A battery pack with a vibration alarm, a helmet accessory system, and a protective helmet system, as well as a method for 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, and a method of operating such a helmet accessory system.

Background Art

[0002] In various jobs, especially in the forestry sector, it is necessary to wear a protective helmet. Such a protective helmet is disclosed, for example, in Patent Document 1. Such a protective helmet is composed of a helmet shell and an interior structure assembly (a wearable body). The interior structure assembly includes a sub-assembly that is worn on the head, and this sub-assembly has at least one support cage, a headband, a neckband, and means for fixing this sub-assembly to the helmet shell.

[0003] Such a conventional protective helmet is a basic helmet that can be adapted to various operations under various working conditions by changing accessories. Such a protective helmet is composed of a helmet shell and an interior structure assembly. The interior structure assembly has a cross band for wearing the protective helmet on the user's head and ensuring a shock-absorbing distance between the user's head and the helmet shell. On the outer peripheral part of the helmet shell, protruding parts extending to the side part and the rear part of the helmet shell are provided, and on the lower edge of this protruding part, four recesses for fixing the cross band and further recesses for fixing additional accessories are provided. The basic version of such a protective helmet can be used as a simple general-purpose helmet without using any accessories. The accessories can be attached or removed as needed.

[0004] Helmet accessories that can be appropriately attached to protective helmets include helmet lights that illuminate, for example, the user's (wearer's) work area or other areas, in a manner similar to a headlamp. Illuminating the work area or other areas is useful not only at dawn, dusk, and after sunset, but also in areas where sunlight is blocked, such as dimly lit areas under tree canopies. Furthermore, helmet lights that can be fixed to protective helmets are useful in a variety of tasks. For example, nighttime repairs of construction machinery at construction sites, or maintenance work under dark and poorly lit water tunnels or bridges, can be carried out more efficiently by having a helmet light that is "worn by the person" and readily available.

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

[0006] Another useful helmet accessory is ear protection. These are worn with protective helmets to reduce noise generated during work, such as forestry or construction. However, using such ear protection attenuates all surrounding sounds, making it difficult to perceive other acoustic signals. Furthermore, ambient noise itself can interfere with the perception of acoustic warning and informational signals. These signals typically include those that users should be able to recognize, such as all acoustic signals emitted from a mobile phone. To ensure better recognition of signals from mobile phones, vibration alarms (vibration notification functions) have traditionally been used. However, even these vibration alarms can be difficult to perceive due to the physical activity the helmet wearer is engaged in during work, and the protective clothing they wear, including additional padding and cut-resistant features.

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

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

[0009] This is achieved by subject matter having the features described in the independent claims of the patent claims. Furthermore, useful configurations and improved forms are described in the dependent claims of the patent claims.

[0010] The present invention relates to a battery pack fixed to a protective helmet for supplying power to helmet accessories, comprising: a battery module for storing and outputting electrical energy; a supply and communication terminal for supplying power to and communicating with helmet accessories connected to the battery pack; mounting means for fixing the battery pack to the protective helmet; a vibration module for generating solid-borne sound; and a control unit for controlling each function of the battery pack, including the function of the vibration module, wherein the control unit is configured to drive the vibration module based on communication signals received by the supply and communication terminal. This transmits the transmitted or requested acoustic or tactile signals to the supply terminal and the communication terminal via communication signals so that they are output from other devices, such as a mobile phone, connected to the battery pack and used to charge the battery pack or power the helmet accessories. As a result, the transmitted or requested acoustic or tactile signals are reliably transmitted from the battery pack's control unit to the user via the protective helmet. The communication signal requesting the activation of the vibration module may be transmitted to the communication terminal via a fully wired connection or at least partially wireless connection (e.g., Bluetooth®, NFC, etc.).

[0011] An advantageous configuration is that the vibration module may be integrated with the battery body or formed integrally with the mounting means. This allows the battery body, or the battery pack including the battery body, or the mounting means, to serve two functions. That is, the battery body supplies power to the helmet accessories and is also used to output tactile notification signals to the user of the protective helmet. Alternatively, the mounting means functions as a fastener for the battery pack and also functions as a means of outputting signals that provide tactile feedback to the user of the protective helmet.

[0012] Alternatively, the vibration module may be detachably fixed to the battery body or to a mounting means. This allows for the optional retrofitting of the battery pack or mounting means, enabling the realization of the two functions mentioned above (power supply and output of tactile notification signals).

[0013] As an advantageous configuration, the vibration module may have fixing means for securing the vibration module to the battery body or mounting means. This allows for a very simple design of each of the battery packs or mounting means. As a result, existing battery packs (and associated mounting means) that have been prepared in advance to accommodate retrofitting of battery packs or mounting means can be retrofitted without incurring additional costs.

[0014] Furthermore, the fixing means may be configured to fix the vibration module by magnetic force or mechanically. In either case, magnetic fixing or mechanical fixing using a clamp allows the vibration module to be detachably, easily, and reliably fixed to the battery pack or mounting means.

[0015] The electrical connection between the battery pack and the vibration module may be established by a fixing means. This eliminates the need for additional electrical contacts to connect the vibration module to the battery pack.

[0016] As an advantageous configuration, 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 mounting means. By providing a contact surface, the generated tactile vibration signal can be efficiently transmitted / introduced to the helmet shell of the protective helmet, which functions as a resonator. As a result, energy efficiency is improved because a vibration module with low power consumption can be used.

[0017] In particular, the battery pack may have at least one sensor unit that detects the operating state of the battery pack, and the control unit may be configured to drive a vibration module based on the detected operating state. This allows the battery pack to independently transmit tactile (vibration) signals to the user of the protective helmet to alert them. For example, it may output warnings about the charging status or temperature.

[0018] Furthermore, the control unit may be configured to drive helmet accessories in synchronization with the vibration module. This allows 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 comprises a battery pack and helmet accessories including a helmet light, and the battery pack and helmet accessories are configured to be fixed to the helmet shell of a protective helmet. The protective helmet system of the present invention comprises a protective helmet and the above-described 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 operating method of the helmet accessory system of the present invention includes the steps of supplying a battery pack and receiving a communication signal by a communication terminal, and driving a vibration module by a control unit based on the received communication signal. Thus, the problem of the present invention is also achieved by the method.

[0021] In addition, other advantages described in relation to the battery pack can also be similarly realized in the helmet accessory system, the protective helmet system, and the method of the present invention. In this case, the physical characteristics of interest in the battery pack are considered in the aspect of the method as required.

Brief Description of Drawings

[0022] Hereinafter, exemplary embodiments of the present invention or some components of the present invention will be described in more detail with reference to the drawings.

[0023] [Figure 1A] It is a three-dimensional view of the battery pack in various embodiments. [Figure 1B] It is a three-dimensional view of the battery pack in various embodiments. [Figure 1C] It is a three-dimensional view of the battery pack in various embodiments. [Figure 1D] It is a three-dimensional view of the battery pack in various embodiments. [Figure 1E] It is a three-dimensional view of the battery pack in various embodiments. [Figure 1F] It is a three-dimensional view of the battery pack in various embodiments. [Figure 1G] It is a three-dimensional view of the battery pack in various embodiments. [Figure 1H] It is a three-dimensional view of the battery pack in various embodiments. [Figure 1I] It is a three-dimensional view of the battery pack in various embodiments. [Figure 1J] It is a three-dimensional view of the battery pack in various embodiments. [Figure 1K]These are three-dimensional diagrams of battery packs in various embodiments. [Figure 2A] These are three-dimensional views of a connector plug from various angles. [Figure 2B] These are three-dimensional views of a connector plug from various angles. [Figure 2C] These are three-dimensional views of a connector plug from various angles. [Figure 2D] This is a three-dimensional diagram showing the internal structure of a connector plug viewed from various angles. [Figure 2E] This is a three-dimensional diagram showing the internal structure of a connector plug viewed from various angles. [Figure 3A] This is a three-dimensional view of a charging plug from various angles. [Figure 3B] This is a three-dimensional view of a charging plug from various angles. [Figure 3C] This is a three-dimensional diagram showing the internal structure of a charging plug viewed from various angles. [Figure 3D] This is a three-dimensional diagram showing the internal structure of a charging plug viewed from various angles. [Figure 4A] This is a three-dimensional diagram showing the charging connections for the battery pack. [Figure 4B] This is a three-dimensional diagram showing the charging connections for the battery pack. [Figure 5A] This is a three-dimensional diagram showing the internal structure of the battery pack as viewed from various angles. [Figure 5B] This is a three-dimensional diagram showing the internal structure of the battery pack as viewed from various angles. [Figure 6A] This is a three-dimensional view of the mounting mechanism from various angles. [Figure 6B] This is a three-dimensional view of the mounting mechanism from various angles. [Figure 6C] This is a three-dimensional view of the mounting mechanism from various angles. [Figure 6D] This is a three-dimensional view of the mounting mechanism from various angles. [Figure 6E] This is a three-dimensional view of the mounting mechanism from various angles. [Figure 6F]This is a three-dimensional view of the mounting mechanism from various angles. [Figure 7] This is the first three-dimensional view of the vibration module. [Figure 8] This is the second three-dimensional view of the vibration module. [Figure 9] This is a side cross-section of a protective helmet with a helmet light and battery pack attached. [Figure 10] This diagram shows a flowchart illustrating how to operate the helmet accessory system. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0024] In the following description, the same reference numeral indicates the same or similar component.

[0025] Figures 1A to 1I are three-dimensional views of the battery pack 100 from various angles. These figures are partially simplified to avoid obstructing visibility with unnecessary details. Figure 1A shows the battery pack 100 in a non-operating state. The battery pack 100 shown in Figure 1A includes a substantially elongated cubic battery body 194 with chamfered edges as shown in Figure 1A. Alternatively, the edges could be rounded. In Figure 1A, a non-operating display / operation element 102 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 Figure 9. In Figure 1A, since the battery pack 100 is shown in a non-operating state, "nothing" is displayed on the display / operation element 102. However, the display / operation element 102 could be used, for example, to switch individual display elements on the display / operation element 102 on or off. In this case, the display / operation element 102 is "labeled" even when it is not powered on, making it possible to identify which part is the operation element.

[0026] Figure 1B shows the side opposite to the display / operation element 102 in Figure 1A, i.e., the back of the battery pack 100. Figure 1B shows the back of the battery pack 100, which can have various structures as needed.

[0027] Figure 1C shows the battery pack 100 in operation. The display / operation element 102 in Figure 1A, although not shown individually here, can display various information to the user when the battery pack 100 is activated. The display / operation element 102 can optionally graphically display a temperature display element 2000, a battery charge level display element 2002, and an on / off switch 2004 using an LED backlight 2006. For this purpose, the display / operation element 102 can be provided with a display area 2008, below which an on / off switch 2004, in particular as a foil switch, can be placed. Therefore, by operating the on / off switch 2004, for example, the battery pack 100 or the helmet light 10 connected to it can be switched on or off. The temperature display element 2000 graphically displays the temperature of the battery pack 100, which is important because the capacity and output performance of the battery pack 100 change with temperature. The display area 2008 can, of course, also graphically display other information regarding the helmet light 10 or the battery pack 100. For example, if the battery pack 100 is connected to the helmet light 10 via the connector plug 192, the display area 2008 can graphically display error messages for the helmet light 10. In Figure 1C, a charging plug 190 is also provided below the connector plug 192. The charging plug 190 can be connected to the battery pack 100 via the connector plug 192, as shown in Figure 1C, or it can be connected directly to the battery pack 100 without going through the connector plug 192. The LED backlight 2006 is indicated by diagonal lines around the on / off switch 2004 in Figure 1C, and can, if necessary, provide the user with a "rear illumination function," for example. This is because the arrangement of the battery pack 100 mounted on the protective helmet 30 enables the function of illuminating the rear. Alternatively or supplementarily, one or more red LEDs can be independently placed on the housing of the battery body 194.

[0028] The appearance of the battery pack 100 shown in Figure 1D is from the same viewpoint as in Figure 1C. However, while Figure 1C shows the operating state, Figure 1D shows a different operating state. In the battery pack 100 in Figure 1C, the LED backlight 2006 is operating, which is indicated by the diagonal lines in the figure. In the battery pack 100 shown in Figure 1D, the LED backlight 2006 is not operating, which is indicated by the absence of diagonal lines. Similarly, in the area of ​​the battery charge level indicator element 2002, the current charge level of the battery pack 100 is visually indicated by diagonal lines. The temperature indicator element 2000 can visually indicate the temperature of the battery pack 100, for example, by a change in color or by another suitable method. Alternatively, the temperature indicator element 2000 may directly display the temperature of the battery pack 100 numerically near or instead of the symbol shown in Figure 1D. The on / off switch 2004 illustrated in Figures 1C and 1D can provide a variety of functions. For example, the on / off switch 2004 can switch the helmet light 10 connected to the battery pack 100 on or off. 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, for example, by providing a function to display some of the information that can be displayed in the display area 2008, or by turning the battery charge level indicator element 2002 on or off. The change in function provided by the on / off switch 2004 can be done depending on the plugs connected to the battery pack 100, namely 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.The special design of the charging plug 190 and connector plug 192 allows both to be connected to the battery pack 100 simultaneously, enabling multiple batteries to be connected to the helmet light 10 of the helmet light system at the same time. It also allows the battery pack 100 to be charged while the helmet light 10 is in use.

[0029] The helmet light system may include an input device equipped with a transceiver module and further transceiver modules, in addition to a helmet light 10 that can switch between multiple lighting modes and operating states. The input device is connected to the helmet light 10 in the form of bidirectional communication via the transceiver module and further transceiver modules. The input device may be, for example, a mobile phone. This not only allows the input device to control the helmet light 10, but also, if the input device is connected to the helmet light 10, allows the input device to receive operation information from the helmet light 10. In this way, the input device can be placed in any position as the control unit for the helmet light 10, and can even be placed within the user's line of sight, making the helmet light system easier to operate. The transceiver module and further transceiver modules may be either wireless or wired modules. Bidirectional communication between the helmet light 10 and the input device can be established via a common communication protocol. By using a common communication protocol, it is possible to achieve control of more complex helmet light systems beyond simple on / off control by switching electrical circuits. The control of the helmet light system can be designed with great flexibility. The input device can transmit communication signals to the battery pack 100, and, if necessary, transmit communication signals to the battery pack 100 via the helmet light 10 to drive the vibration module 16 described later. Other components of the helmet light system can also transmit communication signals to the battery pack 100 to drive the functions of the battery pack 100, particularly the vibration module 16.

[0030] The bidirectional communication used can be protected by encryption. This prevents unintended external operation by input devices arbitrarily connected to the helmet light 10 of the helmet light system. Such security is particularly useful when multiple helmet light systems are using their respective input devices in close proximity. Here, the system may be configured to require password entry 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 of the helmet light system, thereby making the operation of the helmet light system easier. The helmet light 10 of the helmet light system can be connected to yet another input device while already connected to an input device. In this case, the helmet light 10 can be configured to be preferentially controlled by the newly connected input device. This allows, for example, preferential operation by a work supervisor or a monitoring system installed on site, enabling operations such as turning on a camera, helicopter light, or position light if the helmet light system has such functions, and allowing for centralized control of the operation 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 by the vibration module 16.

[0031] A helmet light system, which includes at least a helmet light 10 equipped with a control controller and which can be switched between multiple lighting modes and operating states by the control controller, can have a camera unit functionally connected to the control controller added to it. The control controller can activate the connected camera unit when the helmet light 10 of the helmet light system is activated. It is also possible to activate the camera unit even when the helmet light system is in standby mode and has not yet emitted light. This enables automatic recording of user actions and views of the helmet light system, and in particular prevents the user from forgetting their recording obligations. For example, the activation or deactivation of individual components of the helmet light system, such as the camera unit or helicopter light, can be tactilely indicated to the user by vibration signals via a vibration module, in particular by special vibration patterns encoded to identify changes in the operating state of the helmet light system.

[0032] The camera unit can store captured video internally, enabling long-term archiving. The camera unit can also transmit the captured video to the helmet light 10 for storage in its built-in memory, for example. This method also allows for 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 enables virtually unlimited recording time. The external storage device is accessible to a third party, particularly for the purpose of visually displaying the video. For example, a third party might review the video and provide instructions to the user regarding the problem in order to assist the user of the helmet light system when a problem occurs. 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 providing a mobile wireless connection, such as a mobile phone. Furthermore, the control controller can adjust the camera unit's shooting direction according to the lighting mode and / or operating state of the helmet light 10. This improves the quality of the video captured by the camera, particularly by allowing appropriate adjustment of the shooting direction and brightness during shooting.

[0033] The control controller may adjust the dynamic focal length (zoom) of the camera unit according to the illumination mode and / or operating state of the helmet light. This can improve the image quality of the camera. This can be achieved, for example, by adjusting the zoom to widen or narrow the field of view.

[0034] The characteristics of the helmet light system described above are generally applicable to and achievable in the method of operating the helmet light system, which can be carried out by a control controller for the helmet light. All changes in the operating state of the helmet light system described above can also be indicated to the user by confirmation signals. For example, each communication signal is transmitted to the battery pack, and then a characteristic vibration sequence is output via the vibration module 16.

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

[0036] Figures 1F and 1G are three-dimensional detail views of the battery pack 100. Figure 1F shows a cross-section of the top surface of the battery pack 100, and Figure 1G shows a cross-section of the side surface of the battery pack 100. A pair of anti-return protrusions 212 are provided on the top side. Lateral anti-return protrusions 210 are provided on the side surface of the battery pack 100. If lateral anti-return protrusions 210 are provided on one side, it is preferable to provide a corresponding lateral anti-return protrusion on the opposite side. The anti-return protrusions 212 and lateral anti-return protrusions 210 (and possibly the corresponding lateral anti-return protrusions on the opposite side) work in cooperation with the mounting means 214, which will be described later, to fix the battery pack 100 in the mounting means 214 to the protective helmet 30. The anti-return protrusions 212 and lateral anti-return protrusions 210 are shown only in Figures 1F and 1G, but they can also be provided on all battery packs 100 shown in the other figures.

[0037] Figures 1H, 1I, 1J, and 1K show the battery pack 100 with the plug disconnected, viewed from different angles. In Figure 1H, the battery pack 100 is switched off, so nothing is displayed in the display area 2008. However, even when the power is off, the display area 2008 can display at least the on / off switch 2004, for example, in the form of a transparent film image. At the bottom of the battery pack 100, an electrical contact surface 1112c is provided on the end face 1124 of the battery body 194. A notched recess 1114a is also provided, which is used for aligning the connector plug 192 or charging plug 190 and prevents the plug from coming off the battery pack 100 laterally when installed. Figure 1J shows the battery pack 100 from a different direction to more clearly show the recess 1114a on the end face 1124 of the battery body 194. Figure 1I shows the battery pack with the end face 1124 and the opposite end face of the battery pack 100 visible, which can be formed, for example, perfectly smooth. However, if necessary, connection elements such as electrical contact surfaces, guide elements, or additional operating elements can also be placed on this opposite end face. Such connection elements may, in particular, function as supply and communication terminals for receiving communication signals and driving the vibration module 16.

[0038] Figures 1B, 1E, and 1J show the back surfaces of the battery body 194 located opposite the display area 2008. A recess 26 is provided in the center of the back surface of the battery body 194. The recess 26 is for housing the vibration module 16 shown in Figures 7 and 8. The recess 26 mainly extends in the axial direction of the battery body 194, and fixing means 18 are provided on the opposing surfaces at both ends of the recess 26 in the longitudinal direction. These fixing means 18 may be formed, for example, in the form of a fixing magnet that magnetically fixes the vibration module 16 into the recess 26. Furthermore, electrical contact necessary for the operation of the vibration module 16 can be achieved via this fixing magnet. This is made possible when the vibration module 16 is attached to the battery pack 100, by the electrical connection between the (metallic) contacts 22 of the vibration module 16 and the fixing magnet.

[0039] Figure 1K further shows the battery body 194 with the vibration module 16 incorporated into it. In Figure 1K, instead of a recess 26, a trapezoidal protrusion (mainly extending in the axial direction of the battery body 194) is formed on the housing of the battery body 194, which is formed / created by the vibration module 16 located at the bottom.

[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] Figures 2A, 2B, and 2C are three-dimensional views of the connector plug 19 from various angles. Figures 2A and 2C show the connection side of the connector plug 192, which is provided with electrical contacts 1108a. On this connection side, a protrusion 1116a is provided in conjunction with the recess 1114a shown in Figure 1J, and this protrusion functions as a guide element to assist in positioning the connector plug 192 when attaching it to the battery pack 100. The protrusion 1116a works in cooperation with the recess 1114a on the battery pack 100 side to align the connector plug 192 with the battery pack 100. This enables blind connection between the battery pack 100 and the connector plug 192. Figure 2B shows the connector plug 192 viewed from the side opposite to 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 retractable and compressible, for example, like a telescope, and in particular, prestress can be applied to maintain the pin contacts in an extended state. In this way, when connecting the connector plug 192 to the battery pack 100, there is no risk of the pins bending when the electrical contacts 1108a press against the corresponding electrical contact surfaces 1112c (which may be formed particularly as smooth or planar surfaces), and the contact pressure applied to the pins ensures reliable electrical contact. The individual pin contacts may have, for example, a spring-like element to achieve the aforementioned prestress. However, alternative designs are also known to those skilled in the art. Such a configuration also makes it possible to remove the plug laterally from the battery pack.

[0043] As shown in Figure 2B, a recess 1114b is provided on the side 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, which functions for the electrical connection between the connector plug 192 and the charging plug 190.

[0044] The entire interior of the connector plug 192 may be sealed with 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 similar functionality to the casting material 1110a, particularly fluid airtightness. Connecting the housing shells to each other offers advantages in terms of the replaceability or manageability of the individual components inside the connector plug 192, which in turn leads to improved environmental compatibility of the entire helmet light 10.

[0045] By using various combinations of recesses 1114a, 1114b and protrusions 1116a, 1116b, a simple joining support structure for plug connection can be realized. This structure does not hinder easy separation even when tensile force is applied to the connector plug 192, and at the same time, when no tensile force is applied, the electrical contacts closed by the plug connection can maintain a safe and correct connection to each other. If the protrusions and recesses are arranged asymmetrically on the contact surface, a simple anti-rotation mechanism can be realized.

[0046] Figures 2D and 2E show an example of the internal structure of the connector plug 192, illustrating two views from substantially opposite directions, namely the front and back of the internal configuration. For simplification, the cable connection of the connector plug 192 extending to the outside is omitted. Inside the connector plug 192 is a PCB 1106a with known electrical contacts 1108a, which is covered by a casting material 1110a or a housing with equivalent function. On the opposite side is an electrical contact surface 1112a. Since both the electrical contacts 1108a and the electrical contact surface 1112a pass through the casting material to the surface of the connector plug 192, they can make electrical contact with other components at either location. Two magnets 1104a are located in the lateral region of the PCB 1106a. The magnet 1104a interacts with a corresponding component on the battery pack 100 or the charging plug 190 to prevent polarity reversal of the electrical connection during connection. This serves as an additional safety measure. Furthermore, the magnet 1104a, together with the corresponding component on the battery pack 100, automatically attracts the connector plug 192 to the correct position, ensuring that the connector plug 192 is securely held in the battery pack 100 even when a mechanical load is applied in the connection direction.

[0047] This connection and connection mechanism allows the entire cable loop of the entangled connection cable 24 to be released even if a user wearing a protective helmet 30 equipped with a helmet light device makes an inattentive movement. When the tensile force applied to the entangled cable loop exceeds the holding force of magnets 204, 1104a, and 1104b, the connector plug 192 automatically detaches from the battery pack 100, and the cable loop is released at the same time. This release can activate the vibration module 16 via a basic control unit provided in the battery pack. As a result, the user is notified of the event, namely that the helmet light 10 has been separated from the battery pack 100. This is particularly advantageous if the helmet light 10 is equipped with a small, integrated energy storage device for such emergencies. Furthermore, because magnets 204, 1104a, and 1104b attract the two components of the plug connection to the correct position, connecting the connector plug 192 to the battery pack 100 is made easier, and blind connection is greatly simplified. Even when the connector plug 192 and battery pack 100 are reconnected, a vibration signal can be generated via the vibration module 16.

[0048] Figures 3A and 3B are three-dimensional views of the charging plug 190 from various angles. The charging plug 190 shown in Figures 3A and 3B has a protrusion 1116b, similar to the connector plug 192 shown in Figures 1D and 1E. As shown in Figure 3B, an electrical contact 1108b is provided on the same side as the protrusion 1116b of the charging plug 190. The housing of the charging plug 190 is formed of casting material 1110b, similar to the connector plug 192 shown in Figures 2D and 2E, thereby realizing a fluid sealing structure within the individual housing elements, particularly the housing shell. As shown in Figure 3A, unlike the connector plug 192 shown in Figures 2D and 2E, there is no electrical contact surface on the opposite side of the electrical contact 1108B of the charging plug 190. 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 tensile force is applied to the connector plug 192. Furthermore, the combination of the protrusion 1116b and the recess 1114b provides a simple connection method that ensures the closed electrical contacts remain securely and correctly connected when the connector plug 192 is not subjected to tensile force. Similarly, vibration signals can be generated via the vibration module 16 when connecting or disconnecting the charging plug 190, just as with the connection and disconnection of the connector plug 192.

[0049] In this case, the convex portion 1116b and the concave portion 1114b are preferably configured to have an asymmetrical shape at one edge of their respective connecting surfaces. This makes it possible to achieve a simple anti-rotation function.

[0050] Figures 3C and 3D show the internal structure of the 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 arranged inside the charging plug 190. On the PCB 1106b, an electrical contact surface 1112b, an electrical contact 1108b, and a magnet 1104b are arranged, similar to the connector plug 192 shown in Figures 1D and 1E.

[0051] Therefore, the configuration of PCB1106b shown in Figures 3C and 3D is the same as the configuration of PCB1106a shown in Figures 2D and 2E. Since PCB1106b is associated with the charging plug 190, PCB1106b may have a different configuration with respect to the illustrated electrical contact surface 1112b and electrical contact 1108b, for example, the number of electrical contact pins of electrical contact 1108b may be reduced. This is because the charging plug 190 is usually installed last or is only temporarily connected to the battery pack 100, and the connector plug 192 for "conducting" the electrical contact 1108b of the charging plug 190 to the battery pack 100 is already fixed to the battery pack 100. Therefore, for example, the configurations of PCB1106b and PCB1106a may be identical to each other, and the number of electrical connections to the outer surface of the charging plug 190 may be reduced as needed. This allows the same PCB to be used for the charging plug 190 and the connector plug 192, and reduces the number of different parts, for example, if only the assemblies having electrical components such as electrical contacts 1108a and 1108b differ.

[0052] Figures 4A and 4B are three-dimensional views showing 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 Figures 4A and 4B. As shown in Figure 4A, a connector plug 192 is attached to the upper end of the battery body 194. The connector plug 192 has a seal lip 196 that projects radially inward toward the central axis extending in the longitudinal direction of the battery body 194. The seal lip 196 is located axially below the protruding collar 196a of the connector plug 192. The seal lip 196 serves to establish a sealed connection, i.e., a fluid-sealed connection, between the connector plug 192 attached to the battery body 194 and the charging plug 190 (not shown in Figure 4A). This is important because if water adheres to the electrical connection between the connector plug 192 and the charging plug 190, the electrical connection point may corrode. The connector plug 192 shown in Figures 2A to 2C does not have such collars 196a and seal lips 196, but it should be noted that such collars 196a and seal lips 196 can be added in a simple manner. Alternatively, the collars 196a and seal lips 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 from the plane of the connector plug can be protected from mechanical damage by the collars 196a.

[0053] As shown in Figure 11A, the battery body 194 of the battery pack 100 further has charging contacts 198 and communication contacts 200. The charging contacts 198 and communication contacts 200 are located on the surface of the connector plug 192 surrounded by a sealing lip 196. This arrangement of the charging contacts 198 and communication contacts 200 enables the non-rotatable fixing of the charging plug 190 (not shown). 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 Figure 11A, other contacts may be provided on the surface of the connector plug 192 surrounded by the sealing 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 fixing can be easily achieved, for example, by arranging half of the charging contact 198 and the communication contact 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 protrusions or recesses as described in Figures 1 to 3 for rotation prevention protection. However, such protrusions and recesses can be added in a simple manner.

[0054] Figure 4B shows the upper part of the battery body 194 of the battery pack 100, excluding the connector plug 192. The upper part of the battery body 194 has a collar 208a positioned axially on the battery body 194, similar to the free end of the connector plug 192, and a seal lip 208 surrounding the end face of the battery body 194, positioned inside the collar 208a. 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 for both supplying electrical energy to the helmet light 10 connected to it and for charging the battery pack 100. The communication contacts 200, 202, the electrical connection contact 206, and the charging contact 198 are formed concavely on the end face of the battery body 194. In other words, these contacts are located below the outward-facing surface of the battery body 194 housing (the end face of the battery body 194). This configuration is an example, and all or at least some of the contacts may be configured to be coplanar with the outward-facing surface of the battery body 194 housing. 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 Figures 1K and 1J.

[0055] Furthermore, a magnet 204 is provided on the end face of the battery body 194, thereby allowing the connector plug 192 to be fixed to a desired connection position on the end face of the battery body 194. The seal lip 208, similar to the seal lip 196 provided on the connector plug 192, ensures a waterproof and protected electrical connection between the battery body 194 and the connector plug 192 or charging plug 190 connected thereto (when the charging plug 190 is directly connected to the battery body 194 to charge the battery pack 100). In Figure 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 placed inside the protective outer casing of the battery body 194, i.e., inside the housing of the battery body 194. Note that the placement of the magnet 204 is optional. However, when the magnet 204 is positioned, by appropriately selecting the magnetic poles that face away from the battery body 194, it is possible not only to fix the plug (connector plug 192 or charging plug 190) connected to the battery body 194 in the desired position, but also to provide an anti-rotation function if the plug (connector plug 192 or charging plug 190) connected to the battery body 194 has a magnet positioned in the appropriate orientation.

[0056] Figures 5A and 5B show the internal structure of the battery pack 100 viewed from various directions; for simplicity, the illustration of electrical connection lines is omitted. Figures 5A and 5B show two battery cells 1118. 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, by being connected in parallel or series, together form a battery module 12. As shown in Figures 5A and 5B, a PCB 1106d is located at one end of the battery cell 1118, and the PCB 1106d is covered by 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 is provided with additional electrical contact surfaces, as shown in Figure 4B, but in a different arrangement or configuration than in Figure 4B. At the top center of the two battery cells 1118 forming the battery module 12, a cylindrical vibration module 16 is positioned, similar in shape to the battery cells 1118. This module converts electrical energy into mechanical motion in a conventional manner, and this motion generates solid-borne sound (vibration). This can be achieved, for example, by a small electric motor with an eccentric mass on its rotating shaft, in a known manner. When the vibration module 16 is integrally formed with the battery pack 100, the external shape of the battery body 194 is adjusted in accordance with the vibration module 16. If the vibration module 16 is not built-in, the battery body 194 may have an external shape with a recess 26, for example, as shown in Figure 1K, which is suitable for housing an external vibration module 16, as will be described later with reference to Figure 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 Figure 1K. In Figure 1K, instead of a recess 26, there is a protrusion as shown in the figure, and the vibration module 16 is positioned below it.

[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 with each other and flush. This allows the solid-borne sound generated by the vibration module 16 to be efficiently transmitted to the helmet shell 36. The helmet shell 36 acts like a resonant amplifier, making it easy for the user of the protective helmet 30 to perceive vibrations, and as a result, even low-intensity (small energy) vibrations are sufficiently perceived. This is especially true when the user is wearing the ear protection 34 shown in Figure 9, because the solid-borne sound generated by the vibration module 16 can be sufficiently perceived as a tactile signal below the helmet shell 36.

[0058] In addition to PCB1106d, another PCB1106c is located on the upward-facing surface of the battery cell 1118. A foil cover 1120 is provided on PCB1106c, which serves both as a key and indicator for the battery pack 100. The key and indicator functions of the foil cover 1120 have already been described with reference to Figures 1C and 1D. PCB1106d and / or additional PCB1106d may include electronic components not shown, which constitute a control unit for the battery pack 100 in the spirit of the present invention. The control unit for 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 based on the reception of a communication signal, or automatically activating the vibration module 16 in response to the connection or disconnection of a plug in the battery pack 100. The components shown in Figure 5B are arranged within the housing of the battery body 194 to form, for example, the reduced-size battery pack 100 (which includes a charging plug 190 and a connector plug 192, though not shown) in the upper right corner of Figure 5B. Naturally, the external shape of the battery pack 100 is changeable and does not need to perfectly match the reduced-size external shape in the upper right corner of Figure 5B.

[0059] A battery pack temperature sensor can be placed inside or on the surface of the battery pack 100. The battery pack temperature sensor can detect the battery pack operating temperature of the battery pack 100, and the detected battery pack operating temperature is transmitted, for example, to the control controller of the helmet light 10. Based on the received battery pack temperature, the control controller of the helmet light 10 can 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 can also be used as a reference for outputting a tactile vibration signal via the vibration module 16. The battery pack 100 further includes an electric heating unit that can be controlled 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 turns on the electric heating unit when the battery pack operating temperature detected by the battery pack temperature sensor falls below the lower temperature threshold TAkku_min. Naturally, if the battery pack operating temperature detected by the battery pack temperature sensor exceeds the lower temperature threshold TAkku_min, the electric heating unit is turned off. The control controller of the helmet light 10 controls the light output of the helmet light 10 to decrease when the operating temperature of the battery pack, detected by the battery pack temperature sensor, exceeds the acceptable upper temperature threshold TAkku_max. By decreasing the light output, i.e., by decreasing the brightness of the helmet light 10, the power consumed from the battery pack 100 can be reduced, 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 environments where there is a risk of explosion. By reaching a specific temperature value, such as TAkku_min or TAkku_max, a vibration signal can be output via the vibration module.

[0060] Figures 6A to 6H are three-dimensional views of the mounting means 214 from various directions. In this case, the mounting means 214 shown in the figures is a battery holder for fixing the battery pack 100 to a protective helmet 30. The mounting means 214, at least partially shown in each figure, comprises a frame 220 into which the aforementioned battery pack 100 can be inserted axially. For this purpose, the frame 220 of the mounting means 214 has a substantially cylindrical structure with a rectangular bottom and rounded edges. As shown in Figure 6A, one axial end face of the frame 220 is narrowed, so the battery pack 100 cannot be inserted into or removed from the frame 220 from this end face. On the other hand, the other axial end face of the frame 220 is not substantially narrower than the rest of the frame 220, so the battery pack 100 can be inserted into or removed from the frame 220 from this end face. The substantially 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 protrusions forming a projection, the frame may have corresponding recesses to allow the battery pack 100 to slide in. The tapered cross-sectional structure of the frame 220 allows the leading edge of the battery pack 100 inserted into the mounting means 214 to be locked into the frame 220, while the rear end of the battery pack 100 snaps into the elastic tabs 224 and is secured within the frame 220. The frame 220 of the mounting means 214 has an opening that allows at least a portion of the battery pack 100 to be visible. Therefore, the battery pack 100 is visible through the opening in the frame 220 of the mounting means 214. With this configuration, the battery pack 100 housed in the frame 220 is not insulated from the surrounding environment, thus ensuring sufficient heat dissipation of the battery pack 100 during the charging / discharging process.

[0061] The frame 220 of the mounting means 214 includes upper fixing arms 216a and 216b. Each of the upper fixing arms 216a and 216b has upper fixing hooks 218a and 218b at its tip. The upper fixing hooks 218a and 218b serve to secure the mounting means 214 to the helmet shell 36. The upper fixing hooks 218a and 218b have a step 223 that allows the ventilation slide 50 to move within the helmet shell 36. The frame 220 of the mounting means 214 also includes lower fixing hooks 222a and 222b. The upper fixing hooks 218a and 218b work together to securely fasten the mounting means 214 to the helmet shell 36. The detailed interaction between the upper fixing hooks 218a, 218b and the helmet shell 36 will be described later.

[0062] Figure 6A further shows a vibration module 16 positioned on the underside of the frame 220, between the lower fixing hooks 222a and 222b. In this position, the vibration module 16 may be detachably fixed, or it may be integrally formed with the frame 220 of the mounting means 214. The height and thickness of the vibration module 16 are designed so that when the mounting 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 with each other and flush. In this way, the solid-borne sound generated by the vibration module 16 is efficiently transmitted to the helmet shell 36. At this time, the helmet shell 36 functions like a resonant amplifier, so that the user of the protective helmet 30 can easily sense the vibrations. This is especially true when the user is wearing the ear protection shown in Figure 9, because the solid-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 mounting means 214 shown in Figures 6A to 6H plays a role in ensuring the safety of the user of the protective helmet 30. The mounting means 214 can be fixed in a predetermined position on the helmet shell 36 by upper fixing hooks 218a, 218b and upper fixing hooks 218a, 218b, and the mounting means 214 can be easily removed from the helmet shell 36 if necessary. If 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, and in the process gets caught on the mounting means 214, the mounting means 214 will separate from the protective helmet 30. This prevents the protective helmet 30 from being torn off the wearer's (user's) head and prevents the user from bearing the full impact force of the object.

[0064] The unlocking sides of the upper fixing hooks 218a and 218b (the sides from which they are released from the helmet shell 36) are oriented to coincide with the unlocking sides of the lower fixing hooks 222a and 222b. As a result, when an object that collides with the protective helmet 30 from above collides with the mounting means 214, the impact force of the object is first applied to the upper fixing hooks 218a and 218b, releasing the lock between the upper fixing hooks 218a and 218b and the helmet shell 36, and the separation of the mounting means 214 from the helmet shell 36 begins. At the same time, the lower fixing hooks 222a and 222b are pushed down in the unlocking direction by the helmet shell 36, thereby completely separating the mounting means 214 from the helmet shell 36. As shown in the figure, the release side of the upper fixing hooks 218a and 218b is larger than the release side of the lower fixing hooks 222a and 222b. Therefore, when fixing the mounting means 214 to the helmet shell 36, the force required to bend the upper fixing hooks 218a and 218b can be kept relatively small. This makes it possible to easily fix the mounting means 214 to the helmet shell 36. Furthermore, because this configuration allows for relatively small force to be required to release the upper fixing hooks 218a and 218b, the mounting means 214 can be easily separated from the helmet shell 36 in an emergency, i.e., when an object collides with the protective helmet 30 from above.

[0065] The mounting means 214, as shown for example in Figures 6C and 6D, is equipped with a conductive contact 22 (made of metal) at its lower part, which enables electrical connection with the fixable vibration module 16. At this time, the vibration module 16 slides along the lower part of the frame 220 and moves in the direction of the lower fixing hooks 222a and 222b to engage at a predetermined end position. The lower fixing hooks 222a and 222b can be specifically supported by clamp ribs having a corresponding shape in relation to the frame 220. Furthermore, the contact 22 may be a magnet, and the vibration module 16 can be fixed at the predetermined end position by magnetic force. The contact 22 generally functions as a simple contact means through the frame 220, connecting the vibration module 16 to the corresponding electrical connection part in the battery body 194. Thus, the contact 22 is visible even inside the frame 220, as shown for example in Figure 6D.

[0066] Figures 7 and 8 are three-dimensional views of the vibration module 16, respectively. The vibration module 16 shown in each figure is formed as a vibration module 16 that can be attached to the mounting means 214 or the battery body 194. Thus, the vibration module 16 that can be attached to the battery body 194 shown in Figure 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, with some corners being "chamfered". A part of the cylindrical side surface connecting the "chamfered" corners forms a contact surface 20. The contact surface 20 abuts against the outside of the helmet shell 36 to transmit the solid-borne sound generated when the battery pack 100 (battery body 194) is attached to the protective helmet 30 together with the vibration module 16. At the same time, the "edge" of the cylindrical side surface located on the opposite side of the contact surface 20 is configured to be flush with the recess 26 in the battery 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. Similarly, the vibration module 16 shown in Figure 8 is formed in a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape to enable detachable fixing to the mounting means 214. Note that the contacts 22 are located not on the "end faces" but on a part of the side surface that connects them. In both the vibration module 16 shown in Figure 7 and the vibration module 16 shown in Figure 8, the contacts 22 may be magnets, which support or enable fixing to the battery body 194 or the mounting means 214.

[0067] A protective helmet 30, equipped with various accessories and specifically configured for forestry use, is shown in a partial cross-sectional view in Figure 9. In particular, the inside of the helmet shell 36 is shown. The protective helmet 30 includes a face protector 32 and ear protectors 34 (not shown in Figure 9). The protective helmet 30 further comprises a helmet shell 36 and an interior structural assembly (not detailed). The interior structural assembly includes a support cage 42, a headband 44, and a neckband. The neckband has a tension unit. On the outside of the helmet shell 36 is a ventilation slide 50 that can open and close an opening formed in the helmet shell 36. The opening also contributes to securing the mounting means 214 to the helmet shell 36. The mounting means 214 is secured to the helmet shell 36 by upper fixing hooks 218a and 218b protruding into the opening and engaging with the helmet shell 36. Lower fixing hooks 222a and 222b grip the lower edge of the helmet shell 36. As a result, the mounting means 214 secures the battery pack 100 to the helmet shell 36 near the back of the user's head, as shown in the figure.

[0068] The interior structural assembly has three fixing arms formed as spacers. In the protective helmet 30 shown in Figure 9, only the rear support arm is assumed within the protective helmet 30. The three fixing arms function as means for securing the interior structural assembly to the helmet shell 36 at three points. To secure the fixing arms that extend longitudinally to the helmet shell 36, slots are provided in the occipital region of the helmet shell 36 that can be detachably fixed 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 space is secured between the interior structural assembly 40 and the helmet shell 36 to accommodate the helmet light 10, its associated wiring, the ear covering members 35a of the ear protector 34, and other helmet accessories, as well as the attachments (fixing means 84a and 80a) for at least the face protector and ear protector 34. Other helmet accessories include the tension unit of the neckband described above. In Figure 9, the connecting cable 24 is, for example, routed inside the helmet shell 36, extends to the outside of the helmet shell 36 directly below the battery pack 100, and electrically connects the helmet light 10 to the battery pack 100.

[0069] Figure 10 is a flowchart of method 300 for operating the helmet accessory system. The method begins with step 310, in which the supply terminal and communication terminal 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 an incoming call. In the next step, based on the received communication signal, the control unit can drive the vibration module 16. 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 it ensures tactile notification to the user of the protective helmet 30. This is particularly advantageous because it allows notification to be given to the user even when the user is wearing ear protection 34 that is integrally formed with the protective helmet 30. It should be noted that actual mobile phone notifications, i.e., audible and vibrational notifications, are often not sufficiently perceived by the user when wearing the protective helmet 30. The reason for this is that acoustic signals are blocked by the ear protection device 34, and notifications via vibration from a mobile phone may not be adequately perceived by cushioned clothing such as protective suits. In contrast, vibrations generated from the vibration module 16 are transmitted directly to the user's head via the helmet shell 36, which has the advantage that the user can perceive the vibrations from the vibration module 16 more clearly compared to notifications via vibration from a mobile phone.

[0070] The vibration module 16 can also be activated to notify of other events. Notification of such other events only requires that a communication signal, provided to activate the vibration module 16, be transmitted to and received by the supply terminal and communication terminal 14 of the battery pack 100. For example, the vibration module 16 can be used as a "bell" via a mobile phone connected to the battery pack 100, and may be activated whenever the mobile phone outputs an audible or tactile signal in response to various events. For example, it can tactilely notify of notifications received on the mobile phone or low battery levels. In this case, different events can produce different vibration patterns from the vibration module 16. Accordingly, the vibration patterns can be set differently for each event, making them individually identifiable. It is also possible for the helmet light 10 to transmit a communication signal to the supply terminal and communication terminal 14 of the battery pack 100, thereby activating the vibration module 16. This can, for example, indicate 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 vibration module 16 can also tactilely notify the user of the charging or discharging status of the battery pack 100.

[0071] To make the vibrations of the vibration module 16 more perceptible to the user, attempts can be made to additionally change the cone (luminous beam) of light emitted by the helmet light 10. For example, the brightness or diameter of one or more, or at least some, of the light cones generated by the helmet light 10 can be synchronized with or changed in accordance with the generated vibration signal. In particular, the brightness or color of the light emitted by the helmet light 10 can be periodically increased or decreased or changed.

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

[0073] 10 Helmet Lights 12 Battery Modules 14. Supply and communication terminals 16 Vibration Modules 18 Fixing means 20 Contact surface 22 contacts 24 connection cables 26 recesses 30 protective helmets 34 Ear protection 35a Ear covering component of ear protection device 36 Helmet Shell 44 Headbands 50 Breathable Slide 80a Fixing means 84a Fixing means 100 Battery Packs 102 Display / operation elements 190 charging plug 192 Connector Plug 194 Battery Unit 196 Seal Lip 196a Color 198 Charging contacts 200 communication contacts 202 Communication contacts 204 Magnets 206 Charging contacts 208 Seal Lip 208a Color 210 Lateral anti-return projection 212 Retractable projection 214 Mounting means 216 Upper fixing arm 216b Upper fixing 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 Steps 320 Driven Steps 1104a Magnet 1104b Magnet 1106a PCB 1106b PCB 1106c PCB 1106d PCB 1108a Electrical contact 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 cells 1120 Foil Cover 1122 Cover 1124 End face 2000 temperature display element 2002 Battery charge level indicator element 2004 On / Off Switch 2006 LED backlight 2008 display area

Claims

1. A battery pack (100) fixed to a protective helmet (30) for supplying power to helmet accessories, A battery module (12) for storing and outputting electrical energy, A power supply and communication terminal (14) for supplying power to and communicating with the helmet accessories connected to the battery pack (100), Mounting means (214) for fixing the battery pack (100) to the protective helmet (30), A vibration module (16) for generating solid-borne sound, The battery pack (100) includes 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 (16) based on the communication signals received by the supply and communication terminal (14), and is a battery pack (100).

2. A battery pack (100) according to claim 1, The vibration module (16) is integrated with the battery body (194) or formed integrally with the mounting means (214) in the battery pack (100).

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

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

5. A battery pack (100) according to claim 4, The fixing means (18) is configured to fix the vibration module (16) by magnetic force or mechanically, and is a battery pack (100).

6. A battery pack (100) according to any one of claims 3 to 5, The battery pack (100) and the vibration module (16) are electrically connected by a fixing means (18).

7. A battery pack (100) according to claim 1, The vibration module (16) is a battery pack (100) having 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 mounting means (214).

8. A battery pack (100) according to claim 1, The battery pack (100) has at least one sensor unit for detecting the operating state of the battery pack (100), The control unit is configured to drive the vibration module (16) based on the detected operating state, and includes a battery pack (100).

9. A battery pack (100) according to claim 1, The control unit is configured to drive the helmet accessories in synchronization with the vibration module (16), and includes a battery pack (100).

10. A helmet accessory system, The battery pack (100) described in claim 1, The helmet accessory includes a helmet light (10), A helmet accessory system in which the battery pack (100) and the helmet accessories are configured to be fixable to the helmet shell (36) of the protective helmet (30).

11. Protective helmet (30), A protective helmet system comprising the helmet accessory system described in claim 10.

12. A method for operating the helmet accessory system described in claim 10, The steps include: the battery pack (100) having its supply and communication terminal (14) receive the communication signal (310); A method comprising the step (320) of the control unit driving the vibration module (16) based on the received communication signal.

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