Metal detector and remote battery module in the shaft

Abstract

The invention relates to a portable metal detector (200) comprising a shaft carrying a search coil (203) equipped with one or more coils. The shaft comprises: an arm (24) extending along a longitudinal axis AA and having a housing delimited by an internal wall (241); a battery module (30) inserted into the housing; the battery module (30) having a lateral connector (31); and a power cable (40) adapted to transmit an electric current. The power cable (40) comprises, on the one hand, a first end having a connection head (41) complementary to the lateral connector (31), and on the other hand, a second end that is electrically connected to the search coil and adapted to provide an output current. According to the invention, the connection head (41) of said cable (40) is maintained in contact with the lateral connector (31), in particular by the internal wall of the housing. [Figure for the abstract: Fig. 2]

Description

Title of the invention: Metal detector and remote battery module in the shaft. Technical field

[0001] The invention relates to a metal detector comprising a remote battery module housed in the shaft and configured to power, in particular, the detector's coil(s) arranged in a search coil. Specifically, the invention may relate to a portable metal detector for recreational, archaeological, or military use. The portable metal detector may be described as a scanning or motion metal detector, its electromagnetic search coil enabling the search for targets in the ground. Previous technique

[0002] Metal detectors are designed to locate and identify the presence of metals buried or concealed in various substrates such as soils, sand, etc. Metal detectors are used in several types of applications which may relate to security, recreation, industry, and archaeology.

[0003] Generally, a metal detector comprises an electromagnetic search coil, also called a search coil. The search coil is located at the end of a shaft, which has a handle and a control box at its upper end. The shaft may consist of an arm comprising two sections that fit together to provide a telescopic shaft; these sections can then be referred to as the lower shaft and the upper shaft. The lower shaft carries the search coil, while the upper shaft is connected to the metal detector's handle. The control box is configured to operate the search coil, which includes at least one electromagnetic coil. This coil is configured to generate an electromagnetic field that interacts with metallic objects buried in a substrate such as soil.The electromagnetic field induces electric currents in these metallic objects, which then produce a signal detectable by the receiving coil.

[0004] Most metal detectors include signal processing electronics for the signal received by the coil, which is traditionally associated with the control box or the search coil. The processing electronics handle the signals received by the coil and relay them to the user by producing audible or visual signals. Metal detectors are also equipped with power electronics, which include means for exciting the transmitting coil and a battery. These components are generally housed inside or near the control box, on the handle of the metal detector, or within the search coil. itself. The excitation current of the transmitting coil and the electrical signals measured by the latter or by the receiving coil are then transmitted, by wire, by a power cable which extends between the detection disc and the handle where the power electronics, the processing electronics and the electromagnetic coil are housed.

[0005] The wired connection between the coil and the power electronics, and in particular the excitation means located here in the coil's remote control unit, produces an electrical impedance that necessitates a high-voltage current to power the electromagnetic coil. Indeed, the resistance of a wire is proportional to its length and inversely proportional to its diameter. Thus, a long wire with a small diameter produces high resistance, which degrades the power supply efficiency of the electromagnetic coil due to the Joule effect and requires the use of a larger-capacity battery.

[0006] To improve the coil's power supply efficiency, document EP 2 910 979 describes a metal detector whose detection coil incorporates, in addition to the electromagnetic coil, the power electronics, including the coil excitation means, the signal processing electronics, the power supply battery, and also a wireless transmitter / receiver. The wireless transmitter / receiver is configured to communicate with a compatible wireless transmitter / receiver integrated into the control unit. Wireless communication with the coil's control unit allows the control unit to operate the coil and receive the signal captured by the coil. The positioning of the excitation means near the transmitting coil thus limits the Joule heating losses that would have been caused by an extension cable.

[0007] US patent 10,809,411 describes a metal detector comprising power electronics, including means for exciting the transmitting coil, as well as the battery and processing electronics, housed in a compartment located in the detector shaft that carries the search coil. The metal detector further includes a power cable extending through the shaft and connecting the battery to the transmitting coil. Typically, this power cable includes an elastic spiral to provide elasticity to accommodate the length of the shaft and also for maintenance operations such as removing the search coil or battery. This compartment also includes a control unit configured to operate the power electronics and the processing electronics.The control unit also includes a wireless transmitter / receiver configured to communicate with a wireless transmitter / receiver integrated into the control box, which is located near the handle or can be placed remotely at the user's convenience, for example, in a backpack.

[0008] This configuration allows for increased battery capacity without disrupting the signal received by the coil, as the battery is located within the shaft. However, in this document, the power cable is connected to the battery compartment from the bottom of the compartment, which is located within the shaft. This arrangement necessitates a cable with a larger coil to allow for the removal of the battery compartment. The power cable is therefore significantly longer to facilitate maintenance of the metal detector. For example, for a compartment that is 20 cm long, a longer coil measuring between 25 and 30 cm is required, as a coil never fully uncoils. As explained previously, the longer the cable connecting the battery to the transmitting coil, the more the battery's power supply efficiency is degraded.

[0009] In this document, the power cable is connected to the battery via a screw-on or bayonet connector. The dimensions of the cross-section of this connector, integrated into the lower shaft, are limited by the diameter of the lower shaft tube. This necessitates the use of a small-diameter connector, which is fragile and delicate to handle. Therefore, increasing the connector diameter would require increasing the diameter of the lower shaft, which defeats the purpose of minimizing weight, a crucial criterion in the design of a metal detector.

[0010] Thus, the bulk of the screw-in or bayonet locking system reduces the space available for the number of connection pins and limits the size of the sealing gasket. Ensuring a watertight seal therefore becomes difficult, as a small gasket, which is generally located at the bottom of the connector, is complicated to inspect, clean, or replace, leading to frequent failures. Furthermore, sufficient tightening is required to achieve a watertight connection, and this tightening is subject to the user's meticulousness. The tightness can also be loosened when subjected to vibrations or cable movement.

[0011] Furthermore, the connection of the power cable at the bottom of the housing also poses a problem during metal detector maintenance. When the connector linking the power cable to the housing is detached, the restoring force produced by the coiled portion of the power cable will pull on the connector, causing it to descend into the shaft. The user may then need special tools to retrieve the connector from the shaft.

[0012] Furthermore, the use of a housing in the shaft to contain the battery that powers the coil introduces additional constraints in terms of the practicality of using the metal detector, particularly regarding battery charging. Specifically, the housing described in this document requires disconnecting the battery and removing it from the housing for charging.

[0013] The invention aims to overcome all or part of these drawbacks. Description of the invention

[0014] The invention aims to improve metal detectors.

[0015] In particular, in some embodiments, the invention relates to a portable metal detector comprising a shaft carrying a detection disc equipped with one or more coils, the shaft comprising: - an arm extending along a longitudinal axis AA and comprising a housing delimited by an internal wall; - a battery module inserted into the housing, the battery module having a side connector, and - a power cable adapted to transmit an electric current, the power cable comprising, on the one hand, a first end which has a connection head complementary to the side connector, and on the other hand, a second end electrically connected to the detection disc and adapted to provide an outgoing current; with the connection head of said cable placed in contact with the side connector, the battery module is adjusted to the dimensions of the housing so that the inner wall of the arm keeps the connection head in contact with the side connector.

[0016] The battery module housing is thus redesigned to allow a lateral connection of the power cable to the battery module. To this end, the invention uses a power cable equipped with a flat connector head that interacts with the lateral connector via a plug-and-play mechanism. The connector head is held assembled to the lateral connector between the battery module and the housing wall without the use of mechanical locking means such as a screw thread, bayonet fitting, etc. This mechanical design reduces the risk of disconnection, ensures watertightness, and also improves the industrialization of the connector: reduced costs, improved weight, reduced size, etc.Furthermore, because the battery module is fitted to the housing, handling errors can be avoided: the battery module can only be inserted into the housing if the connection head is correctly aligned with the side connector. If this is not the case, the connection head will hit the end of the housing, thus preventing the battery module from being inserted.

[0017] Advantageously, the lateral connection of the connection head also reduces the number of coils in the power cable and improves the power supply efficiency of the metal detector coil. The lateral connector can be configured to deliver an output current from the rechargeable battery located in the housing to the power cable, which is otherwise directly connected or indirectly to the coil of the detection disc. Furthermore, the lateral arrangement of the side connector allows for a connector whose interface dimensions are not limited by the dimensions of the arm's cross-section; therefore, it is possible to enlarge the connection interface between the connector and the connection head to add, for example, additional pins. In particular, it is possible to transmit electronic data through the power cable in parallel with the power supply current.

[0018] [Battery module]

[0019] In some embodiments, the battery module may include a watertight compartment extending along the longitudinal axis AA and containing a rechargeable battery. The battery may comprise one or more accumulators to achieve increased capacity. The watertightness of the battery compartment allows the metal detector to be used even in extreme aquatic conditions, for example, during underwater metal detecting. The battery module may also include electronic components configured to modulate the battery output voltage. These electronic components may, for example, include a voltage converter. Relocating these electronic components to the shaft arm, away from the search coil, reduces the electromagnetic interference produced by such electronic components, which can be detected by the search coil's receiving coil(s).The detection power can thus be increased without degrading the quality of the signals detected by the receiving coil(s).

[0020] The battery module can be removed from its housing. To remove it from the housing, the metal detector may include a battery module extraction element. This extraction element is, on the one hand, directly or indirectly coupled to the battery module, and on the other hand, protrudes from the arm housing. The extraction element allows the battery module to be removed for maintenance of the shaft and / or to replace the battery, for example, when it is discharged and the user has a second charged battery. The extraction element may include a pull tab configured to protrude from the arm housing. The pull tab preferably extends longitudinally along the longitudinal axis AA. The pull tab provides a gripping means that allows the user to easily remove the battery module.

[0021] In some embodiments, the battery module may include wired or wireless means for recharging the battery. These recharging means allow the battery to be recharged without removing the battery module from the bottom of the pole.

[0022] [Extreme connector]

[0023] In embodiments, the battery charging means may include an end connector positioned at one end of the arm housing; preferably, the end connector protrudes from the end of the housing. In particular, the connection interface of the end connector may extend parallel to or along the longitudinal axis AA. Accessibility of the end connector from outside the arm housing allows the battery to be charged without removing it from the housing and without disconnecting it from the power cable. This also reduces the size of the power cable by providing a solution for charging the battery without removing it from its housing and therefore without having to apply tension to the power cable.

[0024] The terminal connector can advantageously be configured to transmit an incoming current from a power cable connected to a power source to the battery. The power source can, for example, be a mains socket connected to an electrical distribution network or a mobile electric battery such as a vehicle battery.

[0025] In some embodiments, the battery module may include, at one end, a connection tip into which the end connector is integrated. The connection tip is configured to protrude from the arm housing. Keeping the connection tip protruding from the housing allows the battery to be recharged without removing it from the pole. This also helps the manufacturer reduce the dimensions of the power cable. In particular, the housing may be located at one end of the arm, and the connection tip may thus include a shoulder configured to bear against at least a portion of the free edges of said end. Advantageously, the shoulder may bear against only a portion of the free edges of said arm end so as to leave an opening to the housing.This opening can allow the passage of an extraction element coupled to the battery module, such as a pull tab that allows the battery module to be extracted from its housing.

[0026] In some embodiments, the shaft arm may comprise an upper shaft and a lower shaft assembled together, the upper shaft being coupled to the metal detector handle while the lower shaft is articulated to the search coil. According to this configuration, the housing is located at the end of the lower shaft that connects to the upper shaft. The shoulder can then rest on the free edges of the end of the arm and be integrated into the extension of the arm's outer walls, thus ensuring easy engagement of the lower shaft with the upper shaft. Advantageously, the arm may also include a shaft length adjustment system; for example, one section of the arm may have a notch and the other section may have locking means such as an assembly flange.

[0027] In some embodiments, the connection tip may include means for assembling to a power supply that transmits an incoming electrical current to the terminal connector. It should be noted that the power supply can be connected to a fixed (mains outlet) or mobile (vehicle battery) power source. The assembly means are preferably of the plug-and-play type, meaning that the connection tip can be easily connected to an additional power supply, for example, by snapping it into place. For this purpose, the assembly means may include an extension comprising a clip groove. In particular, the extension may project from the shoulder and have a reduced cross-section. The connection tip is thus easily accessible to the user.Furthermore, when the housing is located in the bottom of the cane, the dimensions of the connecting tip do not compromise the assembly of the bottom of the cane with a complementary top of the cane.

[0028] The assembly means may also include magnets for assembly with a suitable power supply fitting that includes a magnetic component. This magnetic component guides the connection of the plug to the corresponding fitting and improves the retention of the fitting on the plug.

[0029] In some embodiments, the end connector may include electrical contacts. In particular, the contacts are connected directly or indirectly to the battery terminals and may be configured to receive an incoming electrical current from a power source through a power connection.

[0030] [Side connector]

[0031] In some embodiments, the side connector may include a connection interface extending along a connection axis BB forming an angle α between 25° and 90° with respect to the longitudinal axis AA. This particular orientation allows the connection head to be positioned, within the housing, between the inner wall of the arm and the battery module.

[0032] In embodiments, the battery module may include a lateral connection portion with a reduced cross-sectional area, particularly compared to the dimensions of the battery compartment's cross-sectional area, said interface integrating the lateral connector. The reduced cross-sectional area provides space for inserting the connection head between the connection portion and the inner wall of the housing when the battery module is inserted into the housing. The connection head can thus be held in position by the inner wall of the arm, simplifying the mechanical design of the connection head and the battery module. The lateral connector can advantageously be positioned on the battery module distal to detection disk, which helps to limit the number of turns of the power cable.

[0033] The side connector can thus be positioned on the upper part of the battery module, bringing it closer to the charging means. These means are preferably located at the end of the battery module, which is then accessible without removing the battery module from its housing. This configuration advantageously allows all the battery module's electronics to be grouped in a single location, in this case the connection portion, thus eliminating the need to connect these two functions with a ribbon cable or wire. This refers to the battery charging function and the power supply function for the power drive. This simplification improves reliability and reduces the battery module's size. Furthermore, the battery module can thus be reduced to just two assembled components: the battery compartment and the connection portion. This reduces the risk of the battery module losing its watertight seal.

[0034] Furthermore, the battery module may include a retention groove that retains the connection head coaxially with the side connector. The retention groove may extend, for example, along an axis parallel to the longitudinal axis AA. In particular, the retention groove may counteract the restoring force exerted by the power cable on the connection head through its coiled portion, also known as the spiral. Specifically, the retention groove may counteract the tension exerted by the power cable spiral on the connection head. For this purpose, the retention groove may extend along a lateral face of the connection portion. This retention groove may be formed by two opposing projections extending along the lateral face of the connection portion. The projections may thus extend parallel to the longitudinal axis AA and be fitted to the inner wall of the arm housing.The height of the projections can be defined to compensate for the reduced dimensions of the connection portion so as to be adjusted to the internal wall of the arm housing.

[0035] Furthermore, the groove can also act as a keying feature by allowing the connection head to be positioned coaxially with the side connector. If the connection head is not correctly positioned relative to the groove, the connection head will strike the end of the housing and prevent the battery module from being inserted.

[0036] In some embodiments, the battery module may include a recess into which the side connector is integrated, the recess being complementary to the power cable connection head. The recess ensures that the connection head fits onto the side connector, in particular, an easy "plug and play" type connection. For example, the recess may be positioned on the connection portion between The retention groove and the extremity connector. More specifically, in some embodiments, the recess can be interposed between the retention groove and the shoulder of the axial connection tip. The recess improves the connection of the lateral connector by positioning the connection head coaxially with the connection interface of the lateral connector. To this end, the recess may include a circular shape providing a cylindrical housing configured to receive the connection head.

[0037] In some embodiments, the side connector may include: - an electrical pinout connected directly or indirectly to the battery, and - an electronic pinout connected to electronic means integrated into the battery module, preferably, the electronic means are configured to modulate the value of the voltage at the output of the battery.

[0038] For example, the electrical pinout and the electronic pinout may respectively comprise at least two pins and preferably at least four pins.

[0039] The two pins allow the side connector to transmit adjustable electrical power to the metal detector coil. Two additional pins allow electronic data to be transmitted via the power cable. The magnetic field strength can thus be modulated according to the user's needs and / or the type of substrate in which the metal search is conducted. For this purpose, the battery module's electronic means can be adapted to communicate, via the electronic pins and the power cable, with remote electronic components, for example, with electronic components located in a detection coil. Furthermore, the electronic means can include a power converter adapted to communicate with a control unit located in the detection coil. The control unit can be remotely connected to a control box for the metal detector.The user can thus adjust the intensity of the magnetic field emitted by the coil via the control box, which transmits the information to the control unit. The control unit can then operate, among other things, the power converter to provide the appropriate electrical power according to the magnetic field intensity selected by the user. Typically, the control unit may include a microprocessor along with electronic memory and clocks.

[0040] [Connection Header]

[0041] In some embodiments, the connection head may include a retaining body configured to hold the connection head coaxially with the side connector. Furthermore, the retaining body may advantageously include a flattened outer face configured to be in contact with the inner wall of the arm. The retaining body can thus be positioned between the connection portion and the inner wall of the housing. In some embodiments, the retaining body can be configured to cooperate with the battery module's retention groove. For this purpose, the retaining body may have dimensions larger than those of the retention groove so that the power cable runs inside the retention groove while the retaining body is positioned against the protrusions of said groove. The retaining body may also include rounded fins at the connection with the power cable, giving it a substantially trapezoidal longitudinal shape. The term "substantially" is used because the corners of the trapezoidal shape can be rounded. The fins can be positioned against the protrusions of the groove.

[0042] In some embodiments, the connection head may include a connection tip projecting from the retaining body, the connection tip being complementary to the side connector. In particular, the connection tip may be complementary to the recess and configured to fit into the recess. The connection tip improves, on the one hand, the coaxial positioning of the connection head relative to the side connector, and on the other hand, the retention of the connection head on the side connector.

[0043] Furthermore, the connecting tip may include a sealing element that creates a seal when the tip is inserted into the recess. Preferably, the tip may be cylindrical and of dimensions suitable for insertion into the recess. The sealing element may include an O-ring formed on the periphery of the tip and cooperating with the cylindrical housing provided by the recess. The sealing element is thus visible, which facilitates its inspection, cleaning, and replacement. The watertightness of this connection allows the metal detector to be used in an aquatic environment. The use of an O-ring provides an effective and inexpensive solution for ensuring a watertight connection between the tip and the recess.

[0044] In some embodiments, the extraction element is coupled to the connection head and extends longitudinally in line with the connection head. When the connection head is assembled to the side connector, particularly via the recess, the extraction element makes it easier to remove the connection head and the battery module from the housing. This can be useful for servicing the battery module or for replacing the battery when necessary. The battery can be replaced with a charged battery or a new one, depending on the situation. When the connection head is assembled to the side connector, particularly via the recess, the extraction element can also make it easier to remove the battery module from the housing.The extraction element also allows a section of the power cable to be kept outside the bottom of the shaft, which simplifies maintenance of the shaft arm and, more broadly, of the metal detector.

[0045] In some embodiments, the connection head may include electronic connection pads and electrical connection pads. The pads are arranged in particular on the extremity face of the connection head tip, this extremity face constituting the connection interface of said tip. The connection head pads may be configured to cooperate with the pinouts of the side connector in order to carry electronic data through the electronic connection pads and an electrical current through the electrical connection pinout.

[0046] [Power cable]

[0047] In some embodiments, the power cable may include an elastically coiled portion. This coiled portion, also called a spiral, provides the cable with elongation capabilities that are useful for connecting the connector to the metal detector's search coil. The coiled portion also cooperates with the extraction element to easily remove the connection head and / or the battery module from the arm housing. The specific arrangement of the battery module and these two connectors allows for a reduction in the dimensions of the coiled portion of the power cable compared to metal detectors known in the prior art.

[0048] In some embodiments, the power cable may extend between the housing and the coupling end, at which point the second end of the cable exits the arm to be connected to the detection coil. In this context, the power cable may comprise at least four wires for transferring electronic data and electrical current between the battery module and a remote element of the battery module, such as the detection coil of the metal detector.

[0049] [Cane arm]

[0050] In some embodiments, the arm may be tubular and comprise a cross-section of a specific shape; the arm thus includes a longitudinal cavity in which the power cable can extend. Advantageously, the battery module can be configured to occupy only a portion of the arm's cross-section. This provides a passage for the connecting cable to extend between the battery module and the inner wall of the arm, and also allows the connection head to be positioned in the cavity of the arm between the battery module and the inner wall of the arm. The cross-section may be trapezoidal and include rounded corners, which explains why this shape can be described as substantially trapezoidal. In this case, the battery module can occupy the largest portion of the trapezoidal shape within the cross-section of the arm.

[0051] The housing can thus be constituted by a portion of the longitudinal cavity of the arm which is preferably located near one end of the arm. For example, when the arm has a lower and upper cane, the housing can be positioned at one end of the cane bottom where it joins the cane top. The cane bottom can thus be easily industrialized.

[0052] In some embodiments, the coupling end can be configured to be hinged to the sensing disc. The sensing disc can thus be hinged to the bottom of the rod so as to provide an adjustable sensing disc. Brief description of the drawings

[0053] Other features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following description. This description is purely illustrative and should be read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0054] [Fig-1] is a schematic representation of an exploded view of a metal detector conforming to an embodiment of the invention.

[0055] [Fig.2] is a perspective representation of a section of a cane arm of metal detector conforming to an embodiment of the invention, the lower part of the case being shown in cross-section while articulated to a detection disc of a metal detector.

[0056] [Fig.3] is a perspective representation of a section of a cane arm conforming to an embodiment of the invention, the battery module being connected, via the extremal connector, to a connection of a power cable.

[0057] [Fig.4] is a representation of [Fig.3] according to a cross-section and the section of the cane arm being oriented differently.

[0058] [Fig.5] is a representation of the cane arm of [Fig.3], the battery module having partially emerged from the cane arm.

[0059] [Fig.6] is a cross-sectional representation of one end of the cane arm of the [Fig.4],

[0060] [Fig.7] is a cross-sectional representation, according to a view similar to [Fig.6], of the battery module extracted from the cane arm, the battery module being connected, on one side, to a power cable fitting by the extremal connector, and on the other side, to a power cable by the lateral connector.

[0061] [Fig.8] is a representation of the end of a cane arm conforming to a mode implementation of the invention, the battery module being inserted into the arm of the cane.

[0062] [Fig.9] is a representation of the end of the cane arm of [Fig.6], the module battery being partially extended from the cane arm.

[0063] [Fig. 10] is a representation of an exploded view of [Fig.7].

[0064] [Fig. 11] is a representation of a battery module conforming to a mode of realization of the invention.

[0065] [Fig. 12] is a representation of a power cable whose connection head is connected to the side connector of a conforming battery module of an embodiment of the invention.

[0066] [Fig. 13] is a perspective representation of a conforming connection head and power cable of an embodiment of the invention. Description of the implementation methods

[0067] Figure 1 is an exploded view of the metal detector 200 conforming to an embodiment of the invention, which notably includes a lower shaft 20 and an upper shaft 201 configured to fit together to form the arm 24 of the metal detector 200's shaft. The arm 24 thus comprises two sections 20, 201. In particular, the upper shaft 201 may have a cross-section slightly larger than that of the lower shaft 20 to fit onto a connecting end 21 of the lower shaft 20. The assembly of the lower shaft 20 with the upper shaft 201 can be achieved using an assembly flange 202, which is disposed at the lower end 2010 of the upper shaft 201. The flange 202 also allows the shaft length to be adjusted telescopically. The cane bottom 20 may also include coupling means which are disposed at a coupling end 22. The coupling end 22 is opposite the junction end 21.The coupling means allow the detection disc 203 to be coupled to the metal detector 200. The coupling means may include a joint 23 which provides a rotational coupling of the detection disc 203 to the bottom of the shaft 20. Here, the joint 23 includes a shaft while the detection disc 203 includes bearings configured to accommodate said shaft (see [Fig.2]).

[0068] The detection coil 203 may include one or more coils configured to emit and receive an electromagnetic field. The detection coil 203 may also include electronic components such as means for exciting the emitting coil, a receiving coil, an amplifier, signal processing components, and means for controlling the voltage applied to the coil(s). In particular, the control means may include a control unit configured to communicate remotely or via a wired connection with a control box. The control box may include a human-machine interface to allow the user to adjust the detection power according to the specific characteristics of the substrate in which they are searching for metals, as well as means for making detection adjustments and displaying metal targets on a screen.Generally, the control box is located at the level of the metal detector's handle (204) to allow for ergonomic handling. The handle (204) is configured to be assembled at one end. superior 2011 of the top of the cane 201. The control box can also be disassembled to be worn for example on the belt, in some cases, the control box can also be located in or on the operator's wireless headset.

[0069] As illustrated in [Fig. 2], the detection disc 203 is articulated to the lower part of the shaft 20 via the joint 23. In this example, the lower part of the shaft 20 of the arm 24 thus extends along a longitudinal axis AA. The arm 24 is shown in cross-section so that its components are visible. As illustrated, the arm 24 is tubular and includes a cross-section that may, for example, be trapezoidal and include rounded corners. The arm 24 therefore includes a longitudinal cavity 240 that also extends along the axis AA. The longitudinal cavity 240 may also have a cross-section that mirrors the shape of the cross-section of the arm 24.

[0070] As can be seen in [Fig. 2], the metal detector 200 includes a battery module 30 that can be removably inserted into a housing provided in the longitudinal cavity 240 of the arm 24. The battery module 30 extends along the longitudinal axis AA. According to this embodiment, the housing containing the battery module 30 is formed by a portion of the longitudinal cavity 240. As illustrated in [Fig. 2], this portion is preferably located near the junction end 21, which is configured to be assembled to the top of the shaft 201 of the metal detector 200 of [Fig. 1]. In addition, the metal detector 200 includes a power cable 40 that connects the battery module 30 to the detection coil 203. In particular, the power cable 40 can be connected directly or indirectly to the terminals of the coil(s). For example, the power cable 40 can be connected to the excitation means of the transmitting coil(s).For this purpose, the power cable 40 extends into the longitudinal cavity 240 of the arm 24 between a lateral connector 31 of the battery module 30 and the detection disc 203.

[0071] The power cable 40 includes a connection head 41 which is connected to the side connector 31 near the junction end 21 of the arm 24. Inside the arm 24, the power cable 40 includes an elastically coiled portion 42 which is located between the coupling end 22 and the battery module 30. In addition, advantageously, the power cable 40 may also include a pull tab 43 which protrudes from the junction end. The pull tab 43 provides a means of extracting the battery module 30. Here, the pull tab 43 is coupled to the battery module 30 via the connection head 41 and the side connector 31. The user can use the pull tab 43 as an extraction element to remove the connection head 41 and / or the battery module 30 from the arm housing 24. During the extraction of the battery module 30, the coiled portion 42 advantageously provides power cable 40 of the elasticity to allow this traction without otherwise disconnecting the power cable 40 from the detection disc 203.

[0072] According to one embodiment, the battery module 30 may advantageously include wired or wireless charging means for recharging the battery, the battery can thus be recharged without removing the battery module 30 from its housing.

[0073] Figures 3 and 4 illustrate an embodiment in which the means for recharging the battery module 30 include an end connector 32 extending along the longitudinal axis AA. Unlike the side connector 31, which is located within the housing, the end connector 32 emerges from the junction end 21 and includes a connection interface facing outwards from the housing. In this example, the connection interface extends along the longitudinal axis AA. In the example shown in Figures 3 and 4, the end connector 32 is connected to a power supply connector 50, which can be connected to an electrical power source. This source can be fixed, for example, a mains socket connected to the distribution network. The electrical power source can also be another battery, for example, a portable battery or a vehicle battery.A transformer can be connected to the power supply fitting 50 when the latter is plugged into a mains socket. According to the illustrations in Figures 3 and 4, only the beginning of the power supply wire 51 is shown, whereas in practice it connects to a transformer or a suitable connector depending on the power source to which the power supply wire 51 is connected.

[0074] In some embodiments, the end connector 32 can be replaced by an electromagnetic coil compatible with inductive charging. This coil can be coupled to the battery module or, alternatively, to the detection disc, with a wire passing through the power cable to connect to the battery. In other embodiments, the end connector 32 can also be replaced by a connector located on the detection disc, with an electrical wire integrated into the power cable 40 to transmit the charging current to the battery module 30. When the battery module 30 comprises only the side connector 31, the housing can be located in any position within the arm 24 of the shaft; however, the housing is preferably located at the bottom of the shaft 20 to limit the length of the power cable 40 and, in particular, the coil of this cable.

[0075] As illustrated in Figures 3 and 4, the power cable 40 has, at one end, the pull tab 43 which emerges from the connecting end 21 while the end connector 32 is connected to the power supply fitting 50. A second end of the power cable 40 emerges from the coupling end 22. At end 22, the second end of the power cable 40 may include a connector 44 adapted to supply an output electrical current of a predetermined voltage. This connector 44 is adapted to be connected directly or indirectly to the terminals of the transmitting coil(s) of the detection disc 203. This is notably the case in the example of [Fig.2], even though the connector 44 is not visible because it is connected to electronic means which are arranged in the detection disc 203.

[0076] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional representation of a portion of the arm 24, which may be the lower part of the shaft 20. The components of the metal detector 200, which are arranged in the longitudinal cavity 240 of the arm 24, are visible in this figure. These include the battery module 30 located in the cavity of the arm at the junction end 21, as well as the power cable 40. The connection head 41 is connected laterally to the lateral connector 31 inside the arm 24, while the end connector 32 is connected to the power supply fitting 50. The battery module 30 is contained within the housing, i.e., within the cavity 240 of the arm 24.

[0077] In the example of [Fig. 5], part of the battery module 30 emerges from the junction end 21. The battery module was able to be extended following a pull applied to the tab 43. This pull is illustrated by an arrow. In [Fig. 5], the end connector 32 of the battery module 30 is disconnected from any power connection, while the side connector 31 is still connected to the connection head 41 of the power cable 40. The tab 43 is also connected to the connection head 41 along a longitudinal axis, as can be seen in particular in Figures 9, 10, and 11. When the battery module 30, the arm 24, and the power cable 40 are assembled, the tab extends along the longitudinal axis AA, see, for example, [Fig. 8].

[0078] Figures 6 to 9 illustrate more particularly the cooperation between the battery module 30 its housing and the power cable 40 in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

[0079] In particular, [Fig. 6] is an enlarged view of the housing located at one end 21 of the arm as illustrated in Figures 3 and 4. According to this embodiment, the battery module 30 comprises a sealed compartment 33 containing a rechargeable battery 34. The compartment extends along the longitudinal axis AA so that the battery module 30 can be removably inserted into its housing. Furthermore, the battery module 30 includes an electronic board 35 to which connectors 31 and 32 are connected. Here, the electronic board 35 is also located in an extension of the sealed compartment 33, which may have a cross-section with dimensions smaller than the dimensions of the cross-section of the compartment 33.

[0080] The battery module 30 can also incorporate electronic components configured to modulate the output voltage of the battery 34. For example, the electronic board 35 can be connected to a voltage converter 36 also arranged in compartment 33. The electronic board 35 may include electronic components capable of communicating with the coil control means. The control data can then be transmitted via the power cable 40. Indeed, as illustrated in [Fig. 11], the side connector 31 may include an electrical pinout and an electronic pinout. The electrical pinout may include at least two pins 310 adapted to transmit an electrical current. These two pins 310 are therefore connected directly or indirectly to the battery 34 via the electronic board 35. The electronic pinout may include at least two other pins 311 adapted to transmit electronic data; for this purpose, they can be connected to electronic components capable of communicating with the coil control means via the power cable 40.To carry power data, the power cable 40 may, in addition to the two electrical wires, include two wires for transmitting electronic data. The power cable 40 may thus comprise two sheaths 45, each containing two wires. The two sheaths 45 are soldered together and extend from the connection head 40 to the connector 44. As illustrated in [Fig. 12], the two sheaths 45 are wound to form the coiled portion of the power cable 40. Furthermore, the connection head 41 may include pins 410, 411 configured to cooperate with the pinouts of the side connector 31. In the example shown in [Fig. 13], the connection head includes four pins 410, 411 arranged in pairs. In particular, two 410 pins configured to cooperate with electrical pins 310 and two other 411 pins configured to cooperate with electronic pins 311.

[0081] The side connector 31 is therefore configured, on the one hand, to deliver an outgoing current from the rechargeable battery 34 to the coil(s) of the metal detector 200, and on the other hand, to transmit power data from the battery module 30 to the means of the power controls which may be located in the detection disc 203.

[0082] According to an embodiment shown in [Fig. 6], the connection head 41 is wedged between the inner wall 241 of the arm 24 and the side connector 31 while remaining in contact with the latter. To achieve this, the dimensions of the battery module 30 are adjusted to the dimensions of the housing so that the connection head 41 is held in contact with the side connector 31 by being clamped between the inner wall 241 of the arm 24 and the side connector 31. This eliminates the need for a threaded connector to connect the power cable to the battery module, as may be the case in the prior art.

[0083] The position of the extreme connector 32 on the battery module 30 allows it to be held protruding from the junction end 21 of the arm 24. The The extreme connector 32 is thus accessible to a suitable power connection 50 for recharging the battery 34 without removing either the battery module 30 or the power cable 40 from the arm 24.

[0084] As illustrated in [Fig. 6], the pull tab 43 may include a series of grooves 430 to improve its grip. In this example, the grooves 430 are located at the free end of the pull tab 43, which is configured to extend from the arm. The pull tab 43 allows the user to pull the connecting head 41 in a direction parallel to the axis AA, as illustrated by an arrow in [Fig. 8]. The connecting head 41, which is assembled to the side connector 31 perpendicular to the axis AA, allows the battery module 30 to be extracted from the cavity in the arm 24. The battery module 30 is extracted from the arm 24 without the assembly between the connecting head 41 and the side connector 31 being disassembled.

[0085] Fig. 6 shows a battery module 30 conforming to one embodiment which has come out of the arm and is assembled, on the one hand, to the power cable 40 by the side connector 31, and on the other hand, to a power connection 50 through the extremal connector 32.

[0086] In particular, as illustrated in Figures 8 to 10, the battery module 30 may include, at one end, a connection tip 37 which carries the end connector 32. The connection tip 37 is configured to protrude from the junction end 21 of the arm 24 to be accessible, in particular, to a power supply connection 50 as illustrated in Figures 3, 4 and 6. For this purpose, the connection tip 37 includes a shoulder 370 configured to bear against free edges 210 of the junction end 21 of the arm 24. In particular, the shoulder 370 is configured to bear against the edge of the free edges 210. The shoulder 370 thus prevents the battery module 30 from being fully inserted into the arm 24. The free edges 210 are visible in [Fig. 6]. In the example of figures 8 and 9, the shoulder 370 corresponds to a collar which extends around an extension 371 of the connecting tip 37.

[0087] As can be seen in [Fig. 8], the arm 24 has a trapezoidal cross-section with rounded corners, resulting in a lower portion that is wider than the upper portion. This is evidenced by the width Lh at the top of the cross-section, which is smaller than the width Lb of the lower portion. However, the shoulder 370 rests on the free edges 210 only at the bottom of the arm's cross-section, leaving an opening at the top for the pull tab 43 to emerge from the cavity in the arm 24. Preferably, the battery module 30 occupies the bottom of the cross-section, leaving space at the top for the power cable 40 to extend along the battery compartment to the connection head 41, which is also positioned in the upper part of the cross-section. The connection head 41 is thus sandwiched, in the upper part of the cross-section, between the lateral connector 31 and the inner wall 241 of the arm 24.

[0088] As can be seen in particular in Figures 9 and 10, the connection tip 37 may include means for assembly to a power connector. The extension 371 projects from the shoulder 370 and provides a clipping groove 372 located in front of the shoulder 370. In particular, as illustrated in [Fig. 10], the groove 372 may extend only over a portion of the periphery of the extension 371. This has the effect of providing a keying feature for connecting a complementary power connector 50 to the connection tip 37. The assembly means may also include lugs 373 that form male assembly elements. In the example of [Fig. 10], the lugs 373 are provided on the periphery of the extension 371 on the side opposite the groove 372. The extension 371 may also include an extremity groove 374 and two protrusions 375 arranged on either side of the extremity groove 374.The groove 374 creates an axis of symmetry for the protrusions 375 and the two lugs 320 of the end connector 32. Each lug 320 can be positioned on a protrusion 375 as shown in [Fig. 9]. The protrusions 375 constitute male assembly elements. The extension 371 thus carries the assembly means and the lugs 320 of the end connector 32; in this sense, the extension 371 can be considered as the end connector 32. The end connector 32 is configured to transmit an incoming current to the battery 34; the two lugs 320 of the end connector 32 can thus be connected directly or indirectly to the terminals of the battery 33.

[0089] In the example of [Fig. 11], the assembly means include magnets 376 enabling magnetic assembly with a suitable power supply connector 50. The magnets 376 are positioned on either side of the studs 320 of the connector 32. The extension 371 also includes two tabs located at two edges of the periphery of the extension 371, as in [Fig. 10]. The extension 371 forms a single protrusion, the end of which is a flat face into which the magnets 376 and the studs 320 are integrated. Although not shown, the magnets 376 can be used in conjunction with the extension of [Fig. 10] by being positioned on either side of the studs 320 and / or in the groove 374.

[0090] As can be seen in particular in Figures 9 to 11, the battery module 30 may include a lateral connection portion 38 whose cross-section is smaller than the dimensions of the compartment 33 which contains the battery 34. This connection portion 38 incorporates the lateral connector 31. [Fig. 7] shows that the reduced cross-section of the connection portion 38 provides a space allowing the connection head 40 to fit into this space. When coupled to connector 31 within the overall dimensions of the battery module 30, the battery module 30 and the connection head 40 are inserted into the arm 24 housing. The connection head 40 occupies the space between the connection portion 38 and the inner wall 241 of the housing, as shown in [Fig. 6]. When the lower stem 20 is assembled, this space allows the connection head 40 to be clamped between the connection portion 38 and the inner wall 241 of the arm 24 (see in particular [Fig. 6]). In this way, the battery module 30 is inserted into the housing so that compartment 33 is proximal to the detection disc, while the lateral connector 31 is positioned at the opposite end of compartment 33, distal to the detection disc.

[0091] The battery module 30 may also include a retention groove 39 which extends parallel to the longitudinal axis AA as can be illustrated in [Fig. 1 1]. In particular, the retention groove 39 extends along the connection portion 38 from the junction with the battery compartment 33 to the side connector 31. The retention groove 39 cooperates with the connection head 40 so as to keep the coaxial pads 410, 411 of the connection head 40 aligned with the pins 310, 311 of the side connector 31. In particular, the connection head 40 is configured to fit into the retention groove 39, the latter reacting to the restoring force applied by the coiled portion 42 of the power cable 40 on the connection head 41. The retention groove 39 thus keeps the connection head 41 in contact with the side connector 31.

[0092] As illustrated in Figures 9 to 11, two projections 390 extend parallel to the longitudinal axis AA and form the retention groove 39. The projections 390 can be dimensioned to fit the inner wall 241 of the arm housing 24. The retention groove 39 also includes a bottom 391 that extends between the battery compartment 33 and the connector 31. At least a portion of the bottom 391 can be inclined relative to the wall of the battery compartment 33, which is extended by the bottom 391. This compensates for the difference in transverse dimensions between the connection portion 38 and the battery compartment 33.

[0093] In embodiments illustrated in particular in figures 9 and 10, the retention groove 39 may include lateral reinforcements 392 to improve the mechanical resistance of the projections 390. The lateral reinforcements 393 extend here over the connection portion 38 outside the projections 392 and against them.

[0094] As illustrated in [Fig. 11], the battery module 30 has a recess 312 into which the lateral connector 31 is integrated. The recess 312 is integrated into the lateral connection portion 38 between the retention groove 39 and the shoulder 370. The recess 312 constitutes a female assembly element that is complementary to the connection head 41, while the latter comprises a male assembly element. niche 312 is here of circular conformation providing a cylindrical housing configured to receive a male organ of the connection head 40. The pins 310, 311 of the lateral connector 31 are arranged in the bottom of niche 312.

[0095] The connecting head 40 may include a connecting tip 412 which constitutes the complementary male element of the lateral connector 31 and, in particular, of the recess 312 of this connector 31. The connecting tip 412 is visible in Figures 10 and 13; it is cylindrical in shape and has dimensions adapted to fit into the recess 312. The connecting tip 412 may advantageously include a sealing element 413. The sealing element 413 extends around the periphery of the connecting tip 412 approximately halfway up its height in order to create a seal when the tip 412 is inserted into the recess 312. The connecting tip 412 may include a peripheral groove to receive an O-ring, which then constitutes the sealing element 413.

[0096] As illustrated in particular in figures 10, 12 and 13, the connection head 40 may include a retaining body 414. The tip 412 is projecting from the retaining body 414 so as to be able to cooperate with the lateral connector 31.

[0097] The retaining body 414 is configured to cooperate with the retaining groove 39 of the connection portion 38 in order to provide opposition to the restoring force exerted by the wound portion 42 of the cable on the connection head 40. For this purpose, the retaining body has transverse dimensions greater than the dimensions of the retaining groove 39 and in particular, greater than the spacing between the projections 390. The power cable 40 extends into the retaining groove 39, as can be seen in particular in [Fig. 12]. The retaining body 414 may also include rounded fins 415 to improve cooperation with the projections 390 and create an interlocking between the projections 390 and the retaining body 414. These fins 415 are provided on the side where the power cable 40 is connected to the connection head 4L. The fins 415 thus give a substantially trapezoidal shape to the retaining body 414.The corners of said body may be rounded without, however, altering its trapezoidal shape. The objective is to maintain the connection head 40 coaxially with the lateral connector 31. In addition, the retaining body 414 includes a substantially flattened face 416 which is positioned to be in contact with the inner wall 241 of the arm 24. The face 416 may be slightly convex to fit the inner wall of the arm 24, which may also be slightly convex; see in particular Figures 8 and 9.

[0098] In the example of [Fig. 12], the lateral connector 31 has a connection interface extending along a connection axis BB. Here, the connection axis BB forms an angle α between 25° and 90° with respect to the longitudinal axis AA. The angle α may vary depending on the conformation of the connection portion. 38. Indeed, several conformations can make it possible to provide a lateral connector 31 allowing the connection head 41 to be coupled to the lateral connector 31 while being held in position by the internal wall of the arm.

[0099] Advantageously, as can be seen in [Fig. 13], the connection head 41 may include a connection interface oriented to extend along the connection axis BB and make a lateral connection to the battery module 30, while a portion of the cable extends laterally against the battery module 30, as illustrated in [Fig. 12]. The power cable 40 and the connection head 41 can pass through the cavity 240 of the arm 24 at the battery module 30, thanks in particular to the shape of said cavity and also to the shape of the battery module 30.

Claims

Demands

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

2. A handheld metal detector (200) according to claim 1, wherein the battery module (30) is removably inserted into the housing.

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

4. Portable metal detector (200) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the battery module includes wired or wireless means for recharging the battery.

5. A handheld metal detector (200) according to claim 4, wherein the battery charging means comprise an extremal connector (32) which is positioned at one end of the arm housing (24), preferably the extremal connector (32) is protruding from the end of the housing.

6. A handheld metal detector (200) according to claim 5, in which the battery module (30) includes, at one end, a connection tip (37) in which the extremal connector (32) is integrated, the connection tip (37) is configured to protrude from the housing of the arm (24), the connection tip (37) includes in particular means for assembly to a power connector (44) which allows an incoming electrical current to be transmitted to the extremal connector (32), preferably, the assembly means include an extension (371) comprising a clipping groove (372).

7. A handheld metal detector (200) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the housing is disposed at one end (21) of the arm (24), the connecting tip (37) includes a shoulder (370) configured to bear against at least a portion of the free edges (210) of the end (21) of the arm (24).

8. A handheld metal detector (200) according to claim 7, wherein the arm (24) of the shaft (20) comprises an upper shaft (201) and a lower shaft (20) assembled, the upper shaft being coupled to the handle (204) while the lower shaft (20) is articulated to the detection disc (203), the housing being disposed at the end (21) of the lower shaft (20) which is assembled to the upper shaft (201).

9. A handheld metal detector (200) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the side connector (31) has a connection interface which is oriented along a connection axis BB forming an angle α between 25° and 90° with respect to the longitudinal axis AA.

10. A handheld metal detector (200) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the battery module (30) includes a lateral connection portion (38) whose cross-section is smaller in size compared to the portion which contains the battery (34), the connection portion (38) incorporating the lateral connector (31).

11. A handheld metal detector (200) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the battery module (30) has a retention groove (39) which allows the connection head (41) to be retained coaxially with the side connector (31).

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

13. A handheld metal detector (200) according to claims 6 and 12, wherein the niche (312) is disposed on the lateral connection portion (38) between the retention groove (39) and the extremal connector (32).

14. A portable metal detector (200) according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the side connector (31) comprises: - an electrical pinout (310) connected directly or indirectly to the battery (34), and - an electronic pinout (311) connected to electronic means integrated into the battery module (30), preferably, the electronic means are configured to modulate the value of the voltage at the output of the battery (34); the electronic means being in particular adapted to communicate, through the electronic pinout (311) and the power cable (40), with remote electronic components, for example, with electronic components arranged in a detection coil (203).

15. A handheld metal detector (200) according to claim 1 to 14, wherein the connection head (41) has a retaining body (414) configured to hold the connection head (41) coaxially with the side connector (31).

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

17. Portable metal detector (200) according to claim 16, wherein the connection head (41) has a connection tip (412) projecting from the retaining body (414), the connection tip (412) being complementary to the side connector (31).

18. Portable metal detector (200) according to claims 12 and 17, wherein the connection tip (412) is complementary to the niche (312) and is configured to fit into the niche (312).

19. A portable metal detector (200) according to claim 18, wherein the connecting tip (412) comprises a sealing element (413) which creates a seal when the connecting tip (412) is inserted into the niche (312), preferably, the connecting end (412) is cylindrical and of dimensions adapted to be inserted into the niche (312).

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

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

22. A handheld metal detector (200) according to any one of claims 1 to 21, wherein the power cable (40) comprises at least four wires, thus enabling the transfer of electronic data and an electric current between the battery module (30) and a remote element such as the detection disc (203).

23. A handheld metal detector (200) according to any one of claims 1 to 22, wherein the arm (24) is tubular and comprises a cross-section of determined shape, the arm (24) therefore comprises a longitudinal cavity (240) in which the power cable (40) extends.

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