A smart safety warning helmet and control system

Abstract

This invention discloses an intelligent safety warning helmet and control system. The helmet includes a helmet body, a central control module, at least one set of ranging sensor modules, and a multimodal warning feedback module. The ranging sensor modules are ultrasonic ranging modules, respectively located on the top, front, left, right, and rear sides of the helmet, used to detect the distance information of obstacles in multiple directions around the wearer. The multimodal warning feedback module includes a vibration motor corresponding to the direction of the ranging sensors, a high-brightness LED indicator, and a voice broadcast unit. When the detected obstacle distance is less than a preset threshold, the central control module controls the vibration motor in the corresponding direction to start, the LED indicator to light up, and broadcasts the obstacle's location and distance information via voice. This helmet is suitable for various application scenarios such as guide vision, cycling safety, production workshops, construction sites, and high-altitude operation warnings, effectively reducing the risk of safety accidents through active detection and multimodal warnings.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of wearable devices and safety protection technology, and more specifically, to an intelligent safety warning helmet and control system. Background Technology

[0002] As society places increasing demands on travel safety and productivity, the demand for intelligent safety protection equipment for different groups of people is growing.

[0003] In the realm of travel for the blind and visually impaired, traditional guide canes can only detect obstacles within a limited range near the ground in front, failing to detect pedestrians or vehicles above, to the sides, or at greater distances, leaving significant safety risks for blind travelers. In the area of ​​electric vehicle and motorcycle riding safety, riders lack the ability to perceive dangerous vehicles approaching at high speeds in their blind spots behind them, making rear-approach warnings crucial. However, current technology does not adequately address this, easily leading to serious traffic accidents. In construction sites, building sites, and other workplaces with the risk of falling objects, existing safety helmets only provide passive protection, unable to proactively warn of falling objects, leaving worker safety inadequately guaranteed. In the realm of military tactics, the complex battlefield environment requires personnel to monitor multiple directions simultaneously; traditional equipment struggles to detect approaching enemies from the sides, rear, or specific directions in a timely manner.

[0004] Currently, there are no integrated helmet products on the market that can simultaneously achieve multi-directional obstacle active detection, graded early warning, and be applicable to the aforementioned multiple scenarios. Existing technologies suffer from drawbacks such as limited functionality, limited sensing range, single feedback method, and lack of intelligent expansion. There is an urgent need for a new type of safety early warning helmet that can achieve omnidirectional perception, multimodal early warning, and intelligent interconnection. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The purpose of this invention is to overcome the shortcomings of existing technologies and to propose an intelligent safety warning helmet, comprising: Helmet body; The central control module is located inside the helmet body; At least one ultrasonic ranging module is mounted on the helmet body and electrically connected to the central control module for detecting the distance information of obstacles in at least one direction around the wearer; The multimodal early warning feedback module corresponding to the ultrasonic ranging module is electrically connected to the central control module; The multimodal early warning feedback module includes a vibration motor and a high-brightness LED indicator. When the ultrasonic ranging module detects that the distance to the obstacle is less than a preset threshold, the central control module controls the corresponding vibration motor to start and simultaneously controls the LED indicator to light up.

[0006] Preferably, the ultrasonic ranging module comprises four groups, respectively located at the front, rear, left, and right sides of the helmet body; the number of vibration motors is four, respectively installed in the inner lining of the helmet body at positions corresponding to the front, rear, left, and right sides; wherein, the ultrasonic ranging module located at the rear is used to detect vehicles or objects approaching at high speed in the wearer's rear blind spot, and its warning distance threshold is greater than the warning distance thresholds for the front and sides.

[0007] Preferably, the ultrasonic ranging module includes at least one set of ranging sensors disposed above the helmet body for detecting falling objects from above. It is suitable for construction sites, building sites and other work environments where there is a risk of falling objects from heights, and can replace traditional safety helmets.

[0008] Preferably, the multimodal warning feedback module further includes an auditory feedback unit, which includes a voice module and a speaker for broadcasting the location and distance information of obstacles.

[0009] Preferably, it also includes a communication module, which is electrically connected to the central control module and is used to exchange data with an external smart terminal; the communication module includes a Bluetooth module and / or a 4G / 5G communication module.

[0010] Preferably, it also includes an inertial measurement unit electrically connected to the central control module for detecting changes in the wearer's posture; when a fall event is detected, the central control module automatically sends a location alarm message to a preset contact person through the communication module.

[0011] Preferably, the central control module is an ESP32 microcontroller.

[0012] Preferably, the shape and structure of the helmet body are adapted to one of the following: a guide helmet for the blind, a cycling helmet, a safety helmet or a tactical helmet used in places with the risk of falling objects from heights, and the central control module adjusts the preset threshold and the working parameters of the ultrasonic ranging module according to different application scenarios.

[0013] An intelligent safety early warning control system also includes a visual cue extension interface, which is electrically connected to the central control module and is used to connect to AI glasses or a helmet visor. The central control module sends the obstacle location, distance, and risk level information detected by the ranging sensor module to the AI ​​glasses or helmet visor through the visual cue extension interface, so as to overlay the risk warning information in the wearer's field of vision in an augmented reality (AR) manner.

[0014] The aforementioned intelligent safety warning helmet and intelligent safety warning control system include Applications running on external smart terminals; The application is used to receive warning information and location information sent by the smart safety warning helmet, and to send parameter setting instructions, navigation instructions, or application scenario mode switching instructions to the smart safety warning helmet; the application includes multiple application scenario modes, including at least one of the following: guide mode, cycling safety mode, high-altitude falling object risk protection mode, and tactical warning mode; when switching the application scenario mode, the central control module adjusts the detection distance parameter of the ultrasonic ranging module and the preset threshold accordingly.

[0015] Compared with existing technologies, the beneficial effects of this invention are: Multiple ranging sensors work in tandem to achieve omnidirectional obstacle detection in front, to the left, right, and behind the wearer. It particularly enhances long-range warnings of high-speed approaching targets from behind and active detection of falling objects from above, effectively compensating for blind spots or the shortcomings of traditional tools (such as guide canes). Simultaneously employing tactile (vibration), visual (light), and auditory (voice) feedback methods, it can adapt to various sensory environments and user groups. Blind users can receive information through vibration and voice; vibration remains effective even in noisy environments (such as construction sites or while cycling). Additionally, the light can alert surrounding people to the wearer. The newly added AI glasses / front visor visual cue function can intuitively display risk information in AR mode without affecting normal vision, further improving the warning effect.

[0016] Through software configuration, it can be flexibly adapted to different scenarios such as guide vehicles, cycling, and high-altitude operations, realizing the modular design and diversified applications of the product. It can replace traditional safety helmets and provide a higher level of active protection for construction sites and other places with the risk of falling objects from heights.

[0017] Through Bluetooth or mobile networks, intelligent functions such as navigation, fall alarm, remote calling, and location sharing can be realized, upgrading the individual safety protection to a network-connected intelligent safety system.

[0018] The system transforms from passive physical protection to proactive intelligent early warning, giving wearers valuable reaction time and effectively reducing injuries and fatalities caused by collisions, falling objects, traffic accidents, and other incidents. Attached Figure Description

[0019] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of an intelligent safety early warning helmet proposed in this invention; Figure 2 This is a simplified system diagram of an intelligent safety early warning and control system proposed in this invention; Figure 3 This is a control flowchart of an intelligent safety early warning control system proposed in this invention. Detailed Implementation

[0020] The technical solutions of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings of the embodiments of the present invention. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments.

[0021] Referring to the figure, this embodiment provides an intelligent safety warning helmet, including: Helmet body 1; The central control module is located inside the helmet body; At least one ultrasonic ranging module 2 is mounted on the helmet body 1 and electrically connected to the central control module for detecting the distance information of obstacles in at least one direction around the wearer; The multimodal early warning feedback module corresponding to the ultrasonic ranging module 2 is electrically connected to the central control module; The multimodal early warning feedback module includes a vibration motor 3 and a high-brightness LED indicator 4. When the ultrasonic ranging module detects that the distance to the obstacle is less than a preset threshold, the central control module controls the corresponding vibration motor 3 to start and simultaneously controls the LED indicator 4 to light up.

[0022] Furthermore, the ultrasonic ranging module comprises four sets, respectively located at the front, rear, left, and right sides of the helmet body; the number of vibration motors is four, respectively installed in the inner lining of the helmet body at positions corresponding to the front, rear, left, and right sides; wherein, the ultrasonic ranging module located at the rear is used to detect vehicles or objects approaching at high speed in the wearer's rear blind spot, and its warning distance threshold is greater than the warning distance thresholds for the front and sides.

[0023] Furthermore, the ultrasonic ranging module includes at least one set of ranging sensors disposed above the helmet body for detecting falling objects from above. It is suitable for construction sites, building sites and other work environments where there is a risk of falling objects from heights, and can replace traditional safety helmets.

[0024] Furthermore, the multimodal warning feedback module also includes an auditory feedback unit, which includes a voice module and a speaker, for broadcasting the location and distance information of obstacles.

[0025] Furthermore, it also includes a communication module, which is electrically connected to the central control module and is used to exchange data with an external smart terminal; the communication module includes a Bluetooth module and / or a 4G / 5G communication module.

[0026] Furthermore, it also includes an inertial measurement unit, electrically connected to the central control module, used to detect changes in the wearer's posture; when a fall event is detected, the central control module automatically sends a location alarm message to a preset contact person through the communication module.

[0027] To elaborate further, the central control module is an ESP32 microcontroller.

[0028] Furthermore, the shape and structure of the helmet body 1 are adapted to one of the following: a guide helmet for the blind, a cycling helmet, a safety helmet or a tactical helmet used in places with the risk of falling objects from heights. The central control module adjusts the preset threshold and the working parameters of the ultrasonic ranging module according to different application scenarios.

[0029] An intelligent safety early warning control system includes a visual cue extension interface, which is electrically connected to a central control module for connecting AI glasses or a helmet visor. The central control module sends obstacle location, distance, and risk level information detected by a ranging sensor module to the AI ​​glasses or helmet visor via the visual cue extension interface, overlaying the risk warning information onto the wearer's field of vision using augmented reality (AR). An intelligent safety warning and control system includes an intelligent safety warning helmet; and Applications running on external smart terminals; The application is used to receive warning information and location information sent by the smart safety warning helmet, and to send parameter setting instructions, navigation instructions or application scenario mode switching instructions to the smart safety warning helmet.

[0030] Preferably, the application includes multiple application scenario modes, and the application scenario modes include at least one of the following: guide mode, cycling safety mode, high-altitude falling object risk protection mode, and tactical early warning mode; when switching the application scenario mode, the central control module adjusts the detection distance parameter of the ultrasonic ranging module and the preset threshold accordingly.

[0031] The above implementation method can be broken down into the following 5 application scenarios: Scenario 1: Smart Helmet Mode for Guided Vehicles This scenario presents a smart guide helmet for blind and visually impaired individuals.

[0032] In terms of hardware configuration, the central processing unit uses an ESP32 microcontroller. Four ultrasonic ranging modules are installed at the front, rear, left, and right sides of the helmet. Specifically, the signal trigger pin of the front ultrasonic ranging module is connected to GPIO12 of the ESP32, and the echo pin is connected to GPIO13; the signal trigger pin of the rear ultrasonic ranging module is connected to GPIO32, and the echo pin is connected to GPIO33; the signal trigger pin of the left ultrasonic ranging module is connected to GPIO18, and the echo pin is connected to GPIO19; and the signal trigger pin of the right ultrasonic ranging module is connected to GPIO15, and the echo pin is connected to GPIO14.

[0033] The haptic feedback unit includes four vibration motors, installed in the helmet liner at locations corresponding to the forehead, back of the head, near the left temple, and near the right temple, respectively, and controlled via GPIO25, GPIO16, GPIO26, and GPIO17 of the ESP32. The visual feedback unit includes a high-brightness LED indicator, mounted at the highest point of the helmet, and controlled via GPIO11 of the ESP32. The auditory feedback unit includes a voice module and a speaker for broadcasting the location and distance information of obstacles. The communication module uses Bluetooth for connection to a smartphone.

[0034] The program control logic is the same as the aforementioned guide mode, but it adds detection and early warning logic for the rear direction.

[0035] Scenario 2: Electric vehicle / motorcycle riding warning mode This scenario is based on the same hardware platform as Example 1, but the layout of the ranging sensor and the warning logic have been specifically adjusted to adapt to the cycling scenario.

[0036] This embodiment particularly enhances the rear warning function. The rear ultrasonic ranging module uses a model with a longer detection range (e.g., 10-15 meters), and the warning threshold is set at over 300 centimeters, significantly greater than the warning distances for the front and sides. When an object approaches at high speed from behind to a dangerous distance, the vibration motor on the back of the helmet provides a strong warning with high-frequency, powerful vibrations, while the top LED provides a visual alert with rapid flashing (unlike the constant illumination in other directions). Furthermore, the central control module calculates the approaching speed of the object from behind using a continuous ranging algorithm, issuing an early warning when the speed exceeds the safety threshold, giving the rider more reaction time. The front and side ultrasonic modules focus on warnings at medium to close distances.

[0037] Scenario 3: Falling Object Risk Protection Mode (Replacement for Traditional Safety Helmets) This scenario is suitable for construction sites, building sites, and other work environments where there is a risk of falling objects from heights, and can be used as an alternative to traditional safety helmets.

[0038] In terms of hardware configuration, based on Example 1, a set of ultrasonic or laser ranging modules is installed at the top of the helmet, with an upward detection range and an effective detection distance of 2-10 meters. The signal trigger pin of this top module is connected to GPIO34 of the ESP32, and the echo pin is connected to GPIO35.

[0039] In terms of software logic, the upper detection module continuously monitors the distance to objects above (such as crane loads, high-rise windows, scaffolding tools, etc.). Once a sudden change in distance to less than the danger threshold (e.g., 3 meters) is detected, and there is a tendency for the object to move closer, the LED on the top of the helmet turns into a red flashing mode, the corresponding upper vibration motor inside the helmet vibrates at high intensity, and a loud voice announcement is made: "Danger above, take cover!" Simultaneously, if AI glasses or a helmet visor are connected via a visual cue extension interface, the system will display a flashing red warning box in the area above the wearer's field of vision, indicating the direction of the danger.

[0040] This scenario adds active warning capabilities to the passive protection of traditional safety helmets, which can significantly reduce the incidence of falling objects from heights.

[0041] Scenario 4: Visual cue function of AI glasses / helmet front visor This scenario serves as an extended feature and is applicable to all application scenarios.

[0042] In terms of hardware configuration, a visual cue expansion interface is set inside the helmet. This interface communicates with the central control module via I2C or SPI protocol and connects to AI glasses or the helmet front cover via wired or wireless means (such as Bluetooth Low Energy).

[0043] In terms of software logic, the central control module fuses obstacle information detected by the ranging sensor module from various directions to generate a structured risk data packet. The data packet includes: obstacle location (front / back / left / right / above), distance value (unit: centimeters), risk level (green: safe, distance > threshold; yellow: warning, distance close to threshold; red: danger, distance < threshold), and approach speed (only for moving objects). This information is sent to the AI ​​glasses or helmet visor via a visual cue extension interface to be overlaid and displayed in the wearer's field of vision using augmented reality (AR). For example, a radar map of each direction is displayed at the edge of the field of vision, with color gradients indicating the degree of risk; when there is danger in a certain direction, a flashing arrow or warning box is displayed in the corresponding area of ​​vision in that direction to guide the wearer to the source of the danger.

[0044] Scene 5: Tactical Helmet Mode This scenario is based on the same hardware platform as Example 1, with ultrasonic ranging modules arranged in all directions, and the detection distance and warning threshold set to a longer range.

[0045] In terms of software logic, when a moving target is detected entering the warning range from any direction, the vibration motor in the corresponding direction vibrates at a specific frequency, the LED indicator lights up in a specific color, and the voice module broadcasts the target's location and distance information at a low volume through the bone conduction headphones, achieving a silent warning without revealing the wearer's position.

[0046] Based on the above scenarios and embodiments, the multiple ranging sensors in this invention work collaboratively to achieve omnidirectional obstacle detection in front of, to the left and right, and behind the wearer. It particularly enhances long-distance warning of high-speed approaching targets from behind and active detection of falling objects from above, effectively compensating for blind spots or the shortcomings of traditional tools (such as guide canes). Simultaneously employing three feedback methods—tactile (vibration), visual (light), and auditory (voice)—it can adapt to various sensory environments and user groups. Blind users can receive information through vibration and voice; vibration remains effective even in noisy environments (such as construction sites or while cycling). Furthermore, the light can also alert surrounding people to the wearer. The newly added AI glasses / front windshield visual cue function can intuitively display risk information in AR mode without affecting normal vision, further improving the warning effect.

[0047] Through software configuration, it can be flexibly adapted to different scenarios such as guide vehicles, cycling, and high-altitude operations, realizing the modular design and diversified applications of the product. It can replace traditional safety helmets and provide a higher level of active protection for construction sites and other places with the risk of falling objects from heights.

[0048] Through Bluetooth or mobile networks, intelligent functions such as navigation, fall alarm, remote calling, and location sharing can be realized, upgrading the individual safety protection to a network-connected intelligent safety system.

[0049] The system transforms from passive physical protection to proactive intelligent early warning, giving wearers valuable reaction time and effectively reducing injuries and fatalities caused by collisions, falling objects, traffic accidents, and other incidents.

[0050] The above specific embodiments further illustrate the purpose, technical solution, and beneficial effects of the present invention. It should be understood that the above are merely specific embodiments of the present invention, but the scope of protection of the present invention is not limited thereto. Any equivalent substitutions or modifications made by those skilled in the art within the technical scope disclosed in the present invention, based on the technical solution and inventive concept of the present invention, should be covered within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0051] Furthermore, it should be understood in the description of this invention that the terms indicating orientation or positional relationship are based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing this invention and simplifying the description, and are not intended to indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this invention.

[0052] Furthermore, in this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "linking," and "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention according to the specific circumstances.

Claims

1. A smart safety warning helmet, characterized in that, include: Helmet body; The central control module is located inside the helmet body; At least one ultrasonic ranging module is mounted on the helmet body and electrically connected to the central control module for detecting the distance information of obstacles in at least one direction around the wearer; The multimodal early warning feedback module corresponding to the ultrasonic ranging module is electrically connected to the central control module; The multimodal early warning feedback module includes a vibration motor and a high-brightness LED indicator. When the ultrasonic ranging module detects that the distance to the obstacle is less than a preset threshold, the central control module controls the corresponding vibration motor to start and simultaneously controls the LED indicator to light up.

2. The intelligent safety warning helmet according to claim 1, characterized in that, The ultrasonic ranging module comprises four sets, respectively located at the front, rear, left, and right sides of the helmet body; the number of vibration motors is four, respectively installed in the inner lining of the helmet body at positions corresponding to the front, rear, left, and right sides; wherein, the ultrasonic ranging module located at the rear is used to detect vehicles or objects approaching at high speed in the wearer's rear blind spot, and its warning distance threshold is greater than the warning distance thresholds for the front and sides.

3. The intelligent safety warning helmet according to claim 1, characterized in that, The ultrasonic ranging module includes at least one set of ranging sensors disposed above the helmet body for detecting falling objects from above. It is suitable for construction sites, building sites and other work environments where there is a risk of falling objects from heights, and can replace traditional safety helmets.

4. The intelligent safety warning helmet according to claim 1, characterized in that, The multimodal warning feedback module also includes an auditory feedback unit, which includes a voice module and a speaker, for broadcasting the location and distance information of obstacles.

5. The intelligent safety warning helmet according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a communication module, which is electrically connected to the central control module and is used to exchange data with an external smart terminal; the communication module includes a Bluetooth module and / or a 4G / 5G communication module.

6. The intelligent safety warning helmet according to claim 5, characterized in that, It also includes an inertial measurement unit, which is electrically connected to the central control module, for detecting changes in the wearer's posture; when a fall event is detected, the central control module automatically sends a location alarm message to a preset contact person through the communication module.

7. The intelligent safety warning helmet according to claim 1, characterized in that, The central control module is an ESP32 microcontroller.

8. The intelligent safety warning helmet according to claim 1, characterized in that, The shape and structure of the helmet body are adapted to one of the following: a guide helmet for the blind, a cycling helmet, a safety helmet or a tactical helmet used in places with the risk of falling objects from heights. The central control module adjusts the preset threshold and the working parameters of the ultrasonic ranging module according to different application scenarios.

9. An intelligent safety early warning control system, characterized in that, It also includes a visual cue extension interface, which is electrically connected to the central control module and is used to connect to AI glasses or helmet visors. The central control module sends the obstacle location, distance, and risk level information detected by the ranging sensor module to the AI ​​glasses or helmet visors through the visual cue extension interface, so as to overlay the risk warning information in the wearer's field of vision in an augmented reality (AR) manner.

10. The intelligent safety early warning control system according to claim 9, characterized in that, The intelligent safety warning helmet as described in any one of claims 1 to 9; as well as Applications running on external smart terminals; The application is used to receive warning information and location information sent by the smart safety warning helmet, and to send parameter setting instructions, navigation instructions, or application scenario mode switching instructions to the smart safety warning helmet; the application includes multiple application scenario modes, including at least one of the following: guide mode, cycling safety mode, high-altitude falling object risk protection mode, and tactical warning mode; when switching the application scenario mode, the central control module adjusts the detection distance parameter of the ultrasonic ranging module and the preset threshold accordingly.

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