Battery pack with vibration alarm, helmet accessory system, and protective helmet system, and method of operating such a helmet accessory system

Abstract

The present invention relates to a battery pack (100) to be fixed to a protective helmet (30) for supplying power to a helmet accessory, the battery pack (100) comprising: a battery module (12) for storing and outputting electrical energy; supply and communication terminals (14) for supplying power to and communicating with a helmet accessory connected to the battery pack (100); attachment means (214) for fixing the battery pack (100) to the protective helmet (30); a vibration module (16) for generating structure-borne sound; and a control unit for controlling various functions of the battery pack (100), including the function of the vibration module (16), the control unit being configured to drive the vibration module (16) based on a communication signal received by the supply and communication terminal (14).

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a battery pack with a vibration alarm, a helmet accessory system, and a protective helmet system, as well as a method of operating such a helmet accessory system. [Background technology]

[0002] Various jobs, particularly those in the forestry sector, require the wearing of protective helmets. Such protective helmets are disclosed, for example, in Patent Document 1. Such protective helmets consist of a helmet shell and an interior structural assembly (wearing body). The interior structural assembly includes a subassembly to be worn on the head, and this subassembly has at least one support cage, a headband, a neckband, and means for fastening this subassembly to the helmet shell.

[0003] Such conventional protective helmets are basic helmets that can be adapted for a variety of tasks under various working conditions by changing the accessories. Such protective helmets consist of a helmet shell and an interior structural assembly. The interior structural assembly has a cross band for attaching the protective helmet to the user's head and ensuring an impact-resistant distance between the user's head and the helmet shell. The outer periphery of the helmet shell is provided with a protrusion extending to the sides and rear of the helmet shell, and the lower edge of this protrusion is provided with four recesses for fastening the cross band and further recesses for fastening additional accessories. This basic version of the protective helmet can be used as a simple, general-purpose helmet without any accessories. Accessories can be attached or removed as needed.

[0004] Helmet accessories that can be suitably attached to a protective helmet include, in particular, helmet lights that illuminate the user's work area or other area in a manner similar to a headlamp. Illuminating a work area or other area is useful not only at dawn, dusk, and after sunset, but also in areas where sunlight is blocked, such as in dim light under a tree canopy. Furthermore, helmet lights that can be fixed to a protective helmet are useful in a variety of tasks. For example, nighttime repairs of construction machinery at a construction site or maintenance work in dark, poorly lit water tunnels or under bridges can be performed more efficiently by having an appropriate means of illumination "on the person" in the form of a helmet light so that it is always available.

[0005] Such helmet lights typically generate light using electrical energy that is stored and carried in a chemical form, such as a battery pack or a rechargeable battery pack.

[0006] Another useful helmet accessory is ear protection. Wearing such ear protection reduces noise generated during work, such as forestry or construction. However, the use of such ear protection attenuates all surrounding sounds, making it difficult to perceive other acoustic signals. Furthermore, the ambient noise itself can interfere with the perception of acoustic warning and information signals. These signals typically include signals that the user must be aware of, such as all acoustic signals emitted by mobile phones. It has been known to provide a vibration alarm (vibration notification function) to more reliably recognize signals from mobile phones. However, these vibration alarms can also be difficult to perceive due to the physical activity of the helmet user and the protective clothing they wear, including additional padding and cut protection.

[0007] The present invention aims to solve or at least mitigate the above problems. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0008] [Patent Document 1] DE8714490U1 (German Utility Model Publication) Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] This is achieved by the subject matter having the features set forth in the independent claims, with useful configurations and refinements being set forth in the dependent claims.

[0010] The battery pack of the present invention is a battery pack fixed to a protective helmet to supply power to a helmet accessory, and includes: a battery module for storing and outputting electrical energy; a supply and communication terminal for supplying power to and communicating with the helmet accessory connected to the battery pack; mounting means for fixing the battery pack to the protective helmet; a vibration module for generating structure-borne sound; and a control unit for controlling each function of the battery pack, including the function of the vibration module, the control unit being configured to activate the vibration module based on a communication signal received by the supply and communication terminal. This allows transmitted or requested acoustic or haptic signals to be transmitted to the supply terminal and communication terminal via the communication signal so that they can be output from another device, such as a mobile phone, connected to the battery pack and used to charge the battery pack or power the helmet accessory. As a result, the transmitted or requested acoustic or haptic signals are reliably transmitted from the control unit of the battery pack to the user via the protective helmet. The communication signal requesting activation of the vibration module may be transmitted to the communication terminal via a completely wired connection or an at least partially wireless connection (e.g., Bluetooth (registered trademark), NFC, etc.).

[0011] Advantageously, the vibration module may be integrated into the battery body or the attachment means. This allows the battery body, or a battery pack including the battery body, or the attachment means to have two functions. That is, the battery body supplies power to the helmet accessory and is also used to output a tactile notification signal to the user of the protective helmet. Alternatively, the attachment means functions as a fixing device for the battery pack and also as a means for outputting a tactile notification signal to the user of the protective helmet.

[0012] Alternatively, the vibration module may be removably fixed to the battery body or to the mounting means, which allows for optional retrofitting of the battery pack or mounting means to achieve the two aforementioned functions (power supply and haptic notification signal output).

[0013] Advantageously, the vibration module may have a fixing means for fixing the vibration module to the battery body or the mounting means. This allows the battery pack or the mounting means, respectively, to be designed very simply. As a result, existing battery packs (and associated mounting means) that have been prepared in advance to accommodate the retrofitting of battery packs or mounting means can be retrofitted at no additional cost.

[0014] Furthermore, the fixing means may be configured to fix the vibration module magnetically or mechanically. Whether fixing by magnetic force or mechanically using a clamp, the vibration module can be easily and reliably fixed to the battery pack or the attachment means in a detachable manner.

[0015] The electrical connection between the battery pack and the vibration module may be established by fastening means, which avoids the need for additional electrical contacts to connect the vibration module to the battery pack.

[0016] Advantageously, the vibration module may have a contact surface that contacts the helmet shell of the protective helmet when the battery pack is attached to the protective helmet by the attachment means. By providing the contact surface, the generated tactile vibration signal can be efficiently transmitted / guided to the helmet shell of the protective helmet, which functions as a resonator. As a result, a vibration module with low power consumption can be used, thereby improving energy efficiency.

[0017] In particular, the battery pack may have at least one sensor unit for detecting an operating state of the battery pack, and the control unit may be configured to activate the vibration module based on the detected operating state, thereby enabling the battery pack to independently transmit tactile (vibration) signals to alert the user of the protective helmet, such as a charge state warning or a temperature warning.

[0018] Furthermore, the control unit may be configured to drive a helmet accessory in synchronization with the vibration module, thereby allowing the user's attention to be more effectively directed to the signals output by the vibration module.

[0019] The helmet accessory system of the present invention includes a battery pack and a helmet accessory including a helmet light, and the battery pack and the helmet accessory are configured to be fixable to the helmet shell of the protective helmet. The protective helmet system of the present invention includes the protective helmet and the above-mentioned helmet accessory system. Thus, the object of the present invention is also achieved by the helmet accessory system and the protective helmet system.

[0020] The method for operating the helmet accessory system of the present invention includes the steps of receiving a communication signal through the supply and communication terminal of the battery pack, and driving the vibration module by the control unit based on the received communication signal.

[0021] Additionally, other advantages discussed in connection with the battery pack may also be realized in the helmet accessory system and protective helmet system, as well as in the method of the present invention, provided that physical characteristics of interest in the battery pack are taken into account in the method aspects, as appropriate. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0022] Exemplary embodiments of the invention or of some components of the invention will now be described in more detail with reference to the drawings.

[0023] [Figure 1A] FIG. 1 is a three-dimensional view of a battery pack according to various embodiments. [Figure 1B] FIG. 1 is a three-dimensional view of a battery pack according to various embodiments. [Figure 1C] FIG. 1 is a three-dimensional view of a battery pack according to various embodiments. [Figure 1D] FIG. 1 is a three-dimensional view of a battery pack according to various embodiments. [Figure 1E] FIG. 1 is a three-dimensional view of a battery pack according to various embodiments. [Figure 1F] FIG. 1 is a three-dimensional view of a battery pack according to various embodiments. [Figure 1G] FIG. 1 is a three-dimensional view of a battery pack according to various embodiments. [Figure 1H] FIG. 1 is a three-dimensional view of a battery pack according to various embodiments. [Figure 1I] FIG. 1 is a three-dimensional view of a battery pack according to various embodiments. [Figure 1J] FIG. 1 is a three-dimensional view of a battery pack according to various embodiments. [Figure 1K]FIG. 1 is a three-dimensional view of a battery pack according to various embodiments. [Figure 2A] 3D views of the connector plug from various directions. [Figure 2B] 3D views of the connector plug from various directions. [Figure 2C] 3D views of the connector plug from various directions. [Figure 2D] 1A-1C are three-dimensional views showing the internal structure of a connector plug from various directions. [Figure 2E] 1A-1C are three-dimensional views showing the internal structure of a connector plug from various directions. [Figure 3A] 3D views of the charging plug from various angles. [Figure 3B] 3D views of the charging plug from various angles. [Figure 3C] 1A and 1B are three-dimensional views showing the internal structure of the charging plug from various angles. [Figure 3D] 1A and 1B are three-dimensional views showing the internal structure of the charging plug from various angles. [Figure 4A] FIG. 1 is a three-dimensional view showing the charging connections of the battery pack. [Figure 4B] FIG. 1 is a three-dimensional view showing the charging connections of the battery pack. [Figure 5A] 1A and 1B are three-dimensional views showing the internal structure of the battery pack from various angles. [Figure 5B] 1A and 1B are three-dimensional views showing the internal structure of the battery pack from various angles. [Figure 6A] 10A-10C are three-dimensional views of the attachment means from different directions. [Figure 6B] 10A-10C are three-dimensional views of the attachment means from different directions. [Figure 6C] 10A-10C are three-dimensional views of the attachment means from different directions. [Figure 6D] 10A-10C are three-dimensional views of the attachment means from different directions. [Figure 6E] 10A-10C are three-dimensional views of the attachment means from different directions. [Figure 6F]10A-10C are three-dimensional views of the attachment means from different directions. [Figure 7] FIG. 1 is a first three-dimensional view of the vibration module. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a second three-dimensional view of the vibration module. [Figure 9] FIG. 1 is a side cross-sectional view of a protective helmet with a helmet light and battery pack attached. [Figure 10] FIG. 1 shows a flowchart of a method for operating a helmet accessory system. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0024] In the following description, the same reference numerals refer to the same or similar components.

[0025] 1A-1I are three-dimensional views of the battery pack 100 from various directions. These views are partially simplified to avoid unnecessary details interfering with visibility. FIG. 1A shows the battery pack 100 in an inactive state. The battery pack 100 shown in FIG. 1A includes a battery body 194 having a substantially elongated cubic shape, the edges of which are chamfered as shown in FIG. 1A. Alternatively, the edges may be rounded. In FIG. 1A, the display / operation element 102 in an inactive state is provided on one side of the battery body 194. A connector plug 192 is provided in the lower region of the battery pack 100. The battery pack 100 can be connected via the connector plug 192 to, for example, the helmet light 10 shown in FIG. 9. In FIG. 1A, the battery pack 100 is shown in an inactive state, so the display / operation element 102 is blank. However, the display / operation element 102 can be used, for example, to turn on and off individual display elements on the display / operation element 102. In this case, the display / operation element 102 is "labeled" even when not energized, making it possible to identify which parts are operation elements.

[0026] 1B is a view showing the side opposite to the display / operation element 102 in FIG. 1A, i.e., the back of the battery pack 100. In FIG. 1B, the back of the battery pack 100 is shown, and this back can have various structures as needed.

[0027] FIG. 1C illustrates the battery pack 100 in an activated state. The display / operation elements 102 in FIG. 1A, not shown separately here, can display various information to a user when the battery pack 100 is activated. The display / operation elements 102 can, for example, graphically display a temperature display element 2000, a battery charge level display element 2002, and an on / off switch 2004, optionally using an LED backlight 2006. For this purpose, the display / operation elements 102 can be provided with a display area 2008, below which the on / off switch 2004, particularly as a foil switch, can be arranged. Thus, by operating the on / off switch 2004, for example, the battery pack 100 or the helmet light 10 connected thereto can be switched on and off. The temperature display element 2000 graphically displays, in particular, the temperature of the battery pack 100, which is important because the capacity and power performance of the battery pack 100 vary with temperature. The display area 2008 can, of course, also graphically display other information related to the helmet light 10 or the battery pack 100. For example, when the battery pack 100 is connected to the helmet light 10 via the connector plug 192, the display area 2008 can graphically display an error message for the helmet light 10. In FIG. 1C , the charging plug 190 is also provided below the connector plug 192. The charging plug 190 is connected to the battery pack 100 via the connector plug 192 as shown in FIG. 1C , or it can be connected directly to the battery pack 100 without the connector plug 192. The LED backlight 2006, shown with diagonal lines around the on / off switch 2004 in FIG. 1C , can also provide the user with a “rear lighting function” if desired. This is because the placement of the battery pack 100 attached to the protective helmet 30 enables the function of illuminating the rear. Alternatively or additionally, one or more red LEDs can be independently disposed on the housing of the battery body 194.

[0028] FIG. 1D shows the battery pack 100 from the same perspective as FIG. 1C . However, while FIG. 1C shows an activated state, FIG. 1D shows a different activated state. In the battery pack 100 of FIG. 1C , the LED backlight 2006 is activated, as indicated by the diagonal lines in the figure. In the battery pack 100 of FIG. 1D , the LED backlight 2006 is not activated, as indicated by the absence of diagonal lines. Similarly, in the area of ​​the battery charge level display element 2002, diagonal lines visually indicate the current charge level of the battery pack 100. The temperature display element 2000 can visually indicate the temperature of the battery pack 100, for example, by a color change or other suitable method. Alternatively, the temperature display element 2000 can directly display the temperature of the battery pack 100 numerically, near or in place of the symbol shown in FIG. 1D . The on / off switch 2004 illustrated in FIGS. 1C and 1D can provide a variety of functions. For example, the on / off switch 2004 can turn on / off the helmet light 10 connected to the battery pack 100. When the helmet light 10 is not connected to the battery pack 100, the on / off switch 2004 can switch the battery pack 100 itself to a different operating state, such as providing the function of displaying some of the information displayable in the display area 2008 or turning on / off the battery charge level display element 2002. The change in function provided by the on / off switch 2004 can be made depending on the plugs connected to the battery pack 100, i.e., the charging plug 190 and the connector plug 192, and the internal logic circuit of the battery pack 100 determines which plug is connected to the battery pack 100 based on the voltage measured at the connection contacts of the battery pack 100, which will be described later. The internal logic circuit of the battery pack 100 can be considered the basic control unit of the battery pack and can drive or provide several basic functions of the battery pack 100.Due to the special design of the charging plug 190 and the connector plug 192, the charging plug 190 and the connector plug 192 can be connected to the battery pack 100 at the same time, which allows multiple batteries to be connected to the helmet light 10 of the helmet light system at the same time. It is also possible to charge the battery pack 100 while the helmet light 10 is in use.

[0029] In addition to the helmet light 10, which can be switched between multiple lighting modes and operating states, the helmet light system can also include an input device equipped with a transceiver module and an additional transceiver module. The input device is connected to the helmet light 10 via the transceiver module and the additional transceiver module for two-way communication. The input device may be, for example, a mobile phone. This not only allows the helmet light 10 to be controlled from the input device, but also allows the input device to receive operation information from the helmet light 10 when connected to the helmet light 10. In this way, the input device can be positioned anywhere as an operating unit for the helmet light 10, particularly within the user's field of vision, making operation of the helmet light system easier. The transceiver module and the additional transceiver module can be either wireless or wired. Two-way communication between the helmet light 10 and the input device can be established via a common communication protocol. Using a common communication protocol allows for more complex helmet light system control beyond simple on / off control by opening and closing an electrical circuit. The control of the helmet light system can be designed with great flexibility. The input device may send communication signals, particularly to the battery pack 100, and optionally through the helmet light 10, which may then send communication signals to the battery pack 100 to activate the vibration module 16, described below. Other components of the helmet light system may also send communication signals to the battery pack 100 to activate functions provided by the battery pack 100, particularly the vibration module 16.

[0030] The two-way communication can be protected by encryption, thereby preventing unintended external operation by an input device arbitrarily connected to the helmet light 10 of the helmet light system. Such security is particularly useful in situations where multiple helmet light systems are used in close proximity to each other, with their respective input devices. A password may be required to enhance connection security. The operational information received by the input device may also include status information of the helmet light system. The input device can display or output such status information, thereby making operation of the helmet light system easier. A helmet light 10 of a helmet light system can also be connected to another input device while already connected to an input device. In this case, the helmet light 10 can be configured to be controlled preferentially by the newly connected input device. This allows, for example, a work supervisor or a monitoring system installed on-site to prioritize operation. For example, if the helmet light system has such functions, the helmet light system can turn on cameras, helicopter lights, or position lights, allowing centralized control of these functions. Similarly, a higher-level administrator can restrict the switching off of specific operational functions or initiate the output of tactile vibration signals from the vibration module 16.

[0031] A helmet light system including at least a helmet light 10 with a controller, which can be switched between multiple lighting modes and operating states, can also include a camera unit operatively connected to the controller. The controller can activate the connected camera unit when the helmet light 10 of the helmet light system is activated. The controller can also activate the camera unit even when the helmet light system is in standby mode and not yet emitting light. This allows automatic recording of the operations and views performed by the user of the helmet light system, particularly to prevent the user from forgetting to record. The activation or deactivation of individual components of the helmet light system, such as the camera unit or helicopter light, can be indicated to the user tactilely by a vibration signal via a vibration module, particularly a special vibration pattern coded to identify changes in the operating state of the helmet light system.

[0032] The camera unit can store the captured video internally, enabling long-term archiving. Alternatively, the camera unit can transmit the captured video to the helmet light 10, for example, for storage in a memory built into the helmet light 10. This method also enables long-term archiving. Preferably, the control controller transmits the video captured by the camera unit as operational information to an external storage device connectable to the helmet light system. This allows for a virtually unlimited recording period. The external storage device can be accessed by a third party, particularly for the purpose of visually displaying the video. For example, a third party may review the video and provide instructions to the user regarding the problem in order to assist the user of the helmet light system in the event of a problem. For this purpose, the helmet light system may include a headset that allows the user to communicate with the third party providing assistance. This communication can be performed, for example, via a mobile wireless connection, and the helmet light system is connected to an input device that provides a mobile wireless connection, such as a mobile phone. Furthermore, the control controller can adjust the shooting direction of the camera unit depending on the lighting mode and / or operating state of the helmet light 10. This can improve the quality of the video captured by the camera. In particular, the shooting direction and the brightness during shooting can be appropriately adjusted.

[0033] The controller may also control the camera unit to adjust the dynamic focal length (zoom) depending on the lighting mode and / or operating state of the helmet light, thereby improving the image capture quality of the camera. This can be achieved, for example, by adjusting the zoom to widen or narrow the viewing angle.

[0034] The characteristics of the helmet light system described above can also be generally applied and implemented as a method for operating the helmet light system, which can be executed by a helmet light controller. All changes in the operating status of the helmet light system described above can also be indicated to the user by a confirmation signal. For example, each communication signal can be sent to the battery pack, which then outputs a characteristic vibration sequence via the vibration module 16.

[0035] 1E shows the battery pack 100 from the rear, and unlike FIG. 8B, a charging plug 190 is also connected to the battery pack 100 in addition to the connector plug 192. The function of the charging plug 190 will be described later.

[0036] FIGS. 1F and 1G are detailed three-dimensional views of the battery pack 100. FIG. 1F shows a cross-section of the top of the battery pack 100, and FIG. 1G shows a cross-section of the side of the battery pack 100. The top side is provided with a pair of detent projections 212. The side of the battery pack 100 is provided with lateral detent projections 210. When lateral detent projections 210 are provided on one side, it is preferable to provide corresponding lateral detent projections on the opposite side. The detent projections 212 and lateral detent projections 210 (and possibly corresponding lateral detent projections on the opposite side) cooperate with attachment means 214, described below, to secure the battery pack 100 in 214 to the protective helmet 30 using the attachment means. The detent projections 212 and lateral detent projections 210 are only shown in FIGS. 1F and 1G, but may be provided on all battery packs 100 shown in the other figures.

[0037] FIGS. 1H, 1I, 1J, and 1K show the battery pack 100 from different angles when the plug is not connected. The battery pack 100 shown in FIG. 1H is in a switched-off state, so the display area 2008 is blank. However, the display area 2008 can also display at least the on / off switch 2004, for example, in the form of a transparent film image, even when the battery is not powered. The bottom of the battery pack 100 is provided with an electrical contact surface 1112c on the end surface 1124 of the battery body 194. A notched recess 1114a is also provided to align the connector plug 192 or charging plug 190 and prevent the plug from being laterally removed from the battery pack 100 when attached. FIG. 1J shows the battery pack 100 from another angle to more clearly show the recess 1114a on the end surface 1124 of the battery body 194. 1I shows the battery pack 100 with its end face opposite end face 1124 visible, which may be completely smooth, for example. However, if necessary, connection elements such as electrical contacts, guide elements, or additional operating elements may also be arranged on this opposite end face. Such connection elements may in particular serve as supply and communication terminals for receiving communication signals to drive the vibration module 16.

[0038] 1B, 1E, and 1J are diagrams showing the rear surface of the battery main body 194, which is located on the opposite side of the display area 2008. A recess 26 is provided in the center of the rear surface of the battery main body 194. The recess 26 is for accommodating the vibration module 16 shown in FIGS. 7 and 8. The recess 26 extends mainly in the axial direction of the battery main body 194, and fixing means 18 are provided on opposing surfaces at both ends of the recess 26 in the longitudinal direction. The fixing means 18 may be formed, for example, in the form of a fixed magnet that magnetically fixes the vibration module 16 in the recess 26. Furthermore, electrical contact required for operation of the vibration module 16 can be realized via the fixed magnet. This is made possible by an electrical connection between the (metallic) contacts 22 of the vibration module 16 and the fixed magnet when the vibration module 16 is attached to the battery pack 100.

[0039] 1K further shows a battery body 194 incorporating a vibration module 16. In FIG. 1K, instead of providing a recess 26, a trapezoidal protrusion (extending mainly in the axial direction of the battery body 194) is formed on the housing of the battery body 194, which is formed / caused by the vibration module 16 arranged below.

[0040] When the vibration module 16 is inserted into the recess 26 shown in Figure 1B, Figure 1E or Figure 1J, the dimensions of the combination of the battery body 194 and the vibration module 16 may correspond to the dimensions of the battery body 194 in Figure 1K.

[0041] 2A, 2B, and 2C are three-dimensional views of the connector plug 192 as viewed from various directions. FIGS. 2A and 2C show the connection side of the connector plug 192, which has the electrical contacts 1108a. This connection side has a protrusion 1116a that mates with the recess 1114a shown in FIG. 1J and functions as a guide element to assist in positioning the connector plug 192 when attaching it to the battery pack 100. The protrusion 1116a cooperates with the recess 1114a on the battery pack 100 side to align the connector plug 192 with the battery pack 100. This allows for a blind connection between the battery pack 100 and the connector plug 192. FIG. 2B shows the connector plug 192 as viewed from the side opposite the side on which the electrical contacts 1108a are provided.

[0042] The electrical contacts 1108a include individual pin contacts. These pin contacts can be designed to be compressible, for example, like a telescope, and in particular can be prestressed to maintain the pin contacts in an extended state. In this way, when connecting the connector plug 192 and the battery pack 100, the pins do not bend when the electrical contacts 1108a press against the corresponding electrical contact surfaces 1112c (which can be formed as smooth or flat surfaces), and the contact pressure on the pins ensures reliable electrical contact. The individual pin contacts can have, for example, spring-like elements to achieve the prestress. However, alternative designs are known to those skilled in the art. Such a configuration also allows the plug to be laterally removed from the battery pack.

[0043] 2B, a recess 1114b is provided on the surface opposite to the electrical contact 1108a, i.e., the back surface of the connector plug 192. Furthermore, an electrical contact surface 1112a is also provided, and the electrical contact surface 1112a functions to electrically connect the connector plug 192 and the charging plug 190.

[0044] The entire interior of the connector plug 192 may be sealed by the casting material 1110a. The casting material 1110a forms the housing of the connector plug 192. Alternatively, housing shells that are closely connected to each other may be used to achieve the same functionality as the casting material 1110a, particularly fluid tightness. Connecting the housing shells to each other has advantages regarding the replaceability or manageability of individual parts inside the connector plug 192, which also leads to improved environmental compatibility of the helmet light 10 as a whole.

[0045] By using various combinations of the recesses 1114a, 1114b and the protrusions 1116a, 1116b, a simple auxiliary mating structure for plug connection can be realized. This structure does not prevent easy separation even when a pulling force is applied to the connector plug 192, and at the same time, when no pulling force is applied, the electrical contacts closed by the plug connection can remain safely and correctly connected to each other. When the protrusions and recesses are asymmetrically arranged on the contact surfaces, a simple anti-rotation mechanism can be realized.

[0046] 2D and 2E show an example of the internal structure of a connector plug 192, showing two substantially opposite views, i.e., the front and back of the internal configuration. For simplicity, the cable connections of the connector plug 192 extending from the connector plug 192 to the outside are omitted. A PCB 1106a with known electrical contacts 1108a is located inside the connector plug 192, and the PCB 1106a is covered by a casting material 1110a or a housing with equivalent functionality. An electrical contact surface 1112a is provided on the opposite side. Both the electrical contacts 1108a and the electrical contact surface 1112a extend through the casting material to the surface of the connector plug 192, allowing electrical contact with other components at either location. Two magnets 1104a are located on the lateral sides of the PCB 1106a. The magnet 1104a can interact with a corresponding component on the battery pack 100 or the charging plug 190 to prevent polarity reversal of the electrical connection during connection, serving as an additional safety measure. Furthermore, the magnet 1104a, together with a corresponding component on the battery pack 100, automatically pulls the connector plug 192 to the correct position, ensuring that the connector plug 192 is securely held in place on the battery pack 100 even when a mechanical load is applied in the connection direction.

[0047] This connection and coupling mechanism allows the entire cable loop of the connection cable 24 to be released even if the user wearing the protective helmet 30 equipped with the helmet light device makes an inadvertent movement. When the pulling force on the trapped cable loop exceeds the holding force of the magnets 204, 1104a, 1104b, the connector plug 192 automatically detaches from the battery pack 100, simultaneously releasing the cable loop. This release can activate the vibration module 16 via a basic control unit provided in the battery pack. This notifies the user of this event, i.e., that the helmet light 10 has been separated from the battery pack 100. This is particularly advantageous when the helmet light 10 includes a compact, integrated energy storage device for such emergencies. Furthermore, the magnets 204, 1104a, 1104b attract the two components of the plug connection to the correct position, facilitating the connection of the connector plug 192 and the battery pack 100 and significantly simplifying blind connections. A vibration signal can also be generated via the vibration module 16 when the connector plug 192 and the battery pack 100 are reconnected.

[0048] FIGS. 3A and 3B are three-dimensional views of the charging plug 190 viewed from various directions. The charging plug 190 shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B has a protrusion 1116b, similar to the connector plug 192 shown in FIGS. 1D and 1E. As shown in FIG. 3B, an electrical contact 1108b is provided on the same side of the charging plug 190 as the protrusion 1116b. The housing of the charging plug 190 is formed from a casting material 1110b, similar to the connector plug 192 shown in FIGS. 2D and 2E, thereby achieving a fluid-tight structure within the individual housing elements, particularly the housing shell. As shown in FIG. 3A, unlike the connector plug 192 shown in FIGS. 2D and 2E, the charging plug 190 does not have an electrical contact surface on the side opposite the electrical contact 1108B. The combination of the protrusion 1116b and the recess 1114b prevents the connector plug 192 from easily separating from the charging plug 190 when a pulling force is applied to the connector plug 192. Furthermore, the combination of the convex portion 1116b and the concave portion 1114b realizes a simple connection means that can reliably maintain the electrical contacts closed by plug connection in a properly connected state when no pulling force is applied to the connector plug 192. When the charging plug 190 is connected or disconnected, a vibration signal can be generated via the vibration module 16, just like when the connector plug 192 is connected or disconnected.

[0049] In this case, the protrusion 1116b and the recess 1114b may be configured to have asymmetric shapes, preferably at one edge of each connecting surface, thereby achieving a simple anti-rotation function.

[0050] 3C and 3D show the internal structure of charging plug 190 viewed from opposite directions, i.e., the internal structure viewed from the front and the internal structure viewed from the rear. As shown in Figures 3C and 3D, a PCB 1106b is disposed inside charging plug 190. Similar to connector plug 192 shown in Figures 1D and 1E, an electrical contact surface 1112b, an electrical contact 1108b, and a magnet 1104b are disposed on PCB 1106b.

[0051] 3C and 3D is similar to the configuration of PCB 1106a shown in FIGS. 2D and 2E. Because PCB 1106b is associated with charging plug 190, PCB 1106b may have a different configuration with respect to the illustrated electrical contact surfaces 1112b and electrical contacts 1108b, such as reducing the number of electrical contact pins in electrical contact 1108b. This is because charging plug 190 is typically installed last or only temporarily connected to battery pack 100, and connector plug 192 for "connecting" electrical contacts 1108b of charging plug 190 to battery pack 100 is already secured to battery pack 100. Thus, for example, PCB 1106b and PCB 1106a may have identical configurations, and may reduce the number of electrical connections to the exterior surface of charging plug 190, if desired. This allows the same PCB to be used for charging plug 190 and connector plug 192, reducing the number of different parts, for example if the only difference is the assembly having electrical components such as electrical contacts 1108a and 1108b.

[0052] 4A and 4B are three-dimensional views illustrating the charging connection of the battery pack 100. A portion of the battery body 194 of the battery pack 100 is shown at the bottom of FIGS. 4A and 4B. As shown in FIG. 4A, a connector plug 192 is attached to the upper end of the battery body 194. The connector plug 192 has a sealing lip 196 that protrudes radially inward toward the longitudinal central axis of the battery body 194. The sealing lip 196 is located axially below a protruding collar 196a of the connector plug 192. The sealing lip 196 serves to establish a sealed, i.e., fluid-tight, connection between the connector plug 192 attached to the battery body 194 and the charging plug 190 (not shown in FIG. 4A ). This is important because water contact with the electrical connection between the connector plug 192 and the charging plug 190 can corrode the electrical connection. 2A to 2C does not have such a collar 196a and a sealing lip 196, it should be noted that such a collar 196a and a sealing lip 196 can be added in a simple manner. Also, the collar 196a and the sealing lip 196 may be provided on the charging plug 190 instead of the connector plug 192. In this case, the electrical contacts 1108b of the charging plug 190 that protrude beyond the plane of the connector plug can be protected from mechanical damage by the collar 196a.

[0053] As shown in FIG. 11A , the battery body 194 of the battery pack 100 further includes charging contacts 198 and communication contacts 200. The charging contacts 198 and communication contacts 200 are arranged on the surface of the connector plug 192 surrounded by the seal lip 196. This arrangement of the charging contacts 198 and communication contacts 200 prevents the charging plug 190 (not shown) from rotating. It should be understood that this arrangement of the charging contacts 198 and communication contacts 200 is just one example. The charging contacts 198 and communication contacts 200 may be subdivided. In addition to the charging contacts 198 and communication contacts 200 shown in FIG. 11A , other contacts may be provided on the surface of the connector plug 192 surrounded by the seal lip 196. If the electrical contact surface 1112a of the charging plug 190 in the connector plug 192 is configured to be rotatably fixed, such rotatable fixation can be easily achieved, for example, by locating half of the charging contacts 198 and the communication contacts 200 inside the connector plug 192. The connection surfaces of the battery pack 100 and the connector plug 192 shown in Figures 4A and 4B do not have any protrusions or recesses for providing anti-rotation protection as described in Figures 1 to 3. However, such protrusions or recesses can be added in a simple manner.

[0054] FIG. 4B shows the upper part of the battery body 194 of the battery pack 100, excluding the connector plug 192. Similar to the free end of the connector plug 192, the upper part of the battery body 194 has a collar 208a disposed in the axial direction of the battery body 194 and a seal lip 208 disposed inside the collar 208a and surrounding the end face of the battery body 194. The end face of the battery body 194 is provided with an electrical contact surface having a communication contact 202 and an electrical connection contact 206. The electrical connection contact 206 may also be referred to as a charging contact. The electrical connection contact 206 can be used both to supply electrical energy to the connected helmet light 10 and to charge the battery pack 100. The communication contacts 200, 202, the electrical connection contact 206, and the charging contact 198 are recessed into the end face of the battery body 194. That is, the contacts are located below the outward surface of the housing of the battery main body 194 (the end surface of the battery main body 194). This configuration is one example, and all or at least some of the contacts may be configured to be flush with the outward surface of the housing of the battery main body 194. The seal lip 208 and collar 208a may also be provided on the connector plug 192. The electrical contact surfaces correspond to the supply terminals and communication terminals 14 shown in FIGS. 1K and 1J.

[0055] In addition, a magnet 204 is provided on the end face of the battery body 194, which allows the connector plug 192 to be fixed at a desired connection position on the end face of the battery body 194. Similar to the seal lip 196 provided on the connector plug 192, the seal lip 208 ensures a waterproof electrical connection between the battery body 194 and the connected connector plug 192 or the charging plug 190 (when the charging plug 190 is directly connected to the battery body 194 to charge the battery pack 100). In FIG. 4B , the magnet 204 is provided on the end face of the battery body 194. However, to prevent corrosion of the magnet 204, the magnet 204 may be disposed within a protective outer case of the battery body 194, i.e., within the housing of the battery body 194. Note that the location of the magnet 204 is optional. However, when the magnet 204 is positioned, by appropriately selecting the magnetic pole facing away from the battery body 194, not only can the plug (connector plug 192 or charging plug 190) connected to the battery body 194 be fixed in the desired position, but also, if the plug (connector plug 192 or charging plug 190) connected to the battery body 194 has a magnet positioned in the appropriate direction, an anti-rotation function can be provided.

[0056] 5A and 5B show the internal structure of the battery pack 100 from various angles. For simplicity, electrical connection lines are omitted. Two battery cells 1118 are shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B. These battery cells 1118 have a conventional cylindrical shape extending in the axial direction. The two battery cells 1118 are electrically connected to each other and are connected in parallel or series to form the battery module 12. As shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B, a PCB 1106d is disposed at one end of the battery cell 1118, and the PCB 1106d is covered with a cover 1122. The cover 1122 is made of, for example, a metal plate and is electrically insulated from the PCB 1106d. The PCB 1106d has the additional electrical contact surfaces shown in FIG. 4B, but in a different arrangement or configuration than that shown in FIG. 4B. The vibration module 16, which is cylindrical like the battery cells 1118, is located above the two battery cells 1118 that form the battery module 12. The vibration module 16 converts electrical energy into mechanical motion in a typical manner, generating structure-borne sound (vibration). This can be achieved in a known manner, for example, by a small electric motor with an eccentric mass on its rotating shaft. When the vibration module 16 is integrally formed with the battery pack 100, the outer shape of the battery body 194 is specifically tailored to accommodate the vibration module 16. When the vibration module 16 is not built into the battery pack 100, the battery body 194 may have an outer shape that includes a recess 26, as shown in FIG. 1K, suitable for accommodating an external vibration module 16, as will be described later with reference to FIG. 7. On the other hand, when the vibration module 16 is integrally formed with the battery pack 100, the battery body 194 may have the shape shown in FIG. 1K. In FIG. 1K, a protrusion is provided in place of the recess 26, and the vibration module 16 is located below the protrusion.

[0057] The height of the protrusion or the thickness of the vibration module 16 inserted into the recess 26 is designed so that when the battery pack 100 is supported by the mounting means 214 and fixed to the helmet shell 36 of the protective helmet 30, the vibration module 16 is pressed against the helmet shell 36 or the outer surfaces of the vibration module 16 and the helmet shell 36 are in contact and flush with each other. This allows the structure-borne sound generated by the vibration module 16 to be efficiently transmitted to the helmet shell 36. The helmet shell 36 acts as a resonant amplifier, allowing the user of the protective helmet 30 to easily detect vibrations, and as a result, even vibrations with low intensity (low energy content) are sufficiently perceived. This is particularly true when the user is wearing ear protection 34 shown in FIG. 9, because the structure-borne sound generated by the vibration module 16 can be sufficiently detected as a tactile signal below the helmet shell 36.

[0058] In addition to the PCB 1106d, another PCB 1106c is arranged on the upward-facing surface of the battery cell 1118. A foil cover 1120 is provided on the PCB 1106c, which performs both key and display functions for the battery pack 100. The key and display functions of the foil cover 1120 have already been described with reference to FIGS. 1C and 1D. The PCB 1106d and / or the additional PCB 1106d may comprise electronic components (not shown), which constitute a control unit of the battery pack 100 within the meaning of the present application. The control unit of the battery pack 100 is configured to perform at least basic functions of the battery pack 100 after receiving a corresponding request signal, such as activating the vibration module 16 upon receiving a communication signal or automatically activating the vibration module 16 upon connecting or disconnecting a plug from the battery pack 100. The components shown in Figure 5B are arranged within the housing of a battery body 194 to form, for example, the battery pack 100 shown in a reduced scale in the upper right corner of Figure 5B (including a charging plug 190 and a connector plug 192, not shown). Of course, the external shape of the battery pack 100 can vary and does not need to exactly match the external shape shown in a reduced scale in the upper right corner of Figure 5B.

[0059] A battery pack temperature sensor may be disposed inside or on the battery pack 100. The battery pack temperature sensor may detect the battery pack operating temperature of the battery pack 100, and the detected battery pack operating temperature may be transmitted to, for example, the control controller of the helmet light 10. Based on the received battery pack temperature, the control controller of the helmet light 10 may change the operating state of the helmet light 10, for example, to maintain the battery pack 100 within an acceptable temperature range. The detected temperature value may also be used as a reference for outputting a tactile vibration signal via the vibration module 16. The battery pack 100 may further include an electric heating unit that is controllable by the control controller of the helmet light 10 based on the battery pack operating temperature detected by the battery pack temperature sensor. For example, the control controller of the helmet light 10 may turn on the electric heating unit when the battery pack operating temperature detected by the battery pack temperature sensor falls below a lower temperature threshold value TAkku_min. Naturally, the electric heating unit may be turned off when the battery pack operating temperature detected by the battery pack temperature sensor exceeds a lower temperature threshold value TAkku_min. The controller of the helmet light 10 controls the light output of the helmet light 10 to be reduced when the battery pack operating temperature detected by the battery pack temperature sensor exceeds the allowable upper temperature threshold TAkku_max. Reducing the light output, i.e., reducing the brightness of the helmet light 10, reduces the power consumed by the battery pack 100, thereby reducing waste heat and lowering the temperature of the battery pack 100. In this case, it is assumed that the rate of waste heat release into the environment is constant. This is advantageous, for example, in an environment where there is a risk of explosion. When a certain temperature value, such as TAkku_min or TAkku_max, is reached, a vibration signal can be output via the vibration module.

[0060] 6A to 6H are three-dimensional views of the attachment means 214 as viewed from various directions. In this case, the attachment means 214 shown in the figures is a battery holder for fixing the battery pack 100 to the protective helmet 30. The attachment means 214, at least a portion of which is shown in each figure, includes a frame 220 into which the aforementioned battery pack 100 can be inserted in the axial direction. For this purpose, the frame 220 of the attachment means 214 has a substantially cylindrical structure with a rectangular bottom and rounded edges. As shown in FIG. 6A, one axial end face of the frame 220 is narrowed, so the battery pack 100 cannot be inserted or removed from this end face. On the other hand, the other axial end face of the frame 220 has a cross section that is not substantially narrower than the rest of the frame 220, so the battery pack 100 can be inserted or removed from this end face. This generally cylindrical structure of the frame 220 of the mounting means 214 allows a battery pack 100 having a predetermined cross-section to be easily inserted into the frame 220. The battery pack 100 can be secured to the frame 220 of the mounting means 214 by elastic tabs 224. If the battery pack 100 includes an integrated vibration module 16 with a protruding ridge, the frame may have a corresponding recess to allow the battery pack 100 to be slidably inserted. The tapered cross-section of the frame 220 allows the leading end of the battery pack 100 inserted into the mounting means 214 to be locked within the frame 220, while the trailing end of the battery pack 100 snaps into engagement with the elastic tabs 224 and is secured within the frame 220. The frame 220 of the mounting means 214 has an opening through which at least a portion of the battery pack 100 is visible. Therefore, the battery pack 100 is visible through the opening of the frame 220 of the mounting means 214. With this configuration, the battery pack 100 housed in the frame 220 is not thermally insulated from the surrounding environment, ensuring sufficient heat dissipation of the battery pack 100 during the charging / discharging process.

[0061] The frame 220 of the attachment means 214 has upper fixing arms 216a, 216b. The upper fixing arms 216a, 216b have upper fixing hooks 218a, 218b at their ends, respectively. The upper fixing hooks 218a, 218b serve to secure the attachment means 214 to the helmet shell 36. The upper fixing hooks 218a, 218b have steps 223 that allow the ventilation slide 50 to move in the helmet shell 36. The frame 220 of the attachment means 214 also has lower fixing hooks 222a, 222b. The upper fixing hooks 218a, 218b and the upper fixing hooks 218a, 218b cooperate with each other to securely secure the attachment means 214 to the helmet shell 36. The upper fastening hooks 218a, 218b and the interaction of the upper fastening hooks 218a, 218b with the helmet shell 36 will be described in detail below.

[0062] FIG. 6A further illustrates the vibration module 16 positioned below the frame 220, between the lower fixing hooks 222a and 222b. In this position, the vibration module 16 may be detachably fixed or may be integrally formed with the frame 220 of the attachment means 214. The height and thickness of the vibration module 16 are designed so that, when the attachment means 214 is fixed to the helmet shell 36, the vibration module 16 is pressed against the helmet shell 36 of the protective helmet 30, or the outer surfaces of the vibration module 16 and the protective helmet 30 are in contact and flush with each other. In this way, the structure-borne sound generated by the vibration module 16 is efficiently transmitted to the helmet shell 36. The helmet shell 36 then functions as a resonant amplifier, allowing the user of the protective helmet 30 to easily sense the vibrations. This is particularly true when the user is wearing the ear protection shown in FIG. 9, because the structure-borne sound generated by the vibration module 16 can be sensed as a tactile signal below the helmet shell 36.

[0063] The configuration of the attachment means 214 shown in Figures 6A to 6H serves to ensure the safety of the user of the protective helmet 30. The attachment means 214 can be fixed to a predetermined position on the helmet shell 36 by the upper fixing hooks 218a, 218b and the upper fixing hooks 218a, 218b, and can also be easily detached from the helmet shell 36 as needed. An object that strikes the protective helmet 30 from above, such as a tree branch, slides down along the outer surface of the protective helmet 30. If the object gets caught on the attachment means 214 in the process, the attachment means 214 will separate from the protective helmet 30. This prevents the protective helmet 30 from being torn off the head of the wearer (user) of the protective helmet 30 and the user from receiving the full impact force of the impact object.

[0064] The unlocking sides of the upper fixing hooks 218a, 218b (sides that are unlocked from the helmet shell 36) are oriented so as to face the same direction as the unlocking sides of the lower fixing hooks 222a, 222b. As a result, when an object collides with the protective helmet 30 from above and collides with the attachment means 214, the impact force of the colliding object is first applied to the upper fixing hooks 218a, 218b, which releases the engagement between the upper fixing hooks 218a, 218b and the helmet shell 36, and separation of the attachment means 214 from the helmet shell 36 begins. At the same time, the lower fixing hooks 222a, 222b are pressed down in the unlocking direction by the helmet shell 36, which causes the attachment means 214 to be completely separated from the helmet shell 36. As shown in the figure, the release sides of the upper fixing hooks 218a, 218b are larger than the release sides of the lower fixing hooks 222a, 222b, and therefore the force required to deflect the upper fixing hooks 218a, 218b when fixing the attachment means 214 to the helmet shell 36 can be kept relatively small. This makes it possible to easily fix the attachment means 214 to the helmet shell 36. Furthermore, with this configuration, the force required for the release sides of the upper fixing hooks 218a, 218b can be kept relatively small, and therefore the attachment means 214 can be simply and easily detached from the helmet shell 36 in an emergency, i.e., when an object hits the protective helmet 30 from above.

[0065] The mounting means 214 has conductive contacts 22 (made of metal) at its lower part, as shown in FIGS. 6C and 6D, through which electrical connection with the fixable vibration module 16 can be established. At this time, the vibration module 16 slides along the lower part of the frame 220, moving toward the lower fixing hooks 222a and 222b until it engages with a predetermined end position. This engagement can be particularly supported by, for example, clamping ribs having a corresponding shape relative to the frame 220. Furthermore, the contacts 22 can be magnetic, and the vibration module 16 can be fixed in a predetermined end position by magnetic force. The contacts 22 generally function as simple contact means through the frame 220, connecting the vibration module 16 to corresponding electrical connections in the battery body 194. Thus, the contacts 22 are visible even inside the frame 220, as shown in FIG. 6D.

[0066] 7 and 8 are three-dimensional views of the vibration module 16. The vibration module 16 shown in each figure is formed as a vibration module 16 that can be attached to the attachment means 214 or the battery main body 194. As a result, the vibration module 16 that can be attached to the battery main body 194 shown in FIG. 7 is formed in a substantially cylindrical shape, and the bottom and top surfaces of the vibration module 16 are formed in a rectangular, particularly square, shape, particularly with some "chamfered" corners. Parts of the cylindrical side surfaces connecting the "chamfered" corners form a contact surface 20. The contact surface 20 abuts against the outside of the helmet shell 36 to transmit structure-borne sound generated when the battery pack 100 (battery main body 194) and the vibration module 16 are attached to the protective helmet 30. At the same time, the "edge" of the cylindrical side surface located opposite the contact surface 20 is configured to be flush with the recess 26 in the battery main body 194. Furthermore, contacts 22 are provided on the two bottom surfaces of the vibration module 16 for electrically connecting the vibration module 16 to the battery pack 100. The vibration module 16 shown in FIG. 8 is also formed in a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape to enable detachable fixation to the attachment means 214. Note that the contacts 22 are not located on the "end faces" but on part of the side surfaces that connect them. In both the vibration module 16 shown in FIG. 7 and the vibration module 16 shown in FIG. 8, the contacts 22 may be magnets, which support or enable fixation to the battery main body 194 or the attachment means 214.

[0067] A protective helmet 30, particularly designed for forestry work and equipped with various accessories, is shown in a partial cross-sectional view in FIG. 9 . The inside of the helmet shell 36 is particularly shown. The protective helmet 30 includes a face protector 32 and ear protectors 34, which are not shown in FIG. 9 . The protective helmet 30 further includes the helmet shell 36 and an interior structural assembly, not described in detail. The interior structural assembly includes a support cage 42, a headband 44, and a neckband. The neckband includes a tensioning unit. A ventilation slide 50 is disposed on the exterior of the helmet shell 36, and can open and close an opening formed in the helmet shell 36. The opening also serves to secure the attachment means 214 to the helmet shell 36. The attachment means 214 is secured to the helmet shell 36 by upper fixing hooks 218a and 218b projecting into the opening and engaging with the helmet shell 36. The lower fixing hooks 222a and 222b grip the lower edge of the helmet shell 36. The attachment means 214 thereby secures the battery pack 100 onto the helmet shell 36 near the back of the user's head, as shown.

[0068] The interior structural assembly has three fixing arms formed as spacers. In the protective helmet 30 shown in FIG. 9, only the rear support arms are assumed within the protective helmet 30. The three fixing arms function as a means for fixing the interior structural assembly to the helmet shell 36 at three points. To secure the fixing arms extending longitudinally of the helmet shell 36 to the helmet shell 36, slots are provided in the rear region of the helmet shell 36 that can be removably fastened to the free ends of the fixing arms. The dimensions and arrangement of the helmet shell 36 and the fixing arms are determined so that a space is secured between the interior structural assembly 40 and the helmet shell 36 to accommodate the helmet light 10, associated wiring, earmuffs 35a of the ear protection 34, and other helmet accessories, as well as at least the attachments (fixing means 84a and 80a) for the face protection and ear protection 34. Other helmet accessories include the neckband tensioning unit described above. In FIG. 9, the connection cable 24 is, as an example, arranged inside the helmet shell 36 and extends to the outside of the helmet shell 36 directly below the battery pack 100, electrically connecting the helmet light 10 to the battery pack 100.

[0069] FIG. 10 is a flowchart of a method 300 for operating a helmet accessory system. The method begins in step 310, in which the supply terminals and communication terminals 14 of the battery pack 100 receive a communication signal. For example, the communication signal may be an information signal indicating that a mobile phone connected to the battery pack 100 is receiving a call. In a next step, the control unit can activate the vibration module 16 based on the received communication signal. This means that the vibration module 16 functions as an additional notification unit, ringtone unit, or vibration unit for the connected mobile phone. This is advantageous in that a tactile notification can be reliably provided to the user of the protective helmet 30. This is particularly advantageous because it can be provided to the user even when the user is wearing ear protection 34 integrated with the protective helmet 30. Note that actual mobile phone notifications, i.e., acoustic and vibration notifications, are often not fully perceived by the user when wearing the protective helmet 30. This is because acoustic signals are blocked by ear protection 34, and alerts by vibration from a mobile phone may not be fully perceived by cushioned clothing such as protective clothing. In contrast, the vibrations generated by vibration module 16 are transmitted directly to the user's head via helmet shell 36, which has the advantage that the user can perceive the vibrations of vibration module 16 more clearly than alerts by vibration from a mobile phone.

[0070] The vibration module 16 can also be activated to signal other events. Notification of such other events requires only that a communication signal provided to activate the vibration module 16 be sent to and received by the supply and communication terminals 14 of the battery pack 100. For example, the vibration module 16 can be used as a "ring" via a mobile phone connected to the battery pack 100, and can be activated whenever the mobile phone outputs an audio or haptic signal in response to various events. For example, a haptic notification can be provided in response to a notification received by the mobile phone or a low battery level. Different events can then cause the vibration module 16 to produce different vibration patterns. Accordingly, the vibration patterns can be configured to be different for each event, making them individually identifiable. The helmet light 10 can also send a communication signal to the supply and communication terminals 14 of the battery pack 100, thereby activating the vibration module 16. This can indicate, for example, a (pending) change in the operating mode of the helmet light 10. Furthermore, if a dangerous situation is detected by the sensor unit of the helmet light 10 or the battery pack 100, a vibration signal can be output via the vibration module 16. The charging or discharging state of the battery pack 100 can also be notified tactilely by the vibration module 16.

[0071] To enhance the user's perception of the vibration of the vibration module 16, additional changes to the cone of light emitted by the helmet light 10 can be attempted or implemented. For example, the brightness or diameter of one or more, or at least some, of the cones of light generated by the helmet light 10 can be synchronized or varied with the generated vibration signal. In particular, the brightness or color of the light emitted by the helmet light 10 can be periodically increased, decreased, or changed.

[0072] The features of the invention disclosed in the above description, in the drawings and in the claims may, either alone or in any combination, be essential to the implementation of the invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0073] 10. Helmet Light 12 Battery Module 14 Supply and communication terminals 16 vibration module 18 Fixing means 20 Contact surface 22 Contacts 24 Connection cable 26 Recess 30 Protective Helmet 34 Ear protection 35a Ear covering member of ear protection equipment 36 Helmet shell 44 Headband 50 Ventilated Slide 80a Fixing means 84a Fixing means 100 Battery Pack 102 Display / operation elements 190 Charging plug 192 connector plug 194 Battery body 196 Seal Lip 196a Color 198 Charging contacts 200 Communication contacts 202 Communication contacts 204 Magnet 206 Charging contacts 208 Seal Lip 208a Color 210 Lateral detent protrusion 212 Detent protrusion 214 Mounting means 216 Upper fixed arm 216b Upper fixed arm 218a Upper fixing hook 218b Upper fixing hook 220 frames 222 Lower fixing hook 222b Lower fixing hook 223 steps 224 tabs 300 ways 310 Receiving Step 320 Driving Steps 1104a Magnet 1104b Magnet 1106a PCB 1106b PCB 1106c PCB 1106d PCB 1108a Electrical contacts 1108b Electrical contacts 1110a Casting material 1110b Casting material 1112a Electrical contact surface 1112b Electrical contact surface 1112c Electrical contact surface 1114a Recess 1114b Recess 1116a Protrusion 1116b Protrusion 1118 Battery Cell 1120 Foil Cover 1122 Cover 1124 End face 2000 temperature display element 2002 Battery charge level display element 2004 On / Off Switch 2006 LED backlight 2008 display area

Claims

1. A battery pack (100) secured to a protective helmet (30) for powering helmet accessories, comprising: a battery module (12) for storing and outputting electrical energy; a power supply and communication terminal (14) connected to the battery pack (100) for power supply and communication with the helmet accessory; mounting means (214) for securing the battery pack (100) to the protective helmet (30); a vibration module (16) for generating structure-borne sound; a control unit for controlling each function of the battery pack (100) including the function of the vibration module (16); The control unit is configured to drive the vibration module based on a communication signal received by the supply and communication terminal.

2. 2. The battery pack (100) of claim 1, The battery pack (100) is configured such that the vibration module (16) is integrated into the battery body (194) or is integrally formed with the mounting means (214).

3. 2. The battery pack (100) of claim 1, The vibration module (16) is removably fixed to the battery body (194) or to the mounting means (214), in the battery pack (100).

4. 4. The battery pack (100) of claim 3, The battery pack (100) includes a fixing means (18) for fixing the vibration module (16) to the battery body (194) or the mounting means (214).

5. 5. The battery pack (100) of claim 4, The battery pack (100) is configured such that the fixing means (18) fixes the vibration module (16) magnetically or mechanically.

6. A battery pack (100) according to any one of claims 3 to 5, The battery pack (100) has an electrical connection between the battery pack (100) and the vibration module (16) established by a fastening means (18).

7. A battery pack (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, The vibration module (16) has a contact surface (20) that contacts the helmet shell (36) of the protective helmet (30) when the battery pack (100) is fixed to the protective helmet (30) by the attachment means (214).

8. A battery pack (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, The battery pack (100) has at least one sensor unit that detects an operating state of the battery pack (100); The control unit is configured to drive the vibration module based on the detected operating condition.

9. A battery pack (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, The control unit is configured to drive the helmet accessory in synchronization with the vibration module.

10. 1. A helmet attachment system comprising: A battery pack (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 9; and said helmet accessory including a helmet light (10), A helmet accessory system, wherein the battery pack (100) and the helmet accessory are configured to be securable to a helmet shell (36) of the protective helmet (30).

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

12. 11. A method for operating a helmet accessory system according to claim 10, comprising: receiving (310) the communication signal at the supply and communication terminal (14) of the battery pack (100); and the control unit driving (320) the vibration module (16) based on the received communication signal.

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