COMMUNICATIONS DEVICES FOR USERS PERFORMING MISSIONS AND RELATED METHODS - Patent application

Abstract

A communication device, a communication system, a related method, and a server device are disclosed. The communication device includes a communication device, a sensor interface device including a sensor interface configured to connect with a plurality of sensor devices including a first sensor device and a second sensor device, a memory, and a processing unit. The processing unit is configured to acquire first sensor data through the first sensor interface of the sensor interface, acquire second sensor data through the second sensor interface of the sensor interface, and determine user data based on the first sensor data and the second sensor data.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] SUMMARY The present disclosure relates to hearing protection devices and devices, including communication devices for hearing protection devices, and related methods, including methods of operating hearing protection devices. [Background technology]

[0002] In combat situations or other stressful environments involving extreme environmental conditions, such as in war zones or battlefields, it is desirable for a user to effectively protect his / her condition, e.g., physical condition, mental condition, and equipment condition, while allowing the user to communicate with teammates via radios or other communication systems. In combat situations or other stressful environments, a user may have to wear equipment, e.g., hearing protection devices, to attenuate noise, e.g., from gunfire, machinery, or other types of noise, continuous or intermittent, or other equipment that aids the user in the stressful environment.

[0003] The drawback of wearing multiple devices under extreme environmental conditions is that the user may experience discomfort related to the weight of the devices, the size of the devices, and the movement and space restrictions associated with wearing the devices. A further drawback of the increased number of devices is the increased size and complexity of the communication devices, including the size of the communication gadgets and devices. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] Therefore, there is a need for communication devices, systems, and methods for hearing protection that improve a user's situational awareness in combat situations or other stressful environments. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] A communication tool for hearing protection for a user performing a task is disclosed. The communication tool includes a communication device, a memory, a processing unit, and a sensor interface device including a sensor interface configured to connect with a plurality of sensor devices including a first sensor device and a second sensor device. The processing unit is configured to acquire first sensor data via a first sensor interface of the sensor interface. The processing unit is configured to acquire second sensor data via a second sensor interface of the sensor interface. The processing unit is configured to determine user data based on the first sensor data and the second sensor data.

[0006] Further disclosed is a communication system for hearing protection for a user performing a task. The communication system comprises a communication device comprising a memory, a processing unit, a wireless unit interface, and a sensor interface device. The communication system comprises a plurality of sensor devices including a first sensor device and a second sensor device, and a wireless unit. The sensor interface device comprises a sensor interface configured to connect with the plurality of sensor devices. The processing unit is configured to obtain first sensor data via a first sensor interface of the sensor interface. The processing unit is configured to obtain second sensor data via a second sensor interface of the sensor interface. The processing unit is configured to determine user data based on the first sensor data and the second sensor data. The processing unit is optionally configured to transmit the user data to a server device via the wireless unit.

[0007] Further disclosed is a method of operating a communication tool for hearing protection for a user performing a mission. The communication tool comprises a communication device and a sensor interface device. The sensor interface device comprises a sensor interface configured to connect with a plurality of sensor devices including a first sensor device and a second sensor device. The communication tool comprises a memory and a processing unit. The method comprises acquiring first sensor data via a first sensor interface of the sensor interface. The method comprises acquiring second sensor data via a second sensor interface of the sensor interface. The method comprises determining user data based on the first sensor data and the second sensor data.

[0008] Also disclosed is a server device for performing sensor data monitoring in a communication system. The communication system comprises a communication implement, a wireless unit, and a server device. The communication implement comprises a communication device and a sensor interface device. The server device comprises one or more processors, a memory, and an interface. The server device is configured to obtain user data from the communication implement. The server device is configured to determine event data based on the user data. The server device is configured to determine a transmission scheme for the event data. The server device is configured to transmit the event data according to the transmission scheme.

[0009] An advantage of the present disclosure is that it enhances situational awareness of users of communication tools in real time, thereby reducing decision time.

[0010] It is also an advantage of the present disclosure that the size of the communication equipment, e.g., the size of the communication tool and the communication device, can be reduced while still being able to communicate with multiple sensor devices. The size of the communication tool may be reduced by having a separate communication device and sensor interface device, where the sensor interface device may be dedicated to connecting the sensor devices. A further advantage of having separate communication devices and sensor interface devices is that the complexity of the communication tool and the communication device can be reduced. Furthermore, the complexity of the communication device is reduced since the communication device already has a connection interface for communicating with the hearing protection device and the wireless unit, and does not need to have an additional interface for the sensor device.

[0011] A further advantage is that the communication implement can collect multiple sensor data from multiple sensor devices.

[0012] A further advantage is the ability to determine or detect event data, such as a user's discomfort, a user's critical health condition, the battery status of equipment, the armor / ammunition status of a user's weapon, the status of a firefighter's water hose, and / or overheating of equipment.

[0013] It is also an advantage that based on the sensor data (e.g., the distance traveled by the user) user data can be monitored, e.g., the user's condition, e.g., the user's weight load, the user's body temperature, and / or the user's physical activity. A further advantage of the present application is that by having a sensor interface device that is configured to connect to multiple sensor devices and is dedicated to connecting the sensor devices, the complexity of adding and / or removing sensor devices can be reduced.

[0014] Additionally, the present disclosure can inform the user of the user's condition and / or the condition of the device, for example, through an audio output via a hearing protection device. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0015] The above and other features and advantages of the present application will become readily apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description of exemplary communication devices, methods, and / or server devices, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0016] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a user performing a task wearing an exemplary hearing protection system comprising a communication gear according to the present disclosure. [Diagram 2] 1 is a block diagram of an exemplary communication device and communication system according to the present disclosure. [Diagram 3] 1 illustrates a schematic diagram of an exemplary configuration of a sensor device; [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a flow diagram of an exemplary method according to the present disclosure. [Diagram 5] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of an exemplary server device according to the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0017] Various exemplary communication devices, methods, and / or server devices, and details are described below with appropriate reference to the drawings. It should be noted that the drawings may or may not be drawn to scale, and elements of similar structure or function are represented by similar reference numerals throughout the drawings. It should also be noted that the drawings are intended only to facilitate the description of the communication devices, methods, and / or server devices. The drawings are not intended as an exhaustive description of the present application or as a limitation on the scope of the present application. Furthermore, the described embodiment need not have all of the aspects or advantages shown. An aspect or advantage described in connection with a particular embodiment is not necessarily limited to that embodiment, and may be implemented in any other communication device, method, and / or server device, even if not so illustrated or not so explicitly described.

[0018] Disclosed is a communication device for hearing protection for users performing missions, which may include users exposed to extreme environments and extreme physical or mental stress, such as military personnel, police officers, and / or firefighters.

[0019] The communication implement comprises a communication device, a memory, a processing unit, and a sensor interface device comprising a sensor interface configured to connect with a plurality of sensor devices including a first sensor device and a second sensor device.

[0020] The sensor interface device may comprise one or more sensor interfaces configured to connect with a plurality of sensor devices. The sensor interface device may comprise one or more wired and / or wireless interfaces configured to connect with a plurality of sensor devices. The sensor interface device may be configured to communicate with the communication device through a wired or wireless connection, for example via an interface. The sensor interface device and the communication device may comprise one or more interfaces configured to provide a connection between the sensor interface device and the communication device. In other words, the sensor interface device can be understood as a sensor hub. The communication device may be removably connected to the sensor interface device via respective connectors of the communication device and the sensor interface device for mechanical and electrical connection between the communication device and the sensor interface device.

[0021] The communications device may further comprise one or more radio unit interfaces and / or one or more hearing protection device interfaces.

[0022] The one or more wireless unit interfaces may enable connection between the communications device and one or more wireless units of a user's hearing protection system, and the one or more hearing protection device interfaces may enable connection between the communications device and one or more hearing protection devices.

[0023] In one or more exemplary communication devices, communication systems, methods, and / or server devices, the communication device includes a wireless unit interface, and the processing unit is configured to transmit user data to a wireless unit of the hearing protection device via the wireless unit interface.

[0024] The hearing protection device interface and the wireless unit interface may comprise a wireless interface or a wired interface.

[0025] The processing unit is configured to acquire first sensor data via a first sensor interface of the sensor interface. The processing unit may be configured to store the acquired first sensor data in a memory. The processing unit may be configured to acquire the first sensor data via the first sensor interface of the sensor interface from a first sensor device measuring a first parameter and generating the first sensor data based on the first parameter.

[0026] The first sensor data may comprise data associated with a user of the communication device and / or data associated with a device worn by the user.

[0027] The first sensor data may comprise information regarding the user's physical and / or mental state. The first sensor data may comprise, for example, a first body temperature of the user measured by a first sensor device, for example, a first temperature sensor, at a first body location, for example, the user's head or the user's torso, thereby providing information regarding the user's physical state. The first sensor data may comprise data from an eye tracker (for example, for control of an end user device), for example, eye position data or gaze direction data. The first sensor data may comprise data from the user's radio, for example, data when the user operates a push-to-talk button on the radio to transmit from the radio (for example, to other users in a group on the same network). The first sensor data may comprise one or more of the user's pulse, blood pressure, electrocardiogram, ECG, oxygen level, and / or hydration level. The first sensor data may further comprise data regarding the user's brain activity, neurological activity, and / or tiredness or fatigue level. The first sensor data may further comprise acceleration data from an accelerometer (e.g., to determine the user's physical activity and / or to determine if the user has fallen) and / or light data from a light sensor (e.g., to determine the light conditions of the user's environment). The first sensor device can provide information to a user wearing the first sensor device, but can also optionally provide information at a higher level, for example, to a group or team of users at a server device that may provide data for more advanced algorithms and simulations.

[0028] The first sensor data may comprise information related to a state of the user's equipment. Thus, the first sensor data may comprise data related to the user's equipment, such as one or more of the weight of the equipment, the armor condition of the user's weapon, the vibration or stress of the weapon / other equipment, and / or the temperature of the user's equipment.

[0029] The first sensor device and / or the second sensor device may be a wired sensor device and / or a wireless sensor device.

[0030] The processing unit is optionally configured to obtain second sensor data via a second sensor interface of the sensor interfaces.

[0031] The processing unit may be configured to store the acquired second sensor data in the memory. The processing unit may be configured to acquire the second sensor data via a second sensor interface of the sensor interface from a second sensor device measuring a second parameter and generating the second sensor data based on the second parameter.

[0032] The second sensor data may comprise data associated with a user of the communication device and / or data associated with a device worn by the user.

[0033] The second sensor data may comprise information regarding the user's physical and / or mental state. The second sensor data may comprise, for example, a second body temperature of the user measured by a second sensor device, for example, a second temperature sensor, at a second body location, for example, at the user's head or the user's torso, thereby providing information regarding the user's physical state. The second sensor data may comprise one or more of the user's pulse, blood pressure, electrocardiogram, ECG, oxygen level, and / or hydration level. The second sensor data may further comprise data related to brain activity, neural activity, for example to determine the user's tiredness or fatigue level.

[0034] The second sensor data may comprise information related to a state of the user's equipment. Thus, the second sensor data may comprise data related to the user's equipment, such as one or more of a weight of the equipment, an armor condition of the user's weapon, and / or a temperature of the user's equipment.

[0035] The processing unit is configured to determine user data based on the first sensor data.

[0036] Optionally, the processing unit is configured to determine user data based on the first sensor data and the second sensor data.

[0037] The user data may comprise, indicate, or correspond to a state of the user and / or a state of the user's equipment. The user data may comprise data related to the user's physical and / or mental state, e.g., the user's body temperature, fatigue level, and / or the state of the user's equipment, e.g., the temperature of a hearing protection system, the temperature of a weapon or other equipment, the vibration or stress of a weapon or other equipment, and / or the ammunition level of a weapon.

[0038] In one or more example communication implements, communication systems, methods, and / or server devices, the first sensor interface comprises a first connector for mechanical and electrical connection with the first sensor device.

[0039] In one or more example communication implements, communication systems, methods, and / or server devices, the second sensor interface comprises a second connector for mechanical and electrical connection with the second sensor device.

[0040] The sensor interface device may comprise a connector for each of the multiple sensor devices.

[0041] In one or more example communication implements, communication systems, methods, and / or server devices, the user data comprises a first user parameter indicative of a physical condition of the user.

[0042] The first user parameter may be indicative of, for example, first sensor data indicative of a first temperature and / or a first heart rate of the user. The first user parameter may be indicative of a health state or appearance of the user, for example, tired, fatigued, ready, and / or dehydrated.

[0043] In one or more example communication devices, communication systems, methods, and / or server devices, the first sensor data indicates a first temperature measured by a first sensor device positioned on a first part of the user's body.

[0044] The first sensor device may be, for example, a body-worn sensor or a head-worn sensor. The first sensor device may be a torso-worn sensor.

[0045] In one or more exemplary communication devices, communication systems, methods, and / or server devices, the second sensor data indicates a second temperature measured by a second sensor positioned on a second part of the user's body.

[0046] The second sensor device may be, for example, a body-worn sensor or a torso-worn sensor. The second sensor device may be a head-worn sensor.

[0047] Temperature measurements can be compared by measuring the user's temperature at different parts of the user's body to assess whether a temperature measurement is anomalous compared to a reference measurement, for example to assess whether a part of the user's body is exposed to dangerously extreme temperatures (e.g., very hot or very cold).

[0048] In one or more exemplary communication implements, communication systems, methods, and / or server devices, the first sensor data is indicative of first chemical data measured by a first sensor device that is a first chemical sensor. In other words, the chemical sensor may comprise a nuclear sensor, a biological sensor, and / or other chemical sensor. At a team level, both detection and warning can be performed for individual soldiers. Thus, the first sensor device may be, for example, a chemical sensor for measuring physiological and / or biochemical data of a user.

[0049] In one or more example communication implements, communication systems, methods, and / or server devices, the sensor interface device comprises a wireless interface and a wired interface.

[0050] The sensor interface device may, for example, connect to a first sensor device via a wireless interface and connect to a second sensor device via a wired interface. In other words, the first sensor interface may comprise a wireless interface and the second sensor interface may comprise a wired interface. Thus, the first sensor device may be a wireless sensor device and the second sensor device may be a wired sensor device.

[0051] In one or more of the exemplary communication implements, communication systems, methods, and / or server devices, the processing unit may be included in the communication device, or the processing unit may be included in the sensor interface device.

[0052] A communication system for hearing protection for a user performing a task is disclosed. The communication system includes a communication tool including a communication device including a memory, a processing unit, a wireless unit interface, and a sensor interface device. The communication system includes a plurality of sensor devices including a first sensor device and a second sensor device, and a wireless unit. The sensor interface device includes a sensor interface configured to connect with the plurality of sensor devices. The processing unit is configured to obtain first sensor data via a first sensor interface of the sensor interface.

[0053] Optionally, the processing unit is configured to obtain second sensor data via a second sensor interface of the sensor interfaces.

[0054] The processing unit is configured to determine user data based on the first sensor data.

[0055] Optionally, the processing unit is configured to determine user data based on the first sensor data and the second sensor data. The processing unit is optionally configured to transmit the user data to the server device via the wireless unit.

[0056] A method of operating a communication tool for hearing protection for a user performing a mission is disclosed. The communication tool comprises a communication device and a sensor interface device. The sensor interface device comprises a sensor interface configured to connect with a plurality of sensor devices including a first sensor device and a second sensor device. The communication tool comprises a memory and a processing unit. The method comprises acquiring first sensor data via a first sensor interface of the sensor interface. The method comprises acquiring second sensor data via a second sensor interface of the sensor interface. The method comprises determining user data based on the first sensor data and the second sensor data.

[0057] In one or more example communication implements, communication systems, methods, and / or server devices, the method comprises placing a sensor interface device on a torso of a user.

[0058] For example, to position the sensor interface device to reach multiple sensor devices, the user's torso may be a preferred location for positioning the sensor interface device.

[0059] A server device for sensor data monitoring in a communication system is disclosed. The communication system comprises a communication implement, a wireless unit, and a server device. The communication implement comprises a communication device and a sensor interface device. The server device comprises one or more processors, a memory, and an interface. The server device is configured to obtain user data from the communication implement. The server device is configured to determine event data based on the user data. The server device is configured to determine a transmission scheme for the event data. The server device is configured to transmit the event data according to the transmission scheme.

[0060] Obtaining user data from the communication implement may comprise obtaining user data from a communication device and / or a sensor interface device.

[0061] Determining the event data may comprise determining an event indicative of a physical, mental, and / or equipment state of the user based on the user data. The event data may comprise data related to an event, for example, one or more of the user being tired, exhausted, ready, and / or dehydrated. The event data may further comprise data related to a critical health condition of the user, a battery condition of the equipment, an armor / ammunition condition of the user's weapon, and / or overheating of the equipment. Additionally, the event data may further comprise data related to a weight load of the user, a temperature of the user, and / or a physical activity of the user.

[0062] Determining the transmission scheme may comprise determining which users (e.g., which wireless units) of multiple users in communication with the server device are to whom the event data should be transmitted, determining which event data should be transmitted to which users, and / or determining when the event data should be transmitted, leading to optimal use of the transmission bandwidth.

[0063] Different communication systems of different users (e.g. different generations of communication systems) may use different communication protocols, so the transmission scheme may comprise different transmission protocols depending on the user and / or the communication system being transmitted.

[0064] It should be understood that the description of features relating to the communication device is also applicable to the corresponding method and server device, and vice versa.

[0065] FIG. 1 shows a user 1 performing an exemplary task wearing an exemplary hearing protection system including a hearing protection device 2, wireless units 6, 6A, 6B, and a communication gear according to the present disclosure. The communication gear includes a communication device 4 and a sensor interface device 17 configured to connect with a plurality of sensor devices S1, S2, S3, S4 including a first sensor device S1 and a second sensor device S2. In one or more exemplary communication gears, communication systems, the hearing protection system may include a location module 38 that may be worn by the user, for example, on a helmet as shown. The communication device 4 and the sensor interface device 17 are here located on the torso of the user. Alternatively, the communication device and the sensor interface device may be worn on other parts of the user's body, for example, on the back, arms, legs, and / or head (e.g., helmet).

[0066] FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary hearing protection system 3 including a communication system 5 and a communication accessory 18 in accordance with the present disclosure, a hearing protection device 2, and a wireless unit 6.

[0067] The communication tool 18 comprises a communication device 4, a sensor interface device 17, a memory 22 and a processing unit 14. The sensor interface device comprises a sensor interface 42 configured to connect with a plurality of sensor devices S1, S2, S3, S4 including a first sensor device S1, a second sensor device S2, an optional third sensor device S3 and an optional fourth sensor device S4. The processing unit 14 is configured to obtain first sensor data 23 via a first sensor interface 42A of the sensor interface 42. The processing unit is configured to obtain second sensor data 25 via a second sensor interface 42B of the sensor interface 42. The processing unit is configured to determine user data 24 based on the first sensor data 23 and the second sensor data 25. Optionally, the processing unit 14 is configured to obtain third sensor data from a third sensor device S3 via a third sensor interface of the sensor interface 42. Optionally, the processing unit 14 is configured to obtain fourth sensor data from a fourth sensor device S4 via a fourth sensor interface of the sensor interfaces 42. The processing unit is optionally configured to determine user data 24 based on the third sensor data and / or the fourth sensor data.

[0068] In one or more exemplary communication devices, communication systems, methods, and / or server devices, the communication device 18 includes a wireless unit interface 16, and the processing unit 14 is optionally configured to transmit user data 24 to the wireless unit 6 of the hearing protector 13 via the wireless unit interface 16. The connection between the communication device and the wireless unit may be a wired connection, i.e., via a cable. A cable connection between the wireless unit and the communication device allows for flexible placement of the communication device and the wireless unit and provides a robust and stable connection between the communication device and the wireless unit, which is essential during combat or other missions in harsh environments.

[0069] In one or more of the exemplary communication implements, communication systems, methods, and / or server devices, the processing unit 14 is included in the communication device 4 .

[0070] Alternatively, the processing unit may be included in the sensor interface device.

[0071] In one or more exemplary communication devices, communication systems, methods, and / or server devices, the first sensor interface 42A comprises a first connector 58 for mechanical and electrical connection with the first sensor device S1.

[0072] In one or more exemplary communication devices, communication systems, methods, and / or server devices, the second sensor interface 42B includes a second connector 58 for mechanical and electrical connection with the second sensor device S2.

[0073] The sensor interface 42 device may include a connector 58 for each of a number of sensor devices S1, S2, S3, S4.

[0074] In one or more exemplary communication implements, communication systems, methods, and / or server devices, the user data 24 comprises a first user parameter indicative of a physical condition of the user.

[0075] In one or more exemplary communication tools, communication systems, methods, and / or server devices, the first sensor data 23 indicates a first temperature measured by a first sensor device S1 positioned on a first part of the body of a user 1.

[0076] In one or more exemplary communication devices, communication systems, methods, and / or server devices, the second sensor data 25 indicates a second temperature measured by a second sensor S2 positioned on a second part of the user 1's body.

[0077] In one or more example communication implements, communication systems, methods, and / or server devices, the first sensor data 23 represents first chemical data measured by a first sensor device S1, which is a first chemical sensor.

[0078] In one or more exemplary communication implements, communication systems, methods, and / or server devices, the sensor interface device 17 includes a wireless interface 42B and a wired interface 42A.

[0079] A communication system 5 for hearing protection 13 for a user performing a task is disclosed. The communication system 5 comprises a communication tool 18 comprising a communication device 4 comprising a memory 22, a processing unit 14, a wireless unit interface 16, and a sensor interface device 17. The communication system 5 comprises a plurality of sensor devices S1, S2, S3, S4 including a first sensor device S1 and a second sensor device S2, and a wireless unit 6. The sensor interface device 17 comprises a sensor interface 42 configured to connect with the plurality of sensor devices. The processing unit 14 is configured to acquire first sensor data 23 via a first sensor interface 42A of the sensor interface 42.

[0080] Optionally, the processing unit 14 is configured to obtain second sensor data 25 via a second sensor interface 42B of the sensor interface 42.

[0081] The processing unit 14 is configured to determine user data 24 based on the first sensor data 23. Optionally, the processing unit 14 is configured to determine the user data 24 based on the first sensor data 23 and the second sensor data 25. The processing unit 14 is optionally configured to transmit the user data 24 to a server device via the wireless unit 6.

[0082] In accordance with the determination of the user data 24 , the processing unit 14 may be configured to determine a first audio output signal 44 based on the first sensor data 23 .

[0083] Outputting the first audio output signal 44 via the interface 20 may comprise outputting the first audio output signal 44 to the hearing protection device 2, for example to a first receiver 7 of the hearing protection device 2. The first receiver 7 may be provided to a first ear protector 9, for example a first earpiece or first earmuff, of the hearing protection device 2, the first earpiece 9 comprising a first connection 10, for example a left connection. Outputting the first audio output signal may, for example, inform the user of their status and / or the status of the device through an audio output (a notification sound to the user) via the hearing protection device.

[0084] The first receiver 7 may be a left receiver and the first audio output signal 44 may be output to the left receiver, for example with different amplitudes, depending on the user data 24 and / or the position of the first sensor device S1. The first audio output signal 44 may be output by the first receiver 7 as a first audio output 44A.

[0085] In accordance with the determination of the user data 24 , the processing unit 14 may be configured to determine a second audio output signal 46 based on the second sensor data 25 .

[0086] Outputting the second audio output signal 46 via the interface 20 may comprise outputting the second audio output signal 46 to the hearing protection device 2, such as to a second receiver 8 of the hearing protection device 2. The second receiver 8 may be provided to a second ear protector 11, such as a second earpiece or second earmuffs, of the hearing protection device 2, with the second earpiece 11 comprising a second connection 12, such as a right connection.

[0087] The second receiver 8 may be a right receiver and the second audio output signal 46 may be output to the right receiver, for example at a different amplitude, depending on the user data 24 and / or the position of the second sensor device S2. The second audio output signal 46 may be output by the second receiver 8 as a second audio output 46A.

[0088] Fig. 3 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary device for a user performing a task, the device comprising a number of sensor devices S1, S2, S3, S4. The device in Fig. 3 is a safety vest, with four sensor devices arranged in four different positions on the vest. Thus, the sensor devices S1, S2, S3, S4 are configured to measure user parameters at different parts of the user's body.

[0089] FIG. 4 is a flow diagram of an example method 100 of operating a communication device for hearing protection for a user performing a mission.

[0090] The communication tool includes a communication device and a sensor interface device, the sensor interface device includes a sensor interface configured to connect with a plurality of sensor devices, including a first sensor device and a second sensor device, the communication tool includes a memory and a processing unit.

[0091] The method 100 comprises acquiring 102A first sensor data via a first sensor interface of a sensor interface.

[0092] The method includes acquiring 102B second sensor data via a second sensor interface of the sensor interface.

[0093] In one or more example communications implements, communications systems, methods, and / or server devices, the method comprises acquiring 102C third sensor data via a second sensor interface of a third one of the sensor interfaces.

[0094] In one or more example communications implements, communications systems, methods, and / or server devices, the method comprises acquiring 102D a fourth sensor data via a fourth second sensor interface of the sensor interfaces.

[0095] The method comprises determining 106 user data based on the first sensor data and the second sensor data.

[0096] In one or more exemplary communication devices, communication systems, methods, and / or server devices, the communication device includes a wireless unit interface, and the method includes transmitting 110 user data to a wireless unit of the hearing protection device via the wireless unit interface.

[0097] In one or more example communication implements, communication systems, methods, and / or server devices, the method comprises placing 108 a sensor interface device on a torso of a user.

[0098] 5 illustrates an exemplary server device 50 for sensor data monitoring in a communication system 5 comprising a communication tool 18, a server device 50, and a wireless unit 6. The communication tool 18 comprises a communication device 4 and a sensor interface device 17. The sensor interface device 17 may comprise a sensor interface 42 configured to connect with a plurality of sensor devices S1, S2, S3, S4, including a first sensor device S1 and a second sensor device S2, via a connection 58.

[0099] The server device 50 comprises one or more processors 52, 52A, 52B, a memory 54, and an interface 56. The server device 50 is configured to obtain user data 24 from the communication device 18. The server device 50 is configured to determine event data 26 based on the user data 24. The server device 50 is configured to determine a transmission scheme for the event data 26. The server device 50 is configured to transmit the event data 26 in accordance with the transmission scheme.

[0100] In one or more exemplary server devices, server device 50 is configured to transmit event data 26 via interface 56 over connection 58 .

[0101] In one or more exemplary server devices, the server device 50 is configured to transmit the event data 26 via an interface 56 to a second wireless unit 6A configured to communicate with a second communication device 4A and a third wireless unit 6B configured to communicate with a third communication device 4B.

[0102] For example, in a multi-user system where multiple users performing a mission each have a communication device in communication with server device 50, server device 50 may be configured to obtain user data 24 from one or more of the multiple communication devices 4, 4A, 4B. Thus, determining the event data 26 may comprise determining the event data 26 for each or some of the multiple users. Server device 50 may be configured to transmit the event data 26 via interface 56.

[0103] Also disclosed are a communication tool, a communication system, a method, and a server device according to any of the following items:

[0104] (Item 1) 1. A communication device for hearing protection for a user performing a task, comprising: The communication tool includes: A communication device; a sensor interface device comprising a sensor interface configured to connect with a plurality of sensor devices, the sensor interface device including a first sensor device and a second sensor device; Memory and A processing unit, The processing unit includes: acquiring first sensor data via a first sensor interface of the sensor interface; acquiring second sensor data via a second sensor interface of the sensor interface; The communication implement is configured to determine user data based on the first sensor data and the second sensor data.

[0105] (Item 2) The communication tool includes a wireless unit interface; 2. The communication device of claim 1, wherein the processing unit is configured to transmit the user data to a wireless unit of the hearing protection device via the wireless unit interface.

[0106] (Item 3) 3. The communication tool of item 1 or 2, wherein the processing unit is provided in the communication device.

[0107] (Item 4) 4. The communication tool of any one of items 1 to 3, wherein the first sensor interface comprises a first connector for mechanical and electrical connection with the first sensor device.

[0108] (Item 5) 5. The communication tool of any one of items 1 to 4, wherein the second sensor interface comprises a second connector for mechanical and electrical connection with the second sensor device.

[0109] (Item 6) 6. The communication tool of any one of items 1 to 5, wherein the user data comprises a first user parameter indicative of a physical condition of the user.

[0110] (Item 7) 7. The communication device of any one of items 1 to 6, wherein the first sensor data indicates a first temperature measured by the first sensor device positioned on a first part of the body of the user.

[0111] (Item 8) 8. The communication device of any one of items 1 to 7, wherein the second sensor data indicates a second temperature measured by the second sensor positioned on a second part of the user's body.

[0112] (Item 9) 9. The communication tool of any one of items 1 to 8, wherein the first sensor data indicates first chemical data measured by the first sensor device, which is a first chemical sensor.

[0113] (Item 10) 10. The communication tool of any one of items 1 to 9, wherein the sensor interface device comprises a wireless interface and a wired interface.

[0114] (Item 11) 1. A communication system for hearing protection for a user performing a mission, comprising: The communication system includes: a communication tool comprising a communication device comprising a memory, a processing unit, a wireless unit interface, and a sensor interface device; a plurality of sensor devices including a first sensor device and a second sensor device; A wireless unit, the sensor interface device comprises a sensor interface configured to interface with the plurality of sensor devices; The processing unit includes: acquiring first sensor data via a first sensor interface of the sensor interface; acquiring second sensor data via a second sensor interface of the sensor interface; determining user data based on the first sensor data and the second sensor data; A communication system configured to transmit the user data to a server device via the wireless unit.

[0115] (Item 12) 1. A method of operating a communication device for hearing protection for a user performing a task, comprising: The communication tool includes a communication device and a sensor interface device. the sensor interface device comprises a sensor interface configured to connect with a plurality of sensor devices, the sensor interface device including a first sensor device and a second sensor device; The communication device includes a memory and a processing unit. The method comprises: acquiring first sensor data via a first sensor interface of the sensor interface; acquiring second sensor data via a second sensor interface of the sensor interface; determining user data based on the first sensor data and the second sensor data.

[0116] (Item 13) Item 13. The method of item 12, comprising placing the sensor interface device on a torso of the user.

[0117] (Item 14) A server device for monitoring sensor data in a communication system, the communication system comprising: a communication tool; a wireless unit; and the server device; The communication tool includes a communication device and a sensor interface device. The server device includes: one or more processors; Memory, an interface; The server device includes: Acquiring user data from the communication tool; determining event data based on the user data; determining a transmission scheme for said event data; A server device configured to transmit the event data in accordance with the transmission scheme.

[0118] The use of terms such as "first", "second", "third", "fourth", "primary", "secondary", "tertiary", etc. does not imply any particular order, but is included to identify individual elements. Additionally, the use of terms such as "first", "second", "third", "fourth", "primary", "secondary", "tertiary", etc. does not indicate any order or importance, but rather, terms such as "first", "second", "third", "fourth", "primary", "secondary", "tertiary", etc. are used to distinguish one element from another. It should be noted that terms such as "first", "second", "third", "fourth", "primary", "secondary", "tertiary", etc. are used herein and elsewhere for labeling purposes only, and are not intended to indicate any particular spatial or temporal order.

[0119] Furthermore, the labeling of a first element does not imply the presence of a second element, and vice versa. It will be understood that Figures 1 to 5 comprise some modules or operations shown with solid lines and some modules or operations shown with dashed lines. The solid line modules or operations are modules or operations comprised in the broadest exemplary embodiment. The dashed line modules or operations are exemplary communication devices, methods, and / or server devices comprised in or part of the solid line exemplary communication devices, methods, and / or server devices modules or operations, or are further modules or operations that may be employed in addition to the solid line exemplary communication devices, methods, and / or server devices modules or operations. It will be understood that these operations need not be performed in the order presented. Furthermore, it will be understood that not all of the operations need to be performed. The exemplary operations may be performed in any order and in any combination.

[0120] It should be noted that the word "comprising" does not necessarily exclude the presence of other elements or steps than those listed.

[0121] It should be noted that the word "a" or "an" preceding an element does not exclude the presence of a plurality of such elements.

[0122] Furthermore, it should be noted that any reference signs are not intended to limit the scope of the claims, and that the exemplary communications apparatus, methods and / or server apparatus may be realized at least in part by both hardware and software, and that several "means", "units" or "apparatus" may be represented by the same item of hardware.

[0123] Various exemplary methods, apparatuses, and systems described herein are described in the general context of method step processes, which in one aspect may be realized by a computer program product embodied in a computer-readable medium, including computer-executable instructions, e.g., program code, executed by computers in a networked environment. The computer-readable medium may include, but is not limited to, removable and non-removable storage devices, including read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), compact discs (CDs), digital versatile discs (DVDs), and the like. Generally, program modules may include routines, programs, objects, components, data structures, and the like that perform particular tasks or implement particular abstract data types. The computer-executable instructions, associated data structures, and program modules represent examples of program code for executing steps of the methods disclosed herein. The particular sequence of such executable instructions or associated data structures represents examples of corresponding acts for implementing the functions described in such steps or processes.

[0124] While features have been shown and described, they are not intended to limit the claimed invention, and it will be understood that it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the claimed invention. Accordingly, the specification and drawings are to be regarded in an illustrative rather than a restrictive sense. The claimed invention is intended to embrace all alternatives, modifications, and equivalents. [Explanation of symbols]

[0125] 1: User who performs the task 2:Hearing protection devices 3:Hearing protection systems 4, 4A, 4B: Communication equipment 5: Communication systems 6, 6A, 6B: Wireless unit 7: First receiver 8: Second receiver 9: First ear protector, first earpiece, first earmuffs 10: First connection 11: Second ear protector, second earpiece, second earmuffs 12: Second connection 13: Hearing protection 14: Processor 16: Wireless unit interface 17: Sensor interface device 18: Communication equipment 20: Interface 22: Memory 23: First sensor data 24: User data 25: Second sensor data 26: Event data 40, 40B: Hearing protection device interface 42: Sensor interface 42A: First sensor interface 42B: Second sensor interface 42C: 3rd sensor interface 42D: 4th sensor interface 44: First audio output signal 44A: 1st audio output 46: Second audio output signal 46A: Second audio output 50: Server device 52, 52A, 52B: Processor 54: Memory 56: Interface 58: Connection S1: First sensor device S2: second sensor device S3: Third sensor device S4: Fourth sensor device 100: Method of operating a communication device for hearing protection for a user performing a task 102A: Acquiring first sensor data via a first sensor interface of the sensor interface 102B: Acquiring second sensor data via a second sensor interface of the sensor interface 102C: Acquiring third sensor data via a third second sensor interface of the sensor interface. 102D: Acquiring fourth sensor data via a fourth second sensor interface of the sensor interface. 106: Determining user data based on the first sensor data and the second sensor data. 108: Positioning a sensor interface device on a user's torso 110: Transmitting user data to the wireless unit of the hearing protection device via the wireless unit interface S1: First sensor device S2: second sensor device S3: Third sensor device S4: Fourth sensor device

Claims

1. 1. A communication device for hearing protection for a user performing a task, comprising: The communication tool includes: a communication device having a hearing protection device interface including a wired interface; a sensor interface device comprising a sensor interface configured to connect with a plurality of sensor devices, the sensor interface device including a first sensor device and a second sensor device; Memory, A processing unit, the communication device is removably connected to the sensor interface device via respective connectors of the communication device and the sensor interface device for mechanical and electrical connection between the communication device and the sensor interface device; The processing unit includes: acquiring first sensor data via a first sensor interface of the sensor interface; acquiring second sensor data via a second sensor interface of the sensor interface; configured to determine user data based on the first sensor data and the second sensor data; the first sensor interface comprising a first connector for mechanical and electrical connection with the first sensor device; A communication device, wherein the first sensor data comprises information related to the user's physical and / or mental state.

2. The communication tool includes a wireless unit interface; The communication device of claim 1 , wherein the processing unit is configured to transmit the user data to a wireless unit of the hearing protector via the wireless unit interface.

3. The communication tool according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the processing unit is provided in the communication device.

4. The communication tool of claim 1 , wherein the second sensor interface comprises a second connector for mechanical and electrical connection with the second sensor device.

5. The communication device of claim 1 , wherein the user data comprises a first user parameter indicative of a physical condition of the user.

6. The communication tool of claim 1 , wherein the first sensor data indicates a first temperature measured by the first sensor device disposed on a first part of the user's body.

7. The communication device of claim 1 , wherein the second sensor data indicates a second temperature measured by the second sensor device disposed on a second part of the user's body.

8. The communication tool of claim 1 , wherein the first sensor data indicates first chemical data measured by the first sensor device, the first sensor device being a first chemical sensor.

9. The communication tool of claim 1 , wherein the sensor interface device comprises a wireless interface and a wired interface.

10. A communication device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the sensor interface device is positioned on the user's torso.

11. 1. A communication system for hearing protection for a user performing a mission, comprising: The communication system includes: A communication device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, comprising a communication device comprising a memory, a processing unit, a wireless unit interface, a hearing protection device interface and a sensor interface device; a plurality of sensor devices including a first sensor device and a second sensor device; A wireless unit, the sensor interface device comprises a sensor interface configured to interface with the plurality of sensor devices; The processing unit includes: acquiring first sensor data via a first sensor interface of the sensor interface; acquiring second sensor data via a second sensor interface of the sensor interface; determining user data based on the first sensor data and the second sensor data; A communication system configured to transmit the user data to a server device via the wireless unit.

12. 1. A method of operating a communication device for hearing protection for a user performing a task, comprising: The communication tool includes a communication device and a sensor interface device. the communication device comprises a hearing protection device interface including a wired interface; the sensor interface device comprising a sensor interface configured to interface with a plurality of sensor devices, the sensor interface device including a first sensor device and a second sensor device; the communication device is removably connected to the sensor interface device via respective connectors of the communication device and the sensor interface device for mechanical and electrical connection between the communication device and the sensor interface device; The communication device includes a memory and a processing unit. The method comprises: acquiring first sensor data via a first sensor interface of the sensor interface; acquiring second sensor data via a second sensor interface of the sensor interface; determining user data based on the first sensor data and the second sensor data.

13. Further comprising a server device, The server device includes: one or more processors; Memory, an interface; The server device includes: Acquiring user data from the communication tool; determining event data based on the user data; determining a transmission scheme for said event data; The communication system of claim 11 , configured to transmit the event data in accordance with the transmission scheme.

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