SENSORGURT

Abstract

Sensor belt (12g, 12b) with the following features: a textile band (12, 12t); a buckle (22) having at least three crossbars (22a, 22b, 22m) arranged transversely to a direction along which the textile band (12, 12t) is guided in an S-shape through the buckle (22); a sensor (24) integrated into a middle one (22m) of the three crossbars (22a, 22b, 22m), which sensor is designed to detect a force.

Description

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a sensor belt, in particular to a sensor belt comprising a textile band and integrated sensors. Further embodiments relate to a safety device, such as a protective helmet, comprising a sensor belt.

[0002] Several state-of-the-art documents already refer to safety helmets with sensor technology. One system currently available on the market is called the Guardhat Communicator HC1. This system features sensors for temperature, humidity, pressure, noise, wear detection, proximity detection, and fall detection. Another commercially available system is the Smart Cap, which features EEG electrodes to enable vital sign detection.

[0003] There are also other devices for vital sign detection in the patent literature, e.g., in CN 102742954 A.

[0004] Further prior art in the field of sensor technology is presented in the patent literature under DE 102007063038 A1 or DE 10002378 A1. For example, a seat belt device with passenger detection is described here.

[0005] Furthermore, reference should be made to DE 102021111529 A1, DE 29721632 U1, and DE 102018132640 A1, which disclose sensors for detecting tensile force. DE 69615010 T2 deals with a safety helmet, and DE 102013002655 A1 with a bicycle helmet. All solutions have in common that the sensors are very complexly integrated into add-on components, such as the helmet buckle or the seat belt buckle, so a generally applicable approach for a retrofit system is not explained here.

[0006] Therefore, there is a need for an improved approach.

[0007] The object of the present invention is to create a concept that enables a simple integration of sensors into existing systems, such as safety systems, belt systems, etc.

[0008] The problem is solved by the subject matter of the independent patent claims.

[0009] Embodiments of the present invention provide a sensor belt with a textile strap and a buckle. The buckle has at least three crossbars arranged transversely to a direction along which the textile strap is guided through the buckle in an S-shape. Furthermore, a sensor system integrated into a central one of the three crossbars is provided, which is designed to detect a force, in particular a transverse force.

[0010] According to embodiments, the sensor system is designed to detect compressive forces transverse to the middle of the three crossbars and / or transverse to the direction along which the system strap is guided through the buckle.

[0011] Embodiments of the present invention are based on the finding that a simple buckle with an S-shaped guide for a textile strap can be used to supplement an existing textile strap, allowing an existing system to be expanded to include this sensor technology. A strap, such as a safety belt or a helmet strap, can thus advantageously be expanded to include sensor functionality. By integrating the sensor into the middle of the three crossbars, a very good encapsulation of the sensor is possible, while the original functionality of the strap is not impaired.

[0012] According to some embodiments, the guide is S-shaped, meaning that the textile strap runs in one direction and is guided at least around the central crossbar. By offsetting the guide around the central crossbar, a double S-shaped guide is created. This is advantageous because it ensures continued comfort on the side of the two outer crossbars, and the textile strap only loosens in the area of ​​the central crossbar.

[0013] According to one embodiment, the buckle can comprise a flexible material, such as an elastomer or silicone. These flexible materials allow the sensor to be encapsulated, thus protecting it from environmental influences such as moisture or dust. According to one embodiment, the flexible material can provide a mechanical preload for the sensor element. Depending on the sensor type, this can be used to adjust an operating point.

[0014] The S-shaped guide explained above ensures that compressive forces transverse to the central crossbar result from tensile forces on the textile strap. In this respect, the buckle is designed to generate a compressive force on the sensor system as a result of a tensile force on the textile strap. In other words, the buckle, in combination with the textile strap, forms a gear that is designed to exert a compressive force on the sensor system as a result of a tensile force on the textile strap. Because the transverse force is determined and the buckle is not provided as a separate element interposed between two textile straps, the absolute load on the textile strap does not depend on the buckle. The buckle therefore does not influence the safety functionality of the textile strap. Nevertheless, this design advantageously makes it possible to register tensile forces on the textile strap.These tensile forces can, for example, result from an overload on the textile strap, for example in an accident involving a seat belt with a textile strap or a textile strap from a helmet, so that such events can be sensed. Furthermore, the sensor technology is designed to determine vibration based on the detected force. Vibration is understood to be a varying, i.e. not a single, load. Especially in the area of ​​occupational health and safety, there are limit values ​​for vibrations that must be adhered to. This sensor technology therefore advantageously makes it possible not only to detect one-off falls or accidents, but also to document compliance with the limit values ​​or to issue warnings if the limit values ​​for vibrations, etc., are exceeded.

[0015] According to a further embodiment, the sensor system comprises an electret foil, a folded electret foil, and / or a stacked electret foil. Such foils are easy to implement and encapsulate in crossbars. Therefore, according to further embodiments, the sensor system can be encapsulated in the middle of the three crossbars. Alternatively or additionally, it is possible for the middle of the three crossbars to have a recess for integrating the sensor system into the recess or to have a two-part shape, with the sensor system integrated between the two crossbar parts.

[0016] According to further embodiments, signal processing, e.g., signal processing with a processor and / or a radio interface, can be integrated into the sensor system. Such signal processing can advantageously also be encapsulated to protect it from environmental influences. Furthermore, additional sensors can also be integrated, e.g., integrated into the textile strap or the buckle. The additional sensors are designed, for example, to determine a vital function.

[0017] A further embodiment creates a modified sensor belt with a textile band and integrated electronics that is enclosed on two sides by the textile band. Instead of the three cross bars, the sensors are provided between two (transverse) connections. This means that the sensor belt has at least two connections, e.g. connecting seams, that are arranged transversely to a direction along which the textile band runs, with the integrated electronics being provided between these two connections. These two connections in combination with the somewhat wider connection also form a gear that converts a tensile force on the eyelet created in this way into a transverse force or compressive force transversely to the direction of the textile band. Analogous to the above embodiment, this advantageously enables tensile forces to be detected based on compressive forces on the sensors.As already mentioned, the two cross-connections can be realized by seams. In this embodiment, as well as in the above embodiment, it would be conceivable for the textile band to be split in two. In this embodiment, the split makes sense because the seams already allow for a connection. As an alternative to seams, adhesive connections, etc., are of course also possible.

[0018] Another embodiment provides a safety device, such as a protective helmet, comprising the sensor belt as explained in the above embodiments. The sensor belt can be a circumferential headband or carrying strap on the safety device or the protective helmet. As already explained above, the buckle can be easily integrated into existing protective helmets by hooking the buckle into the headband or carrying strap. Thus, a protective helmet or a safety device in general with sensor functionality can advantageously be created.

[0019] According to a further embodiment, it would also be conceivable for additional sensors to be integrated into the surrounding headband. According to embodiments, the additional sensors could be sensors that, for example, detect a vital function. Contacts that come into contact with the scalp or the skin in general could also be provided. These contacts could be provided either on the inside of the textile band or on the inside of the buckle. According to an additional or alternative embodiment, it would be conceivable for the sensors to be of a similar type to the first sensor system explained.

[0020] Embodiments of the present invention are explained below with reference to the accompanying drawings. They show: Fig. 1 a protective helmet comprising a rigid helmet shell with a flexible strap carrying system for explaining applications; Fig. 2a and b textile bands according to embodiments in which a sensor system is integrated into the textile band; Fig. 3 a schematic representation of a sensor buckle according to embodiments; Fig. 4a and b are schematic representations to explain the functional principle of the belt guide according to embodiments; Fig. 5 a schematic representation of another sensor belt according to an independent further embodiment; Fig. 6a and Fig. 6c shows a schematic representation of a sensor according to a further embodiment; and Fig. 7a-7f schematic representations of a demonstrator according to embodiments.

[0021] Before exemplary embodiments of the present invention are explained below with reference to the accompanying drawings, it should be noted that elements and structures with the same function are provided with the same reference numerals, so that the description of them is applicable to one another or interchangeable.

[0022] In Fig. 1 shows a protective helmet 10 with a helmet shell 14 and a flexible strap system 12. The flexible strap system 12 comprises, for example, a headband 12b, which is arranged circumferentially around the helmet opening of the shell 14 and is designed to ensure contact with the forehead and / or temple. Starting from the headband 12b, the strap system comprises one or more straps 12g. Here, three straps 12g are shown, each extending transversely from the headband 12b. The straps 12g are connected to the headband 12b on both sides, thus enabling contact of the helmet with the head. When a lateral force acts on the helmet shell 14, a force is exerted primarily on the headband 12b, so that the headband 12b is subjected to tensile stress. When a force is applied to the upper side of the helmet shell 14, a force is applied to the straps 12g, which then also experience a tensile stress as a result of this force.For example, both belts may be textile belts. This detection of tensile stress can be utilized by integrating a sensor system into the textile belts according to embodiments of the invention, which is then configured to detect the force.

[0023] Based on this, Fig. 2a shows a possible position of the sensor 20 in the belt strap 12g. Fig. Figure 2b shows the integration of the sensor system 20 into the carrying strap 12b. It should be noted that these positions are purely exemplary and can, of course, also be integrated at other locations or into other straps, such as a chin strap (not shown).

[0024] Referring to Fig. 3 shows a possible sensor implementation of the sensor system 20.

[0025] Fig. 3 shows a textile strap 12t, e.g., comparable to strap 12g or strap 12b, which is provided with a buckle 22. Buckle 22 comprises at least three crossbars 23a, b, and m. The middle crossbar is designated by reference symbol m. Textile strap 12t is guided through buckle 22 in an S-shape, i.e., it runs on a first side of the buckle in the region of crossbar 22a and crossbar 22b, and on an opposite second side in the region of crossbar 22m. A sensor 24 is integrated into crossbar 22m. This sensor is designed to determine a transverse force q transverse to the direction of textile strap 12t, or in particular, the direction in which textile strap 12t is guided through the buckle.

[0026] According to exemplary embodiments, the S-shaped guide of the buckle allows the buckle 22 to act as a type of gear. A tensile force z on the textile strap 12t results in the transverse force q being exerted on the sensor element 24. The sensor element 24 is designed to determine this transverse force. Based on the determined transverse force q, a conclusion can be drawn about the tensile force z and thus about the load that precedes the tensile force z.

[0027] At this point, it should be noted that in this exemplary embodiment, the frame 22r of the buckle 22 is circumferential, so that two eyelets 22o are provided through which the textile strap 22t is threaded. According to further exemplary embodiments, it would also be conceivable for the buckles to have only a one-sided frame (not shown), so that the textile strap 22t is inserted laterally between the three bars 22a, 22b, and 22m.

[0028] Furthermore, it should be noted that the second deflection (double S-guide) is not absolutely necessary. According to a first variant, the double S-guide can be achieved by arranging the cross bar 22m with the cross bars 22a and 22b in a plane parallel to the guide direction of the textile belt 12t. The S-guide is then achieved by the bars 22a, 22b and 22m having a material thickness. Alternatively, the cross bar 22m could also be offset in a direction out of the plane of the bars 22a and 22b, so that, starting from the first side on which the textile belt 12t runs past the bars 22a and 22b, it is offset by an additional distance towards the side on which the textile belt 22t runs past the bar 22m. This arrangement ensures that the transverse force q is stronger, as can be seen from Fig. 4a and b will be shown.

[0029] According to an alternative embodiment, it would also be conceivable for bars 22m and 22b, or bars 22a and 22m, to lie in one plane, while the other bar is offset. This creates an asymmetrical structure, which, however, would be equally conceivable according to the embodiments.

[0030] Fig. Figure 4b shows a cross-section through the sensor with a two-part central bar 22m comprising components 22m1 and 22m2. Also shown are bars 22a and 22b. As can be seen, bars 22a, 22b, and 22m1 are arranged in a common plane, with bar 22m2, as explained above, being offset from this common plane in the direction of deflection of textile strip 12t from the direction of extension. A sensor foil is provided between bars 22m1 and 22m2 to form the sensor element. This results in a double S-shaped guide, so that textile strip 12t is offset once by the material thickness of bars 22a, 22b, and 22m1 + the material thickness of bar 22m2 + the material thickness of sensor foil 24. As a result of this displacement, a transverse angle α is formed on both the side of the bar 22a and the side of the bar 22b.For a tensile force fs along the textile belt of 12t, transverse forces fz / 2 act on the bars 22m1 and 22m2 as well as a transverse force fz on the bar 22m2, as shown in . Fig. 4a. fs behaves relative to fz as a function of α. This means, conversely, that a thicker buckle leads to stronger transverse forces. Based on this, a good compromise between the thickness of the buckle 22 and the resulting transverse force q can be determined.

[0031] The transverse force fz deforms the bar 22m, causing it to compress the sensor foil 24 between the bars 22m1 and 22m2. Based on this, the sensor foil can determine the force fz and allow a conclusion to be drawn about fs.

[0032] One advantage of this concept is that the sensor arrangement can be designed to be partially or completely flexible, thus minimizing negative effects on the overall system. A sensor based on the first basic idea can be used not only in protective helmets, but also in all other types of flexible textiles in harness systems. A safety belt, for example, would be another application example.

[0033] According to a second basic idea, it would also be conceivable for the sensor system shown to be combined with additional sensors, such as a sensor system for vital functions. The vital function can, for example, be integrated into the belt 12b, while the force detection functionality is integrated into the belt 12g. A reverse arrangement would also be conceivable. Alternatively, it would of course also be conceivable for another sensor system to be provided in the buckle, e.g. in the area 22m1, so that contact with the body would be possible, for example. An advantage of this second sensor system is that it not only records the load acting on the wearer of the safety device, but also allows the effect on their physical condition to be determined at the same time. For example, this makes it easier to detect and analyze an accident when working alone.

[0034] According to one embodiment, the sensor can be used, for example, in (protective) helmets, carrying systems (e.g., backpacks), safety belts for vehicles, parachutes, seating furniture (webbing) or load securing systems (tensioning belts) to determine accelerations, forces, vital functions or for condition monitoring (service life determination, condition monitoring, structural health monitoring, etc.).

[0035] The use of buckle 22 in combination with an existing 12t textile belt is advantageous because it enables a retrofit.

[0036] Another variant of force detection is described below with reference to Fig. 5 explained. Fig. 5, analogous to the previous embodiments, enables a tensile force z on a textile belt 12t to result in a transverse force q, which can be determined by means of a sensor unit 34. In this embodiment, the sensor unit 34 comprises two housing halves 34a and 34b with a sensor layer 24 in between. The housing halves and the sensor layer are parallel to the direction of the belt 12t, so that a transverse force perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the belt webbing 12t can be detected in the form of a compressive force on the element 24.

[0037] In these embodiments, the transmission is realized in that the element 34 is enclosed by the textile belt 12t or two halves 12t1 and 12t2 of the textile belt 12t. A transverse connection 12q1 and 12q2, e.g., in the form of a seam, is provided on both sides. For example, the two textile belts 12t1 and 12t2 can be sewn together to form an eyelet for the element 34. The element 34 is located between the two transverse elements 12q1 and 12q2. A tensile force on the belt 12t results from the eyelet in which the element 34 is arranged being stretched, thus narrowing the eyelet in the transverse direction, resulting in the transverse force q.

[0038] The underlying sensor principle is analogous to the above embodiments, whereby here the transmission is not realized by rigid cross bars 22a and 22b, but by the cross connections 12q1 and 12q2.

[0039] Even if seams 12q1 and 12q2 are assumed here, adhesive joints or the use of connecting elements such as staples or similar can of course also be used.

[0040] Fig. Figure 6a shows another variant. Here, either the sensor element 24 and / or a part of the housing or buckle 22 can be pre-tensioned. For example, this can be achieved if, with appropriate design, the flexible material mechanically pre-tensions the sensor element. Depending on the sensor type, this can be used to set an operating point. It is then also possible, for example, to measure tensile forces. Fig. The variant shown in Figure 6 has a flexible material 37a, such as a foam, between the two elements 22m1 and 22m2, or 37b between the elements 22m2 and 22m3 with 24 in between. Furthermore, screws 37s can be provided to adjust the preload. The resulting prestress through element 37 is in Fig. 6b. According to embodiments, the element 37 can also be a single piece, or only one part 27a or 37b can be provided. The sensor buckle 22 consists of both very rigid elements 22m1, 22m2, 22m3 and flexible housing components 37a, 37b. During assembly, the flexible elements 37a, 37b are compressed or expanded, thus mechanically pre-tensioning the sensor film 24. Fig. Figure 6c shows the state after assembly, or rather during measurement. According to further embodiments, the negative electrode of the sensor foil 24 is connected to the electrically conductive housing base 22m3, thus achieving partial shielding against interference signals.

[0041] In the Fig. Figures 7a to 7f show a demonstration with a universally adaptable design. The demonstrator features, for example, a 22' aluminum housing (22m1', 22m2', 22m3'), a flexible cellular rubber interlayer 37 (e.g., bonded with cyanoacrylate adhesive), and an integrated connecting cable 39l with a shielded SMA connector 39s. Fig. 7f shows the combination with a textile belt 12t and an external electronics 45 for evaluation.

[0042] In all of the above embodiments, the sensor system can be expanded to include signal processing means, such as a processor, for evaluating the transverse forces. This processor can, for example, be configured to draw conclusions about the tensile force z and the preceding load based on the transverse force q. Furthermore, the signal processing device can also be expanded to include signal transmission means, such as radio detection means. QUOTES CONTAINED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents submitted by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the convenience of the reader. This list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] CN 102742954

[0003] DE 102007063038 A1

[0004] DE 10002378 A1

[0004] DE 102021111529 A1

[0005] DE 29721632 U1

[0005] DE 102018132640 A1

[0005] DE 69615010 T2

[0005] DE 102013002655 A1

[0005]

Claims

[1] Sensor belt (12g, 12b) with the following features: a textile belt (12, 12t); a buckle (22) having at least three crossbars (22a, 22b, 22m) arranged transversely to a direction along which the textile band (12, 12t) is guided in an S-shape through the buckle (22); a sensor (24) integrated into a middle (22m) of the three cross bars (22a, 22b, 22m) which is designed to detect a force. [2] Sensor belt (12g, 12b) according to claim 1, wherein the buckle (22) comprises a flexible material, an elastomer and / or a silicone. [3] Sensor belt (12g, 12b) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the sensor system (24) is designed to determine compressive forces (q) transversely to the middle (22m) of the three crossbars (22a, 22b, 22m) and / or transversely to the direction along which the textile band (12, 12t) is guided through the buckle (22). [4] Sensor belt (12g, 12b) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the buckle (22) is designed to generate a compressive force (q) on the sensor system (24) as a result of a tensile force (z) on the textile band (12, 12t); or wherein the buckle (22) in combination with the textile band (12, 12t) forms a gear which is designed to exert a compressive force (q) on the sensor system (24) as a result of a tensile force (z) on the textile band (12, 12t). [5] Sensor belt (12g, 12b) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the sensor system (24) is designed to determine a vibration based on the detected force. [6] Sensor belt (12g, 12b) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the sensor system (24) comprises an electret foil, a folded electret foil and / or a stacked electret foil. [7] Sensor belt (12g, 12b) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the sensor (24) is cast in the middle (22m) of the three cross bars (22a, 22b, 22m), or wherein the middle (22m) of the three cross bars (22a, 22b, 22m) has a recess so that the sensor (24) is integrated into the recess, or has a two-part shape, between the two bar parts the sensor (24) is integrated. [8] Sensor belt (12g, 12b) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the sensor system (24) is coupled to a signal processing system. [9] Sensor belt (12g, 12b) according to claim 8, wherein the signal processing comprises a radio interface. [10] Sensor belt (12g, 12b) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a further sensor system (24) is integrated into the textile band (12, 12t), wherein the further sensor system (24) is designed to determine a vital function. [11] Sensor belt (12g, 12b) with the following features: a textile belt (12, 12t); an integrated sensor system (24) which is enclosed on two sides by the textile band (12, 12t); at least two connections arranged transversely to a direction along which the textile band (12, 12t) runs, wherein the integrated sensor system (24) is arranged between the two connections. [12] Sensor belt (12g, 12b) according to claim 11, wherein the two connections are realized by seams. [13] Sensor belt (12g, 12b) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the textile band (12, 12t) is divided into two parts. [14] Sensor belt (12g, 12b) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the sensor system (24) and / or a part of the buckle (22) is mechanically pre-tensioned. [15] Safety device (10), in particular a protective helmet, comprising a sensor belt (12g, 12b) according to one of the preceding claims. [16] Safety device (10) according to claim 15, wherein the sensor belt (12g, 12b) is used as a circumferential headband (12b) and / or as a carrier belt. [17] Safety device (10) according to claim 15 or 16, which has a further sensor system (24), wherein the further sensor system (24) is designed to determine a vital function. [18] Safety device (10) according to claim 17, wherein the further sensor system (24) is integrated into a circumferential headband (12b). [19] Safety device (10) according to claim 17 or 18, wherein the further sensor system (24) represents a similar sensor system (24) compared to the sensor system (24).

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