Hearing protector with photovoltaic element and method for retrofitting hearing protector with photovoltaic element

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a hearing protector (10) comprising two earmuffs (12, 14) and a headband (16) for holding the earmuffs (12, 14) in place when worn by a user (100). At least one of the earmuffs (12, 14) further comprises an active component (30). The hearing protector (10) further comprises a photovoltaic element (80) attached to the headband (16) for powering the active components (40A, 40B) and electrically connected to the active components (40A, 40B) of the earmuffs (12, 14). The present disclosure also relates to a method of retrofitting a hearing protector (10) with a photovoltaic element (80). Such a hearing protector (10) is beneficial because the photovoltaic element (80) provides electrical energy to the active components (40A, 40B) of the hearing protector (10), thereby being able to extend the operating time and battery life of the battery present at the hearing protector (10), respectively. Furthermore, the supply of energy for the active components (40A, 40B) can be partially or completely independent of such a battery (30) depending on light conditions. An increase in security can be achieved, in particular if the active component (40A, 40B) is related to security, i.e. If the active component (30) includes voice communications or collects environmental data by sensors.

Description

[0001] The present disclosure relates to hearing protectors having photovoltaic elements and methods of retrofitting hearing protectors with photovoltaic elements.

[0002] Hearing protectors such as personal protective equipment (PPE) are usually used in noisy environments to protect the hearing of the wearer from the influence of noise at a potentially harmful noise level. Typically, the hearing protector has two earmuffs or cups that cover the ears of the wearer or user and are connected to each other by a headband. Each cup is also usually formed by a rigid shell, which is equipped with a sound-absorbing or noise-damping material, such as a foaming material, for reducing unwanted ambient noise. In addition to passive noise reduction or elimination, the hearing protector may also include active noise reduction or elimination, which uses such a technology: wherein the ambient sound is captured by a microphone and the reversed sound waves (i.e., sound waves that are just out of phase) are being generated and played to the user via a speaker in a headset in parallel with the ambient noise that reaches the user's ear. Typically, these opposite sound waves collide and eliminate or cancel each other. The hearing protector may also include other active components, such as an active communication device including a speaker and an electronic circuit, wherein the electronic circuit may be configured to drive the speaker. Such active components may also include a wireless communication interface and a microphone for realizing voice communication. Furthermore, sensors for obtaining information about the surroundings of the hearing protector and / or its user may also be envisaged as active components. Such hearing protectors may be described, for example, in WO 2018 / 002883 A or WO 2019 / 104172 A. The hearing protector may be worn for a long time and may therefore require a sufficiently long operating time. Typically, the electrical energy for operating the active components is provided by a battery, which may be of a single-use type or may be rechargeable. Battery life is therefore important for the operating time and functionality of the hearing protector, in particular because some of the aforementioned active components may be relevant to the safety of the user, such as voice communication or collecting environmental data by sensors.

[0003] Therefore, there is a need to improve hearing protectors so that they provide functionality for a sufficiently long period of time, and in particular to improve the operating time of hearing protectors.

[0004] In a first aspect, the present disclosure relates to a hearing protector comprising two earmuffs, each earmuff comprising a cushion, a housing defining a hollow space therein, and a sound absorbing material. The hearing protector comprises a headband for holding the earmuffs in place when worn by a user. At least one of the earmuffs comprises an active component. The hearing protector comprises a photovoltaic element for powering the active component. The photovoltaic element is attached to the headband. The photovoltaic element is electrically connected to the active component of the earmuff. An advantage of such a hearing protector is that the photovoltaic element provides the electrical energy required to operate the active component of the hearing protector. Depending on the lighting conditions and the electrical energy provided by the photovoltaic element, the energy supply of the active component can be partially or completely independent of a battery that may be present at the hearing protector and / or the operating time can be extended so that the active component can operate for a longer time. In addition, an extension of the battery life and a recharging of the battery can be achieved by such a hearing protector, in particular when the hearing protector is not in use or even in use, depending on the lighting conditions and the electrical energy yield of the photovoltaic element. The safety of the user can thereby also be increased, in particular if active components of the hearing protector are relevant to safety, such as voice communication and / or the collection of environmental data by sensors.

[0005] In a second aspect, the present disclosure relates to a method for retrofitting a hearing protector with a photovoltaic element. The hearing protector comprises two earmuffs and a headband for holding the earmuffs in place when worn by a user. At least one of the earmuffs comprises an active component. The method comprises the following steps: providing a hearing protector comprising two earmuffs and a headband for holding the earmuffs in place when worn by a user, wherein at least one of the earmuffs comprises an active component; providing an elongated photovoltaic element; attaching the photovoltaic element to the headband; electrically connecting the photovoltaic element to the active component of the hearing protector. The earmuffs each comprise a pad, a housing having a hollow space defined therein, and a sound absorbing material. The benefit of such a retrofit method is that a hearing protector that initially does not have a photovoltaic element is provided with a photovoltaic element, which enables the hearing protector to have an improved power supply as described above for the hearing protector according to the first aspect of the present disclosure, in particular providing power from the photovoltaic element to the active component of the hearing protector, and extending the operating time and battery life of a battery present at the hearing protector, respectively. The hearing protector so retrofitted has the same advantages as described above for the hearing protector according to the first aspect of the present disclosure.

[0006] Hearing protectors typically have two hoods or caps that cover the wearer's ears and are connected to each other by a headband. Each cup is also typically formed by a rigid shell that is provided with a sound absorbing or noise damping material, such as a foam material. Each cup has an ear-facing side that faces toward the user's ear when in use, and a closed side that faces away from the user's ear. Typically, the material used for the cushion comprises a porous or foamed material. Alternatively, the material comprises a non-porous or non-foamed material, such as a material having a theoretical density of 1.1 g / cm 3 With 1.2g / cm 3 The material and structure of the cushion generally provide elastic properties, allowing the cushion to fit tightly and sealingly with the skin of the user or wearer. It is also contemplated to include rubber as a material for the cushion. The cushion can be cut or formed to achieve a desired size and shape.

[0007] Active or passive noise reduction or elimination within the meaning of the present disclosure is understood as a measure in a hearing protector to reduce unwanted ambient sound or noise. This can be achieved by passive measures, for example, the cup and / or padding of the headset comprises a sound absorbing or noise damping material, and wherein the padding covers the user's ears, i.e. passive noise elimination can be achieved by using a sound absorbing or noise damping material that prevents noise from being conducted into the earmuffs. This also includes noise absorption. As an alternative or supplement to passive noise reduction or elimination, active noise reduction or elimination uses a technique in which the ambient sound is captured by a microphone and an inverted sound wave (i.e., a sound wave that is exactly out of phase) is being generated and played to the user via a speaker in the hearing protector in parallel with the ambient noise reaching the user's ears. Typically, these opposing sound waves collide and cancel each other out or cancel each other out.

[0008] Sound absorbing or noise damping materials within the meaning of the present disclosure are understood to be materials that limit the propagation of frequencies into space, i.e., they help to reduce the sound or noise that enters a space (e.g., the earmuffs of a hearing protector). Sound absorbing or noise damping materials are capable of absorbing energy from sound and converting it into another type of energy. Sound absorbing or noise damping materials may include dense but soft materials to absorb sound waves or vibration waves that impinge on the material. It should be noted that the terms sound absorbing material and noise damping material are used similarly throughout the specification. Sound absorbing or noise damping materials include porous or non-porous materials, such as open-cell foams, closed-cell foams, open-cell foams with a sealed outer layer, or non-porous materials, such as silicone, thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs), or thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPUs).

[0009] Active components within the meaning of the present disclosure may include active noise cancellation devices as described above or sensors as described below. Furthermore, the active components may include communication devices, the communication devices including a speaker and an electronic circuit system having a wireless communication interface, the electronic circuit system being configured to drive the speaker based on information received via the wireless communication interface. Such active communication devices are useful because they enable a user or wearer of such a hearing protector to communicate with other people in the surrounding environment, even without removing the hearing protector. Thus, the risk of removing the hearing protector due to the need to communicate in a noisy environment is reduced or avoided.

[0010] Sensors suitable for use in a hearing protector according to the present disclosure include a pad sensor for sensing a condition of the skin contacted by the pad, a cup sensor for sensing a condition of the cup, a skin sensor for sensing a skin condition of a user or wearer, a physiological sensor for sensing a physiological parameter of the user or wearer, an environmental sensor for sensing an environment or ambient condition of the user's or wearer's surroundings, and / or a movement sensor for sensing movement of the user or wearer.

[0011] A photovoltaic element within the meaning of the present disclosure is an element that converts light into electricity using a semiconductor material that exhibits the photovoltaic effect. Typically, a photovoltaic element comprises a solar cell or a solar module having a plurality of solar cells, respectively. The solar cell generates electrical energy. The photovoltaic element may also comprise an edge region around the solar cell, which edge region may be used to mount the photovoltaic element to a structure. Typically, the photovoltaic element is flat.

[0012] In one embodiment, the photovoltaic element of the hearing protector is attached to the headband via a fixed frame. The fixed frame covers the entire periphery of the photovoltaic element. An advantage of such a fixed frame, in particular a fixed frame covering the periphery, is that a simple and reliable way for attaching the photovoltaic element is thereby provided. Moreover, such an arrangement may allow an optional seal to be arranged at the fixed frame and / or provided by the fixed frame.

[0013] In another embodiment, the headband of the hearing protector includes a rod or wire. The rod or wire can provide stability and flexibility to the headband. In addition, earmuff extensions of the headband can also be formed thereby. The rod or wire can be made of metal or polymer materials and can exhibit spring-like properties. The rod or wire is a simple and reliable way to provide the headband of the hearing protector with the desired properties, namely, the ability of the hearing protector to conform to the user's head under sufficient contact pressure.

[0014] In another embodiment, the fixing frame of the hearing protector is a molded part that is attached to the headband by overmolding. By overmolding, it is meant that the molding process provides both the fixing frame and the attachment. The advantage of such a molded part is that it provides a simple and reliable way of manufacturing the fixing frame.

[0015] In another embodiment, the profiled fixing frame of the hearing protector is attached to the headband by chemical bonding, preferably by adhesive.Such an arrangement allows more design freedom, since different materials can be used.

[0016] A hearing protector according to the present disclosure is made by providing a hearing protector having two earmuffs and a headband for carrying the earmuffs. A flat, elongated photovoltaic element is then provided to be mounted to the headband by a suitable method (such as molding). This step may include providing a support element having a honeycomb structure, placing the photovoltaic element on the support element, and then overmolding the support element to produce a fixed frame for fixing the photovoltaic element to the support structure and the headband, respectively. It should be noted that overmolding means that the molding of the fixed frame and the fixing of the photovoltaic element occur simultaneously. Other ways of attaching or fixing the photovoltaic element to the support structure and the headband, respectively, can be envisioned. The photovoltaic element is then electrically connected to the active components of the hearing protector located in one or both earmuffs by a cable, preferably a cable for transmitting signals between the active components of the earmuffs. The cable may include several wires to allow signal transmission therewith and to allow energy transmission. It should be noted that the flat, elongated photovoltaic element changes from a flat state to a curved state that is roughly conformal to the shape of the headband of the hearing protector.

[0017] In another embodiment, the fixed frame of the hearing protector includes a seal along the periphery of the fixed frame. Such seals may, for example, include a flexible or compressible material suitable for sealing, such as rubber applied to the edge area of ​​the photovoltaic element. Alternatively, the seal may be provided by a molded component (i.e., the fixed frame) adhered to the edge area of ​​the photovoltaic element. It is conceivable that the seal is arranged at a distance from the periphery, such as 1mm to 10mm. The advantage of such seals is that the entry of water, dust or dirt can be reduced or prevented thereby. This is particularly important because the photovoltaic element is attached to the headband and has a portion exposed to the top (i.e., rainfall, particles, etc.). The seal may also provide some stability for the photovoltaic element attached to the headband. It should be noted that the seal may exhibit adhesive properties, such as by molding onto the photovoltaic element, resulting in adhesion between the surface of the photovoltaic element and the molded component. The seal may also be provided by an adhesive applied between the fixed frame and the photovoltaic element. In addition, a seal such as described above, such as made of rubber, may also exhibit adhesion, such as due to a coating with an adhesive.

[0018] In yet another embodiment, the fixing frame of the hearing protector covers no more than 12%, preferably no more than 10%, more preferably no more than 7.5% of the surface of the photovoltaic element. Such an arrangement is beneficial because it provides a good balance between, on the one hand, the photovoltaic element being reliably attached to the headband of the hearing protector, and, on the other hand, not covering too much surface area of ​​the photovoltaic element, which could otherwise result in reduced electrical energy production.

[0019] In another embodiment, the headband of the hearing protector includes a supporting element with a honeycomb structure. The supporting element may be arranged on the inner side of the headband, i.e., facing the side of the head of the wearer or user of the hearing protector when in use, or arranged on the outer side, i.e., away from the side of the head of the user when in use. The supporting element may be attached to the headband by a suitable attachment device (including a mechanical attachment device, such as a clip, a clamp, a hook, etc.) or by an adhesive (such as an adhesive layer or an adhesive tape). It should be noted that the supporting element may present elastic properties so that it conforms to the headband and makes it follow the movement of the headband during putting on or taking off the hearing protector, such as bending, etc. The advantage of such supporting elements is that the headband has sufficient stability and bending resistance, thereby protecting the photovoltaic element attached thereto. The honeycomb structure of the supporting element provides a simple and reliable structure while maintaining the lightweight construction of the supporting element, the headband and the hearing protector. In certain embodiments, the honeycomb structure of the supporting element of the hearing protector presents an elongated shape, wherein the honeycomb structure is preferably molded. An elongated shape is beneficial because such a shape will resemble the elongated shape of the headband to which the support element is attached. Molding of the honeycomb structure of the support element is a simple, cost-effective and reliable way to provide such an element. In the case of a molded honeycomb structure, the rods or wires of the headband (if present) can be encapsulated or surrounded by a molded component for easy attachment. In certain embodiments, the honeycomb structure of the support element of the hearing protector includes ribs, preferably with hollow spaces defined between the ribs. Preferably, the ribs are arranged in a pattern. Such ribs are advantageous because these ribs provide sufficient stability while maintaining a lightweight structure and being easy to manufacture at the same time. In certain embodiments, the honeycomb structure of the support element of the hearing protector includes ribs in the direction of the elongated extension of the honeycomb structure and ribs perpendicular to the elongated extension. Ribs oriented in this way provide good stability and are easy to manufacture, such as by molding. In certain embodiments, the ribs of the honeycomb structure of the support element are arranged parallel to each other. Such orientation provides good stability of the support element while being easy to manufacture. In certain embodiments, the ribs are evenly spaced from each other. Such orientation is easy to manufacture while maintaining good stability of the support element. In certain embodiments, the ribs of the honeycomb structure of the support element are spaced at a spacing of 1 mm to 20 mm, preferably 3 mm to 8 mm. Such spacing provides a good balance of stability and lightweight structure. In addition, a good conformability can be achieved thereby. It should be noted that the ribs can present a curved shape because the ribs and the support element are respectively attached to the headband which also presents a curved shape.

[0020] In one embodiment, the active component of the hearing protector is arranged in the hollow space of the earmuff. Such an arrangement is beneficial because no additional space is required and no part of the active component protrudes. Protection of the active component by the earmuff can also be achieved thereby.

[0021] In another embodiment, the photovoltaic element of the hearing protector exhibits an elongated shape. An elongated shape is beneficial because such a shape will be similar to the elongated shape of the headband to which the photovoltaic element is attached.

[0022] In yet another embodiment, the photovoltaic element of the hearing protector is preformed to assume a curved shape.Such a photovoltaic element is beneficial because it conforms sufficiently to the curved shape of the headband to which the photovoltaic element is attached.

[0023] In another preferred embodiment, the photovoltaic element of the hearing protector is flexible. This ensures that the photovoltaic element will follow the movement of the headband to which the photovoltaic element is attached, which movement may occur when the hearing protector is used (including putting on or taking off the hearing protector). It should be noted that the photovoltaic element may have an initial flat shape that is beneficial for storage and transportation. The curved shape of the photovoltaic element is a result of the flexibility and the attachment to the headband of the hearing protector presenting a curved shape, respectively.

[0024] In yet another embodiment, the hearing protector includes a rechargeable battery, wherein the rechargeable battery is electrically connected to the photovoltaic element. Such a rechargeable battery provides greater flexibility in the use of the hearing protector, because the rechargeable battery can be charged by the electrical energy provided by the photovoltaic element, and the stored electrical energy can be used at a later time, for example when the photovoltaic element is unable to generate energy due to insufficient lighting conditions.

[0025] In another embodiment, each earmuff of the hearing protector comprises an active component. The hearing protector further comprises a signal cable for connecting the active components of each earmuff, and wherein the power for powering the active components is distributed via the signal cable. Typically, a signal cable is a cable comprising several wires or conductors arranged in a common cable insulation layer. The signal distribution and the power distribution can be carried out via the same wires or conductors. It is also conceivable that the distribution of the signal and the power is carried out via different wires or conductors. The advantage of distributing the power over the signal cable is that only one cable needs to be arranged, which simplifies the construction of the hearing protector.

[0026] In yet another embodiment, the sound absorbing material of the earmuffs of the hearing protector comprises a porous or non-porous material, for example an open-cell foam, a closed-cell foam, an open-cell foam with a sealed outer layer, or a non-porous material such as silicone, thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) or thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). Such materials are advantageous because a reliable and cost-effective way of absorbing sound is thereby achieved.

[0027] In another embodiment, the hearing protector exhibits a minimum sound attenuation M of at least 11 dB according to EN 352-1:2020 or according to EN 352-3:2020. Such noise attenuation is advantageous since sufficient and reliable hearing protection is thereby provided.

[0028] In another embodiment, in the method of refitting hearing protector with photovoltaic element, headband comprises support element with honeycomb structure.Support element can be arranged on the inner side of headband, i.e., facing the side of the head of the wearer or user of hearing protector when in use, or arranged on the outer side, i.e., away from the side of the head of the user when in use.Support element can be attached to headband by suitable attachment means (including mechanical attachment means, such as clip, clamp, hook, etc.) or by adhesive (such as adhesive layer or tape).It should be noted that support element can show elastic property, so that it conforms to headband, and makes it follow the movement of headband during putting on or taking off hearing protector, such as bending, etc.The advantage of such support element is that headband has enough stability and bending resistance, so as to protect photovoltaic element attached thereto.The honeycomb structure of support element provides simple and reliable structure, while keeping light weight structure of support element, headband and hearing protector.In certain embodiments, the honeycomb structure of support element of hearing protector presents elongated shape, wherein honeycomb structure is preferably formed. An elongated shape is beneficial because such a shape will resemble the elongated shape of the headband to which the support element is attached. The molding of the honeycomb structure of the support element is a simple, cost-effective and reliable way to provide such an element. In the case of a molded honeycomb structure, the rods or wires of the headband (if present) can be encapsulated or surrounded by a molded component to facilitate the attachment of the support element to the headband. In certain embodiments, the honeycomb structure of the support element of the hearing protector includes ribs, preferably with hollow spaces defined between the ribs. Preferably, the ribs are arranged in a pattern. Such ribs are advantageous because these ribs provide sufficient stability while maintaining a lightweight structure and being easy to manufacture at the same time. In certain embodiments, the honeycomb structure of the support element of the hearing protector includes ribs in the direction of the elongated extension of the honeycomb structure and ribs perpendicular to the elongated extension. Ribs oriented in this way provide good stability and are easy to manufacture, such as by molding. In certain embodiments, the ribs of the honeycomb structure of the support element are arranged parallel to each other. Such orientation provides good stability of the support element while being easy to manufacture. In certain embodiments, the ribs are evenly spaced apart from each other. Such orientation is easy to manufacture while maintaining good stability of the support element. In certain embodiments, the ribs of the honeycomb structure of the support element are spaced at a spacing of 1 mm to 20 mm, preferably 3 mm to 8 mm. Such spacing provides a good balance of stability and lightweight structure. In addition, a good conformability can be achieved thereby. It should be noted that the ribs can present a curved shape because the ribs and the support element are respectively attached to the headband which also presents a curved shape.

[0029] In yet another specific embodiment, in the method of retrofitting a hearing protector with a photovoltaic element, the honeycomb structure exhibits an elongated shape, and wherein the honeycomb structure is preferably profiled. The elongated shape is beneficial because such a shape will be similar to the elongated shape of the headband to which the support element is attached. The shaping of the honeycomb structure of the support element is a simple, cost-effective and reliable way to provide such an element.

[0030] In another embodiment, in the method of retrofitting a hearing protector with a photovoltaic element, the honeycomb structure comprises ribs, preferably defining hollow spaces between the ribs. Preferably, the ribs are arranged in a pattern. Such ribs are advantageous because they provide sufficient stability while maintaining a lightweight structure and are easy to manufacture at the same time.

[0031] In yet another specific embodiment, in the method of retrofitting a hearing protector with a photovoltaic element, the step of attaching the photovoltaic element comprises molding to form a fixing frame for fixing the photovoltaic element at the headband. Such a molded part has the advantage that a simple and reliable way of manufacturing the fixing frame is provided thereby.

[0032] The present invention is described in various embodiments above. It should be understood by those skilled in the art that one, several or all of the above embodiments may be combined with each other.

[0033] The present invention will now be described in more detail with reference to the following drawings which illustrate specific embodiments of the invention: Description of the drawings:

[0034] Figure 1 is a schematic front view of a hearing protector according to an embodiment of the present disclosure worn by a user;

[0035] Figure 2 is a schematic functional front view of a hearing protector according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0036] Figure 3 is a schematic perspective exploded view of a hearing protector according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0037] Figure 4 is a schematic perspective view of a hearing protector according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0038] Figure 5 Yes Figure 2 A schematic cross-sectional view of a detail of a hearing protector according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0039] Figure 6 Yes Figure 3 a schematic top view of a detail of a hearing protector according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0040] Figure 7 Yes Figure 3 A schematic perspective view of a detail of a hearing protector according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0041] Figure 1 A hearing protector 10 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown in a schematic front view, worn by a user 100. Figure 1 As can be seen, the hearing protector 10 includes two earmuffs 12, 14, each having a housing or cup 12A, 14A. Attached to each of the earmuffs 12, 14 is a cushion 22, 24 for contacting the skin of the user 100 for providing a tight seal to the environment of the hearing protector 10 (e.g., to ambient noise). Each of the earmuffs 12, 14 is mounted to the headband 16 by an earmuff mount 18, 20, which engages with the earmuff mount of the headband and the earmuff extension 26, 28 of the headband 16, respectively, and the earmuff mount 18, 20 connects the earmuffs 12, 14 to the headband in a pivoting relationship to adapt to the user's skin. The headband 16 includes a rod or wire 16A that provides stability and flexibility to the headband 16. The rod or wire 16A can be made of metal and can exhibit spring-like performance. The above-mentioned earmuff extensions 26, 28 of the headband 16 can be provided by the rod or wire 16A. The hearing protector 10 comprises a photovoltaic element 80 attached to the headband 16, which is only schematically visible here (for more details, see Figure 3 and Figure 4 ). One or both housings or cups 12, 14 of the hearing protector 10 include active components 40A, 40B which are Figure 1 is omitted (see Figure 2 ). The hearing protector 10 may also include a microphone 74 as part of an active communication system, which is mounted to one of the earmuffs 14 via a microphone boom 70. The microphone 74 enables the user 100 to send voice signals for communicating with other users in the surrounding environment. The hearing protector 10 may also include an antenna 72 as part of the communication system to send and / or receive signals, including, for example, data about environmental conditions, information, and / or voice signals. It should be noted that the microphone 74 with the microphone boom 70 and / or the antenna 72 can be used to transmit and receive signals from the user 100. Figure 1 The other ear cup 12, 14 shown in FIG. 1 extends in another embodiment. Furthermore, it is conceivable that two antennas 72 are arranged, namely one antenna per ear cup 12, 14.

[0042] Figure 21 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a hearing protector 10 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The hearing protector 10 comprises two earmuffs 12, 14 connected and carried by a headband 16. The earmuffs 12, 14 each comprise an earmuff mounting 18, 20 by which each of the earmuffs 12, 14 is attached to a respective earmuff attachment means (at Figure 2 The earmuffs 12, 14 are thus carried by the headband 16. Figure 1 The hearing protector 10 shown, Figure 2 The hearing protector 10 includes a rod or wire 16A at the headband 16 (for details of the rod or wire 16A, see Figure 1 ). The earmuffs 12, 14 each include a cup 12A, 14A, wherein a hollow space is defined. In the hollow space of one or both earmuffs 12, 14, active components 40A, 40B of the hearing protector 10 may be accommodated, such as a printed circuit board with electronic components mounted thereon, components of an active communication unit, or a sensor including a microphone for sensing environmental conditions (including sound). However, it is conceivable that both earmuffs 12, 14 include Figure 2 14. The earmuffs 12, 14 may also include, for example, amplifiers and speakers 42A, 42B as part of an active noise cancellation unit and / or as part of an active communication unit. Each of the cups or shells 12, 14A of the earmuffs 12, 14 has a cushion 22, 24 attached thereto, respectively. The cushions 22, 24 comprise a soft, comfortable and / or compressible material, thereby sealing the earmuffs 12, 14 to the skin of the wearer 100 ( Figure 2 Not shown, see Figure 1 ). The earmuffs 12, 14 and the open sides of the shells or cups 12A, 14A and the cushions 22, 24 are preferably annular and preferably substantially identical in shape and size to one another so that an easy and reliable connection is achieved therebetween. The cushions 22, 24 may include attachment means, such as adhesive or mechanical attachment means (which are not shown here), to facilitate attachment to the shells or cups 12A, 14A. In addition, the hearing protector 10 includes a flat, elongated photovoltaic element, indicated generally at 80, Figure 2 The photovoltaic element is only schematically shown in FIG. Figure 3 and Figure 4 ). The photovoltaic element 80 is attached to the headband 16 via a fixing frame indicated by 84, which is also only schematically visible here (for details see Figure 3 and Figure 4 The photovoltaic element 80 comprises a solar cell 80A for generating electrical energy from incident light. The hearing protector 10 further comprises a support element 82, which is only schematically visible here (for more details, see Figure 3and Figure 4 ). One of the earmuffs 14 includes a battery 30 for powering the active components 40A, 40B. It should be noted that although the battery 30 is shown as being located in the earmuff 14, it is also configured to power the active components 40A, 40B of the other earmuff 12, for example by arranging a distribution cable (not shown) between the two earmuffs 12, 14. The battery 30 can be rechargeable and can store the electrical energy provided by the photovoltaic element 80 so that the electrical energy can be used at a later time, such as when the photovoltaic element 80 is unable to generate energy due to insufficient lighting conditions. Although only one of the earmuffs 14 is shown, it is also conceivable that both earmuffs 12, 14 include a battery 30, which can be rechargeable. Similar to Figure 1 In the illustrated embodiment, the hearing protector 10 also includes a microphone 74 carried by a microphone boom 70 extending from the earmuff 14 and an antenna 72 ( Figure 2 The latter is omitted) as part of an active communication system for transmitting data and / or voice signals.

[0043] Figure 3 A hearing protector 10 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown in a schematic perspective exploded view. The hearing protector 10 is similar to Figure 1 and Figure 2 The hearing protector 10 is shown and comprises two earmuffs 12, 14 carried by a headband 16. Figure 1 or Figure 210, the hearing protector 10 shown here includes a rod or wire 16A similar in shape and function to that described above. Attached to the headband 16 is a photovoltaic element 80, which includes a solar cell 80A and an edge region 80B for generating electrical energy from incident light. As shown, the photovoltaic element 80 is attached to the headband 16 by a fixed frame 84, which holds the photovoltaic element in a curved shape conforming to the curved shape of the headband 16. The fixed frame 84 includes a cover 84A, which mainly covers the edge region 80B and covers the solar cell 80A of the photovoltaic element 80 to some extent. An opening 84B is formed in the fixed frame 84 surrounded by the cover 84A, so that the main area solar cell 80A of the photovoltaic element 80 is exposed to the incident light. The cover 84A accommodates a cable 86, which electrically connects the active components 40A, 40B (not shown here) of the two earmuffs 12, 14 to each other. The cable 86 also connects the solar cell 80A of the photovoltaic element 80 to the active components 40A, 40B of the two earmuffs 12, 14 on the one hand, and to the battery 30 that may be present in one or both earmuffs 12, 14 on the other hand, so that the electrical energy generated by the photovoltaic element 80 can be stored in the battery 30. The cable 86 can also connect the active components 40A, 40B to the battery 30 (if present). It should be noted that the cable 86 may include several wires to allow signal transmission as well as energy transmission. The cover 84A is attached to the honeycomb structure 88 of the support element 82 of the headband 16, thereby surrounding or encapsulating the headband 16 and its rod or wire 16A together with the support element 82 and the fixing frame 84, which rod or wire may be made of metal and may have spring-like properties. The honeycomb structure 88 of the support element 82 includes ribs 88A, 88B, which are arranged in a pattern 88E of ribs 88A, 88B. In the example shown, the ribs 88A are arranged parallel to each other and perpendicular to the ribs 88B, which are in turn arranged parallel to each other. It should be noted that the fixing frame 84 with its cover 84A, the support element 82 and the honeycomb structure 88 are curved, similar to the curved shape of the headband 16. It should also be noted that the ribs 88A, 88B also present a curved shape here. The ribs 88A, 88Bz define openings or spaces between them, Figure 3 The honeycomb structure 88 may include a base 88D (not shown here, see Figure 7 ), the base defines an opening or space 88C on one side thereof, preferably on the lower side facing the user's head. Figure 1 and Figure 2 In the illustrated embodiment, the hearing protector 10 includes a microphone 74 carried by a microphone boom 70 extending from one earmuff 14 and an antenna 72 (the latter being omitted here).

[0044] Figure 4 The schematic perspective view shows the Figure 3 The hearing protector 10 of the embodiment shown. Figure 3 , the hearing protector 10 comprises two earmuffs 12, 14 carried by a headband 16. The hearing protector 10 also comprises a microphone 74 carried by a microphone boom 70 extending from the earmuffs 14, and may comprise an antenna 72 (not shown here). The photovoltaic element 80 of the hearing protector 10 comprises a solar cell 80A which is attached to the headband 16 by a fixing frame 84. It should be noted that, as Figure 4 The headband 16 of the illustrated hearing protector 10 also includes a rod or wire 16A that is similar in shape and function to that of the headband 16 of the hearing protector 10 shown in FIG. Figures 1 to 3 The pole or wire 16A of the hearing protector 10 shown. The photovoltaic element 80 also includes an edge region 80B (not visible due to being arranged below the fixed frame 84). The solar cells 80A of the photovoltaic element 80 are held in place by a cover 84A of the fixed frame 84, wherein the cover 84 completely covers the edge region 80B and a small portion of the solar cells 80A. As shown, the fixed frame 80 has an opening 84B formed or surrounded by the cover 84A, so that the solar cells 80A of the photovoltaic element 80 are exposed to incident light. The headband 16 also includes a support element 82, the details of which are not shown here, see Figure 3 The hearing protector 10 also includes a cable 86 configured and arranged to transmit power from the photovoltaic element 80 and / or data signals from and to the active components 40A, 40B of the earmuffs, and to transmit power from the photovoltaic element 80 to a battery 30 (not shown here), which may be arranged in one or both of the earmuffs 12, 14. As shown, the cable 86 is housed in a fixed frame 84, which is attached to the headband 16 of the hearing protector 10. As described above, the headband 16 with its rods or wires 16A is encapsulated or surrounded by the support element 82 and the fixed frame 84 with its cover 84A. A seal 84C may be arranged between the cover 84A of the fixed frame 84 and the solar cell 80A of the photovoltaic element 80, so as to minimize or prevent the ingress of moisture, dust and / or dirt. In the example shown, the seal 84C is provided by the underside of the cover 84A of the fixed frame 84, i.e., towards the side of the user's head when in use. Although not shown here, a separate part representing the seal is also conceivable.

[0045] Figure 5 The schematic cross-sectional view shows Figure 2 Detail of the headband 16 of the hearing protector 10 shown. As described above, the fixing frame 84 is attached to the headband 16. The fixing frame 84 and its cover 84A (not shown here, see Figure 3 and Figure 4) covers the edge region 80B of the photovoltaic element 80, with a seal 84C disposed therebetween to prevent the ingress of moisture, dust and / or dirt, as described above. The headband 16 also includes a rod or wire 16A that is configured and arranged to provide stability to the headband 16 on the one hand and to allow some flexibility or bending of the headband 16 on the other hand. The rod or wire 16A shown here is similar in shape and function to Figures 1 to 4 Rod or wire 16A is shown. Rod or wire 16A may be made of metal arranged in a curved shape and having spring-like properties. Figure 5 Also shown is a cable 86 for transmitting data and / or power as described above, wherein the cable 86 is arranged at the headband 16, for example, below the photovoltaic element 80 as shown here. Alternatively, the cable 86 can be surrounded by the support element 82 and / or the fixing frame 84. Other alternatives are also conceivable, for example the cable 86 can be arranged at one of the two sides of the headband 16.

[0046] Figure 6 The schematic top view shows Figure 3 Detail of the honeycomb structure 88 of the support element 82 shown. The honeycomb structure 88 includes ribs 88A, 88B, which are arranged so that the ribs 88A are arranged parallel to each other and perpendicular to the ribs 88B, which are arranged parallel to each other and vice versa. Spaces or openings 88C are formed by the ribs 88A, 88B and between them respectively. The ribs 88A, 88B form a pattern 88E. In the embodiment shown here, the ribs 88A, 88B are evenly spaced and the ribs 88A are perpendicular to the ribs 88B. Other configurations can be envisioned, for example, the ribs 88A, 88B may not be perpendicular to each other, but may be arranged obliquely or at an angle not equal to 90 degrees to each other. Similarly, it is conceivable that the spacing between the ribs 88A, 88B is not uniform, that is, within the extension range of the pattern 88E of the ribs 88A, 88B, the spacing may vary in one or two directions thereof. In addition, the ribs 88A, 88B can be arranged so that they are not perpendicular to the base 88D (not visible here, see Figure 7 ), but arranged obliquely relative to the base 88D. Such an arrangement may be only partial, or in its entirety in one or both directions of the pattern 88E formed by the ribs 88A, 88B. In the example shown here, the opening or space 88C presents a rectangular cross section when viewed from above. Other cross sections are also conceivable, such as square, triangular, elliptical, circular or annular or irregular or polygonal.

[0047] Figure 7 The schematic perspective view shows Figure 3Detail of the honeycomb structure 88 of the support element 82 of the hearing protector 10 shown. As shown, the ribs 88A, 88B are arranged in a pattern 88E, as a kind of side wall defining openings or spaces 88C therebetween. When viewed from above, the cross-section of the openings or spaces 88C is rectangular, but as described above for Figure 6 As explained, other shapes are also possible. Figure 3 and Figure 6 In addition to those shown in , the base 88D of the honeycomb structure 88 shown here defines an opening or space 88C on its lower side. Ribs 88A, 88B extend or protrude from the base 88D. Ribs 88A, 88B can be formed integrally with the base 88D, for example, by molding or extrusion. Alternatively, ribs 88A, 88B can be attached to the base 88D by suitable attachment means, which include adhesives, molding them together, etc. If necessary, this can provide a combination of different materials for ribs and bases. It should be noted that the honeycomb structure 88 of the support element 82 may not have a base 88D, and therefore can be open at both ends thereof.

[0048] Specific embodiments of the present invention

[0049] 1. A hearing protector, comprising:

[0050] - Two earmuffs, each earmuff includes

[0051] i. Pads,

[0052] ii. a housing defining a hollow space therein, and

[0053] iii. Sound absorbing materials,

[0054] - a headband for holding the earmuffs in place when worn by a user,

[0055] wherein at least one of the earmuffs further comprises an active component,

[0056] wherein the hearing protector further comprises a photovoltaic element for powering the active component, wherein the photovoltaic element is attached to the headband, and

[0057] Wherein the photovoltaic element is electrically connected to the active component of the earmuff.

[0058] 2. The hearing protector according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the photovoltaic element is attached to the headband by a fixing frame, and wherein the fixing frame covers the entire perimeter of the photovoltaic element.

[0059] 3. The hearing protector of embodiment 2, wherein the fixing frame is a molded part attached to the headband by overmolding.

[0060] 4. The hearing protector of any one of embodiments 2 or 3, wherein the fixing frame comprises a seal along the periphery of the fixing frame.

[0061] 5. The hearing protector according to any of embodiments 2 to 4, wherein the fixing frame covers not more than 12%, preferably not more than 10%, more preferably not more than 7.5% of the surface of the photovoltaic element.

[0062] 6. The hearing protector according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the headband comprises a support element having a honeycomb structure.

[0063] 7. The hearing protector according to embodiment 6, wherein the honeycomb structure presents an elongated shape, and wherein the honeycomb structure is preferably profiled.

[0064] 8. The hearing protector according to any one of embodiments 6 or 7, wherein the honeycomb structure comprises ribs, preferably defining hollow spaces between the ribs.

[0065] 9. The hearing protector according to embodiment 8, wherein the honeycomb structure comprises ribs in a direction along the elongated extensions of the honeycomb structure and ribs perpendicular to the elongated extensions.

[0066] 10. The hearing protector according to any one of embodiments 8 or 9, wherein the ribs are arranged parallel to each other.

[0067] 11. The hearing protector of any one of embodiments 8 to 10, wherein the ribs are evenly spaced from one another.

[0068] 12. The hearing protector according to any one of embodiments 8 to 11, wherein the ribs are spaced apart by a spacing of 1 mm to 20 mm, preferably 3 mm to 8 mm.

[0069] 13. The hearing protector according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the active component is arranged in a hollow space of the earmuff.

[0070] 14. The hearing protector according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the photovoltaic element exhibits an elongated shape.

[0071] 15. The hearing protector according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the photovoltaic element is preformed to assume a curved shape.

[0072] 16. The hearing protector according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the photovoltaic element is flexible.

[0073] 17. The hearing protector according to any one of the preceding embodiments, further comprising a rechargeable battery, wherein the rechargeable battery is electrically connected to the photovoltaic element.

[0074] 18. The hearing protector according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the sound absorbing material comprises a porous or non-porous material, for example an open-cell foam, a closed-cell foam, an open-cell foam with a sealed outer layer, or a non-porous material such as silicone, thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) or thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU).

[0075] 19. The hearing protector according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the hearing protector exhibits a minimum sound attenuation M of at least 11 dB according to EN 352-1:2020 or according to EN 352-3:2020.

[0076] 20. The hearing protector according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein each earmuff comprises an active component, the hearing protector further comprising a signal cable for connecting the active components in each of the earmuffs, and wherein power for powering the active components is distributed via the signal cable.

[0077] 21. A method of retrofitting a hearing protector with a photovoltaic element, the hearing protector comprising two earmuffs and a headband for holding the earmuffs in place when worn by a user, wherein at least one of the earmuffs further comprises an active component, the method comprising

[0078] The following steps

[0079] - providing a hearing protector comprising two earmuffs and a headband for holding the earmuffs in place when worn by a user, wherein at least one of the earmuffs comprises an active component,

[0080] - providing elongated photovoltaic elements,

[0081] - attaching the photovoltaic element to the headband,

[0082] - electrically connecting the photovoltaic element to the active component of the hearing protector, wherein the earmuffs each comprise

[0083] i. Pads,

[0084] ii. a housing defining a hollow space therein, and

[0085] iii.Sound absorbing materials.

[0086] 22. A method according to any one of embodiments 20 or 21, wherein the headband includes a support element having a honeycomb structure.

[0087] 23. A method according to embodiment 22, wherein the honeycomb structure has an elongated shape, and wherein the honeycomb structure is preferably formed.

[0088] 24. A method according to any one of embodiments 22 or 23, wherein the honeycomb structure comprises ribs, preferably defining hollow spaces between the ribs.

[0089] 25. The method according to any one of embodiments 21 to 25, wherein the step of attaching the photovoltaic element comprises molding to form a fixing frame for fixing the photovoltaic element at the headband.

Claims

1. A hearing protector, comprising: Two earmuffs, each earmuff includes: liner; a housing having a hollow space defined therein; and Sound absorbing materials; a headband for holding the earmuffs in place when worn by a user; wherein at least one of the earmuffs further comprises an active component, wherein the hearing protector further comprises a photovoltaic element for powering the active component; wherein the photovoltaic element is attached to the headband; and Wherein the photovoltaic element is electrically connected to the active component of the earmuff.

2. The hearing protector of claim 1, wherein the photovoltaic element is attached to the headband by a fixing frame, and wherein the fixing frame covers the entire periphery of the photovoltaic element.

3. The hearing protector of claim 2, wherein the fixing frame is a molded component attached to the headband by overmolding.

4. The hearing protector according to any one of claims 2 and 3, wherein the fixing frame comprises a seal along the periphery of the fixing frame.

5. The hearing protector according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein the fixing frame covers not more than 12%, preferably not more than 10%, more preferably not more than 7.5% of the surface of the photovoltaic element.

6. The hearing protector of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the headband comprises a support element having a honeycomb structure.

7. The hearing protector of claim 6, wherein the honeycomb structure exhibits an elongated shape, and wherein the honeycomb structure is preferably profiled.

8. A hearing protector according to any one of claims 6 and 7, wherein the honeycomb structure comprises ribs, preferably defining hollow spaces between the ribs.

9. The hearing protector of claim 8, wherein the honeycomb structure comprises ribs in a direction along the elongated extension of the honeycomb structure and ribs perpendicular to the elongated extension.

10. The hearing protector according to any one of claims 8 and 9, wherein the ribs are arranged parallel to each other.

11. The hearing protector of any one of claims 8 to 10, wherein the ribs are evenly spaced from one another.

12. A hearing protector according to any one of claims 8 to 11, wherein the ribs are spaced apart by a spacing of 1 mm to 20 mm, preferably 3 mm to 8 mm.

13. The hearing protector according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the active component is arranged in the hollow space of the earmuff.

14. The hearing protector of any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the photovoltaic element exhibits an elongated shape.

15. The hearing protector of any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the photovoltaic element is preformed to exhibit a curved shape.

16. The hearing protector of any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the photovoltaic element is flexible.

17. The hearing protector according to any one of claims 1 to 16, and further comprising: A rechargeable battery, wherein the rechargeable battery is electrically connected to the photovoltaic element.

18. A hearing protector according to any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein the sound absorbing material comprises a porous or non-porous material, for example an open-cell foam, a closed-cell foam, an open-cell foam with a sealed outer layer, or a non-porous material such as silicone, a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) or a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU).

19. The hearing protector according to any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein the hearing protector exhibits a minimum sound attenuation M of at least 11 dB according to EN 352-1:2020 or according to EN 352-3:2020.

20. The hearing protector according to any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein each earmuff comprises an active component, the hearing protector further comprising a signal cable for connecting the active components in each of the earmuffs, and wherein power for powering the active components is distributed via the signal cable.

21. A method of retrofitting a hearing protector, the method comprising: Providing a hearing protector comprising two earmuffs and a headband for holding the earmuffs in place when worn by a user, wherein at least one of the earmuffs comprises an active component; Providing an elongated photovoltaic element; attaching the photovoltaic element to the headband; electrically connecting the photovoltaic element to the active component of the hearing protector; Each of the earmuffs comprises: liner; a housing having a hollow space defined therein; and Sound absorbing material.

22. The method of any one of claims 20 and 21, wherein the headband comprises a support element having a honeycomb structure.

23. The method of claim 22, wherein the honeycomb structure exhibits an elongated shape, and wherein the honeycomb structure is preferably profiled.

24. A method according to any one of claims 22 and 23, wherein the honeycomb structure comprises ribs, preferably defining hollow spaces between the ribs.

25. The method according to any one of claims 21 to 25, wherein the step of attaching the photovoltaic element comprises molding to form a fixing frame for fixing the photovoltaic element at the headband.

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