Metal detector and remote battery module in rod

Abstract

The invention relates to a portable metal detector (200) comprising a rod carrying a detection disc (203) equipped with one or more coils, the rod comprising:-an arm (24) extending along a longitudinal axis A-A and comprising a housing delimited by an inner wall (241),-a battery module (30) inserted in the housing, the battery module (30) includes a side connector (31); -a power cable (40) adapted to transmit an electrical current, the power cable (40) comprising, on the one hand, a first end comprising a connection head (41) complementary to the side connector (31) and, on the other hand, a second end electrically connected to the probe disc and adapted to supply an outgoing electrical current. According to the invention, the connection head (41) of the cable (40) is held in contact with the side connector (31), in particular by means of the inner wall of the housing.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] This invention relates to a metal detector comprising a battery module located within a rod and configured to power one or more detector coils arranged in a detection disk. In particular, the invention may relate to a portable metal detector for recreational, archaeological, or military use. The portable metal detector can be described as a scanning or mobile metal detector whose electromagnetic detection disk is capable of locating targets underground. [Primary Technology]

[0002] Metal detectors are designed to locate and identify the presence of metals buried or hidden in various substrates, such as loam or sandy soil. Metal detectors are used in several types of applications, including security checks, recreational activities, industrial applications, and archaeological work.

[0003] Typically, a metal detector includes an electromagnetic detection disc (also known as a detector head). The detection disc is located at the end of a rod, the upper end of which has a handle and a control box. The rod may consist of an arm comprising two sections that cooperate to form a telescopic rod; in this case, we call them the lower rod and the upper rod. The lower rod carries the detection disc, while the upper rod connects to the handle of the metal detector. The control box is configured to control the detection disc, which includes at least one electromagnetic coil. The coil is configured to generate an electromagnetic field that interacts with metallic objects embedded in a substrate (such as the ground). The electromagnetic field induces currents in these metallic objects, and these currents then generate signals that can be detected by the receiving coil.

[0004] Most metal detectors have electronics for processing signals picked up by the coil, which are typically connected to a control box or detection disc. The processing electronics process the signals picked up by the coil and transmit them to the user by generating sound or visual signals. Metal detectors are also equipped with power electronics and a battery, which includes an excitation device that drives the transmitter coil. This battery is typically housed inside or near the control box on the metal detector handle or within the detection disc body. The excitation current of the transmitter coil and the electrical signal measured by the transmitter or receiver coil are then transmitted wiredly via a power cable that extends between the detection disc and the handle, where the power electronics, processing electronics, and electromagnetic coil are mounted.

[0005] Wired communication between the coil and power electronic devices (especially the excitation device located in the remote control box of the coil) generates impedance, requiring a high-voltage current to drive the electromagnetic coil. This is because the resistance of a wire is directly proportional to its length and inversely proportional to its diameter. Therefore, long wires with smaller diameters will generate high resistance, which will reduce the power supply efficiency of the electromagnetic coil due to the Joule effect and require the use of higher-capacity batteries.

[0006] To improve the power supply efficiency of the coil, document EP 2 910 979 describes a metal detector whose detection disk integrates power electronics (including a coil excitation device), signal processing electronics, a power supply battery, and a wireless transmitter / receiver, in addition to the electromagnetic coil. The wireless transmitter / receiver is configured to communicate with a compatible wireless transmitter / receiver embedded in a control box. Wireless communication with the detection disk control unit allows the control box to control the detection disk and receive signals picked up by it. The placement of the excitation device close to the transmitter coil thus limits losses due to the Joule effect that would otherwise be caused by a remote power line.

[0007] US10,809,411 describes a metal detector including power electronics, an excitation device for energizing a transmitter coil, a battery, and processing electronics, all housed within a housing located in a rod of the detector that carries a detection disc. The metal detector also includes a power cable extending into the rod and connecting the battery to the transmitter coil. Typically, the power cable includes a flexible coil to impart elasticity depending on the length of the rod and is also used for maintenance operations such as removing the detection disc or battery. The housing also contains a control unit configured to control the power electronics and processing electronics. The control unit also includes a wireless transmitter / receiver configured to communicate with a wireless transmitter / receiver integrated into a control box located near a handle or movable to suit user needs (e.g., placed in a backpack).

[0008] This configuration increases battery capacity without interfering with the signal picked up by the coil, as the battery is located within the pole. However, in this document, the power cable connects to the battery compartment at the bottom of the pole. This arrangement requires a longer spiral cable to allow for the removal of the battery compartment. Therefore, the power cable is significantly longer to allow for maintenance of the metal detector. For example, for a 20cm long housing, a longer spiral between 25cm and 30cm is needed because the spiral will never fully unwind. However, as mentioned above, the longer the wire connecting the battery to the transmitter coil, the lower the battery's power output.

[0009] In this document, the power cable is connected to the battery via a screw or bayonet connector. The cross-sectional dimensions of this connector, integrated into the bottom of the rod, are limited by the diameter of the bottom tube. This necessitates the use of a small-diameter connector, which is more fragile and requires extra care during handling. Increasing the connector diameter would therefore require increasing the diameter of the lower rod, which would contradict the goal of minimizing weight, a critical criterion in metal detector design.

[0010] The space occupied by screw or bayonet locking systems thus affects the number of pins available for connection and limits the size of the seal. Ensuring watertightness is therefore difficult because the small seal, usually located at the bottom of the connector, is hard to inspect, clean, or replace, leading to frequent failures. Additionally, sufficient tightening is required to ensure a watertight connection, and the seal's effectiveness depends on the user's attention to detail. Tightening can also loosen due to vibration or cable movement.

[0011] Furthermore, the connection of the power cable at the bottom of the housing can also cause problems when servicing the metal detector. When the connector of the power cable to the housing is detached from the housing, the rebound force generated by the coiled portion of the power cable will pull the connector, causing it to descend into the tube of the pole. The user may then need special tools to remove the connector from the tube of the pole.

[0012] Furthermore, using a housing within the rod to hold the battery that powers the coil imposes additional constraints on the practicality and usability of the metal detector, particularly regarding battery charging. Specifically, the housing described in this document requires the battery to be disconnected and removed from the housing for charging.

[0013] The present invention aims to overcome all or some of these disadvantages. [Summary of the Invention]

[0014] The present invention aims to improve metal detectors.

[0015] In particular, in some embodiments, the present invention relates to a portable metal detector comprising a rod carrying a detection disk equipped with one or more coils, the rod comprising:

[0016] - An arm that extends along a longitudinal axis AA and includes a housing defined by an inner wall;

[0017] - A battery module, which is inserted into the housing, includes a side connector, and

[0018] - A power cable adapted to transmit current, the power cable including a first end having a connector complementary to the side connector, and a second end electrically connected to the probe and adapted to supply outgoing current;

[0019] The cable connector is positioned to contact the side connector, and the battery module is adjusted to fit the size of the housing so that the inner wall of the arm keeps the connector in contact with the side connector.

[0020] Therefore, the battery module housing was redesigned to allow the power cable to be laterally connected to the battery module. To achieve this, the invention uses a power cable equipped with a flat connector that interacts with the side connector in a plug-and-play manner. This connector is held in place on the side connector between the battery module and the housing wall without the need for mechanical locking devices such as threads or bayonets. This mechanical design reduces the risk of disconnection, ensures watertightness, and improves the industrialization of the connector: reducing costs, increasing weight, and decreasing overall size. Furthermore, because the battery module is adjusted according to the housing, operational errors are avoided: the battery module can only be inserted into the housing when the connector is correctly aligned with the side connector. If this is not the case, the connector strikes the end of the housing, preventing the battery module from being inserted.

[0021] Advantageously, the side connection of this connector also reduces the number of power cable loops and improves the power supply efficiency of the metal detector coil. This side connector can be configured to deliver current from a rechargeable battery located in the housing to the power cable, which is also directly or indirectly connected to the detector coil. Furthermore, the lateral arrangement of this side connector provides a connector whose connection interface size is not limited by the cross-sectional dimensions of the arm, thus allowing for an enlarged connection interface between the connector and the connector head to add, for example, additional pins. In particular, electronic data can be passed through the power cable in parallel with the power supply current.

[0022] [Battery Module]

[0023] In some embodiments, the battery module may include a waterproof chamber extending along a longitudinal axis AA and containing a rechargeable battery. The battery may include one or more rechargeable batteries to increase capacity. The waterproof design of the battery chamber allows the metal detector to be used even in extremely humid conditions, such as for underwater metal detection. The battery module may also include electronic components configured to modulate the output voltage of the battery. These electronic components may include, for example, a voltage converter. These electronic components are offset away from the detection disk in the arm of the rod, thereby reducing electromagnetic interference generated by this type of electronic component, which can be detected by one or more receiver coils of the detection disk. Therefore, detection power can be increased without degrading the quality of the signal detected by one or more receiver coils.

[0024] The battery module can be removed from its housing. To remove the battery module, the metal detector may include a battery module removal element, directly or indirectly coupled to the battery module and protruding from the arm housing. The removal element allows the battery module to be removed for maintenance of the lever and / or battery replacement, for example, when the battery is depleted and the user has a second charged battery. The removal element may include a pull tab configured to protrude from the arm housing, preferably extending longitudinally in the direction of the longitudinal axis AA. This pull tab constitutes a gripping device that allows the user to easily remove the battery module.

[0025] In some versions, the battery module supports wired or wireless charging of the battery. The charging device allows you to charge the battery without removing the battery module from the bottom of the pole.

[0026] [End connector]

[0027] In an embodiment, the battery charging device may include an end connector positioned at one end of the arm housing, preferably protruding from the end of the housing. Specifically, the connection interface of the end connector may extend parallel to or along the longitudinal axis AA. The accessibility of the end connector from the outside of the arm housing allows the battery to be charged without removing it from the housing or disconnecting it from the power cable. This also reduces the size of the power cable by providing a solution for charging the battery without removing it from its housing and therefore without applying tension to the power cable.

[0028] This end connector can be advantageously configured to transfer incoming current from a power cable connected to a power source to the battery. This power source can be, for example, an AC outlet connected to a power distribution network, or a portable battery (such as a vehicle battery).

[0029] In some embodiments, the battery module may include a connecting end piece with an integrated end connector at one end, the connecting end piece being configured to protrude from the arm housing. Maintaining the connecting end piece protruding from the housing allows for battery charging without removing the battery from the pole. This also helps manufacturers reduce the size of power cables. Specifically, the housing may be located at one end of the arm, in which case the connecting end piece may include a shoulder configured to rest against at least a portion of the free edge of said end. The shoulder may advantageously rest only on a portion of the free edge of said end of the arm to leave an opening toward the housing. This opening allows the passage of a removal element (such as a pull tab) coupled to the battery module, which allows the battery module to be removed from its housing.

[0030] In some versions, the arm of the rod may include a top portion and a bottom portion placed together, wherein the top portion is connected to the handle of the metal detector, and the bottom portion is attached to the detection disc. In this configuration, the housing is located at the end of the lower portion of the rod that connects to the upper portion of the rod. The shoulder can then rest on the free edge of the end of the arm and fit into an extension of the outer wall of the arm, thereby ensuring that the lower portion of the rod can be easily fitted into the upper portion of the rod. Advantageously, the arm may also include a system for adjusting the length of the rod; for example, one section of the arm includes a notch, while another section includes a locking device (such as an assembly flange).

[0031] In some embodiments, the connection end piece may include a connection means for connecting to a power source, which allows incoming current to be transmitted to the end connector. It should be noted that the power source may be connected to a stationary power source (mains power) or a portable power source (vehicle battery). The assembly is preferably plug-and-play, meaning the connection end piece can be easily connected to a complementary power connector, for example, by mating. For this purpose, the assembly may include an extension with a clamping recess. In particular, the extension may project from a shoulder and include a reduced cross-section. Therefore, the connection end piece is easily accessible to the user. Furthermore, when the housing is located in the lower portion of the rod, the size of the connection end piece does not affect the assembly of the lower portion of the rod with the complementary upper portion.

[0032] The assembly device may also include a magnet for assembly with a suitable power connector that includes a magnetic component. The magnetic component guides the connection between the connection end and the corresponding connector and enhances the retention of the connector on the connection end.

[0033] In some embodiments, the end connector may include electrical terminals. In particular, these terminals are directly or indirectly connected to battery terminals and may be configured to receive incoming current from a power source via an electrical connection.

[0034] [Side Connector]

[0035] In some versions, the side connector may have a connection interface that extends along the connection axis BB, which forms an angle α of 25° to 90° relative to the longitudinal axis AA. This particular orientation allows the connector to be positioned within the housing, between the inner wall of the arm and the battery module.

[0036] In some versions, the battery module may have a side connection portion with a cross-section smaller than that of the battery compartment, where the side connector is integrated into the interface. When the battery module is within the housing, the smaller cross-section allows space for the connector to pass between the connection portion and the inner wall of the housing. Therefore, the connector can be held in place by the inner wall of the arm, simplifying the mechanical design of both the connector and the battery module. The side connector can be advantageously positioned on the battery module at a distal position relative to the probe disc, which allows for limitation of the number of power cable turns.

[0037] Therefore, the side connector can be positioned on the upper part of the battery module, bringing it closer to the charging device. The charging device is preferably located at the end of the battery module, thus allowing access without removing the battery module from its housing. This configuration has the advantage of centralizing all battery module electronics in one place (in this case, the connection section), eliminating the need to connect these two functions—battery charging and probe power supply—using ribbon cables or other cables. This simplification improves reliability and reduces the size of the battery module. Furthermore, the battery module can thus be limited to two assembled components: the battery compartment and the connection section. This reduces the risk of the battery module losing its watertightness.

[0038] Additionally, the battery module may include a retaining groove that coaxially holds the connector head to the side connector. The retaining groove may extend, for example, along an axis parallel to the longitudinal axis AA. Specifically, the retaining groove can counteract the restoring force exerted on the connector head by the power cable through its winding portion (also known as a helix). The retaining groove can counteract the pulling force exerted on the connector head, particularly by the helix of the power cable. For these purposes, the retaining groove may extend on the side of the connector portion. This retaining groove may be formed by two opposing protrusions extending on the side of the connector portion. Therefore, these protrusions may extend parallel to the longitudinal axis AA and can be adjusted according to the inner wall of the arm housing. The height of these protrusions may be limited to compensate for the reduced size of the connector portion so as to be adjusted according to the inner wall of the arm housing.

[0039] Additionally, the recess also acts as a fault-prevention device by allowing the connector to be coaxially positioned with the side connector. If the connector is not properly positioned relative to the recess, it rests against the end of the housing and prevents the battery module from being inserted.

[0040] In some embodiments, the battery module may include a recess into which the side connector is integrated, the recess complementing the connector head of the power cable. The recess ensures the connector head mates with the side connector, particularly facilitating a convenient "plug-and-play" assembly. For example, the recess may be located on the connection portion between a retaining recess and an end connector. More specifically, in some embodiments, the recess may be interposed between a retaining recess and a shoulder of an axially connected end member. The recess improves the connection of the side connector by coaxially positioning the connector head with the connection interface of the side connector. To this end, the recess may include a circular configuration that provides a cylindrical housing configured to receive the connector head.

[0041] In one embodiment, the side connector may include:

[0042] - Electrical pins, which are directly or indirectly connected to the battery, and

[0043] - An electronic pin that is connected to an electronic device integrated into the battery module, preferably configured to modulate the value of the voltage output from the battery.

[0044] For example, the electrical pin configuration and the electronic pin configuration may each include at least two pins, and preferably include at least four pins.

[0045] Two pins enable the side connector to transmit adjustable power to the metal detector coil. Two additional pins enable the transmission of electronic data via power cables. Therefore, the strength of the magnetic field can be modulated according to user needs and / or the type of matrix in which the metal is being searched. For this purpose, the electronics of the battery module can be adapted to communicate with remote electronics, such as those located in the detection disk, via electronic pins and power cables. Additionally, these electronics may include a power converter adapted to communicate with a control unit located in the detection disk. The control unit can be remotely connected to a metal detector control box. Thus, the user can adjust the strength of the magnetic field emitted by the coil via the control box, which transmits information to the control unit, which then controls the power converter to supply appropriate power based on the magnetic field strength selected by the user. Typically, the control unit may include a microprocessor associated with memory and an electronic clock.

[0046] [Connector]

[0047] In some embodiments, the connector may include a retaining body configured to coaxially hold the connector to the side connector. Additionally, the retaining body may advantageously include a flat outer surface configured to contact the inner wall of the arm. The retaining body can thus be positioned between the connection portion and the inner wall of the housing. In some embodiments, the retaining body may be configured to cooperate with a retaining recess of the battery module. For this purpose, the retaining body may be larger than the retaining recess, such that the power cable extends within the retaining recess while the retaining body is positioned to abut against a protrusion of the recess. The retaining body may also include rounded fins at the connection with the power cable, thereby giving the retaining body a substantially trapezoidal longitudinal shape. The term "substantially" is used because the angles of the trapezoidal shape can be rounded. The fins may be positioned to abut against the protrusion of the recess.

[0048] In some versions, the connector may have a connecting end extending from the retaining body, wherein the connecting end mates into the side connector. Specifically, the connecting end may mate into a recess and is designed to snap into the recess. The connecting end improves both the coaxial positioning of the connector relative to the side connector and the retention of the connector on the side connector.

[0049] Additionally, the connecting end piece may include a sealing member that creates a seal when the end piece is inserted into the recess. Preferably, the end piece may be cylindrical and have dimensions suitable for insertion into the recess. The sealing member may include an O-ring formed around the periphery of the end piece and cooperating with the cylindrical housing provided by the recess. Therefore, the sealing member is visible, which facilitates its inspection, cleaning, and replacement. This sealing connection allows the metal detector to be used in aquatic environments. The use of an O-ring provides an efficient and inexpensive solution for providing a watertight connection between the end piece and the recess.

[0050] In some embodiments, the removal element is coupled to the connector and extends longitudinally in a straight line with the connector. When the connector is assembled to the side connector, particularly by means of a recess, the removal element makes it easier to remove the connector and battery module from the housing. This can be useful for maintaining the battery module or replacing the battery when necessary. The battery can be replaced with a charged battery or a new battery, depending on the situation. The removal element also facilitates the removal of the battery module from the housing, particularly when the connector is assembled to the side connector by means of a recess. The removal element also keeps a portion of the power cable outside the bottom of the pole, which simplifies maintenance of the pole arm and, more broadly, the maintenance of the metal detector.

[0051] In some versions, the connector may have both electronic connection pins and electrical connection pins. These pins are primarily located at the end of the connector, which is the connection interface for the connector. The connector pins can be configured to cooperate with the pins of the side connector to carry electronic data via the electronic connection pins and current via the electrical connection pins.

[0052] [Power cables]

[0053] In some embodiments, the power cable may include a resilient coiled portion. This coiled portion (also known as a helix) provides elongation capability for the cable, which is useful for connecting the connector to the detection disc of the metal detector. The coiled portion also cooperates with a removal element to easily remove the connector and / or battery module from the arm housing. Compared to metal detectors known in the prior art, the specific arrangement of the battery module and these two connectors allows for a reduction in the size of the coiled portion of the power cable.

[0054] In some versions, the power cable may extend between the housing and a connection end, where a second end of the cable emerges from the arm to connect to the detection disc. In this configuration, the power cable may include at least four wires for transmitting electronic data and current between the battery module and remote components of the battery module (e.g., the detection disc of a metal detector).

[0055] [The arm of the rod]

[0056] In some embodiments, the arm may be tubular and include a cross-section of a predetermined shape, such that the arm includes a longitudinal cavity in which power cables can extend. Advantageously, the battery module may be configured to occupy only a portion of the arm's cross-section. This provides a channel for the connecting cables to extend between the battery module and the inner wall of the arm, and also provides a channel for the connector to be positioned within the cavity of the arm between the battery module and the inner wall of the arm. The shape of the cross-section may be trapezoidal and include rounded corners, which explains why this shape can be described as substantially trapezoidal. In this case, the battery module may occupy the largest portion of the trapezoidal shape in the cross-section of the arm.

[0057] Therefore, the housing can be formed from a portion of the longitudinal cavity of the arm, preferably located near one end of the arm. For example, when the arm has a lower section and an upper section, the housing can be located at the end of the lower section connected to the upper section. Therefore, the lower section can be easily manufactured.

[0058] In one embodiment, the connecting end can be configured to be hinged to the probe disk. Therefore, the probe disk can be hinged to the lower portion of the rod to provide a rotatable probe disk. [Image Description]

[0059] Other features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following description. This specification is purely illustrative and should be read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0060] [ Figure 1 [Illustrated diagram of an exploded view of a metal detector according to an embodiment of the present invention.]

[0061] [ Figure 2 [Illustration 1] is a perspective view of a cross-section of the arm of a metal detector according to an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the lower portion of the housing is shown in cross-section when it is hinged to the detection disk of the metal detector.

[0062] [ Figure 3 [Image] is a perspective view of the cross-section of the arm portion according to an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the battery module is connected to the power cable connector via an end connector.

[0063] [ Figure 4 ]yes Figure 3 The cross-section is represented by the different orientations of the cross-sections of the rod arms.

[0064] [ Figure 5 ]yes Figure 3 The diagram shows the arm of the rod, with the battery module partially removed from the arm.

[0065] [ Figure 6 ]yes Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of one end of the arm of the rod.

[0066] [ Figure 7 ] is with Figure 6 A similar cross-sectional view of a battery module removed from the arm of a rod, which is connected to a power cable connector on one side via an end connector and to a power cable on the other side via a side connector.

[0067] [ Figure 8 [Illustration] is a diagram of the end of a lever arm according to an embodiment of the present invention, in which a battery module is inserted.

[0068] [ Figure 9 ]yes Figure 6 The diagram shows the end of the lever arm, where the battery module has been partially removed from the lever arm.

[0069] [ Figure 10 ]yes Figure 7 Exploded view.

[0070] [ Figure 11 [Illustration] is a diagram of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0071] [ Figure 12[ ] is a portion of a power cable according to an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the connector of the power cable is connected to the side connector of the battery module.

[0072] [ Figure 13 [Image 1] is a perspective view of a connector and power cable according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Detailed Implementation]

[0073] Figure 1 This is an exploded view of a metal detector 200 according to an embodiment of the present invention, which specifically includes a lower portion 20 and an upper portion 201 configured to engage together to form an arm 24 of the metal detector 200. The arm 24 thus includes two sections 20, 201. Specifically, the cross-section of the upper portion 201 of the arm may be slightly larger than the cross-section of the lower portion 20 of the arm to engage with the connecting end 21 of the lower portion 20 of the arm. The lower section 20 and the upper section 201 can be assembled using an assembly flange 202 disposed at the lower end 2010 of the upper section 201. The flange 202 also allows for telescopic adjustment of the arm length. The lower portion 20 of the arm may also include a connecting device disposed at a connecting end 22. The connecting end 22 is opposite to the engaging end 21. The connecting device is capable of engaging the detection disk 203 of the metal detector 200. The coupling device may include a connector 23 that ensures the probe disk 203 is rotatably coupled to the lower portion 20 of the rod. Here, connector 23 includes a shaft, and probe disk 203 includes a bearing configured to accommodate the shaft (see...). Figure 2 ).

[0074] The detection disc 203 may include one or more coils configured to transmit and receive electromagnetic fields. The detection disc 203 may also include electronic components, such as excitation devices for exciting the transmitting coils, receiving coils, amplifiers for signal processing components, and control devices for controlling the voltage applied to the one or more coils. Specifically, the control devices may include a control unit configured to communicate remotely or via a wired connection with the control box. The control box may include a human-machine interface to allow a user to adjust the detection power according to the specific characteristics of the matrix in which they are searching for metal, and include means for adjusting the detection and displaying the metal target on a screen. Typically, the control box is located at the handle 204 of the metal detector to allow for ergonomic operation. The handle 204 is configured to be mounted to the upper end 2011 of the top of the lever 201. For example, the control box may also be removed and worn on a belt. In some cases, the control box may also be located in or on the operator's wireless headset.

[0075] like Figure 2As shown, the probe disk 203 is hinged to the lower end 20 of the rod via a connector 23. In this example, the lower end 20 of the rod of the arm 24 thus extends along the longitudinal axis AA. The arm 24 is shown in cross-section so that the elements it contains are visible. As shown, the arm 24 is tubular, and its cross-section may, for example, be trapezoidal and have rounded corners. Therefore, the arm 24 includes a longitudinal cavity 240, which also extends along the axis AA. The cross-section of the longitudinal cavity 240 can also replicate the cross-sectional shape of the arm 24.

[0076] As in Figure 2 As can be seen, the metal detector 200 includes a battery module 30, which is removably inserted into a housing disposed within a longitudinal cavity 240 of the arm 24. The battery module 30 extends along the longitudinal axis AA. In this embodiment, the housing containing the battery module 30 is formed by a portion of the longitudinal cavity 240. Figure 2 As shown, this portion is preferably located near the engagement end 21, which is configured to be assembled to Figure 1 The metal detector 200 shown is located at its upper portion 201. Additionally, the metal detector 200 includes a power cable 40 that connects the battery module 30 to the detection disk 203. Specifically, the power cable 40 can be directly or indirectly connected to the terminals of one or more coils. For example, the power cable 40 can be connected to the excitation device of one or more transmitter coils. For this purpose, the power cable 40 extends within the longitudinal cavity 240 of the arm 24 between the side connector 31 of the battery module 30 and the detection disk 203.

[0077] The power cable 40 includes a connector 41 that connects to the side connector 31 near the engagement end 21 of the arm 24. Inside the arm 24, the power cable 40 includes a resilient coiled portion 42 located between the engagement end 22 and the battery module 30. Additionally, advantageously, the power cable 40 may also include a pull tab 43 protruding from the engagement end. The pull tab 43 constitutes a means for removing the battery module 30. Here, the pull tab 43 is engaged to the battery module 30 via the assembly of the connector 41 and the side connector 31. A user can use the pull tab 43 as a removal element to remove the connector 41 and / or the battery module 30 from the arm housing 24. When the battery module 30 is removed, the coiled portion 42 advantageously provides the power cable 40 with elasticity to allow such pulling without disconnecting the power cable 40 from the probe disc 203.

[0078] According to one embodiment, the battery module 30 may advantageously include a wired or wireless charging device for charging the battery, so that the battery can be charged without removing the battery module 30 from its housing.

[0079] Figure 3 and Figure 4 One embodiment is shown in which means for charging battery module 30 includes an end connector 32 extending along the longitudinal axis AA. Unlike the side connector 31 located within the housing, the end connector 32 protrudes from the engagement end 21 and includes a connection interface facing the outside of the housing. In this example, the connection interface extends along the longitudinal axis AA. Figure 3 and Figure 4 In the example shown, end connector 32 connects to power connector 50, which can be connected to a power source. The power source can be fixed, for example, it can be an AC outlet connected to mains power. The power source can also be another battery, such as a portable battery or a vehicle battery. When a transformer is connected to an AC outlet, the transformer can be associated with power connector 50. Figure 3 and Figure 4 The illustration only shows the beginning of the power cord 51, which is actually connected to a transformer or a suitable connector, depending on the type of power supply to which the power cord 51 is connected.

[0080] In some embodiments, the end connector 32 may be replaced by an electromagnetic coil compatible with inductive charging. The coil may be coupled to the battery module, or alternatively to the probe, with a wire passing through the power cable to connect to the battery. In other embodiments, the end connector 32 may also be replaced by a connector disposed on the probe, with electrical wires integrated into the power cable 40 for transmitting charging current to the battery module 30. When the battery module 30 includes only the side connector 31, the housing may be located anywhere on the arm 24 of the rod; however, the housing is preferably located in the lower portion of the rod 20 to limit the length of the power cable 40, particularly the length of the cable's coil.

[0081] like Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the power cable 40 has a pull tab 43 protruding from the coupling end 21 at one end, and the end connector 32 is connected to the power connector 50. The second end of the power cable 40 protrudes from the coupling end 22. At end 22, the second end of the power cable 40 may include a connector 44 adapted to supply an outgoing current with a predetermined voltage. The connector 44 is adapted to be directly or indirectly connected to the terminals of one or more transmitter coils of the probe disc 203. Figure 2 This is especially true in the example shown, but connector 44 is not visible because it is connected to an electronic device arranged in probe disk 203.

[0082] Figure 4This is a cross-sectional view of a portion of arm 24, which may be the lower part of rod 20. The metal detector 200 components arranged in the longitudinal cavity 240 of arm 24 are visible in this figure. Specifically, the battery module 30 is located in the cavity of the arm at the joint end 21, as is the power cable 40. Here, we can see that the connector 41 is laterally connected to the side connector 31 inside arm 24, while the end connector 32 is connected to the power connector 50. Meanwhile, the battery module 30 is contained within a housing, i.e., within the cavity 240 of arm 24.

[0083] exist Figure 5 In the example shown, a portion of the battery module 30 protrudes from the engagement end 21. The battery module can be removed by pulling the pull tab 43. This pulling action is indicated by the arrow. Figure 5 In this configuration, the end connector 32 of the battery module 30 is disconnected from any power connector, while the side connector 31 remains connected to the connector 41 of the power cable 40. The pull tab 43 is also connected to the connector 41 along the longitudinal axis, as shown in... Figure 9 , Figure 10 and Figure 11 As can be seen in the image. When the battery module 30, arm 24, and power cable 40 are assembled, the pull tab extends along the longitudinal axis AA, for example, see [link to image]. Figure 8 .

[0084] Figures 6 to 9 The cooperation between the battery module 30, its housing, and the power cable 40 according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown in more detail.

[0085] In particular, Figure 6 Is it set as follows Figure 3 and Figure 4 An enlarged view of the housing at one end 21 of the arm shown. According to this embodiment, the battery module 30 includes a sealed chamber 33 containing a rechargeable battery 34. The sealed chamber extends along a longitudinal axis AA, allowing the battery module 30 to be removably inserted into its housing. Additionally, the battery module 30 includes an electronics board 35, to which connectors 31 and 32 are connected. Here, the electronics board 35 is also arranged in an extension of the sealed chamber 33, the cross-sectional dimension of which may be smaller than that of the chamber 33.

[0086] The battery module 30 may also incorporate electronic components configured to modulate the output voltage of the battery 34. For example, an electronic board 35 may be connected to a voltage converter 36, which is also located in the compartment 33. The electronic board 35 may include electronic components capable of communicating with a coil control device. Control data can then be transmitted via power cable 40. Figure 11As shown, the side connector 31 may include electrical pin connectors and electronic pin connectors. The electrical pin connectors may include at least two pins 310 suitable for transmitting current. Therefore, the two pins 310 are directly or indirectly connected to the battery 34 via the electronics board 35. The electronic pin configuration may include at least two other pins 311 suitable for transmitting electronic data. For this purpose, they can be connected to electronic components capable of communicating with a coil control device via the power cable 40. To carry electrical data, the power cable 40 may include two conductors for transmitting electronic data in addition to the two electrical conductors. Therefore, the power cable 40 may include two sheaths 45, each sheath including two conductors. The two sheaths 45 are soldered together and extend from the connector head 40 to the connector 44. Figure 12 As shown, two sheaths 45 are wound together to form a wound portion of the power cable 40. Furthermore, the connector 41 may include pins 410, 411, which are configured to cooperate with the pins of the side connector 31. Figure 13 In the example shown, the connector includes four pins 410, 411 arranged in pairs. Specifically, two pins 410 are configured to cooperate with electrical pin 310, while the other two pins 411 are configured to cooperate with electronic pin 311.

[0087] Therefore, the side connector 31 is configured to deliver outgoing current from the rechargeable battery 34 to one or more coils of the metal detector 200 on the one hand, and transmit power data from the battery module 30 to a power control device, which may be located in the detector disk 203 on the other hand.

[0088] according to Figure 6 In the illustrated embodiment, the connector 41 is wedged between the inner wall 241 of the arm 24 and the side connector 31, and simultaneously contacts the side connector. For this purpose, the dimensions of the battery module 30 are adjusted according to the dimensions of the housing so that the connector 41 remains in contact with the side connector 31, thereby being clamped between the inner wall 241 of the arm 24 and the side connector 31. This eliminates the need to use threaded connectors to connect power cables to the battery module, a situation that may exist in the prior art.

[0089] The position of the end connector 32 on the battery module 30 allows it to protrude from the engagement end 21 of the arm 24. Therefore, the end connector 32 can be connected to a suitable power connector 50 for charging the battery 34 without removing the arm 24, the battery module 30, or the power cable 40.

[0090] like Figure 6As shown, the pull tab 43 may include a series of ridges 430 to improve its grip. In this example, a groove 430 is arranged at the free end of the pull tab 43, which is configured to protrude from the arm. The pull tab 43 allows the user to pull the connector 41 in a direction parallel to the AA axis, as... Figure 8 As shown by the arrow in the diagram, connector 41 is assembled to side connector 31 perpendicular to axis AA, allowing battery module 30 to be removed from the cavity of arm 24. Battery module 30 can be removed from arm 24 without disassembling the assembly between connector 41 and side connector 31.

[0091] Figure 6 An embodiment of a compliant battery module 30 is shown, which has been removed from the arm and is assembled to the power cable 40 on one hand via the side connector 31 and to the power connector 50 on the other hand via the end connector 32.

[0092] In particular, such as Figures 8 to 10 As shown, the battery module 30 may include a connecting end piece 37 at one end, which carries an end connector 32. The connecting end piece 37 is configured to protrude from the engaging end 21 of the arm 24 so as to be specifically accessible to the power connector 50, such as... Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 6 As shown. For this purpose, the connecting end member 37 includes a shoulder 370 configured to support abutment against the free edge 210 of the engaging end 21 of the arm 24. Specifically, the shoulder 370 is configured to support abutment against the edge of the free edge 210. The shoulder 370 thus prevents the battery module 30 from being fully inserted into the arm 24. The free edge 210 is at... Figure 6 As can be seen in. Figure 8 and Figure 9 In the example shown, shoulder 370 corresponds to a collar extending around extension 371 of connecting end piece 37.

[0093] As in Figure 8 As can be seen, the arm 24 has a trapezoidal cross-section with rounded corners, making the lower portion wider than the upper portion. This is represented by the width Lh at the top of the cross-section, which is less than the width Lb of the lower portion. However, the shoulder 370 rests on the free edge 210 only at the lower portion of the arm's cross-section, thus leaving an opening in the upper portion of the cross-section for the pull tab 43 to protrude from the cavity of the arm 24. Preferably, the battery module 30 occupies the lower portion of the cross-section, leaving the upper portion open to allow the power cable 40 to extend along the battery compartment to the connector 41, which is also positioned in the upper portion of the cross-section. Thus, the connector 41 is enclosed in the upper portion of the cross-section between the side connector 31 and the inner wall 241 of the arm 24.

[0094] As in Figure 9 and Figure 10 As can be seen, the connecting end 37 may include means for assembly to a power connector. An extension 371 protrudes from the shoulder 370 and allows for the formation of a clamping recess 372 located in front of the shoulder 370. Specifically, as... Figure 10 As shown, the groove 372 may extend only on a portion of the periphery of the extension 371. This provides a fault-proof feature for connecting the power connector 50, which is complementary to the connection end piece 37. The assembly device may also include a lug 373 forming a convex assembly element. Figure 10 In the example, lug 373 is disposed on the periphery of extension 371, on the side opposite to recess 372. Extension 371 may also include end recess 374 and two protrusions 375 disposed on both sides of end recess 374. Recess 374 creates an axis of symmetry for protrusions 375 and two studs 320 of end connector 32. Each stud 320 may be arranged on protrusion 375, such as... Figure 9 As shown, the protrusion 375 constitutes a convex assembly element. Therefore, the extension 371 carries the studs 320 of the assembly device and the end connector 32; in this sense, the extension 371 can be considered the end connector 32. The end connector 32 is configured to transmit incoming current to the battery 34, such that the two pins 320 of the end connector 32 can be directly or indirectly connected to the terminals of the battery 33.

[0095] exist Figure 11 In the example shown, the assembly device includes a magnet 376, thereby allowing magnetic assembly with a suitable power connector 50. The magnet 376 is arranged on both sides of the pins 320 of the connector 32. The extension 371 also has two lugs arranged at two edges of the periphery of the extension 371, such as... Figure 10 In this case, the extension 371 forms a single protrusion, the end of which is a flat surface into which the magnet 376 and the stud 320 are integrated. Although not shown, the magnet 376 can be positioned on both sides of the stud 320 and / or in the groove 374 to engage with... Figure 10 The extensions are used in combination.

[0096] As in Figures 9 to 11 As can be seen, the battery module 30 may include a side connection portion 38, the cross-section of which is smaller than the size of the compartment 33 containing the battery 34. This connection portion 38 is coupled with a side connector 31. Figure 7The reduced cross-section of the connecting portion 38 provides a space that allows the connector 40 to mate with the connector 31 within the overall dimensions of the battery module 30. When the battery module 30 and connector 40 are inserted into the arm housing 24, connector 40 occupies the space between the connecting portion 38 and the inner wall 241 of the housing, as shown. Figure 6 As shown. When assembling the lower rod 20, this space allows the connector 40 to be clamped between the connecting portion 38 and the inner wall 241 of the arm 24, as detailed in the diagram. Figure 6 In this manner, the battery module 30 is inserted into the housing, so that the compartment 33 is close to the probe disk, while the side connector 31 is located at the opposite end of the compartment 33, so as to be positioned at the far end relative to the probe disk.

[0097] Battery module 30 may also include a retaining groove 39 extending parallel to the longitudinal axis AA, such as Figure 11 As shown. Specifically, a retaining groove 39 extends on the connection portion 38 from the engagement with the battery compartment 33 to the side connector 31. The retaining groove 39 cooperates with the connector 40 to keep the pins 410, 411 of the connector 40 coaxial with the pins 310, 311 of the side connector 31. Specifically, the connector 40 is configured to engage in the retaining groove 39, which provides a reaction force against the restoring force applied to the connector 41 by the winding portion 42 of the power cable 40. The retaining groove 39 thus keeps the connector 41 in contact with the side connector 31.

[0098] like Figures 9 to 11 As shown, two protrusions 390 extend parallel to the longitudinal axis AA and form a retaining groove 39. The protrusions 390 can be sized to fit the inner wall 241 of the arm housing 24. The retaining groove 39 also has a bottom 391 that extends between the battery compartment 33 and the connector 31. At least a portion of the bottom 391 can be inclined relative to the wall of the battery compartment 33, which extends from the bottom 391. This compensates for the difference in lateral dimensions between the connecting portion 38 and the battery compartment 33.

[0099] In particular Figure 9 and Figure 10 In the embodiment shown, the retaining groove 39 may include a side reinforcement 392 to improve the mechanical strength of the protrusion 390. The side reinforcement 393 extends on the connecting portion 38, outside the protrusion 392, and abuts against the protrusion.

[0100] like Figure 11As shown, the battery module 30 has a recess 312 into which a side connector 31 is integrated. The recess 312 is integrated into a side connection portion 38, located between a retaining recess 39 and a shoulder 370. The recess 312 forms a concave assembly member complementary to a connector 41, which includes a convex assembly member. The recess 312 is circular in shape, thus providing a cylindrical housing configured to receive the convex member of the connector 40. Pins 310, 311 of the side connector 31 are arranged in the bottom of the recess 312.

[0101] The connector 40 may include a connecting end member 412, which forms a convex member complementary to the side connector 31, and particularly complementary to the recess 312 of the connector 31. The connecting end member 412 is... Figure 10 and Figure 13 As can be seen, the connecting end piece 412 is cylindrical and its dimensions are adapted to fit into the recess 312. The connecting end piece 412 may advantageously include a sealing member 413. The sealing member 413 extends approximately halfway around the periphery of the connecting end piece 412 to create a seal when the end piece 412 is inserted into the recess 312. The connecting end piece 412 may include a peripheral groove to receive an O-ring, which then forms the sealing member 413.

[0102] Especially Figure 10 , Figure 12 and Figure 13 As shown, connector 40 may include retaining body 414. End piece 412 protrudes from retaining body 414 to enable cooperation with side connector 31.

[0103] The retaining body 414 is configured to cooperate with the retaining groove 39 of the connecting portion 38 to counteract the restoring force exerted on the connector 40 by the cable winding portion 42. For this purpose, the lateral dimension of the retaining body is larger than the dimension of the retaining groove 39, particularly larger than the spacing between the protrusions 390. The power cable 40 extends into the retaining groove 39, as shown in... Figure 12 As can be seen in the image. The retaining body 414 may also include rounded fins 415 to improve cooperation with the protrusion 390 and create interlocking between the protrusion 390 and the retaining body 414. These fins 415 are disposed on the side where the power cable 40 connects to the connector 41. The fins 415 thus give the retaining body 414 a substantially trapezoidal shape. The corners of the body may be rounded while maintaining its trapezoidal shape. The purpose is to maintain the coaxiality of the connector 40 and the side connector 31. In addition, the retaining body 414 includes a substantially flat surface 416 that is positioned to contact the inner wall 241 of the arm 24. The surface 416 may be slightly curved to accommodate the inner wall of the arm 24, which may also be slightly curved, in particular see [reference needed]. Figure 8 and Figure 9 .

[0104] exist Figure 12 In the example, the side connector 31 has a connection interface extending along the connection axis BB. Here, the connection axis BB forms an angle α of 25° to 90° with respect to the longitudinal axis AA. The angle α can vary depending on the shape of the connection portion 38. In fact, several configurations can be used to provide the side connector 31, which allows the connector head 41 to be engaged with the side connector 31 while being held in place by the inner wall of the arm.

[0105] Advantageously, such as in Figure 13 As can be seen, connector 41 may include a connection interface oriented to extend along the connection axis BB and laterally connect to battery module 30, while a portion of the cable extends laterally abuts against battery module 30, such as... Figure 12 As shown, the power cable 40 and connector 41 can pass through the cavity 240 of the arm 24 at the height of the battery module 30, especially thanks to the shape of the cavity and also thanks to the shape of the battery module 30.

Claims

1. A portable metal detector (200) comprising a stem carrying a detection disc (203) equipped with one or more coils, the stem comprising: - an arm portion (24) extending along a longitudinal axis A-A and comprising a housing delimited by an inner wall (241); - a battery module (30) inserted in the housing, the battery module (30) comprising a lateral connector (31); - an electric power cable (40) adapted to transmit an electric current, the electric power cable (40) comprising on the one hand a first end having a connection head (41) complementary to the lateral connector (31), and on the other hand a second end electrically connected to the detection disc and adapted to supply an outgoing electric current; the connection head (41) of the cable (40) being placed in contact with the lateral connector (31), the battery module (30) being adapted in size to the housing so that the inner wall (241) of the arm portion (24) keeps the connection head (41) in contact with the lateral connector (31).

2. The portable metal detector (200) according to claim 1, wherein, The battery module (30) is removably inserted in the housing.

3. The portable metal detector (200) according to claim 2, comprising an extraction element (43) for the battery module (30), the extraction element (43) being coupled on the one hand directly or indirectly to the battery module (30) and on the other hand protruding from the housing of the arm portion (24).

4. The portable metal detector (200) according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein The battery module comprises wired or wireless means for charging the battery.

5. The portable metal detector (200) of claim 4, wherein, The means for charging the battery comprise an end connector (32) positioned at one end of the housing of the arm portion (24), preferably protruding from the end of the housing.

6. The portable metal detector (200) of claim 5, wherein, The battery module (30) comprises at one end a connection endpiece (37) into which the end connector (32) is integrated, the connection endpiece (37) being configured to protrude from the housing of the arm portion (24), the connection endpiece (37) in particular comprising connection means for connecting to a power supply connector (44), the connection means allowing incoming electric current transmission to the end connector (32), preferably the connection means comprising an extension (371) comprising a clip-in groove (372).

7. The portable metal detector (200) according to one of claims 1 to 6, wherein The housing is arranged at one end (21) of the arm portion (24), the connection endpiece (37) comprising a shoulder (370) configured to bear against at least part of the free edge (210) of the end (21) of the arm portion (24).

8. The portable metal detector (200) according to claim 7, wherein, The arm portion (24) of the stem (20) comprises an upper portion (201) and a lower portion (20) assembled together, the upper portion of the stem being coupled to the handle (204) while the lower portion of the stem (20) is articulated to the detection disc (203), the housing being provided at the end (21) of the lower portion of the stem (20) assembled to the upper portion of the stem (201).

9. The portable metal detector (200) according to one of claims 1 to 8, wherein The side connector (31) has a connection interface oriented along a connection axis B-B forming an angle a of 25° to 90° with respect to the longitudinal axis A-A.

10. The portable metal detector (200) according to one of claims 1 to 9, wherein The battery module (30) comprises a side connection portion (38) whose cross section is reduced in size compared to the portion containing the battery (34), the connection portion (38) incorporating the side connector (31).

11. The portable metal detector (200) according to one of claims 1 to 10, wherein The battery module (30) has a retaining groove (39) allowing the connection head (41) to be held coaxially with the side connector (31).

12. The portable metal detector (200) according to one of the claims 1 to 11, wherein The battery module (30) has a recess (312) comprising the side connector (31), the recess (312) being complementary to the connection head (41) of the power cable (40).

13. The portable metal detector (200) according to claims 6 and 12, wherein, The recess (312) is arranged on the side connection portion (38), between the retaining groove (39) and the end connector (32).

14. The portable metal detector (200) according to one of the claims 1 to 13, wherein The side connector (31) comprises: - an electrical pin (310) connected directly or indirectly to the battery (34), and - an electronic pin (311) connected to electronic means integrated into the battery module (30), preferably configured to modulate the value of the voltage output from the battery (34); The electronic means are particularly adapted to communicate with remote electronic components, via the electronic pin (311) and the power cable (40), for example with electronic components arranged in the probe disc (203).

15. The portable metal detector (200) according to claims 1 to 14, wherein, The connection head (41) comprises a retaining body (414) configured to hold the connection head (41) coaxially with the side connector (31).

16. The portable metal detector (200) according to claims 11 and 15, wherein, The retaining body (414) is configured to cooperate with the retaining groove (39) of the battery module (30).

17. The portable metal detector (200) of claim 16, wherein, The connection head (41) comprises a connection endpiece (412) protruding from the retaining body (414), the connection endpiece (412) being complementary to the side connector (31).

18. The portable metal detector (200) according to claims 12 and 17, wherein, The connection endpiece (412) is complementary to the recess (312) and is configured to fit into the recess (312).

19. The portable metal detector (200) of claim 18, wherein, The connection endpiece (412) comprises a sealing member (413) creating a seal when the connection endpiece (412) is inserted into the recess (312), preferably the connection endpiece (412) is cylindrical and its dimensions are adapted to be inserted into the recess (312).

20. The portable metal detector (200) of claim 3, wherein, The extraction element (43) is coupled to the connection head (41) and extends longitudinally in the extension of the connection head (41).

21. The portable metal detector (200) according to one of claims 1 to 20, wherein The power cable (40) extends between the housing and the coupling end (22), at which the second end of said cable (40) exits the arm (24) in order to be connected directly or indirectly to the terminals of one or more coils provided in the probe disc (203).

22. The portable metal detector (200) according to one of claims 1 to 21, wherein The power cable (40) comprises at least four wires, making it possible to transmit electronic data and current between the battery module (30) and a remote element such as the probe disc (203).

23. The portable metal detector (200) according to one of claims 1 to 22, wherein The arm portion (24) is tubular and has a cross section of a specific shape, the arm portion (24) thus comprising a longitudinal cavity (240) in which the power cable (40) extends.

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