Smart hat for detecting uneven ground and obstacles

Abstract

Portable device for detecting uneven ground or obstacles, comprising: - a head covering, in particular a hat, - at least one sensor for detecting the environment in front of the wearer, - an electronic unit with a microcontroller for processing the sensor data, - a signaling unit for issuing a warning signal to the wearer, characterized in that the device is designed so that it can be worn discreetly and operated autonomously.

Description

Technical field

[0001] The invention relates to a portable device in the form of a head covering, in particular a hat, with electronic components for detecting obstacles or uneven ground and for issuing warning signals to the wearer. State of the art

[0002] Portable systems that detect obstacles are known from the prior art, for example through wearable sensors or white canes. However, these are usually conspicuous, require separate devices, or are not integrated into everyday objects.

[0003] In addition, there are devices for power supply, control, or ventilation, which consist of several functional components such as electronic modules, fans, and power sources. These are usually permanently integrated into a housing or a cap.

[0004] The focus of such systems is often on short-term functionality, not on the longevity or reusability of the components. Fans are often designed for a short lifespan, solar cells sometimes have limited operating times, and electronic components contain wear parts such as relays or mechanical switches.

[0005] Furthermore, many well-known systems are not modular in design, which makes the reuse of individual components in other applications difficult or economically unattractive.

[0006] Many solutions also fall short in terms of sustainability. A systematic design focused on maximum lifespan, disassembly, and reusability is not sufficiently considered in current technology. Task

[0007] The object of the invention is to provide an inconspicuous device, designed in the form of everyday headgear, that detects uneven ground or obstacles in front of the wearer and informs them by means of clear warning signals. At the same time, the device should be energy self-sufficient and able to operate reliably even in darkness or without sunlight.

[0008] Furthermore, the device should be designed for maximum durability and, in line with a sustainable product strategy, be modular in design so that individual components can be reused or replaced. The use of maintenance-free and wear-free components is also part of the requirement. Solution

[0009] The problem is solved by a portable device according to claim 1. The device is designed as a hat, in particular as a Panama hat with a wide brim.

[0010] A flat solar cell is integrated into the top of the hat's crown, providing energy to power the electronic components. Inside the hat is an electronics unit with a microcontroller, an energy management system, and an energy storage device (buffer capacitor).

[0011] At least one ultrasonic sensor is positioned at the front of the brim, angled 30° to 45° forward and downward, to detect uneven ground and obstacles in the walking area. An electrically powered fan is located at the back of the hat for ventilation of the wearer.

[0012] Inside the hat is an integrated USB interface, accessible from the outside, allowing the connection of an external power bank. The microcontroller is connected to a warning signal unit that emits acoustic signals via a speaker mounted in the hat's brim. Optionally, the electronic unit includes an inertial measurement unit (IMU) and / or a compass. The hat can also be equipped with wireless interfaces to transmit measurement data to external devices.

[0013] All components are designed for extreme durability. The fan used (e.g., Noctua NF-A6x15) has a mean time between failures (MTBF) of over 150,000 hours. The solar cell is based on technologies with over 20 years of field experience. The electronic circuitry is completely free of mechanically stressed wear parts.

[0014] The device has a modular design. Components can be disassembled with some skill and reinstalled in a different housing or system. The manufacturer can handle the conversion upon request. This design reduces material costs for repairs, retrofitting, or reuse. Advantages

[0015] The device provides timely warnings of curbs, steps, or depressions in the ground. Its discreet design allows for autonomous operation thanks to a solar cell. An external USB interface ensures reliable operation even in darkness or without sunlight. An integrated fan enhances wearing comfort in high temperatures.

[0016] Furthermore, the device is particularly sustainable due to the use of durable, maintenance-free components. Its modular design allows the main components to be reused beyond the lifespan of a single hat. This reduces resource consumption and protects the environment while maintaining high technical reliability.

Claims

[1] Portable device for detecting uneven ground or obstacles, comprising: - a head covering, in particular a hat, - at least one sensor for detecting the environment in front of the wearer, - an electronic unit with a microcontroller for processing the sensor data, - a signaling unit for issuing a warning signal to the wearer, characterized by that the device is designed in such a way that it can be worn discreetly and operated autonomously. [2] Device according to claim 1, characterized by , that the headgear is designed as a hat, an ultrasonic sensor is located at the front of the brim, a solar cell integrated into the top of the hat crown serves as an energy source, the electronic unit is located inside the hat, and an electrically operated fan is mounted at the back. [3] Device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized bythat the sensor is an ultrasonic sensor, oriented at an angle of 30° to 45° forward and downward. [4] Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by that a flat solar cell is integrated into the top of the headgear, which serves as the energy supply. [5] Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by that a buffer capacitor is provided as an energy storage device. [6] Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that an electrically operated fan is integrated in the area of ​​the back of the headgear for ventilation of the wearer. [7] Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by that a USB interface is provided which is accessible from the outside and allows the connection of an external power source. [8] Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat the electronic unit additionally includes an inertial measurement unit (IMU) and / or a compass. [9] Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by that a wireless interface is provided for data transmission to external devices. [10] Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by that all electrical and mechanical components are designed for a particularly long service life.