearing protection device 10'. Subsequently, the second hearing protection device 10' transmits a second detection signal via its detection unit and its transmitter, as shown in S2. The second detection signal S2 is then received by the receiver 34 of the hearing protection device 10.

[0096] Figure 11A This is a schematic side view of a vehicle 150 with an external device 50 and a user 100 wearing a hearing protection device 10, according to the present disclosure. As shown, the hearing protection device 10 emits a first detection signal S1 to be received by the external device 50 of the vehicle 150. Subsequently, the external device 50 of the vehicle 150 emits a second detection signal S2 to be received by the hearing protection device 10 of the user 100. The detection unit 30 of the hearing protection device 10 assigns a distance value representing the physical distance between the user 100 (wearing the hearing protection device 10) and the vehicle 150 (with the attached external device 50) based on the received second detection signal S2. Subsequently, the detection unit of the external device 50 assigns a distance value representing the physical distance between the user 100 (wearing the hearing protection device 10) and the vehicle 150 (with the attached external device 50) based on the received first detection signal S1. In the illustrated embodiment, the first detection signal S1 and the second detection signal S2 are ultra-wideband (UWB) signals, and the characteristics of the first detection signal S1 and the second detection signal S2 used to assign distance values ​​are based on, for example... Figure 11A The clock icon in the image indicates the flight time, which is proportional to the distance. In other words, the longer the flight time, the greater the distance. It should be noted that, as outlined above, the predetermined threshold distance value may vary for different users.

[0097] Figure 11B This is a schematic side view of an embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the external device is a second hearing protection device 10'. Figure 11BThe diagram illustrates a first user 100 and a second user 110, each wearing hearing protection devices 10 and 10' according to this disclosure. As shown, the first hearing protection device 10 emits a first detection signal S1, which is received by the second hearing protection device 10' of user 110. Subsequently, the second hearing protection device 10' emits a second detection signal S2, which is received by the first hearing protection device 10 of user 100. The detection unit 30 of the hearing protection device 10 assigns a distance value representing the physical distance between user 100 (wearing hearing protection device 10) and the second user 110 (wearing hearing protection device 10') based on the received second detection signal S2. Subsequently, the detection unit of the second hearing protection device 10' assigns a distance value representing the physical distance between user 100 (wearing hearing protection device 10) and the second user 110 (wearing hearing protection device 10') based on the received first detection signal S1. In the illustrated embodiment, the first detection signal S1 and the second detection signal S2 are ultra-wideband (UWB) signals, and the characteristics of the first detection signal S1 and the second detection signal S2 used to assign distance values ​​are based on, for example... Figure 11B The clock icon in the image indicates the flight time, which is proportional to the distance. In other words, the longer the flight time, the greater the distance. It should be noted that, as outlined above, the predetermined threshold distance value may vary for different users.

[0098] Figure 12A It shows the relationship with Figure 11A A similar implementation scheme is shown. Figure 12A This is a schematic side view of a vehicle 150 with an external device 50 and a user 100 wearing a hearing protection device 10, according to the present disclosure. As shown, the hearing protection device 10 emits a first detection signal S1 to be received by the external device 50 of the vehicle 150. Subsequently, the external device 50 of the vehicle 150 emits a second detection signal S2 to be received by the hearing protection device 10 of the user 100. The detection unit 30 of the hearing protection device 10 assigns a distance value representing the physical distance between the user 100 (wearing the hearing protection device 10) and the vehicle 150 (with the attached external device 50) based on the received second detection signal S2. Subsequently, the detection unit of the external device 50 assigns a distance value representing the physical distance between the user 100 (wearing the hearing protection device 10) and the vehicle 150 (with the attached external device 50) based on the received first detection signal S1. Figure 11A Unlike the embodiments shown, in the embodiment shown here, the first detection signal S1 and the second detection signal S2 are Bluetooth signals, preferably Bluetooth Low Energy (BTLE) signals, and the characteristics of the first detection signal S1 and the second detection signal S2 used to assign distance values ​​are based on, for example... Figure 12AThe signal strength icon indicates the strength of the received signal, where signal strength is proportional to distance. In other words, the lower the signal strength, the greater the distance. It should be noted that, as outlined above, the predetermined threshold distance value may vary for different users.

[0099] Figure 12B It shows the relationship with Figure 11B A similar implementation scheme is shown. Figure 12B This is a schematic side view of an embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the external device is a second hearing protection device 10'. Figure 11B The diagram illustrates a first user 100 and a second user 110, each wearing hearing protection devices 10 and 10' according to this disclosure. As shown, the first hearing protection device 10 emits a first detection signal S1, which is received by the second hearing protection device 10' of user 110. Subsequently, the second hearing protection device 10' emits a second detection signal S2, which is received by the first hearing protection device 10' of user 100. The detection unit 30 of the hearing protection device 10 assigns a distance value representing the physical distance between user 100 (wearing hearing protection device 10) and the second user 110 (wearing hearing protection device 10') based on the received second detection signal S2. Subsequently, the detection unit of the second hearing protection device 10' assigns a distance value representing the physical distance between user 100 (wearing hearing protection device 10) and the second user 110 (wearing hearing protection device 10') based on the received first detection signal S1. Figure 11B The implementation shown differs from the one illustrated here. In the implementation shown here, the first detection signal S1 and the second detection signal S2 are ultra-wideband (UWB) signals, and the characteristics of the first detection signal S1 and the second detection signal S2 used to assign distance values ​​are based on, for example... Figure 12B The signal strength icon indicates the flight time, where signal strength is proportional to distance. In other words, the lower the signal strength, the greater the distance. It should be noted that, as outlined above, the predetermined threshold distance value may vary for different users.

[0100] Figures 13A to 13C Two users 100 and 110 are shown in schematic side views, each wearing a hearing protection device 10 and 10' according to the present disclosure, wherein the situation shown in each figure is similar except that the distances d1, d2, and d3 between the first user 100 and the second user 110 are different. Figure 13A express Figure 11B In the implementation scheme, the first detection signal S1 and the second detection signal S2 are UWB signals, and the characteristics of the received signals are time-of-flight as shown by a clock icon. Two users 100 and 110 are spaced apart by a distance d1, resulting in a certain time-of-flight between the two users 100 and 110 and between their hearing protection devices 10 and 10'. Figure 13B A similar setup is shown, except that the distance d2 between the two users 100 and 110 and between their hearing protection devices 10 and 10' has been increased relative to the distance d1, as shown below. Figure 13A As instructed. With Figure 13A Compared to the flight time in the previous example, this increased distance d2 results in an increase in the flight time between the two users 100 and 110, and between their hearing protection devices 10 and 10'. Figure 13C The following section shows a similar setup, the difference being that the distance d3 between the two users 100 and 110 and between their hearing protection devices 10 and 10' has been increased relative to the distance d1, as shown below. Figure 13A The instruction, namely Figure 13C The distance d3 indicated in the text is even greater than Figure 13B The distance d2 that has already increased. With Figure 13B Compared to the flight time in the previous example, this further increase in distance d3 results in an increase in the flight time between the two users 100 and 110 and between their hearing protection devices 10 and 10'.

[0101] Figures 14A to 14C Two users 100 and 110 are shown in schematic side views, each wearing a hearing protection device 10 and 10' according to the present disclosure. The situation shown in each figure is similar, except that the distances d1, d2, and d3 between the first user 100 and the second user 110 differ. Figures 13A to 13C As indicated in the document. Figure 14A express Figure 11B In the implementation scheme, the first detection signal S1 and the second detection signal S2 are Bluetooth signals, preferably Bluetooth Low Energy (BTLE) signals, and the characteristics of the received signals are the signal strengths of the received first detection signal S1 and the second detection signal S2, as shown in the signal strength icon. Two users 100 and 110 are spaced apart by a distance d1, resulting in certain signal strengths of the received first detection signal S1 and the second detection signal S2 for each user 100, 110 and their hearing protection devices 10, 10', respectively, as indicated by the signal strength icon, which shows three out of four bars of the received signals for the first user 100 and the hearing protection device 10. Figure 14B A similar setup is shown, except that the distance d2 between the two users 100 and 110 and between their hearing protection devices 10 and 10' has been increased relative to the distance d1, as shown below. Figure 13A As indicated. This increased distance d2 results in... Figure 14ACompared to the signal strength indicated in the diagram, the signal strengths of the first detection signal S1 and the second detection signal S2 received by the two users 100 and 110 and their hearing protection devices 10 and 10' are lower, as indicated by the signal strength icon, which shows only one of the four bars representing the received signals of the first user 100 and the hearing protection device 10, respectively. Figure 13C The following section shows a similar setup, the difference being that the distance d3 between the two users 100 and 110 and between their hearing protection devices 10 and 10' has been increased relative to the distance d1, as shown below. Figure 14A The instruction, namely Figure 14C The distance d3 indicated in the text is even greater than Figure 14B The distance d2 has already been increased. This further increase in distance d3 results in... Figure 14B Compared to the flight time, the signal strength for the two users 100, 110 and their hearing protection devices 10, 10' is even lower, as indicated by the signal strength icon, which shows that none of the four bars of the received signal for the first user 100 and the hearing protection device 10 are present.

[0102] Figure 15 and Figure 16 Each embodiment of the hearing protection device 10 is shown schematically in front view, wherein Figure 15 The image shows a conventional hearing protection device 10”, and in which Figure 16 A hearing protection device 10 modified with a detection unit according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Figure 15 A modification method for a conventional hearing protection device 10” is shown, wherein the pad 16b' has been separated from the cup 14b' of the earmuff 12b'. In this spaced-out configuration, the connecting devices 16c, 16d have been disconnected from each other. Additionally, the earmuff 12b' has been disconnected from the headband 18', but this step can be omitted depending on size, available space, and the skill of the person performing the modification. The other earmuff 12a' is still shown in its original configuration, with the pad 16a' attached to the cup 14a' of the earmuff 12a'. Here, the earmuff 12a' remains connected to the headband 18'. Figure 16 Further steps of the method for modifying the hearing protection device 10' are shown. The detection unit 30, contained in the mounting ring 30a, is placed between the pad 16a and the cup 14a of the earmuff 12a, in a spaced-out configuration as described in the steps above. In the next step, the connecting devices 16e and 16f of the mounting ring 30a containing the detection unit 30 are respectively connected to the connecting device 16d of the cup 16b and to the connecting device 16c of the pad 16b. If the earmuff 12b has been disconnected from the headband 18, the earmuff 12b needs to be reattached to the headband. (This is for simplicity only.) Figure 15 and Figure 16The method of modification has already been shown for one earmuff 12b. Those skilled in the art will understand that similar steps can also be performed to complete the method of modifying the hearing protection device 10 for the other earmuff 12a. However, it is also conceivable that only one earmuff 12b may be modified with the detection unit, while the other earmuff 12a remains in its original configuration.

[0103] Figure 17 A hearing protection device 10 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is shown in a schematic front view. The hearing protection device 10 shown herein is similar to... Figure 1 The hearing protection device 10 shown differs in that it includes earplugs 12a" and 12b" instead of... Figure 1 The earmuffs 12a and 12b are shown. In the illustrated embodiment, earplugs 12a” and 12b” are each connected to the headband 18”. The hearing protection device 10” also includes a detection unit 30”, which has a transmitter 32” for emitting a first detection signal and a receiver 34” for receiving a second detection signal transmitted by an external device 50, 50' or another hearing protection device 10' according to this disclosure. In addition to Figure 1 In addition to the implementation plan, the hearing protection device 10 also includes similar features such as... Figure 2 The antenna 36” of the illustrated embodiment. Additionally, the hearing protection device 10” includes a microphone 58” mounted to the headband 18” via a microphone boom 56”. Although in Figure 17 Although not explicitly shown, those skilled in the art will understand that the earplugs 12a” and 12b” include a speaker (not shown) as part of the indicator unit of the hearing protection device 10”, for providing auditory indication to the user 100 wearing the hearing protection device 10”.

Claims

1. A hearing protection device (10, 10', 10'') for use in noisy working environments, comprising: a. Two earmuffs (12a, 12b) or earplugs (12a', 12b') are configured to reduce sound from the noisy working environment. b. An indicator unit (40a, 40b) includes a speaker (42a, 42b) for providing auditory indication to a user (100) wearing the hearing protection device (10, 10', 10''), wherein the speaker is located in the earmuff or earplug; c. Detection unit (30, 30', 30''), the detection unit comprising i. A transmitter (32, 32'') for emitting the first detection signal, and ii. A receiver (34, 34'') for receiving a second detection signal from an external device in response to the issuance of the first detection signal, wherein the external device is associated with a mobile device performing a mobile transport operation in the noisy working environment. - The detection units (30, 30', 30'') are configured to assign a distance value representing the physical distance from the external device based on the second detection signal. - The hearing protection device is configured such that, when an assigned distance value is equal to or lower than a predetermined threshold distance value, the detection unit (30, 30', 30'') controls the speaker in the indicator unit (40a, 40b) to issue an audible alarm to the user wearing the hearing protection device. - Where the assigned distance value is equal to or lower than the predetermined threshold distance value, it indicates that the mobile device is approaching the user while the user is working in the noisy work environment.

2. The hearing protection device (10, 10', 10'') according to claim 1, wherein the detection unit (30, 30', 30'') is configured to assign the distance value based on the characteristics of the received second detection signal.

3. The hearing protection device (10, 10', 10'') according to claim 2, wherein the first detection signal and the second detection signal are ultra-wideband (UWB) signals, and wherein the characteristic of the received second detection signal is time-of-flight.

4. The hearing protection device (10, 10', 10'') according to claim 2, wherein the first detection signal and the second detection signal are Bluetooth signals, and wherein the characteristic of the received second detection signal is the received signal strength.

5. The hearing protection device (10, 10', 10'') according to claim 1, wherein the first detection signal and / or the second detection signal includes an ID assigned to the hearing protection device (10, 10', 10'') and / or its user (100).

6. The hearing protection device (10, 10') according to claim 1, wherein the hearing protection device (10, 10', 10'') comprises two earmuffs (12a, 12b), each earmuff having a cup (14a, 14b) and a pad (16a, 16b), and the hearing protection device (10, 10') further comprises active and / or passive noise cancellation devices.

7. The hearing protection device (10, 10') according to claim 6, wherein the detection unit (30, 30') and the indicator unit (40a, 40b) are included in a mounting ring (30a) attached to the earmuff (12a, 12b) between the cup (14a, 14b) and the pad.

8. The hearing protection device (10, 10', 10'') according to claim 1, wherein the first detection signal and / or the second detection signal are transmitted along a constant interval interrupted by a constant interval of no signal transmission.

9. The hearing protection device (10, 10', 10'') according to claim 1, wherein the first detection signal and / or the second detection signal are transmitted along a variable interval interrupted by a variable interval in which no signal is transmitted.

10. A collision warning system for noisy working environments, comprising: a. Hearing protection device (10, 10', 10''), comprising: Two earmuffs (12a, 12b) or earplugs (12a', 12b') are configured to reduce sound from the noisy working environment. The indicator unit (40a, 40b) includes a speaker (42a, 42b) for providing auditory indication to a user (100) wearing the hearing protection device (10, 10', 10''), wherein the speaker is located in the earmuff or earplug; Detection unit (30, 30', 30''), the detection unit includes The transmitter (32, 32'') used to emit the first detection signal, and Receiver (34, 34'') is configured to receive a second detection signal from an external device (50, 50') in response to the first detection signal being emitted. The detection units (30, 30', 30'') are configured to assign a distance value representing the physical distance to the external device (50, 50') based on the second detection signal; the hearing protection device is configured to, when the assigned distance value is equal to or lower than a predetermined threshold distance value, cause the detection units (30, 30', 30'') to control the speaker in the indicator units (40a, 40b) to issue an audible alarm to the user wearing the hearing protection device, and wherein the assigned distance value being equal to or lower than the predetermined threshold distance value indicates that a mobile device is approaching the user while the user is working in the noisy work environment. b. The external device (50, 50'), the external device comprising A second detection unit, the second detection unit includes... • A second transmitter used to emit a second detection signal • A second receiver for receiving the first detection signal sent by the hearing protection device (10, 10', 10''). - The external device is associated with the mobile device that performs mobile transport operations in the noisy working environment.

11. The collision warning system of claim 10, wherein the external device (50, 50') is a hearing protection device (10') that selectively includes two earmuffs and active and / or passive noise cancellation devices, each earmuff having a cup and a pad.

12. The collision warning system according to any one of claims 10 to 11, wherein the external device (50, 50') is a standalone device capable of being attached to a person, vehicle and / or personal protective equipment.

13. A method for modifying a hearing protection device (10''') for use in noisy working environments using a detection unit (30, 30', 30''), the method comprising the steps of: a. Provide a hearing protection device (10'''), said hearing protection device comprising i) Two earmuffs (12a', 12b') or earplugs are configured to reduce sound from the noisy working environment. ii) Speakers located in each ear cup or earplug (42a, 42b); b. Provide a detection unit (30, 30', 30''), the detection unit comprising: i) Transmitter (32, 32'') used to emit the first detection signal. ii) A receiver (34, 34'') for receiving a second detection signal from an external device in response to the issuance of the first detection signal, wherein the external device is associated with a mobile device performing a mobile transport operation in the noisy working environment. The detection units (30, 30', 30'') are configured as follows: (1) Assign a distance value representing the physical distance from the external device (50, 50') based on the second detection signal. (2) When the assigned distance value is equal to or lower than a predetermined threshold distance value, control the speaker to issue an audible alarm to the user wearing the hearing protection device, and (3) Indicating that the assigned distance value is equal to or lower than the predetermined threshold distance value indicates that the mobile device is approaching the user while the user is working in the noisy work environment; as well as c. Attach the detection unit (30, 30', 30'') to the hearing protection device (10''').

14. The method of claim 13, further comprising the step of providing an indication unit (40a, 40b) for providing an indication to a user (100) of the hearing protection device (10, 10', 10''), wherein the detection unit (30, 30', 30'') is configured to control the indication unit (40a, 40b) such that if an assigned distance value is equal to or less than the threshold, the indication unit (40a, 40b) provides the indication to the user (100) of the hearing protection device (10, 10', 10'').

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