Battery pack, helmet accessory system and safety helmet system with a vibration alarm and method for operating a helmet accessory system

Abstract

The invention relates to a battery pack (100) for securing to a safety helmet (30) and for supplying energy to a helmet accessory, comprising: a battery module (12) for storing and outputting electrical energy; a supply and communications connection (14) for supplying energy to a helmet accessory that can be coupled to the battery pack (100) and for communication; mounting means (214) for securing the battery pack (100) to the safety helmet (30); a vibration module (16) for generating mechanical vibration; a control unit for controlling the function of the battery pack (100), including the function of the vibration module (16); wherein the control unit is designed to control the vibration module (16) based on a communications signal received at the supply and communications connection (14). The invention also relates to a helmet accessory system comprising a battery pack (100) and a helmet accessory, as well as a safety helmet system comprising a safety helmet (30) and a helmet accessory system. The invention further relates to a method (300) for operating a helmet accessory system.

Description

[0001] Battery pack, helmet accessory system and protective helmet system with vibrating alarm and method for operating a helmet accessory system

[0002] The invention relates to a battery pack, a helmet accessory system and a protective helmet system each with a vibration alarm and a method for operating such a helmet accessory system

[0003] For many jobs, especially in forestry, wearing a protective helmet is required. A corresponding protective helmet, comprising a helmet shell with an interior comprising a head-contacting assembly comprising at least a carrying basket, a headband, and a neckband, and means for attaching this assembly to the helmet shell, is known, for example, from document DE 87 14 490 U1.

[0004] This well-known safety helmet represents a basic helmet that can be adapted to different tasks in different operating conditions by changing attachments. The safety helmet consists of a helmet shell and a minimum of internal fittings. The internal fittings consist of a cross-strap with which the helmet is worn on the head and which ensures an impact-absorbing distance between the head and the helmet shell. The safety helmet has a projection on its outer circumference that encircles the sides and rear of the helmet. This projection contains four recesses at the bottom for attaching the cross-strap and further recesses for attaching additional attachments. The basic version of the helmet can be used as a simple universal helmet without any attachments. The attachments can be added or removed as needed.

[0005] Helmet accessories that can be usefully attached to a safety helmet include a helmet light, which, similar to a headlamp, provides additional illumination of the helmet user's work area or other areas. Such additional illumination of the work area or other areas can be useful not only during dawn and dusk and after dark, but also in areas shielded from daylight, such as the twilight under a closed tree canopy. Furthermore, a helmet light that can be attached to a safety helmet can also be advantageous for a wide variety of activities. For example, nighttime repairs to construction machinery on construction sites or maintenance work in dark, poorly lit utility tunnels or under bridges can be carried more effectively and efficiently if a suitable lighting device in the form of a helmet light is carried "on the person" and ready for use.

[0006] Such helmet lights usually generate light from electrical energy, whereby the electrical energy required for this is usually stored and carried in chemical form, for example as a battery pack or rechargeable battery pack.

[0007] Another useful helmet accessory is hearing protection, which can be worn while wearing a safety helmet to dampen any noise that may be present, for example, during forestry or construction work. However, this muffles all sounds in the user's surroundings, making it more difficult for them to perceive other acoustic signals. Furthermore, the loud ambient noise itself prevents the perception of acoustic (warning or information) signals. Such signals, which the user should generally be able to reliably perceive, include, for example, any acoustic signals from a mobile phone. Equipping mobile phones with a vibration alarm is already known to improve the perception of signals from a mobile phone.However, such a vibration alarm is also difficult to perceive due to the physical activities carried out by the user of the protective helmet and the protective clothing that must be worn, which may include additional padding, cut protection, etc.

[0008] The present invention is based on the object of solving or at least alleviating this problem.

[0009] This problem is solved with the help of the subject matter having the features of the independent claims. Useful embodiments and further developments arise from the dependent claims.

[0010] In the battery pack according to the invention for attachment to a protective helmet and for supplying energy to a helmet accessory, the battery pack comprises a battery module for storing and delivering electrical energy; a supply and communication connection for supplying energy to a helmet accessory that can be coupled to the battery pack and for communication; mounting means for attaching the battery pack to the protective helmet; a vibration module for generating structure-borne sound; a control unit for controlling the functions of the battery pack, including the function of the vibration module; wherein the control unit is configured to control the vibration module based on a communication signal received at the supply and communication connection.In this way, acoustic and tactile signals, the output of which is communicated or requested by another device, such as a mobile phone communicatively connected to the battery pack that charges the battery pack and / or controls the helmet accessories, can be reliably transmitted to the user via the protective helmet itself via a communication signal sent to the power and communication port by the battery pack control unit. The communication signal requesting activation of the vibration module can reach the communication port in various ways, for example, via a fully wired connection or an at least partially wireless connection, such as Bluetooth, NFC, or similar.

[0011] Usefully, the vibration module can be integrated into a battery body or formed integrally with the mounting means. In this way, the battery body, the battery pack comprising the battery body, or the mounting means can have a dual function. The battery body then serves, on the one hand, to supply power to the helmet accessory and, at the same time, to emit a tactile notification signal to the wearer of the protective helmet. Alternatively, the mounting means serves to attach the battery pack and, at the same time, to emit the tactile notification signal to the wearer of the protective helmet.

[0012] Alternatively, the vibration module can be detachably attached to the battery body or detachably attached to the mounting device. This allows for optional retrofitting of the battery pack or the mounting device, whereby the aforementioned dual functionality is achieved through retrofitting.

[0013] Advantageously, the vibration module can comprise retaining means that secure the vibration module to the battery pack or the mounting means. This allows the respective configurations of the battery pack or the mounting means to be kept very simple, allowing for cost-effective retrofitting of an existing battery pack (with the associated mounting means) that is at least roughly prepared for such a retrofit.

[0014] Furthermore, the holding means can be designed to magnetically and / or mechanically fix the vibration module. Both magnetic and mechanical fixation, for example, using a clamping device, allows for a simple and reliable detachable attachment of the vibration module to the battery pack or the mounting means.

[0015] It can also be provided that an electrical connection between the battery pack and the vibration module is formed by means of the holding means. This eliminates the need for additional electrical contacts for connecting the vibration module to the battery pack.

[0016] Usefully, the vibration module can be provided with a support surface that rests against the shell of the protective helmet when the battery pack is attached to the helmet by means of the mounting means. By providing the support surface, a particularly efficient transmission / introduction of the generated tactile vibration signal into the shell of the protective helmet, which acts as a resonance body, can be achieved. Accordingly, a vibration module that consumes only a small amount of electrical energy is required, which increases energy efficiency.

[0017] In particular, it can also be provided that the battery pack comprises at least one sensor unit that detects an operating state of the battery pack, and that the control unit is configured to control the vibration module based on the detected operating state. In this way, the battery pack itself can independently send tactile (vibration) signals to the wearer of the protective helmet to attract their attention. For example, charge level warnings, temperature warnings, etc. can be issued.

[0018] Furthermore, it can be provided that the control unit is designed to control the helmet accessory synchronously with the vibration module. In this way, the user's attention can be directed even more efficiently to the signal emitted by the vibration module. A helmet accessory system according to the invention comprises such a battery pack and a helmet accessory, in particular a helmet light, wherein the battery pack and the helmet accessory can be or are attached to a helmet shell of the protective helmet. A protective helmet system according to the invention comprises a protective helmet and such a helmet accessory system. In this way, the present object is also achieved by a helmet accessory system and a protective helmet system.

[0019] A method according to the invention for operating such a helmet accessory system comprises receiving a communication signal at a supply and communication connection of the battery pack and controlling, by a control unit, a vibration module based on the received communication signal. In this way, the present object is also achieved by a method.

[0020] Furthermore, the further advantages described in connection with the battery pack can be realized analogously in the helmet accessory system and the protective helmet system as well as in the present method, wherein the respective physical characteristics of the battery pack used are used in a process-like manner if necessary.

[0021] Exemplary embodiments of the invention or some components and parts of the invention are described in more detail below with reference to the drawings.

[0022] They show:

[0023] Figures 1a to 1k show three-dimensional external views of a battery pack from different viewing directions and in different designs;

[0024] Figures 2a to 2c show three-dimensional representations of a connector plug from different viewing directions;

[0025] Figures 2d and 2e show an internal structure of a connector plug from different viewing directions; Figures 3a and 3b show a three-dimensional external view of a charging plug from different viewing directions;

[0026] Figures 3c and 3d show an internal structure of a charging plug from different viewing directions;

[0027] Figures 4a and 4b show three-dimensional representations of a charging port of a battery pack;

[0028] Figures 5a and 5b show an internal structure of a battery pack made of different

[0029] directions of view;

[0030] Figures 6a to 6f show three-dimensional representations of a mounting means from different viewing directions;

[0031] Figure 7 shows a first three-dimensional view of a vibration module;

[0032] Figure 8 shows a second three-dimensional external view of a vibration module;

[0033] Figure 9 shows a side sectional view of a protective helmet with attached helmet light and battery pack; and

[0034] Figure 10 shows a flowchart of a method for operating a

[0035] Helmet accessory system.

[0036] In the following description of the drawings, the same reference symbols refer to the same or comparable components.

[0037] Figures 1a to 1k each show three-dimensional external views of a battery pack 100. The illustrations have been partially simplified to avoid obscuring insignificant details. Figure 1a shows the battery pack 100 in the deactivated state. The battery pack 100 shown in Figure 1a comprises a substantially elongated and cuboid-shaped battery body 194, the edges of which are beveled, as shown in Figure 1a. Rounding the edges is also conceivable as an alternative. On one side of the battery body 194, Figure 1a shows a display and control element 102 in the inactive state. A connector plug 192 can be seen in the lower area of ​​the battery pack 100. Using the connector plug 192, the battery pack 100 can be connected to a helmet light 10, which is shown, for example, in Figure 9. In Figure 1a, the battery pack 100 is shown in its deactivated state, so that consequently the display and control element 102 displays "nothing".However, it is conceivable, for example, that the display and control element 102 can be used to switch individual display elements on the display and control element 102 on and off and can accordingly also be "labeled" in order to identify the control element even when the power is off.

[0038] Figure 1b shows the battery pack 100 from a side opposite the display and control element 102 of Figure 1a, so that the rear of the battery pack 100 is visible. The rear of the battery pack 100 can be structured in various ways depending on requirements.

[0039] Figure 1c shows the battery pack 100 in an activated state. The display and control element 102 from Figure 1a, which is not separately labeled, displays various information for a user, particularly when the battery pack 100 itself is activated. The display and control element 102 can, for example, graphically display a temperature display 2000, a battery charge level display 2002, and an on / off button 2004, optionally with an LED backlight 2006. For this purpose, the display and control element 102 can have a display area 2008, below which an on / off switch element, particularly as a membrane switch, can be arranged, so that touching the displayed on / off button 2004 can, for example, switch the battery pack 100 or the connected helmet light 10 on and off. The temperature display 2000 can, in particular, graphically display the temperature of the battery pack 100.This can be important because the capacity and power output of the battery pack 100 varies with temperature. The display area 2008 can, of course, optionally also graphically display other or additional information about the helmet light 10 or the battery pack 100. For example, error messages from the helmet light 10 could be graphically displayed in the display area 2008 if the battery pack 100 is coupled to the helmet light 10 via the connector plug 192. A charging plug 190 can be seen below the connector plug 192 in Figure 1c. The charging plug 190 can, as shown in Figure 1c, be coupled to the battery pack 100 with the connector plug 192 interposed. Alternatively, it is also possible for the battery pack 100 to be coupled directly to the charging plug 190 without an interposed connector plug 192.The LED backlight 2006, indicated in Figure 1c by the hatching around the on / off button 2004, can also provide a "backlight function" for the user if required, since the orientation of the battery pack 100 when mounted on the protective helmet 30 allows for this functionality. Alternatively or additionally, one or more LEDs, particularly red ones, can be provided separately on the housing of the battery body 194.

[0040] The external view of the battery pack 100 shown in Figure 1d corresponds to Figure 1c with regard to the viewing angle shown. However, compared to Figure 1c, the battery pack 100 in Figure 1d is shown in a different operating state. In the battery pack 100 shown in Figure 1c, the LED backlight 2006 is activated, which is indicated by the hatching used. In the battery pack 100 shown in Figure 1d, the LED backlight 2006 is deactivated, which is indicated by the absence of hatching. Similarly, hatching visible in the area of ​​the battery charge level indicator 2002 can visualize the current charge level of the battery pack 100. The temperature indicator 2000 can visualize the temperature of the battery pack 100, for example, by means of a color change or in another suitable manner.Alternatively, it is also conceivable that, near or instead of the symbol visible in Figure 1d, the temperature display 2000 directly displays the temperature of the battery pack 100 in digits. The on / off button 2004, shown, for example, in Figures 1c and 1d, can provide different functions. For example, the on / off button 2004 can switch a helmet light 10 connected to the battery pack 100 on or off. As long as no helmet light 10 is connected to the battery pack 100, the on / off button 2004 can, for example, put the battery pack 100 itself into various operating states. For example, it can be provided to query at least some of the information that can be displayed on the display area 2008 and, in particular, to activate or deactivate the battery charge level indicator 2002.The functions provided by the on / off button 2004 can be changed depending on the plugs connected to the battery pack 100, i.e., the charging plug 190 and the connecting plug 192. An internal logic circuit of the battery pack 100 detects which plugs are connected to the battery pack 100 based on measurable voltages at the connecting contacts of the battery pack 100, which are described in more detail below. The internal logic circuit of the battery pack 100 can be viewed as a rudimentary control unit of the battery pack, which can control or provide some basic functions of the battery pack 100. The special design of the charging plug 190 and the connecting plug 192 allows the connecting plug 192 and the charging plug 190 to be connected to the battery pack 100 simultaneously, so that in this way, for example, several batteries can be connected simultaneously to the helmet light 10 of the helmet light system.Furthermore, it is also possible to charge the battery pack 100 while using the helmet light 10.

[0041] In addition to the helmet light 10, which can be switched to multiple operating modes and states, the helmet light system can comprise a transmitting and receiving module and an input device with a further transmitting and receiving module. The input device can then be connected to the helmet light 10 via the transmitting and receiving module and the further transmitting and receiving module in the form of a two-way communication. The input device can be a mobile phone, for example. This allows the helmet light 10 to be controlled via the input device, and conversely, the input device can also receive operating information from the helmet light 10 when the helmet light 10 is connected to the input device. In this way, the input device can be positioned as an operating unit for the helmet light 10 and can, in particular, be arranged within the user's field of vision, thus simplifying operation of the helmet light system.The transmitting and receiving module and the additional transmitting and receiving module can be wireless modules or wired modules. The two-way communication between the helmet light 10 and the input device can be established via a common communication protocol. The use of a common communication protocol also allows for more complex control of the helmet light system, which goes beyond simply closing an electrical circuit to switch it on and off. The control of the helmet light system can therefore be flexible. The input device can, in particular, send a communication signal to the battery pack 100, optionally via the helmet light 10, and from there to the battery pack 100, in order to control the vibration module 16 described below.Other components of the helmet light system can also send communication signals to the battery pack 100 to control functions of the battery pack, in particular to control the vibration module 16.

[0042] The two-way communication used can be protected by encryption. This prevents unintentional unauthorized operation by any input device that accidentally connects to the helmet light 10 of the helmet light system. This is particularly useful when multiple helmet light systems, each with its own input device, are used close together. In this context, the entry of a password can be provided to secure the connection. The operating information received by the input device can also include status information of the helmet light system. The input device can then output the status information of the helmet light system. This also facilitates operation of the helmet light system. The helmet light 10 of the helmet light system can also be connected to another input device while it is already connected to the input device.It is possible for the helmet light 10 to be controlled primarily by the additional input device. This allows, for example, a priority operation by an operations commander or a monitoring system installed at a location, such as switching on a camera, a helicopter light, or a position light, if the helmet light system has such capabilities. Likewise, the higher-level authority can prevent the deactivation of individual operating functions or initiate the output of a tactile vibration signal using the vibration module 16.

[0043] The helmet light system, which already comprises at least one helmet light 10 with a control controller and can be switched to multiple operating modes and states by the control controller, can be supplemented with a camera unit, which is then functionally connected to the control controller. The control controller can activate the connected camera unit as soon as the helmet light 10 of the helmet light system is activated. It is also possible for activation to occur while the helmet light system is in standby mode and is not yet emitting any light. This allows for automated documentation of what the user of the helmet light system does and sees, and in particular, it can prevent the user from forgetting to comply with any documentation requirements.The activation or deactivation of individual components of the helmet light system, for example a camera unit or a helicopter light, can be indicated to the user tactilely by means of a vibration signal from the vibration module, in particular by means of specially coded vibration patterns that can clearly identify the change in the operating state of the helmet light system.

[0044] The camera unit can store recorded videos internally. This allows for longer-term archiving. The camera unit can also send recorded videos to the helmet light 10, for example for storage in a memory integrated into the helmet light 10. This also allows for long-term archiving. Preferably, the control controller transmits videos recorded by the camera unit as operating information to an external storage device that can be connected to the helmet light system. This allows for a virtually unlimited documentation period. The external storage device can also be accessed by a third party, in particular for a visual display of the video, for example to provide assistance to the user of the helmet light system in the event of a problem. For example, to guide the user through the problem.For this purpose in particular, the helmet light system can comprise a headset through which the user can communicate with a third party who provides assistance. Communication can take place, for example, via a mobile phone connection, wherein the helmet light system is coupled, for example, to an input device providing the mobile phone connection, such as a mobile phone. The control controller can be configured to adapt a recording direction of the camera unit depending on an operating mode and / or an operating state of the helmet light 10. In this way, the quality of the images captured by the camera can be improved. In particular, a recording direction and a brightness of the captured image can be adjusted.

[0045] The control controller can also be configured to adjust the dynamic focal length of the camera unit depending on the operating mode and / or operating state of the helmet light. This can also improve the camera's recording quality. This can be achieved, for example, by adjusting the zoom, for example, to expand or narrow the viewing angle.

[0046] The above-described properties of the helmet light system can also be generally implemented and realized within the framework of a method for operating a helmet light system, which can then be executed by the control controller of the helmet light. All of the above-mentioned changes to the operating state of the helmet light system can additionally be indicated to the user by a confirmation signal. For this purpose, a communication signal can be sent to the battery pack, and a characteristic vibration sequence can then be output by the vibration module 16.

[0047] Figure 1e shows the battery pack 100 from the rear. In contrast to Figure 1b, in addition to the connection plug 192, the charging plug 190 is also connected to the battery pack 100. The functionality of the plugs is explained in more detail below.

[0048] Figures 1f and 1g show three-dimensional detailed views of a battery pack 100. Figure 1f shows a section of a top side of the battery pack 100, and Figure 1g shows a section of a side of the battery pack 100. A pair of locking lugs 212 can be seen on the top side. A lateral locking lug 210 is provided on the side of the battery pack 100. If a lateral locking lug 210 is provided on one side, another lateral locking lug can expediently be provided on the opposite side. The locking lugs 212 and the lateral locking lug 210 (as well as any additional lateral locking lug) can interact, in particular, with a mounting means 214, which will be described below, and fix the battery pack 100 to the protective helmet 30 with the aid of the mounting means 214.The locking lugs 212 and the lateral locking lug 210 are only shown in Figures 1f and 1g, but can also be provided in the battery packs 100 shown in the other figures.

[0049] Figures 1h, 1i, 1j, and 1k show the battery pack 100 from various angles without any plugs connected. The battery pack 100 shown in Figure 1h is in a switched-off operating state, so that the display area 2008 does not display anything. However, it is also conceivable that the display area 2008 shows at least the on / off button 2004 even in the de-energized state, for example in the form of a transparent film image. In the lower area of ​​the battery pack 100, electrical contact surfaces 1112c are visible on an end face 1124 of the battery body 194. Furthermore, a notch-like recess 1114a is visible, which serves to center the connection plug 192 or the charging plug 190 and, at the same time, prevents the plugs from shearing off the battery pack 100 laterally when mounted. Figure 1f shows the battery pack 100 from a different side, so that the recess 1114a on the front side 1124 of the battery body 194 is more clearly visible.In Figure 1i, the battery pack 100 is illustrated such that the further end face of the battery pack 100 opposite the end face 1124 is visible; this end face can, for example, be completely smooth. However, if necessary, additional connection options, in the form of electrical contact surfaces, guide elements, or additional control elements, can also be arranged on this further end face. The connection options illustrated can, in particular, already represent a supply and communication connection at which the communication signal for controlling the vibration module 16 can be received.

[0050] Figures 1b, 1e, and 1j each show a rear side of the battery body 194 opposite the display area 2008. A recess 26 is visible in the center of this rear side of the battery body 194. The recess 26 serves to accommodate the vibration module 16, as shown individually, for example, in connection with Figures 7 and 8. Retaining means 18 are indicated on the opposite boundary surfaces of the recess 26 (in a main axial extension direction of the battery body 194). These retaining means 18 can, for example, be designed in the form of retaining magnets that magnetically fix the vibration module 16 in the recess 26. At the same time, the electrical contact required for operating the vibration module 16 can be realized via the holding magnets, since these can be electrically connected to (metallic) contacts 22 on the vibration module 16 when the vibration module 16 is attached to the battery pack 100.

[0051] Figure 1k further shows a battery body 194 in which the vibration module 16 is integrated into the battery body 194 itself. Accordingly, instead of the recess 26, a trapezoidal elevation (cross-section to the main axial extension direction of the battery body 194) is present on the housing of the battery body 194, which elevation is formed / caused by the vibration module 16 located underneath.

[0052] When the vibration module 16 is inserted into the recess 26 shown in Figures 1b, 1e or 1j, the combination of battery body 194 and vibration module 16 may have external dimensions that may correspond to those of the battery body 194 of Figure 1k.

[0053] Figures 2a, 2b, and 2c show three-dimensional representations of a connector plug 192 from different viewing directions. Figures 2a and 2c show a connection side of the connector plug 192 provided with an electrical contact 1108a. Clearly visible on this connection side is a projection 1116a, which, together with the recess 1114a visible, for example, in Figure 1f, forms a guide element that assists in positioning the connector plug 192 on the battery pack 100. The projection 1116a centers the connector plug 192 together with the notch 1114a of the battery pack 100 on the battery pack 100. In this way, a blind connection of the battery pack 100 to the battery connector 192 is possible. Figure 2b shows a representation of the battery connector 192 from the side opposite the electrical contact 1108a.

[0054] The electrical contact 1108a can comprise individual pin contacts. These pin contacts can, for example, be designed to be telescopically compressible, wherein, in particular, a preload can be provided for the extended state of the pin contacts. In this way, when the connection plug 192 is brought together with the battery pack 100, electrical contact closure can be reliably ensured by the resulting contact pressure, without there being any risk of bending of the electrical contact 1108a at the respective associated electrical contact surface 1112c, which can, in particular, be designed to be smooth or as a flat surface. The individual pin contacts can, for example, have spring-like elements to achieve the preload. Alternative designs are, however, also known to those skilled in the art. This design also allows the plug to be pulled off the battery pack from the side.

[0055] On the side opposite the electrical contact 1108a, which is shown in Figure 2b, i.e., the rear side of the battery connector 192, a recess 1114b is again provided. Furthermore, an electrical contact surface 1112a is also visible, wherein the electrical contact surface 1112a serves to electrically connect the connector plug 192 to the charging plug 190.

[0056] The entire interior of the connector plug 192 can be encapsulated using a potting compound 1110a. The potting compound 1110a then forms the housing of the battery connector 192. Alternatively, it can also be manufactured using housing shells, which are then tightly connected to one another to achieve a functionality analogous to that of the potting compound 1110a, in particular fluid tightness, of the housing. Providing interconnected housing shells can have advantages with regard to the interchangeability or inspection of the individual parts inside the connector plug 192, thus improving the environmental friendliness of the helmet light 10 as a whole.

[0057] With the help of the various possible and matching combinations of projections 1114a, 114b and recesses 1116a, 1116b, a simple joining aid for the plug connection can be realized. This does not hinder easy release when a tensile force is applied to the connector plug 192 and simultaneously ensures that, in the absence of a tensile force, the electrical contacts closed by the plug connection remain securely and, above all, correctly connected. If the respective projections and recesses are arranged asymmetrically on the contact surfaces, a simple anti-twist device is realized.

[0058] Figures 2d and 2e show a possible internal structure of a connector plug 192 from two essentially opposite viewing directions, so that one side shows a front side and the other side shows a back side of the internal structure. For the sake of simplicity, cable connections of the connector plug 192 leading away from the connector plug 192 have been omitted. Inside the connector plug 192, concealed by the potting compound 1110a or a housing fulfilling the same function, there is a PCB 1106a on which the already known electrical contact 1108a is arranged. On the opposite side, the electrical contact surface 1112a can be seen. Both the electrical contact 1108a and the electrical contact surface 1112a extend through the potting compound to the surface of the connector plug 192, so that additional elements on both elements can be electrically contacted with the connector plug 192.Two magnets 1104a are located in the side area of ​​the PCB 1106a. The magnets 1104a interact with corresponding counterparts in the battery pack 100 and the charging connector 190, respectively, so that reversed polarity of the electrical connections can be ruled out when connecting them. This serves as an additional safety measure. Furthermore, the magnets 1104a, together with the corresponding counterparts on the battery pack 100, automatically pull the connector 192 into the correct position and ensure a secure connection between the connector 192 and the battery pack 100, even under mechanical stress in the connecting direction.

[0059] This coupling and connection mechanism makes it possible for tangled cable loops of the connecting cable 24 to open if the user of a protective helmet 30 equipped with the helmet light system makes a careless movement while wearing the protective helmet 30. As soon as the tension on a tangled cable loop exceeds the holding force exerted by the magnets 204, 1104a, 1104b, the connecting plug 192 is automatically released from the battery pack 100 while the cable loop opens. This release can trigger activation of the vibration module 16 by the rudimentary control unit provided in the battery pack to alert the user of this incident, the separation of the helmet light 10 from the battery pack 100, which is particularly advantageous if the helmet light 10 includes a small integrated energy storage device for such emergencies.Furthermore, connecting the connector plug 192 to the battery pack 100 is made easier because the magnets 204, 1104a, 1104b automatically pull the two components of the connector connection into the correct position, greatly simplifying blindly closing the connection. Re-establishing the connection can also trigger a vibration signal from the vibration module 16.

[0060] Figures 3a and 3b show three-dimensional external views of a charging plug 190 from different viewing directions. The charging plug 190, already known from Figures 1d and 1e, also has a projection 1116b, similar to the connecting plug 192. Furthermore, an electrical contact 1108b is also provided on the same side of the charging plug 190. Analogous to the connecting plug 192, the housing of the charging plug 190 is also formed from a potting compound 1110b, whereby a fluid-tight structure composed of individual housing elements, in particular housing shells, is also possible here. Unlike the connecting plug 192, no electrical contact surface is provided on the side of the charging plug 190 shown in Figure 3a, which is opposite the side with the electrical contact 1108b.Using the possible combinations of projection 116b and recess, a simple joining aid for the plug connection can be realized. This does not hinder easy release when a tensile force is applied to the connector plug. At the same time, it ensures that, in the absence of a tensile force, the electrical contacts closed by the connector plug remain securely and, above all, correctly connected. Connecting or disconnecting the charging plug 190 can also trigger a vibration signal from the vibration module 16, similar to connecting and disconnecting the connector plug 192.

[0061] In this context, it can be provided that the projection and the recess are each formed asymmetrically, preferably at an edge of the respective connecting surfaces. This provides a simple anti-twist device.

[0062] Figures 3c and 3d show a possible internal structure of a charging plug 190 from two essentially opposite perspectives, so that one side of the internal structure is visible, the other side being a front side. Each shows a PCB 1106b of the charging plug 190 provided inside the charging plug 190, on which, analogous to the connector plug 192, electrical contact surfaces 1112b, an electrical contact 1108b, and magnets 1104b are also provided.

[0063] The structure of the illustrated PCB 1106b is thus largely similar to the structure of the PCB 1106a already known from Figures 2d and 2e. Since the PCB 1106b belongs to the charging plug 190, the PCB 1106b can have a different structure with regard to the illustrated electrical contact surfaces 1112b and the electrical contact 1108b, which in particular comprises fewer individual electrical contact pins of the electrical contact 1108b. This can be attributed to the fact that the charging plug 190 is usually attached last or is only temporarily connected to the battery pack 100, in particular while the connecting plug 194 is already attached to the battery pack 100, which must "pass through" the electrical contact 1108b of the charging plug 190 to the battery pack 100.In this context, it is conceivable, for example, that the PCB 1106b and the PCB 1106a are largely identical in their respective construction, but, depending on requirements, fewer electrical connections are routed outward to the surface of the charging plug 190. This can reduce the number of different parts if the same PCB can be used for the charging plug 190 and the connection plug 192 and, for example, only the assembly of electrical components, such as the electrical contacts 1108a and 1108b, varies.

[0064] Figures 4a and 4b each show a three-dimensional representation of a charging port of a battery pack 100. In the lower portion of both Figures 4a and 4b, the battery body 194 of the battery pack 100 is partially visible. In Figure 4a, the connector plug 192 is already attached to the upper portion of the battery body 194. In the illustration selected in Figure 4a, the connection plug 192 comprises a circumferential sealing lip 196 pointing radially inward with respect to an axial longitudinal extent of the battery body 194. The sealing lip 196 is located in the axial direction below a protruding circumferential collar 196a of the connection plug 192. The sealing lip 196 serves in particular to produce a sealing connection, i.e., a fluid-tight connection, between the connection plug 192 and the charging plug 190 (not shown in Figure 4a), which can be placed onto the battery body 194 in the axial direction of extension thereof.This is relevant in that the electrical connection points between the connector plug 192 and the charging plug 190 would be subject to increased corrosion if moisture were to occur during an existing current flow between the connector plug 192 and the charging plug 190. In this regard, it should be noted that the connector plug 192, previously described in connection with Figures 2a to 2c, does not have such a collar 196a and a sealing lip 196, but can easily be supplemented with these elements. Alternatively, it is of course also conceivable that the collar 196a and the sealing lip 196 are not provided on the connector plug 192, but rather on the charging plug 190. This would then have the advantage that the electrical contact 1108b of the charging plug 190, which protrudes from the plane of the connector plug, would receive additional protection against mechanical damage from the collar 196a.

[0065] Figure 4a also shows charging contacts 198 and communication contacts 200. The charging contacts 198 and the communication contacts 200 are located on the surface of the connection plug 192 enclosed by the sealing lip 196. Due to the arrangement of the charging contacts 198 and the communication contacts 200, a rotation-proof assembly of the charging plug 190 (not shown) can be realized. The special arrangement of the charging contacts 198 and the communication contacts 200 is to be understood as an example. In particular, the charging contacts 198 and the communication contacts 200 can be further subdivided. It is also conceivable that, in addition to the charging contacts 198 and the communication contacts 200 shown in Figure 4a, further contacts are provided on the surface of the connection plug 192 enclosed by the sealing lip 196.In the event that the electrical contact surface 1112a for the charging plug 190 on the connecting plug 192 is designed to be anti-twist, for example, half of the charging contacts 198 and the communication contacts 200 can be brought together inside the connecting plug 192 to thereby realize simple anti-twist protection. The connecting surfaces of the battery pack 100 and the connecting plug 192 shown in Figures 4a and 4b each have no projection or recess, as described, for example, in the previous figures, to realize anti-twist protection. However, these can be easily added.

[0066] Figure 4b shows the upper part of the battery body 194 of the battery pack 100 without the connector plug 192. Analogous to the free end of the connector plug 192, the connector plug comprises a sealing lip 208 arranged behind a collar 208a in an axial extension direction of the battery body 194, which seal lip 208 encloses an end face of the battery body 194. On the end face of the battery body 194, an electrical contact surface in the form of communication contacts 202 and connection contacts 206 is again indicated, whereby the connection contacts 206 can optionally also be referred to as charging contacts. The connection contacts 206 can be provided both for supplying a connected helmet light 10 with electrical energy and for charging the battery pack 100.It should also be noted that the respective communication contacts 200, 202 and the connection contacts 206 or the charging contacts 198 are shown recessed from the respective end face, i.e., located below the outward-facing respective housing surface. This arrangement is optional; it can also be provided that all or at least some contacts are flush with the outward-facing respective housing surface. Furthermore, it is again possible to arrange the sealing lip 208 and the associated collar 208a on the connection plug 192. The electrical contact surface again corresponds to the supply and communication connection 14 from Figures 1k and 1j. Furthermore, magnets 204 are indicated on the end face of the battery body 194, which can hold the connection plug 192 on the battery body 194 in a desired connection position.The sealing lip 208, like the sealing lip 196 on the connector plug 192, ensures water-protected electrical contact between the battery body 194 and the connector plug 192 that can be connected to it, or the charging plug 190 if the charging plug is connected directly to the battery body 194 to charge the battery pack 100. The magnets 204 are shown in Figure 4b on the visible surface of the front side of the battery body 194. However, they can also be arranged invisibly under the protective outer shell of the battery body 194, i.e., within the housing of the battery body 194, particularly to prevent corrosion of the magnets 204. The arrangement of the magnets 204 is optional.However, if the magnets 204 are present, they can, with a suitable selection of the poles pointing away from the battery body 194, not only serve to fix a plug to be connected in a desired position, but also provide an anti-twist device, provided that the plug to be connected, the connection plug 192 or the charging plug 190, also has magnets with a suitable orientation.

[0067] Figures 5a and 5b show an internal structure of a battery pack 100 from different viewing directions, whereby an explicit representation of electrical connecting cables has been omitted for the sake of simplicity. Two battery cells 1118 can be seen in each of Figures 5a and 5b. These battery cells 1118 have a conventional cylindrical shape in an axial extension direction. The two battery cells 1118 are electrically interconnected, in parallel or series, and together form a battery module 12. On the surfaces facing downwards or rearwards in Figure 5a, which face forwards or upwards in Figure 5b, a PCB 1106d and a cover 1122 that is electrically insulated or insulating from the PCB 1106d can be seen. The cover 1122 can, for example, be made of sheet metal and be electrically insulated from the PCB 1106d.Also indicated on the PCB 1106d are electrical contact surfaces already known from Figure 4b, albeit in an arrangement different from Figure 4b. Centrally above the two battery cells 1118 forming the battery module 12, a vibration module 16, also cylindrical in shape, is shown. This vibration module 16, in the usual way, converts electrical energy into a mechanical movement, which in turn generates structure-borne sound in the form of a vibration. This can be achieved, for example, in a known manner using a small electric motor that includes an imbalance on its rotating motor axis. If the vibration module 16 is an integral part of the battery pack 100, the external shape of the battery pack 100, in particular of the battery body 194, is adapted accordingly.Without an integrated vibration module 16, the battery body 194 can, for example, have the external shape shown in Figure 1j with the indentation 26, wherein the indentation 26 is suitable for receiving an external vibration module 16, as will be described, for example, in connection with Figure 7. However, if the vibration module 16 is integrated into the battery pack 100, the battery body 194 can have the shape shown in Figure 1k, in which the indentation 26 is replaced by the elevation shown in the figure, under which the vibration module 16 is located.

[0068] The height of the elevation or the thickness of the vibration module 16 inserted into the recess 26 is dimensioned such that the vibration module 16 presses against the helmet shell 36 of the protective helmet 30 or lies flush with it when the battery pack 100 is attached to the helmet shell 36 using the mounting means 214. In this way, the structure-borne sound generated by the vibration module 16 can be efficiently transmitted to the helmet shell 36. The helmet shell 36 acts like a resonance amplifier, so that the vibration can be easily perceived by the user of the protective helmet 30, and even a vibration with low intensity (low energy content) can be easily perceived. This applies in particular even when the user is wearing the hearing protection 34 indicated in Figure 9, since the structure-borne sound generated by the vibration module 16 can be easily perceived as a tactile signal under the helmet shell 36.

[0069] In addition to the PCB 1106d, on the upward-facing surface of the battery cells 1118, there is another PCB 1106c, on which a foil cover 1120 is indicated, which can have both a button and a display function for the battery pack 100. The button and display functionality of the foil cover 1120 was previously explained in connection with Figures 1c and 1d. The PCB 1106d and / or the further PCB 1106d can be equipped with electronic components not explicitly shown, which together form a control unit of the battery pack 100 within the meaning of the present application.This control unit of the battery pack 100 is designed to implement at least basic functions of the battery pack 100 upon receipt of a corresponding request signal, for example, activation of the vibration module 16 based on a received communication signal or automatic activation of the vibration module 16 in response to the connection or disconnection of a plug on the battery pack 100. The components shown in Figure 5b can, for example, be cast into the housing of the battery body 194 or otherwise integrated to form the battery pack 100, as indicated in the miniature representation in the upper right corner of Figure 5b, wherein the battery pack 100 is shown there together with the connection and charging plugs 190, 192 (not further identified). The external shape of the battery pack 100 can, of course, be variable and, in particular, does not have to correspond exactly to the miniature representation.

[0070] A battery pack temperature sensor can also be arranged within the battery pack 100 or on its surface. This battery pack temperature sensor can detect a battery pack operating temperature value of the battery pack 100, which is transmitted, for example, to and received by a control controller of the helmet light 10. Based on the received battery pack temperature value, the control controller can then change an operating state of the helmet light 10, for example, to keep the battery pack 100 within a tolerable temperature range. The detected temperature value can also be the basis for the output of a tactile vibration signal by the vibration module 16. The battery pack 100 further comprises an electrical heating unit that can be controlled by the control controller, in particular based on the received battery pack temperature value.For example, the control controller can turn on the electric heating unit when the battery pack 100 falls below a lower temperature threshold TAkku_min. The electric heating unit can, of course, also be turned off temperature-controlled, advantageously in a hysteresis-like manner when another threshold is exceeded that is slightly higher than the lower temperature threshold TAkku_min. Furthermore, the control controller can also reduce the light output of the helmet light 10 if the detected battery pack operating temperature value of the battery pack 100 exceeds a tolerable temperature threshold TAkku_max.By reducing the light output, i.e., reducing the brightness of the helmet light 10, the electrical power drawn from the battery pack 100 is reduced, which directly reduces the generated waste heat, allowing the temperature of the battery pack 100 to drop, assuming a constant rate of waste heat dissipation to the environment. This can be advantageous, for example, in potentially explosive environments. Reaching certain temperature values, for example, TBattery_min or TBattery_max, can also trigger the output of a vibration signal by the vibration module 16.

[0071] Figures 6a to 6h show various three-dimensional representations of a mounting means 214. In the present case, the mounting means 214 shown is a battery holder with the aid of which the battery pack 100 can be fixed to the protective helmet 30. The mounting means 214, which is shown at least partially in each case, comprises a frame 220 into which the previously described battery pack 100 can be inserted in an axial insertion direction. For this purpose, the frame 220 of the mounting means 214 has a substantially cylindrical outer structure with a rectangular base area and rounded edges. As can be seen in Figure 6a, the frame 220 is narrowed on one end side in the axial direction of extension, so that the battery pack 100 cannot enter or exit the frame 220 on this side.On the opposite end face in the axial direction of extension of the frame 220, however, its cross-section is essentially not narrower than the rest of the frame 220, so that the battery pack 100 can be inserted into the frame 220 of the mounting means 214 from this side. The cylindrical structure of the frame 220 of the mounting means 214 allows easy insertion of a battery pack 100 with a constant cross-section. The battery pack 100 can be secured in the frame 220 of the mounting means 214 via an elastic tab 224. If the battery pack 100 comprises an integrated vibration module 16 with the resulting elevation, which represents a projection, the frame can have a corresponding recess to enable the battery pack 100 to be inserted.

[0072] With the help of the tapered portion, a stop can be realized when inserting a battery pack 100 into the mounting means 214, wherein the tab 224 arranged at the other end simultaneously clamps the inserted battery pack 100 within the frame 220. The frame 220 of the mounting means 214 encloses the space in which the battery pack 100 can be arranged, such that significant areas remain free, so that the battery pack 100 remains visible through the frame 220 of the mounting means 214. In this way, in particular, sufficient heat dissipation of the battery pack 100 during a charging / discharging process can be ensured, since the frame 220 does not additionally thermally insulate the inserted battery pack 100 from the environment.

[0073] Upper retaining arms 216a and 216b are also connected to the frame 220 of the mounting means 214. The upper retaining arms 216a and 216b each terminate in upper retaining hooks 218a, 218b, which ultimately serve to attach the mounting means 214 to a helmet shell 36. The upper retaining hooks 218a and 218b each include a step 223, which maintains the displaceability of a ventilation slide 50 onto a helmet shell 36. Lower retaining hooks 222a and 222b are also arranged directly on the frame 220 of the mounting means 214. The upper and lower retaining hooks 218a, 218b, 222a and 222b together serve to securely fix the mounting means 214 to a helmet shell 36. The exact interaction of the upper and lower retaining hooks 218a, 218b, 222a and 222b with the helmet shell 36 will be described in more detail later.

[0074] Figure 6a also shows the vibration module 16 on the underside of the frame 220 between the two lower retaining hooks 222a and 222b. The vibration module 16 can either be releasably fixed in this position or be an integral part of the frame 220 of the mounting means 214. The height / thickness of the vibration module 16 is dimensioned such that the vibration module 16 presses against the helmet shell 36 of the protective helmet 30 or lies flush against it when the mounting means 214 is attached to the helmet shell 36. In this way, the structure-borne sound generated by the vibration module 16 can be efficiently transmitted to the helmet shell 36. The helmet shell 36 acts like a resonance amplifier, so that the vibration can be easily perceived by the user of the protective helmet 30.This applies in particular even if the user wears the hearing protection 34 indicated in Figure 9, since the structure-borne sound generated by the vibration module 16 can be perceived as a tactile signal under the helmet shell 36.

[0075] The special design of the mounting means 214 described in Figures 6a to 6h serves to ensure the safety of a user of the protective helmet 30. Thus, by providing the upper and lower retaining hooks 218a, 218b, 222a, 222b, a fixed positioning of the mounting means 214 on the helmet shell 36 is achieved, which can nevertheless be easily detached if necessary. An object striking the protective helmet 30 from above, such as a branch, can slide down the protective helmet 30 and, if it should become caught on the mounting means 214, detach the mounting means 214 from the protective helmet 30 without the protective helmet 30 being torn from the head of a user wearing the protective helmet 30 and without the user experiencing the full impact force of the striking object.

[0076] The orientation of the open hooking sides of the upper retaining hooks 218a, 218b toward the open hooking sides of the lower retaining hooks 222a, 222b ensures that when an object impacts the protective helmet 30 from above and strikes the mounting means 214, a release force is generated that initially loads the closed side of the upper retaining claws 218a, 218b, causing them to break under the impact force and thus initiate a release of the mounting means 214 from the helmet shell 36. At the same time, the lower retaining claws 222a, 222b are pushed down from the helmet shell 36 in their open direction, thereby completely releasing the mounting means 214 from the helmet shell 36.Since the open hooking sides of the upper retaining hooks 218a, 218b are larger than the open hooking sides of the lower retaining hooks 222a, 222b, as shown in the figures, the mounting means 214 can be easily attached to the helmet shell 36, since bending the upper retaining hooks 218a, 218b during the fastening process requires a comparatively low force. At the same time, this configuration keeps the force required to break the upper retaining hooks 218a, 218b comparatively small, so that the detachment of the mounting means 214 in an emergency, i.e., when an object strikes the protective helmet 30 from above, is simple and easy.

[0077] The mounting means 214 comprises, on its underside, visible, for example, in Figures 6c and 6d, metallic, electrically conductive contacts 22, which enable electrical contact with a vibration module 16 that can be fixed at this location. The vibration module 16 is pushed along the underside of the frame 220 toward the lower retaining hooks 222a and 222b, where it engages in a defined final position. The two lower retaining hooks 222a and 222b can support this, particularly in conjunction with the frame 220, for example, through appropriately designed clamping ribs. Furthermore, the contacts 22 can also be designed as magnets and fix the vibration module 16 in the intended final position. The contacts 22 essentially provide only simple contacts through the frame 220 and thus connect the vibration module 16 to the associated electrical connections on the battery body 194.Accordingly, the contacts 22 are also visible on the inside of the frame 220, for example in Figure 6b.

[0078] Figures 7 and 8 each show a three-dimensional view of the vibration module 16. The vibration modules 16 shown are designed as vibration modules 16 that can be attached to the mounting means 214 or the battery body 194, respectively. For this purpose, the vibration module 16 that can be attached to the battery body 194, which is shown in Figure 7, is essentially cylindrical, with the base surfaces of the vibration module 16 being rectangular, in particular square, with a "cut-off" corner. The part of the side surface of the cylinder shell that connects the "cut-off" corners forms a support surface 20. The support surface 20 rests against the outside of the helmet shell 36 to transmit the structure-borne sound generated when the battery body 100 with the vibration module 16 is mounted on the protective helmet 30.The "edge" of the lateral surface opposite the support surface 20 simultaneously lies flush in the recess 26 on the battery body 194. Contacts 22 for electrically connecting the vibration module 16 to the battery pack 100 are also provided on the two base surfaces of the vibration module 16. Similarly, the vibration module 16 shown in Figure 8 is essentially cuboid-shaped to allow releasable fixation of the vibration module 16 to the mounting means 214. However, the contacts 22 provided there are not arranged on the "end faces," but rather on a part of the lateral surface connecting them. In both the vibration module 16 shown in Figure 7 and the vibration module 16 shown in Figure 8, the contacts 22 can be designed as magnets to support or even enable fixation to the battery body 194 or to the mounting means 214.

[0079] The protective helmet 30, which is particularly designed for use in forestry, is shown in Figure 9 in a side view, partially in section. In particular, an inner side of the helmet shell 36 is visible. The protective helmet 30 comprises a face shield and hearing protection 34 (not shown in Figure 9). The protective helmet 30 further comprises the helmet shell 36 and an interior fitting assembly (not shown in more detail), which includes a carrying basket, a headband 44, and a neckband. The neckband is equipped with a tensioning unit. The helmet shell 36 is provided on the outside with a ventilation slide 50, with which openings formed in the helmet shell 36 can be opened and closed. The openings also contribute to the fixation of the mounting means 214 to the helmet shell 36, in that the upper retaining hooks 218a and 218b extend into the openings 50 and hook into them.At the same time, the lower retaining hooks 222a and 222b encompass a lower edge of the helmet shell 36, so that the mounting means 214 fixes the battery pack 100 in the illustrated position in the area of ​​the back of the user's head on the helmet shell 36.

[0080] Three support arms designed as spacers serve as a means for a three-point attachment of the interior fittings or interior fitting assembly to the helmet shell 36, whereby only the rear support arm within the protective helmet 30 can be seen in Figure 9. To lock this support arm, which runs in the longitudinal direction of the helmet shell 36, to the helmet shell 36, the latter is provided with a slot in the back of the head, in which the correspondingly shaped free end of the longitudinally directed support arm can be releasably engaged on the helmet shell 36.The helmet shell 36 and the support arms are dimensioned and arranged (i.e., their clear width is dimensioned so long and so wide) that there is a free space between the interior fitting assembly 40 and the helmet shell 36 to accommodate the helmet light 10, the associated cabling, ear muffs 35a of the hearing protection 34 and other helmet accessories, as well as fastening devices 84a and 80a for at least the face shield and the hearing protection 34. The other helmet accessories include the previously mentioned neckband tensioning unit. In Figure 9, the connecting cable 24 is routed, by way of example, within the helmet shell 36 and exits the helmet shell 36 directly below the battery pack 100 in order to electrically connect the helmet light 10 to the battery pack 100.

[0081] Figure 10 shows a flowchart of a method 300 for operating a helmet accessory system. The method begins with the reception 310 of a communication signal at the supply and communication connection 14 of the battery pack 100. For example, the communication signal can be an information signal that a mobile phone connected to the battery pack 100 is receiving a call. Based on this received communication signal, the control unit can then control 320 the vibration module 16 in a subsequent step. The vibration module 16 is used as an additional alarm device, or ringing or vibration unit, of the connected mobile phone. This is advantageous in that it allows the user of the protective helmet 30 to be notified reliably and tactilely.This enables the user to be notified, in particular, even when the user is using the hearing protection 34 integrated into the protective helmet 30. It should be noted that the actual alarm of the mobile phone, the acoustic alarm and the vibration alarm, are often difficult for the user to perceive when the protective helmet 30 is used. The acoustic signal is suppressed by the hearing protection 34, and the vibration alarm of the mobile phone is often also difficult to perceive through (padded) protective clothing. The vibration triggered by the vibration module 16, on the other hand, is applied directly to the user's head via the helmet shell 36, resulting in improved perceptibility of the vibration of the vibration module 16 (compared to the vibration alarm of the mobile phone).

[0082] The vibration module 16 can also be controlled to signal other events. For this purpose, it is only necessary that a communication signal intended to activate the vibration module 16 is sent to the supply and communication port 14 of the battery pack 100 and received there. For example, the vibration module 16 can be used by the mobile phone connected to the battery pack 100 as a general "bell," which is always controlled when the mobile phone emits an acoustic or tactile signal due to various events. For example, it is possible to tactilely signal incoming messages or a low battery level on the mobile phone. Different events can trigger different vibration patterns of the vibration module 16. The vibration pattern can therefore vary depending on the event and be clearly identified.It is also possible for the helmet light 10 to send a communication signal to the supply and communication port 14 of the battery pack 100 to activate the vibration module 16. This can, for example, indicate an (impending) change in the operating mode of the helmet light 10. It is also possible for the vibration module 16 to trigger a vibration signal based on a hazardous situation detected by a sensor unit of the helmet light 10 or the battery pack 100. It is also possible for the vibration module 16 itself to tactilely communicate the charge or discharge status of the battery pack 100.

[0083] To assist the user in perceiving the vibration signal from the vibration module 16, it is conceivable and possible to additionally provide a variation of the light cone emitted by the helmet light 10. For example, the brightness or diameter of the light cone, or at least some of the light cones generated by the helmet light 10, can be synchronized or varied with the emitted vibration signal; in particular, the emitted brightness / light color can be cyclically increased and decreased or varied.

[0084] The features of the invention disclosed in the above description, in the drawings and in the claims may be essential for the realization of the invention both individually and in any combination.

[0085] List of reference symbols

[0086] 10 helmet light

[0087] 12 battery module

[0088] 14 Supply and communication connection

[0089] 16 Vibration module

[0090] 18 holding devices

[0091] 20 contact surface

[0092] 22 Contact

[0093] 26 recess

[0094] 24 connection cables

[0095] 30 protective helmet

[0096] 34 Hearing protection

[0097] 35a hearing protection capsule

[0098] 36 helmet shell

[0099] 44 Headband

[0100] 50 ventilation sliders

[0101] 84a Fastening devices

[0102] 80a Fastening devices

[0103] 100 battery pack

[0104] 102 Display and control element

[0105] 190 charging plugs

[0106] 192 connector plugs

[0107] 194 battery body

[0108] 196 Sealing lip 196a Collar 198 Charging contact

[0109] 200 communication contacts

[0110] 202 Communication contact

[0111] 204 Magnet

[0112] 206 Charging contact

[0113] 208 Sealing lip 208a Collar

[0114] 210 side locking lug 212 locking lug

[0115] 214 assembly materials

[0116] 216a upper support arm

[0117] 216b upper support arm

[0118] 218a upper retaining hook

[0119] 218b upper retaining hook

[0120] 220 frames

[0121] 222a lower retaining hook

[0122] 222b lower retaining hook

[0123] 223 level

[0124] 224 tab

[0125] 300 procedures

[0126] 310 Receive

[0127] 320 Control

[0128] 1104a Magnet

[0129] 1104b Magnet

[0130] 1106a PCB

[0131] 1106b PCB

[0132] 1106c PCB

[0133] 1106d PCB

[0134] 1108a electrical contact

[0135] 1108b electrical contact

[0136] 1110a Potting compound

[0137] 1110b Potting compound

[0138] 1112a electrical contact surface

[0139] 1112b electrical contact surface

[0140] 1112c electrical contact surface

[0141] 1114a recess

[0142] 1114b recess

[0143] 1116a projection

[0144] 1116b projection

[0145] 1118 battery cell

[0146] 1120 foil cover

[0147] 1122 Cover

[0148] 1124 front side

[0149] 2000 Temperature display 2002 Battery level display

[0150] 2004 On / Off button

[0151] 2006 LED backlight

[0152] 2008 Display area

Claims

Claims 1. A battery pack (100) for attachment to a protective helmet (30) and for supplying power to a helmet accessory, comprising: a battery module (12) for storing and delivering electrical energy; a supply and communication connection (14) for supplying power to a helmet accessory that can be coupled to the battery pack (100) and for communication; Mounting means (214) for attaching the battery pack (100) to the protective helmet (30); a vibration module (16) for generating structure-borne sound; a control unit for controlling the functions of the battery pack (100), including the function of the vibration module (16); wherein the control unit is configured to control the vibration module (16) based on a communication signal received at the supply and communication connection (14).

2. Battery pack (100) according to claim 1, wherein the vibration module (16) is integrated into a battery body (194) or is formed integrally with the mounting means (214).

3. Battery pack (100) according to claim 1, wherein the vibration module (16) is releasably attached to the battery body (194) or releasably attached to the mounting means (214).

4. Battery pack (100) according to claim 3, wherein the vibration module (16) comprises holding means (18) which fix the vibration module (16) to the battery pack (194) or the mounting means (214).

5. Battery pack (100) according to claim 4, wherein the holding means (18) are designed to fix the vibration module (16) magnetically and / or mechanically.

6. Battery pack (100) according to one of claims 3 to 5, wherein an electrical connection between the battery pack (100) and the vibration module (16) is formed by means of the holding means (18).

7. Battery pack (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the vibration module (16) comprises a support surface (20) which bears against a helmet shell (36) of the protective helmet (30) when the battery pack (100) is fastened to the protective helmet (30) by means of the mounting means (214).

8. Battery pack (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the battery pack (100) comprises at least one sensor unit which detects an operating state of the battery pack (100) and in that the control unit is configured to control the vibration module (16) based on the detected operating state.

9. Battery pack (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the control unit is designed to control the helmet accessory synchronously with the vibration module (16).

10. Helmet accessory system comprising a battery pack (100) according to one of claims 1 to 9 and a helmet accessory, in particular a helmet light (10), wherein the battery pack (100) and the helmet accessory are attachable or attachable to a helmet shell (36) of the protective helmet (30).

11. A protective helmet system comprising a protective helmet (30) and a helmet accessory system according to claim 10.

12. A method (300) for operating a helmet accessory system according to claim 10, wherein the method (300) comprises: Receiving (310) a communication signal at a supply and communication connection (14) of the battery pack (100); and Controlling (320), by a control unit, a vibration module (16) based on the received communication signal.

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