Welding information providing device

Abstract

The present invention relates to a welding information providing apparatus. An embodiment of the present invention can include a main body configured to be worn by a user, a camera section including at least one camera mounted on an outer side of the main body and configured to acquire a welding image frame related to a welding operation, an image generation section configured inside the main body and configured to generate and provide a welding image based on the welding image frame, a display section configured to display the welding image provided from the image generation section to the user, a processor configured to control the image generation section to generate the welding image based on the welding image frame, and a power supply section configured in the main body and configured to supply power to at least one of the camera section, the image generation section, and the processor.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a welding information providing device. Background Technology

[0002] To protect users from the light and heat generated during welding, protective equipment such as welding masks is used. While wearing protective equipment, users can only confirm that welding is in progress through the equipment. Therefore, to confirm various welding information, such as the conditions set in the welding equipment, the protective equipment must be removed and checked visually, which is inconvenient for the operator.

[0003] If the user's skill level is low, especially when wearing automatic or manual welding masks, they can only see the area adjacent to the welding light and have difficulty recognizing the specific welding conditions, such as the surrounding environment. Therefore, it is necessary to provide users with high-definition video that allows them to visually confirm the welding environment and to provide them with specific information about the welding status.

[0004] Furthermore, during welding operations, the illuminance / brightness of the welding spot is very high. Therefore, a blackening filter is used to protect the user's eyes from the welding spot and to ensure that the welding operation proceeds smoothly. In this case, no area other than the welding spot can be seen at all, so not only does the welding operation become very difficult, but the accuracy of the welding is also reduced.

[0005] The aforementioned problems are not limited to welding operations. They also pose the same challenges to healthcare workers when using high-brightness / high-illuminance light, such as lasers, for skin surgeries and / or treatments. Furthermore, they can become problematic in other operations that utilize high-brightness / high-illuminance light. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The technical problem to be solved by the present invention

[0007] The purpose of this invention is to provide a welding information providing device that eliminates the need for a wire connected to a separate power source by installing a battery, thereby improving the ease of operation for the user.

[0008] However, these problems are exemplary, and the scope of the invention is not limited thereto.

[0009] means for solving problems

[0010] To address the aforementioned problems, an embodiment of the present invention may include: a main body, configured to be worn by a user; a camera unit, including at least one camera mounted on the outside of the main body, for acquiring welding image frames related to welding operations; an image generation unit disposed inside the main body, for generating and providing welding images based on the welding image frames; a display unit for displaying the welding images provided by the image generation unit to the user; a processor for controlling the image generation unit to generate the welding images based on the welding image frames; and a power supply unit disposed in the main body for supplying power to at least one of the camera unit, the image generation unit, and the processor.

[0011] Additionally, a path changing unit may be included to guide the welding image provided by the image generation unit to the display unit.

[0012] In addition, the main body may also include a fixing part connected to one side of the main body to fix the main body to the user's head.

[0013] Additionally, the fixing part may include at least one fixing strap, formed to have a length capable of wrapping at least a portion of the user's head.

[0014] In addition, the power supply unit may be installed in the fixing unit.

[0015] In addition, the power supply unit includes at least one battery, which may be a rechargeable battery.

[0016] Invention Effects

[0017] The present invention can provide a welding information providing device that eliminates the need for wires connected to a separate power source by installing a battery, thereby improving the ease of operation for the user.

[0018] However, these problems are exemplary, and the scope of the invention is not limited to them. Attached Figure Description

[0019] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating the structure of a welding system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0020] Figure 2 This is a simplified block diagram illustrating the components of a welding system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0021] Figure 3 This is a perspective view of a welding information providing device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0022] Figure 4 It is along Figure 3 A sectional view taken by the X-X' line.

[0023] Figure 5 It is shown Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the first fixing part.

[0024] Figure 6 It is shown Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the second fixing part.

[0025] Figure 7 It is used for explanation Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the drive of the second fixed part.

[0026] Figure 8 This is a diagram illustrating a welding information providing device with a power supply unit according to an embodiment.

[0027] Figure 9 This is a diagram illustrating another embodiment of a welding information providing device with a power supply unit.

[0028] Figure 10 This is a diagram illustrating another embodiment of a welding information providing device with a power supply unit.

[0029] Figure 11 This is a diagram illustrating another embodiment of a welding information providing device with a power supply unit.

[0030] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0031] 10: Welding System

[0032] 100: Welding Information Providing Device

[0033] 101: Main Body

[0034] 110: Camera Department

[0035] 120: Image Generation Department

[0036] 130: Path Change Section

[0037] 140: Display Section

[0038] 150: Lens section

[0039] 160: Processor

[0040] 170: Sensor Department

[0041] 180: Fixed part

[0042] 190: Ministry of Communications

[0043] 1100, 1100', 1100”, 1100a: Power Supply Department

[0044] 200: Welding torch Detailed Implementation

[0045] This invention can be applied in various modifications and embodiments; therefore, specific embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings and described in detail in the accompanying description. The effects and features of the invention, as well as the methods of implementing them, are clarified with reference to the embodiments detailed in the accompanying drawings. However, the invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below and can be embodied in many other forms.

[0046] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. When referring to the drawings, the same or corresponding components are given the same reference numerals, and repeated descriptions are omitted.

[0047] In the following embodiments, terms such as first and second are used to distinguish one component from another, rather than having a limiting meaning.

[0048] In the following embodiments, singular expressions include plural expressions, unless the context clearly specifies otherwise.

[0049] In the following embodiments, terms such as "comprising" or "having" mean that the features or components described in the specification are present, rather than pre-excluding the possibility of adding more than one other feature or component.

[0050] In the accompanying drawings, the size of the components may be enlarged or reduced for ease of illustration. For example, the size and thickness of the components shown in the drawings are arbitrary for ease of illustration, and therefore the invention is not limited to the figures shown.

[0051] In the following embodiments, the x-axis, y-axis, and z-axis are not limited to the three axes in an orthogonal coordinate system, but can be interpreted in a general sense that includes these axes. For example, the x-axis, y-axis, and z-axis can be orthogonal to each other, but can also refer to different directions that are not orthogonal.

[0052] Where certain embodiments can be implemented differently, a particular process sequence may be performed differently than the order described. For example, two processes described consecutively may actually be performed simultaneously, or they may be performed in the reverse order of description.

[0053] Hereinafter, the welding information providing device 100 according to the present invention will be described in detail based on the above principles.

[0054] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating the structure of a welding system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0055] Reference Figure 1The welding system 10 of the present invention may include a welding information providing device 100 and a welding torch 200. The welding information providing device 100 and the welding torch 200 can be connected to each other via a communication network to send and receive data. The welding information providing device 100 and the welding torch 200 can operate in a one-to-one pair, but are not limited thereto, and can also operate in a one-to-n pair. That is, it can be implemented by connecting n welding torches 200 to one welding information providing device 100, or by connecting one welding torch 200 to n welding information providing devices 100. Furthermore, the welding information providing device 100 and the welding torch 200 can communicate with a separate server (not shown) to exchange data.

[0056] The welding information providing device 100 can provide welding status-related information to the user. Specifically, the welding information providing device 100 can acquire welding images using at least one camera module included in its camera unit, and generate a composite image based on these images for display to the user. In this case, the welding information providing device 100 can generate the composite image using High Dynamic Range (HDR) technology and provide a high-quality composite image for display to the user. The user can then visually confirm information about the weld shape and the surrounding environment, excluding the portion adjacent to the welding light, through the high-quality composite image.

[0057] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the welding information providing device 100 can acquire welding images by positioning the camera unit at the same position as the user's field of vision. Therefore, by acquiring welding images similar to those observed directly by the user at the work site, the welding information providing device 100 can provide the user with more accurate welding information.

[0058] Furthermore, the welding information providing device 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention can synthesize and provide high-quality welding images. For this purpose, images can be acquired using two or more camera modules, and each image can be displayed using at least one display unit. For example, the camera unit may include two cameras, which can be respectively positioned corresponding to the user's left and right eyes.

[0059] The welding information providing device 100 can synthesize an image by repeatedly taking pictures by changing the shutter speed, ISO sensitivity, and gain value of each camera. According to an embodiment of the present invention, the welding information providing device 100 can improve image quality by performing contrast processing on the synthesized image.

[0060] Furthermore, the welding information providing device 100 of the present invention can provide the function of displaying welding information in a preferred color (such as green, blue) using RGB. Additionally, the welding information providing device 100 of the present invention can provide a magnification correction function (such as zooming in and out). Furthermore, the welding information providing device 100 of the present invention can provide a temperature composite image using a separate thermal imaging camera. In this case, the welding information providing device 100 can display the welding temperature using color. The welding information providing device 100 of the present invention can support functions that provide information via sound (such as guidance prompts) or alert sounds for all the above-mentioned functions.

[0061] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the welding torch 200 can sense the welding status in real time through at least one sensor. This welding status includes welding temperature, welding direction, welding slope, welding speed, and the distance between the base material and the welding torch. The welding torch 200 can monitor its status and adjust the settings for the welding torch operation according to the welding status.

[0062] The welding information providing device 100 of the present invention can receive information about operation settings and operation status from the welding torch 200 through a communication network connected to the welding torch 200, and provide operation information to the user through visual feedback based on the received welding information.

[0063] For example, when the welding information providing device 100 receives sensing information about the welding temperature value, it can output a prompt corresponding to the temperature value in various ways, such as light, vibration, and information. At this time, the prompt can be visual feedback provided on the display of the welding information providing device 100, or auditory feedback through sound (e.g., guidance prompt) or prompt tone.

[0064] On the other hand, the sensing information regarding temperature values ​​can include information such as whether a preset temperature range has been exceeded. Additionally, the sensing information regarding temperature values ​​can include numerical values, grades, and levels corresponding to the temperature of the welding surface.

[0065] According to an embodiment of the present invention, if the welding information providing device 100 determines that the temperature values ​​of the welding torch and the welding surface exceed a preset temperature range, it can instruct the user to stop the operation. When welding exceeds the preset temperature range, there is a risk of quality deterioration; therefore, the user can be instructed to adjust the temperature value of the welding torch.

[0066] At this time, visual feedback can be provided by displaying a danger icon in a portion of the display area of ​​the welding information providing device 100 that displays the welding operation site. As another example, the welding information providing device 100 can provide operation stop guidance through visual feedback by repeatedly increasing and decreasing the saturation of a specific color (e.g., red) across the entire display screen.

[0067] According to one embodiment of the present invention, in addition to at least one sensor included in the welding torch 200, the welding information providing device 100 can also sense welding information through sensors included in the welding information providing device 100. In this case, the welding information providing device 100 can sense the welding status through at least one sensor, which includes factors related to real-time welding operations such as brightness, welding temperature, welding direction, welding slope, welding speed, and the distance between the base material and the welding torch.

[0068] Similarly, the welding information providing device 100 can provide guidance corresponding to the welding information based on the welding information sensed by the sensors included in the welding information providing device 100.

[0069] According to one embodiment of the present invention, after the welding information providing device 100 provides guidance on stopping operation, it can change the operation of the welding torch 200 by sensing preset user actions or preset user voices.

[0070] In another embodiment, when communication with the welding torch 200 is impaired, the welding information providing device 100 can acquire the temperature values ​​of the welding torch and the welding surface through its own configured image sensors. For example, the welding information providing device 100 can acquire the temperature values ​​of the welding torch and the welding surface based on image data acquired by a thermal imaging camera.

[0071] The above example only describes the case where the information received from the welding torch 200 is welding temperature information, and the welding information providing device 100 can provide various guidance on various welding information.

[0072] Figure 2 This is a simplified block diagram illustrating the components of a welding system according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 3 This is a perspective view of a welding information providing device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 4 It is along Figure 3 A sectional view taken by the X-X' line.

[0073] Reference Figures 2 to 4 The welding system 10 may include a welding information providing device 100 and a welding torch 200. The welding information providing device 100 may include a main body 101, a camera unit 110, an image generating unit 120, a path changing unit 130, a display unit 140, a lens unit 150, a processor 160, a sensor unit 170, and a communication unit 190. In addition, the welding information providing device 100 is disposed on the back of the main body 101, and may include a fixing part 180 for fixing the welding information providing device 100 to the user's head.

[0074] The main body 101 is used to protect the user's face and can be designed to be worn by the user. The main body 101 can be made of a material with a certain strength, such as reinforced plastic, but the present invention is not limited to this. Various materials can be used as long as they are resistant to factors such as sparks that may occur during welding.

[0075] The main body 101 can be fixed to the user's head by a fixing part 180 disposed on the inner side of the main body 101. The fixing part 180 may have a structure including multiple ribs, such as a head gear, and elements including soft materials such as fibrous materials or cushioning materials may be disposed on at least a portion of the inner side that is in direct contact with the operator's head.

[0076] The camera unit 110 may include at least one camera mounted on the outside of the body 101, and acquire welding image frames related to the welding operation.

[0077] The camera unit 110 can receive control commands from the processor 160 and, in response to the control commands, change settings such as shutter speed, ISO sensitivity, and gain to capture welding operation phenomena.

[0078] As one embodiment, the camera unit 110 may be located on the front surface of the main body 101 corresponding to the user's field of view. The camera unit 110 may include a camera to acquire welding image frames related to the welding operation, but the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0079] As another embodiment, the camera unit 110 may also configure two cameras at positions corresponding to the user's left and right eyes, respectively. As yet another embodiment, the camera unit 110 may also include a camera that captures and acquires welding image frames at positions other than the front surface of the main body 101 corresponding to the user's field of vision.

[0080] The camera unit 110 may include an outer cover unit for protecting the camera. The outer cover unit may include an outer cover frame 111, an outer cover plate 112, and a light-blocking box 113.

[0081] The outer cover frame 111 can perform the function of attaching the camera unit 110 to the main body 101.

[0082] An outer cover 112 may be disposed in front of the light-blocking box 113 to protect the light-blocking box 113. The outer cover 112 may include a light-transmitting material, such as a transparent material. The outer cover 112 may include a resin material such as polycarbonate or acrylate, and may be injection molded.

[0083] The light-blocking box 113 can block the welding light generated during welding. That is, the light-blocking box 113 can be blackened based on welding light information sensed by the sensor unit 170 (e.g., a photoelectric sensor), thereby increasing the light-blocking degree of the light-blocking box. In this case, the light-blocking box 113 may include a liquid crystal panel (LCD panel), and the degree of blackening can be adjusted according to the alignment direction of the liquid crystal. For example, the light-blocking box 113 can be implemented using various panels such as vertically aligned (VA) liquid crystal displays (LCDs), twisted nematic (TN) LCDs, and in-plane switching (IPS) LCDs.

[0084] The blackening degree of the light blocking box 113 can be automatically adjusted according to the brightness of the welding light. As described above, when the blackening degree is automatically adjusted according to the brightness of the welding light, the sensor unit 170 can be used. The sensor unit 170 can acquire welding light information by sensing the intensity of the welding light, and transmit the information about the intensity of the welding light included in the welding light information as a predetermined electrical signal to the processor 160 described later. The processor 160 can control the blackening degree based on the intensity of the welding light.

[0085] The light blocking box 113 can change the light blocking degree of the panel in real time to correspond to the intensity of light generated on the welding surface at the welding operation site, and the camera unit 110 can capture welding images with a certain amount of welding light being blocked by the light blocking box 113 set on the front surface.

[0086] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the welding information providing device 100 may not include the light blocking box 113. In this case, the user can perform the welding operation using only the welding image acquired by the camera unit 110.

[0087] The camera unit 110 according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a thermal imaging camera. The welding information providing device 100 can acquire a temperature image by combining a thermal imaging image acquired by the thermal imaging camera with an image about the welding site.

[0088] According to one embodiment of the present invention, an illumination unit (not shown) electrically connected to the processor 160 may be further included. The illumination unit (not shown) is located outside the welding information providing device 100 and is configured to illuminate at least the welding work area. The illumination unit (not shown) may include multiple LED modules, and the output level of the light illuminating the area through the illumination unit (not shown) can be adjusted by the control of the processor 160. According to one embodiment, the illumination unit (not shown) can operate in conjunction with the operation of the camera unit 110 according to the control of the processor 160.

[0089] The image generation unit 120 is disposed inside the main body 101 and can generate welding images based on welding image frames acquired by the camera unit 110 and provide them to the user. The image generation unit 120 can directly provide welding images acquired by the camera unit 110, or it can provide high-quality composite images including welding information.

[0090] For example, the image generation unit 120 can provide high-quality composite images so that the user can visually confirm the surrounding environment (e.g., the shape of the pre-operated weld seam) except for the part adjacent to the welding light. In addition, the image generation unit 120 can provide the user with visual feedback on the welding progress status (e.g., welding direction) and guide the welding operation.

[0091] The image generation unit 120 may include a display panel that generates light including welding image information and an optical system that diffuses light from the display panel. The image generation unit 120 may be configured as a projector that can generate and project welding images through the display panel and the optical system.

[0092] The display panel of the image generation unit 120 can generate and emit light including welding image information. The display panel can be a liquid crystal display (LCD), an organic light-emitting diode (OLED), a light-emitting diode (LED), or a liquid crystal on silicon (LCos), but is not limited to these.

[0093] The image generation unit 120 is disposed inside the main body 101, and can be disposed at a position where the welding image is indirectly provided by the path changing unit 130, rather than at a position where the welding image is directly provided to the user's field of vision.

[0094] As one embodiment, the image generation unit 120 can be configured to provide the welding image in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis AX1 of the camera unit 110. In other words, as Figure 4 As shown, the image generation unit 120 is located near the user's forehead and can provide welding images to the path changing unit 130.

[0095] The path changing unit 130 can perform the function of guiding the user's eyes by changing the path of the welding image provided by the image generation unit 120. For example, the path changing unit 130 may include a mirror that reflects the welding image, a color combining prism, a dichroic filter, etc.

[0096] Therefore, the welding information providing device 100 can be constructed in a relatively small size. For example, such as Figure 4 As shown, the image generation unit 120 can be configured in different positions, such as near the user's forehead, thereby miniaturizing the size of the welding information providing device. In other words, the limitation that welding information providing devices cannot be expanded to any size due to the characteristic that welding operations need to be performed while the user is wearing them directly can be solved.

[0097] However, although the path changing part 130 is shown in the drawings as including a mirror, the technical concept of the present invention is not limited thereto. By including more mirrors or components that can change the path, the path of the welding image can be changed.

[0098] Welding images whose paths are changed by the path changing unit 130 can be provided to the display unit 140.

[0099] Display unit 140 may be a unit that displays welding images provided by image generation unit 120 to a user. That is, display unit 140 can transmit and provide a high-definition composite image of the welding operation to the user.

[0100] The display unit 140 can be configured to correspond to the position of the user's eyes, and is positioned between the path changing unit 130 and the user's eyes, so as to provide the user with a welding image by transmitting a welding image. The display unit 140 can be configured to be closer to the lens unit 150 (described later) than the path changing unit 130.

[0101] As an example, the display unit 140 can be configured as a single unit. For instance, a user can obtain welding images by viewing the display unit 140 with both eyes simultaneously.

[0102] As another example, the display unit 140 can be configured in two. For example, the display unit 140 can be configured in two to correspond to the user's left eye and right eye respectively, and each display unit 140 can provide welding images to the user's left eye and right eye respectively.

[0103] For example, the display unit 140 can be formed from a rear projection screen. The welding image provided by the image generation unit 120 can be projected onto the back of the screen via the path changing unit 130, and the welding image can be displayed on the screen surface. The welding image displayed on the screen surface can be provided to the user's eyes. However, the display unit 140 is not limited to this, and can be implemented by various display technologies that provide the user with the welding image provided by the image generation unit 120 by transmission.

[0104] The welding information providing device 100 may include a lens unit 150 for transmitting welding images transmitted from the display unit 140 to the user's eyes at close range. According to an embodiment of the present invention, the welding information providing device 100 provides welding images through a display unit 140 located at a certain distance from the user. However, since it is difficult for the human eye to focus on objects that are too close, the focus can be adjusted by positioning the lens unit 150 between the display unit 140 and the user's eyes.

[0105] The lens 150 is positioned along the path of the welding image transmitted from the display unit 140, allowing the size of the welding image to be adjusted and provided to the user's eyes. By positioning the lens 150 between the display unit 140 and the user's eyes, the distance between the user's eyes and the display unit 140 can be reduced, thus enabling a compact size for the welding information providing device 100. Consequently, even in a confined space within the welding information providing device 100, the user can ensure a wide field of view and a clear image.

[0106] On the other hand, the distance between the display unit 140 and the lens unit 150 can be shorter than the focal length of the lens unit 150. Furthermore, the lens unit 150 can project the welding image transmitted from the display unit 140 as a virtual image in front of the user. Therefore, the user can perceive the welding image as being farther away than the actual display unit 140, and can view the welding image displayed on the display unit 140 as a magnified virtual image, thus achieving a wide viewing angle.

[0107] The lens section 150 can be made of glass, plastic, or other materials. In the case of plastic, various transparent resins such as styrene resin (including (meth)acrylic) resin and polycarbonate resin can be used. Furthermore, each lens in the lens section 150 can be coated with a filter film that blocks light of a specific wavelength. For example, the lens section 150 may include lenses coated with a filter film that blocks cyan light.

[0108] The processor 160 can generate a high-quality composite image by synthesizing welding image frames received by the camera unit 110. The processor 160 can acquire a composite image by setting different shooting conditions for each frame by the camera unit 110 and synthesizing frames acquired in chronological order in parallel. Specifically, the processor 160 can control the camera unit 110 to change the shutter speed, ISO sensitivity, and gain of the camera unit 110 for shooting.

[0109] At this time, the processor 160 can set different shooting conditions based on the sensed welding light, ambient light, and the degree of movement of the welding torch 200 at the welding site. Specifically, the processor 160 can set the shooting conditions to reduce the ISO sensitivity and gain as the welding light and / or ambient light at the welding site increase. In addition, when the movement and / or operation speed of the welding torch 200 is sensed to be fast, the shooting conditions can be set to increase the shutter speed.

[0110] The processor 160 can synthesize images of a preset number of frames in parallel. According to one embodiment of the invention, each image within the preset frame can be captured under different shooting conditions.

[0111] According to one embodiment of the present invention, when the camera unit 110 has two or more cameras, the processor 160 can control the shooting by setting different shooting conditions for each camera. Even in this case, the processor 160 can synthesize a preset number of frames of images in parallel.

[0112] Furthermore, the processor 160 can control the image generation unit 120 to generate a welding image based on the welding image frames acquired from the camera unit 110. At this time, the processor 160 can control the size, brightness, contrast, and other settings of the welding image provided to the user.

[0113] Processor 160 can control the overall operation of welding information providing device 100 using various programs stored in memory (not shown). For example, processor 160 may include a central processing unit (CPU), random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), and a system bus. The ROM is configured to store the instruction set required for system startup. The CPU, based on the instructions stored in the ROM, copies the operating system stored in the memory of welding information providing device 100 into the RAM and runs the O / S to start the system. After startup, the CPU copies various application programs stored in the memory into the RAM and runs them to perform various actions. Although processor 160 has been described above as including only one CPU, it can be implemented using multiple CPUs (or digital signal processors (DSPs) and system-on-chip (SoCs), etc.).

[0114] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the processor 160 may be implemented as a digital signal processor (DSP), a microprocessor, and / or a time controller (TCON) for processing digital signals. However, it is not limited to this and may include one or more of a central processing unit (CPU), a microcontroller unit (MCU), a microprocessor unit (MPU), a controller, an application processor (AP), a communication processor (CP), or an ARM processor, or as defined by the corresponding terminology. Furthermore, the processor 160 may be implemented as a system-on-a-chip (SoC) with built-in processing algorithms, a large-scale integrated circuit (LSI), or a field-programmable gate array (FPGA).

[0115] The sensor unit 170 may include multiple sensor modules configured to sense various information about the welding site and acquire welding information. This welding information may include welding temperature, welding direction, welding slope, welding speed, and the distance between the base material and the welding torch, etc., related to the real-time welding operation. Furthermore, the sensor unit 170 may include a light sensor module configured to detect at least the light intensity within the welding operation area.

[0116] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the sensor unit 170 may include an illuminance sensor, in which case the sensor unit 170 can acquire information about the welding light intensity at the welding site. In addition to the illuminance sensor, the sensor unit 170 may also include various sensors such as a proximity sensor, a noise sensor, a video sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, and a radio frequency (RF) sensor, and can sense various changes related to the welding operation environment.

[0117] The communication unit 190 is configured to receive welding information from the welding torch 200 and send instructions for controlling the welding torch 200. According to one embodiment of the present invention, the communication unit 190 can transmit composite images to an external device other than the welding torch 200. In this case, the external device may include various devices with communication modules, such as smartphones or computers belonging to the operator / third party.

[0118] Communication unit 190 can be configured to perform communication with various types of external devices according to various communication methods. Communication unit 190 may include at least one of Wi-Fi chip, Bluetooth chip, wireless communication chip, and NFC chip. Especially when using Wi-Fi chip or Bluetooth chip, various connection information such as SSID and session key can be sent and received first, thereby establishing a communication connection and sending and receiving various information. Wireless communication chip refers to a chip that performs communication according to various communication standards such as the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), Zigbee, 3G (3rd Generation), 3GPP (3rd Generation Partnership Project), and Long Term Evolution (LTE). NFC chip refers to a chip that operates in various radio frequency identification (RF-ID) frequency bands such as 135kHz, 13.56MHz, 433MHz, 860-960MHz, and 2.45GHz using near field communication (NFC) mode with the 13.56MHz frequency band.

[0119] On the other hand, the welding torch 200 may include a separate communication unit, a sensor unit, and a second processor.

[0120] The communication unit sends data to and receives data from the welding information providing device 100. The communication unit may include modules capable of short-range wireless communication (e.g., Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi-Direct) or long-range wireless communication (3G, High-Speed ​​Downlink Packet Access (HSDPA)) or Long Term Evolution (LTE).

[0121] The sensor unit or second sensor is included in the welding torch and is configured to sense welding conditions such as welding temperature, welding speed, welding slope, welding direction, and the distance between the base material and the welding torch.

[0122] The sensor unit can sense at least one of various changes, such as changes in the posture of the user holding the welding torch 200, changes in the illumination of the welding surface, and changes in the acceleration of the welding torch 200, and transmit the corresponding electrical signal to the second processor. That is, the sensor unit can sense state changes based on the welding torch, generate a sensing signal based on this, and transmit it to the second processor.

[0123] In this disclosure, the sensor unit may include various sensors. When the welding torch 200 is driven, power can be supplied to at least one preset sensor according to control (or based on user settings) to sense changes in the state of the welding torch 200.

[0124] In this configuration, the sensor unit may include at least one of various types of sensing devices capable of detecting changes in the state of the welding torch 200. For example, the sensor may include at least one of various sensing devices such as an acceleration sensor, a gyroscope sensor, an illuminance sensor, a proximity sensor, a pressure sensor, a noise sensor, a video sensor, and a gravity sensor. The light intensity within the welding operation area sensed by the illuminance sensor of the welding torch 200 can be transmitted to the processor 160 via the communication unit. The processor 160 may control the lighting unit (not shown) and / or the camera unit 110 based on the light intensity transmitted by the illuminance sensor of the welding torch 200, without relying on the sensor unit 170 of the welding information providing device 100.

[0125] On the other hand, the accelerometer is a component used to sense the movement of the welding torch 200. Specifically, the accelerometer can measure dynamic forces such as acceleration, vibration, and impact of the welding torch 200, and therefore can measure the movement of the welding torch 200.

[0126] A gravity sensor is a component used to sense the direction of gravity. That is, the results from the gravity sensor can be used together with the accelerometer to determine the movement of the welding torch 200. Additionally, the gravity sensor can be used to determine the orientation in which the welding torch 200 is held.

[0127] In addition to the types of sensors mentioned above, the welding torch 200 may also include various types of sensors, such as gyroscope sensors, geomagnetic sensors, ultrasonic sensors and RF sensors, and can sense various changes related to the welding operation environment.

[0128] Figure 5 It is shown Figure 4A schematic diagram of the first fixing part 181. Figure 6 It is shown Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the second fixing part 182. Figure 7 It is used for explanation Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the drive of the second fixing part 182.

[0129] Reference Figures 5 to 7 The fixing part 180 may be provided on the main body 101. For example, the fixing part 180 may be provided on at least one side of the main body 101. The fixing part 180 may cover at least a portion of the user's head. For example, the fixing part 180 may include at least one fixing strap, which is formed to have a length capable of covering at least a portion of the user's head.

[0130] As one embodiment, a fixing part 180 may be included. For example, the fixing part 180 may include at least one of a first fixing part 181 disposed above the user's head and a second fixing part 182 disposed behind the user's head.

[0131] Refer again Figure 5 The first fixing part 181 can be disposed above the user's head. For example, the first fixing part 181 may include a first fastening member 1811 and a first fixing strap 1812, which can be inserted into the inside of the first fastening member 1811 and is formed to have a length to wrap around at least a portion of the upper part of the user's head.

[0132] As one embodiment, the surface of the first fixing strap 1812 may be formed with a plurality of snap-fit ​​teeth. Correspondingly, the inner side of the first fastening member 1811 may be formed with snap-fit ​​ridges. Therefore, after wearing the main body 101, the user can adjust the length of the first fixing strap 1812 by pushing the first fixing strap 1812 into the inner side of the first fastening member 1811.

[0133] Specifically, the locking teeth may be formed at an angle, and the locking ridges may be formed to protrude so as to clamp between each locking tooth to allow movement in one direction but prevent movement in the opposite direction. Therefore, when the user pushes the first retaining band 1812 into the inside of the first fastening member 1811, the locking teeth can pass through the locking ridges, but the user cannot move the first retaining band 1812 in the opposite direction.

[0134] Additionally, the first fastening member 1811 may also include a unit for disengaging the snap-fit ​​edge from the snap-fit ​​teeth. For example, the snap-fit ​​edge can be disengaged from the snap-fit ​​teeth by the user's operation, in which case the first retaining strap 1812 can be disengaged from the first fastening member 1811.

[0135] Accordingly, the user can adjust the length of the first fixing strap 1812 to correspond to the size of their head.

[0136] Refer again Figure 6 as well as Figure 7 The first fixing part 181 can be disposed behind the user's head. For example, the second fixing part 182 may include a second fastening member 1821 and a second fixing strap 1822, which can be inserted into the inside of the second fastening member 1821 and is formed to have a length capable of wrapping at least a portion of the user's head.

[0137] As one embodiment, the surface of the second fixing band 1822 may be formed with a plurality of snap-fit ​​teeth. Correspondingly, the inner side of the second fastening member 1821 may be formed with snap-fit ​​ridges.

[0138] As an optional embodiment, the second fastening member 1821 can be driven in a rotating manner. For example, the second fastening member 1821 may include a rotating member that is linked to a locking ridge formed on the inner side of the second fastening member 1821, so that when the user rotates the rotating member, the locking ridge can also move together. At this time, since the locking ridge engages with the locking teeth of the second fixing band 1822, when the user rotates the rotating member, the second fixing band 1822 can be inserted into the inner side of the second fastening member 1821 or pulled outward.

[0139] Therefore, the user can easily adjust the length of the second fixing part 182. That is, for example, even when the user is holding the welding torch with one hand, they can easily adjust the welding information providing device 100 to correspond to the size of their head by simply operating the rotating component.

[0140] Figure 8 This is a diagram illustrating a welding information providing device 100 with a power supply unit 1100 according to an embodiment.

[0141] Reference Figure 8 According to an embodiment of the present invention, the welding information providing device 100 may further include a power supply unit 1100.

[0142] The power supply unit 1100 can be located in the main body 101.

[0143] The power supply unit 1100 can supply power to at least one of the camera unit 110, image generation unit 120, processor 160, sensor unit 170 and communication unit 190.

[0144] As one embodiment, the power supply unit 1100 may include a battery 1110. For example, the battery 1110 may power a plurality of components constituting the welding information providing device 100.

[0145] As an optional embodiment, battery 1110 can be a rechargeable battery 1110. Therefore, battery 1110 can be recharged.

[0146] For example, when the welding information providing device 100 is not in use, the user can charge the battery 1110. Thereafter, when the welding information providing device 100 is used, the charging of the battery 1110 can be stopped, power can be obtained from the battery 1110, and the welding information providing device 100 can be used.

[0147] The battery 1110 according to the present invention can be any one of a nickel battery 1110, an ion battery 1110, a lithium-ion battery 1110, a lithium polymer battery 1110, a lithium-sulfur battery 1110, and a polymer battery 1110. However, in addition to these, it can be used as the battery 1110 according to the present invention if it can be repeatedly charged and discharged.

[0148] At least one of the camera unit 110, image generation unit 120, processor 160, sensor unit 170, and communication unit 190 constituting the welding information providing device 100 consumes power. Therefore, the welding information providing device 100 is usually used with a wired connection to an external power source. However, due to the characteristics of the welding site, wearing a wired welding information providing device 100 while performing welding operations can be inconvenient for the user.

[0149] However, the welding information providing device 100 according to the present invention includes a power supply unit 1100, thereby solving these problems. That is, since the power supply unit 1100 mounted on the main body 101 supplies power to each structure constituting the welding information providing device 100, it does not need to be wired to an external power source. Therefore, when the welding information providing device 100 is not in use, the user can charge the battery 1110 of the power supply unit 1100, and when the welding information providing device 100 is in use, welding operations can be performed while only wearing the welding information providing device 100, without the need for a separate wired connection.

[0150] Refer again Figure 8 The power supply unit 1100 can be installed in the first fixed unit 181.

[0151] The power supply unit 1100 may include a battery 1110 and a battery fixing member 1120.

[0152] As described above, battery 1110 can be a unit that powers each structure constituting welding information providing device 100. Battery fixing member 1120 can be a unit for mounting battery 1110. For example, battery 1110 can be inserted into battery fixing member 1120, and battery fixing member 1120 can be connected to first fixing part 181.

[0153] The battery retaining member 1120 may have a space for inserting the battery 1110. Alternatively, the battery 1110 may be detached from the space provided in the battery retaining member 1120. For example, the battery 1110 may be separated from the battery retaining member 1120, in which case only the battery 1110 is charged, and then the charged battery 1110 is inserted into the battery retaining member 1120, thereby powering the welding information providing device 100.

[0154] As a specific embodiment, the power supply unit 1100 may be provided in the first fastening member 1811. Therefore, even when the first fixing strap 1812 is inserted into the inside of the first fastening member 1811 or disengaged from the first fastening member 1811, the power supply unit 1100 can remain fixed in its original position.

[0155] Figure 9 This is a diagram illustrating another embodiment of a welding information providing device 100 having a power supply unit 1100'.

[0156] For ease of explanation, content that is repeated in the previously described embodiments will be omitted or briefly explained.

[0157] The welding information providing device 100 according to this embodiment may further include a power supply unit 1100'. In this case, the power supply unit 1100' may be provided in the main body 101, for example, it may be provided in the second fixing part 182.

[0158] The power supply unit 1100' may include a battery 1110' and a battery fixing member 1120'.

[0159] As described above, battery 1110' can be a unit that powers each structure constituting welding information providing device 100. Battery fixing member 1120' can be a unit for mounting battery 1110'. For example, battery 1110' can be inserted into battery fixing member 1120', and battery fixing member 1120' can be connected to second fixing part 182.

[0160] The battery retaining member 1120' may have a space for inserting the battery 1110'. Alternatively, the battery 1110' can be detached from the space provided in the battery retaining member 1120'. For example, the battery 1110' can be separated from the battery retaining member 1120', in which case only the battery 1110' is charged, and then the charged battery 1110' is inserted into the battery retaining member 1120', thereby powering the welding information providing device 100.

[0161] In a specific embodiment, the power supply unit 1100' may be provided in the second fastening member 1821. Therefore, even when the second fixing strap 1822 is inserted into the inside of the second fastening member 1821 or disengaged from the second fastening member 1821, the power supply unit 1100' can remain fixed in its original position.

[0162] Figure 10 This is a diagram showing a welding information providing device 100 with a power supply unit 1100” according to another embodiment.

[0163] For ease of explanation, content that is repeated in the previously described embodiments will be omitted or briefly explained.

[0164] The welding information providing device 100 according to this embodiment may further include a power supply unit 1100. In this case, the power supply unit 1100 may be provided in the main body 101. For example, the main body 101 may also include a third fixing belt 1130 connected to the power supply unit 1100.

[0165] The power supply unit 1100 may include a battery 1110 and a battery fixing component 1120.

[0166] As described above, battery 1110” can be a unit that powers each structure constituting welding information providing device 100. Battery fixing member 1120” can be a unit that mounts battery 1110”. For example, battery 1110” can be inserted into battery fixing member 1120”, and battery fixing member 1120” can be connected to third fixing strap 1130”.

[0167] The battery retaining member 1120” may have a space for inserting the battery 1110”. As an alternative embodiment, the battery 1110” can be detached from the space provided in the battery retaining member 1120”. For example, the battery 1110” can be separated from the battery retaining member 1120”, in which case only the battery 1110” is charged, and then the charged battery 1110” is inserted into the battery retaining member 1120”, thereby powering the welding information providing device 100.

[0168] As a specific embodiment, the power supply unit 1100” can be provided on the third fixing strap 1130”. That is, the main body 101 can also include the third fixing strap 1130 for providing the power supply unit 1100”. The power supply unit 1100” can be stably fixed on the main body 101 by being connected to the third fixing strap 1130”, and can be supported by the user’s head when the user wears the welding information providing device 100.

[0169] Figure 11This is a diagram showing a welding information providing device 100 with a power supply unit 1100a according to another embodiment.

[0170] For ease of explanation, content that is repeated in the previously described embodiments will be omitted or briefly explained.

[0171] The welding information providing device 100 according to this embodiment may further include a power supply unit 1100a. In this case, the power supply unit 1100a may be provided on the main body 101, for example, the power supply unit 1100a may be provided on the surface of the main body 101.

[0172] The power supply unit 1100a may include a battery 1110a and a battery fixing member 1120a.

[0173] As described above, battery 1110a can be a unit that powers each structure constituting welding information providing device 100. Battery fixing member 1120a can be a unit for mounting battery 1110a. For example, battery 1110a can be inserted into battery fixing member 1120a, and battery fixing member 1120a can be fixed to the surface of body 101.

[0174] The battery retaining member 1120a may have a space for inserting the battery 1110a. Alternatively, the battery 1110a can be detached from the space provided in the battery retaining member 1120a. For example, the battery 1110a can be separated from the battery retaining member 1120a, in which case only the battery 1110a is charged, and then the charged battery 1110a is inserted into the battery retaining member 1120a, thereby supplying power to the welding information providing device 100.

[0175] In the accompanying drawings, the power supply unit 1100a is shown fixed to the upper outer surface of the main body 101, but it is not limited thereto; it may also be fixed to the side, front, or lower outer surface of the main body 101. Alternatively, the power supply unit 1100a may also be fixed to the inner surface of the main body 101.

[0176] As described above, although the invention has been described with reference to the embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings, it should be understood that these are merely exemplary, and those skilled in the art can make various modifications and equivalent embodiments therein. Therefore, the true scope of protection of the invention should be defined by the technical concept of the appended claims.

[0177] The specific embodiments described in the examples are merely one example and are not intended to limit the scope of the embodiments in any way. For the sake of simplicity, descriptions of existing electronic structures, control systems, software, and other functional aspects of said systems may be omitted. Furthermore, the connections or connecting members between the components shown in the drawings are exemplary illustrations of functional connections and / or physical or electrical connections, which may be represented as various alternative or additional functional connections, physical connections, or electrical connections in actual devices. Additionally, unless specifically stated as "essential" or "important," these components may not be essential for applying the invention.

[0178] In the description of the embodiments (especially within the scope of the claims), the use of the term "described" and similar descriptive terms may apply to both the singular and plural. Additionally, when a range is described in the embodiments, it includes the application of individual values ​​belonging to the range (unless otherwise stated), which is equivalent to describing in the detailed description the individual values ​​constituting the range. Finally, for the steps constituting the method according to the embodiments, unless explicitly stated in order or in reverse order, the steps may be performed in an appropriate order. The embodiments are not necessarily limited by the order in which the steps are described. In the embodiments, all embodiments or exemplary terms (e.g., etc.) are used only for the purpose of describing the embodiments in detail, and the embodiments or exemplary terms do not limit the scope of the embodiments unless limited by the scope of the claims. Furthermore, it is understood that those skilled in the art can construct the embodiments according to design conditions and factors within the scope of the claims or their equivalents, with various modifications, combinations, and variations.

Claims

1. A welding information providing device, wherein, include: The main body is designed in a way that allows the user to wear it; The camera unit includes at least one camera mounted on the outside of the main body, and acquires welding image frames related to the welding operation; An image generation unit, disposed inside the main body, generates and provides a welding image based on the welding image frame; The display unit displays the welding image provided by the image generation unit to the user; The processor controls the image generation unit to generate the welding image based on the welding image frame; A power supply unit, located in the main body, supplies power to at least one of the camera unit, the image generation unit, and the processor; as well as A fixing part, connected to one side of the main body, secures the main body to the user's head. The fixing part includes a fastening member and a fixing strap, the fixing strap being inserted into the fastening member and having a length capable of wrapping at least a portion of the user's head. The power supply unit is installed on the fastening member, so that the power supply unit remains fixed when the fixing strap is inserted into or detached from the fastening member.

2. The welding information providing device according to claim 1, wherein, It also includes a path changing unit that guides the welding image provided by the image generation unit to the display unit.

3. The welding information providing device according to claim 1, wherein, The power supply unit includes at least one battery. The battery is a secondary battery.

4. The welding information providing device according to claim 1, wherein, The fastening member is a first fastening member positioned above the user's head.

5. The welding information providing device according to claim 1, wherein, The fastening member is a second fastening member disposed behind the user's head.

Images