Safety Helmet Ensemble and Light Accessory Therefor

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The presently disclosed subject matter generally relates to a light accessory for a safety helmet. More particularly, the presently disclosed subject matter is directed to a safety light accessory for use in combination with a safety helmet for providing a 360-degree visible safety lighting ensemble.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE PRIOR ART

Each year, it is estimated that more than six million hard hats are sold. While traditional hard hats have been the standard for the last 100 years, they have not advanced much over the last 50 years. Modern hard hats come in various shapes, sizes, styles, and colors from traditional types (cap and full brim style) to the new climber's safety helmet. For the purpose of the presently disclosed subject matter, both styles will be referred to herein as a safety helmet or hard hat. Virtually any working environment where worker safety is a consideration, a safety helmet or hard hat of some style and color is required and, in many cases, mandatory.

During daytime operations, worker visibility is typically not an issue. However, low light and nighttime operations pose a unique challenge when it comes to worker safety, that being visible identification of worker's whereabouts at any time, while on the job site. One of the most common pieces of safety equipment is a high visibility safety vest with sewn in reflective tape. This type of safety equipment requires an external light source, for example the head light of a passing vehicle or piece of equipment, in order for the vest to reflect the light and signal to the operator of the vehicle or equipment, the whereabouts of the worker. Adding a light source to a safety helmet or hard hat that generates is own light is preferable since the ensemble is not dependent on an external light source. Safety helmets or hard hats with a safety light accessory makes workers more visible to others and do not require an external light source for reflection.

In some instances, companies use different colored hard hats for different reasons. For example, white hard hats may be worn by managers, foremen, engineers, or supervisors. Further, green hard hats may be worn by safety inspectors and new or probationary workers. Yellow hard hats are typically worn by general laborers or earth-moving operators. Brown hard hats are worn by those involved in high-heat applications such as welders. At night or in low light conditions, it can be difficult to visually distinguish one color from another. As prefaced above, the presently disclosed subject matter is directed to a safety helmet ensemble incorporating a safety light accessory that is visible from 360 degrees around the wearer, which may at least partially overcome at least one of the abovementioned disadvantages or provide the consumer with a useful or commercial choice.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The presently disclosed subject matter relates to a safety helmet ensemble and light accessory therefor. In some embodiments, the presently disclosed subject matter relates to a safety helmet light accessory incorporating a multicolored, 360-degree visible light to improve wearer visibility to others during low light and night time operations and make it easier to see the color of the hard hat being worn by the worker. The presently disclosed subject matter relates to 360-degree visible light source arrangement mounted to a base plate or mounting ring formed of plastic in some embodiments. The mounting ring or base plate with light source can be easily attached to or removed from a safety helmet or hard hat without the need for hardware, mechanical fasteners, or tools to preserve or maintain the structural integrity of the safety helmet or hard hat.

In some embodiments, the presently disclosed subject matter provides a safety helmet light accessory comprising a mounting ring (oblong in shape) portion with a central ring opening configured to slide over a crown portion of a safety helmet with optional frontal or anterior and rear or posterior connection points. The light accessory according to the presently disclosed subject matter may further comprise a side glow fiber optic cable affixed to the mounting ring in some embodiments. The light accessory according to the presently disclosed subject matter may further comprise a control unit mounted to the mounting ring containing a power source or battery, electrical circuitry, an on/off mode selector switch, LEDs, and LED connection points for the side glow fiber optic cable in some embodiments. The light accessory according to the presently disclosed subject matter may further comprise mounting fasteners for the side glow fiber optic cable to the mounting ring. In some embodiments, the mounting fasteners may be characterized by P-clips and ratchet rivets.

When assembled and mounted to a safety helmet or hard hat, light emitting from the side glow fiber optic cable can be seen 360° around the periphery of the safety helmet or hard hat to identify the user in all dark and low-light conditions. In some embodiments, the mounting ring portion may be made of a plastic material such as polypropylene. However, in certain embodiments, the mounting ring portion may also be made of high heat or fire-resistant materials as in high heat/open flame applications or electrical flash uses.

In some embodiments, the light source is a side glow fiber optic cable comprising light-emitting diodes or LED lighting. In certain embodiments, the LED light source may provide multiple color variations including, white, red, green blue, yellow, or orange lighting. In some embodiments, an RGB LED light source allows for multiple color selections in a single product. In some embodiments, the LED light source can appear in a variety of continuous color or pulsed color emissions.

In some embodiments, the side glow fiber optic cable is attached to the mounting ring portion with mechanical fasteners. In some embodiments, a series of P-clip are used circumferentially spaced about the periphery of the mounting ring portion. In some embodiments, product variants may use a “C” or U” channel to secure the side glow fiber optic cable to the mounting ring portion. In some embodiments, the control box is preferably attached to the mounting ring portion with self-tapping screws. In some embodiments, the control switch, circuit board, LEDs and battery are enclosed in a water resistant or water proof enclosure or control unit having an IP54 rating, for example. In some embodiments, the control unit enclosure may also be flame or spark proof for use in active refineries or similar other class 1 division 1 settings. In some embodiments, the control unit enclosure is configured for attachment to the rear or posterior portion of the mounting ring portion. In some embodiments, the unit is rechargeable by way of a USB charging port.

There is provided in accordance with an embodiment of the presently disclosed subject matter a safety helmet ensemble for enhancing visibility thereof when worn by a user. In some embodiments, the safety helmet ensemble comprises a safety helmet and a light accessory. In some embodiments, the safety helmet comprises at least a crown portion, a front helmet portion, and a rear helmet portion. The crown portion receives a user' head at an interior portion thereof and comprises an exterior crown portion surface. The exterior crown portion surface has a crown portion circumference.

The light accessory comprises a mounting ring and a light source assembly. The mounting ring comprises a central ring opening, a top ring surface, a bottom ring surface, a front ring portion, and a rear ring portion. The central ring opening is configured to receive the crown portion. The light source assembly comprises at least one circumferential light source and a control unit. The circumferential light source is positioned at the top ring surface in radial outer adjacency to the central ring opening so as to extend about at least a circumferential portion of the crown portion circumference at the exterior crown portion surface.

The circumferential light source being configured to emit light at least radially outwardly relative to the crown portion. The control unit comprises a power source. The circumferential light source is in electrical communication with the power source via the control unit. The control unit enables the user to selectively power on and power off said circumferential light source for enhancing visibility of the safety helmet ensemble.

In some embodiments, the crown portion at the exterior crown portion surface comprises an exterior crown portion contour and the mounting ring comprises a radially inner edge defining the central ring opening. The radially inner edge is configured to mate with the exterior crown portion contour for eliminating positional shift of the light accessory relative to the safety helmet when mounted thereto. In some embodiments, the mounting ring comprises scalloped portions at the radially inner edge. In some embodiments, the scalloped portions define radially extending contours relative to the central ring opening configured to mate with radially extending contours of the exterior crown portion surface at the crown portion circumference.

In some embodiments, the circumferential light source comprises a circular transverse cross-section for emitting light at least radially outwardly from the circular transverse cross-section for maximizing visibility thereof. In some embodiments, the circumferential light source is characterized by a combination of a side glow fiber optic cable and at least one light-emitting diode. In some embodiments, the side glow fiber optic cable comprises two ends housed within the control unit, each of the which are outfitted with a light-emitting diode for directing light into the side glow fiber optic cable.

In some embodiments, the circumferential light source is configured to emit light of differing colors as controlled by the user. In some embodiments, the circumferential light source is configured to emit light in at least one of continuous light-emitting mode and in a periodic light-emitting mode. In some embodiments, the exterior crown portion surface comprises a light-reflective material. In some embodiments, the emitting light is reflected from the light-reflective material for maximizing visibility thereof. In some embodiments, the top ring surface comprises a light-reflective material. In some embodiments, the emitting light is reflected from the light-reflective material for maximizing visibility thereof.

There is provided in accordance with another embodiment of the presently disclosed subject matter a light accessory for enhancing visibility of a hat crown portion. In some embodiments, the light accessory comprises a mounting ring and a light source assembly. The mounting ring comprises a central ring opening, a top ring surface, a bottom ring surface, a front ring portion, and a rear ring portion. The central ring opening is configured to receive the hat crown portion, which hat crown portion has a crown portion circumference;

The light source assembly comprises at least one circumferential light source and a control unit. The circumferential light source is positioned at the top ring surface in radial outer adjacency to the central ring opening so as to extend about at least a circumferential portion of the crown portion circumference. The circumferential light source is configured to emit light at least radially outwardly relative to the crown portion. The control unit comprises a power source, and the circumferential light source is in electrical communication therewith via the control unit. The control unit enables the user to selectively power on and power off the circumferential light source for enhancing visibility of the hat crown portion.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Other features and objectives of the presently disclosed subject matter will become more evident from a consideration of the following brief descriptions of patent drawings.

FIG. 1 is a top perspective view of a first light accessory according to the presently disclosed subject matter.

FIG. 2 is a top plan view of the first light accessory according to the presently disclosed subject matter.

FIG. 3 is a bottom plan view of the first light accessory according to the presently disclosed subject matter.

FIG. 4 is a top perspective view of a generic safety helmet usable in combination with the light accessories according to the presently disclosed subject matter.

FIG. 5 is a top plan view of the generic safety helmet usable in combination with the light accessories according to the presently disclosed subject matter.

FIG. 6 is a top perspective view of a safety helmet ensemble according to the presently disclosed subject matter showing the first light accessory outfitted upon the generic safety helmet otherwise depicted in FIGS. 1 and 4.

FIG. 7 is a top plan view of the safety helmet ensemble according to the presently disclosed subject matter showing the first light accessory outfitted upon the generic safety helmet as otherwise depicted in FIGS. 2 and 5.

FIG. 8 is a lateral side elevational view of the safety helmet ensemble according to the presently disclosed subject matter showing the first light accessory outfitted upon the generic safety helmet.

FIG. 9 is a front or anterior elevational view of the safety helmet ensemble according to the presently disclosed subject matter showing the first light accessory outfitted upon the generic safety helmet.

FIG. 10 is a rear or posterior elevational view of the safety helmet ensemble according to the presently disclosed subject matter showing the first light accessory outfitted upon the generic safety helmet.

FIG. 11 is a bottom plan view of the safety helmet ensemble according to the presently disclosed subject matter showing the first light accessory outfitted upon the generic safety helmet.

FIG. 12 is a top perspective view of a second light accessory according to the presently disclosed subject matter.

FIG. 13 is a top plan view of the second light accessory according to the presently disclosed subject matter.

FIG. 14 is a bottom plan view of the second light accessory according to the presently disclosed subject matter.

FIG. 15A is a first lateral side view of the second light accessory according to the presently disclosed subject matter.

FIG. 15B is a second lateral side view of the second light accessory according to the presently disclosed subject matter.

FIG. 16A is a front or anterior side view of the second light accessory according to the presently disclosed subject matter.

FIG. 16B is a rear or posterior side view of the second light accessory according to the presently disclosed subject matter.

FIG. 17 is a fragmentary enlarged top plan view of rear portions of the second light accessory according to the presently disclosed subject matter with an upper housing portion of a control unit removed to show otherwise hidden structures within the control unit.

FIG. 18 is a fragmentary enlarged bottom plan view of rear portions of the second light accessory according to the presently disclosed subject matter with a lower housing portion of the control unit removed to show otherwise hidden structures within the control unit.

FIG. 19 is a fragmentary enlarged rear end view of rear portions of the second light accessory according to the presently disclosed subject matter with upper and lower housing portions of the control unit removed to show otherwise hidden structures within the control unit.

FIG. 20 is a fragmentary enlarged top perspective view of rear portions of the second light accessory according to the presently disclosed subject matter.

FIG. 21 is a top perspective view of a third light accessory according to the presently disclosed subject matter.

FIG. 22 is a top plan view of the third light accessory according to the presently disclosed subject matter.

FIG. 23 is a bottom plan view of the third light accessory according to the presently disclosed subject matter.

FIG. 24 is a fragmentary enlarged top perspective view of rear portions of the third light accessory according to the presently disclosed subject matter.

FIG. 25 is a top perspective view of a fourth light accessory according to the presently disclosed subject matter.

FIG. 26 is a top plan view of the fourth light accessory according to the presently disclosed subject matter.

FIG. 27 is a bottom plan view of the fourth light accessory according to the presently disclosed subject matter.

FIG. 28 is a fragmentary enlarged top perspective view of rear portions of the fourth light accessory according to the presently disclosed subject matter.

FIG. 29 is a fragmentary enlarged top view of a radially outwardly extending cavity portion of the first light accessory mated with a radially outwardly extending protrusion of the safety helmet.

FIG. 30 is a fragmentary enlarged lateral sectional view as enlarged and sectioned from FIG. 8 to depict front or anterior portions of the safety helmet ensemble.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

Referring now to the drawings with more specificity, the presently disclosed subject matter provides a light accessory for use with a safety helmet or hard hat as variously exemplified and referenced. While the various embodiments of the light accessory are hereinafter described for use in combination with a safety helmet or hard hat, the light accessories may be utilized to enhance the visibility of virtually any hat having at least a hat crown portion and thereby enhance visibility of the user donning or wearing such a hat. In other words, the light accessories hereinafter described may operate to enhance the safety of users by providing greater visibility of hats or safety helmets outfitted with the light accessories particularly in situations characterized by low light conditions where user visibility may be of concern.

As introduced hereinabove, there is a perceived need in the art to enhance the visibility of safety helmets and/or hard hats in low light conditions, particularly during emergency or black-out situations when the safety of workers or first responders is critical, for example. To address this perceived need, the light accessory according to the presently disclosed subject matter is described and illustrated by way of a number of exemplary embodiments. A first light accessory according to the present disclosed subject matter is generally depicted and referenced at 10; a second light accessory is generally depicted and referenced at 20; a third light accessory is generally depicted and referenced at 30; and a fourth light accessory is generally depicted and referenced at 60. The light accessories depicted and referenced at 10, 20, 30, and 60 are exemplary and should not be construed as limiting. The first light accessory 10 is introduced in FIGS. 1-3.

Further, an exemplary safety helmet or hard hat is generally depicted and referenced at 50 in FIGS. 4 and 5. Together the various light accessories 10, 20, 30, and 60 and the safety helmet 50 provide a safety helmet ensemble 70 for enhancing the visibility thereof when worn or donned by a user. For ease and brevity of illustrative support, only the first light accessory 10 has been illustrated as mounted to the safety helmet 50 thereby forming a safety helmet ensemble 70 in FIGS. 6-11. While the light accessories 10, 20, 30, and 60 differ slightly in form, a number of common features apply to all the light accessories 10, 20, 30, and 60, and in view of this commonality, the same reference numbers have been incorporated into these specifications to particularly refer to all common elements. Where differing structures are described or discussed, differing reference numbers are utilized to denote the same.

Referencing FIGS. 1-3, the reader will firstly consider first light accessory 10 according to the presently disclosed subject matter. A generic safety helmet or hard hat 50, usable in combination with the light accessories 10, 20, 30, and 60, is generally depicted in FIGS. 4 and 5. FIGS. 6-11 depict the first light accessory 10 mounted to the safety helmet 50 to help illustrate the resulting safety helmet ensemble 70 according to the presently disclosed subject matter. The safety helmet ensemble 70 basically functions to enhance the visibility thereof when worn or donned by a user, particularly in low light conditions, and comprises a safety helmet as at 50 and any one of the light accessories 10, 20, 30, and 60. Referencing FIG. 7, the reader will there see eye symbols 76 depicting visual vantage points relative to the safety helmet ensemble 70. While the illustrative subject matter presented in FIGS. 6-11 depicts the first light accessory 10 in assembled relation with the safety helmet 50 to provide a safety helmet ensemble 70, this should not be construed as limiting.

The safety helmet 50, usable in combination with the light accessories 10, 20, 30 and 60 according to the presently disclosed subject matter may be said to comprise at least a crown portion 53, a front helmet portion 51, and a rear helmet portion 52. The crown portion 53 is configured to receive a user' head at an interior portion 54 thereof and further comprises an exterior crown portion surface as at 55. The exterior crown portion surface 55 at a lower portion thereof has a crown portion circumference as generally depicted and referenced at 56. In some embodiments, the exterior crown portion surface 55 of the crown portion 53 at the crown portion circumference 56 is smooth and sloped, flaring outwardly therefrom at a flaring portion 63. In some embodiments, the safety helmet 50 comprises a peak portion 57 extending in a forward direction at the front helmet portion 51 and a brim portion 58 at the rear helmet portion 52.

The safety helmet 50 depicted in FIGS. 4-11 is a “cap style” hard hat and may be considered to be of a traditional style. The “cap style” hard hat may be considered the most commonly used safety helmet or hard hat used across every industry worldwide that requires the use of a hard hat having been first introduced in the early 1900s. It is estimated that approximately 80% of all hard hats used are of the “cap style” with white coloration being the most common color utilized, although other colors are available and are used to identify different tradesmen or job types. Other types of safety helmets or hard hats include full-brim style hard hats; climber style safety helmets; and firefighting helmets. Full-brim hard hats are typically used by electrical lineman although they are becoming more prevalent in highway construction due to its added protection from the sun the because of its wider brim. Climber style hard hats are based on the climber style safety helmet but modified to meet certain regulatory standards for top and side impact. For ease and brevity of illustration, the cap style safety helmet or hard hat referenced at 50 has been depicted to help the reader understand the manner by which the light accessories 10, 20, 30, and 60 mount to the safety helmet 50 to provide a safety helmet ensemble 70 according to the presently disclosed subject matter.

Returning to FIGS. 1-3, it will there be seen the first light accessory 10 according to the presently disclosed subject matter comprises a first mounting ring 11 and a light source assembly 12. The first mounting ring 11 differs slightly in form from the second, third, and fourth mounting rings 21, 31, and 41 respectively of the second through fourth light accessories 20, 30, and 60. The light source assembly 12 and its various components is the same for all light accessories 10, 20, 30, and 60. The first through fourth mounting rings 11, 21, 31, and 41 all comprise a central ring opening 13, a top ring surface 14, a bottom ring surface 15, a front ring portion 16, and a rear ring portion 17. In all embodiments, the central ring opening 13 is configured to receive the crown portion 53 of the safety helmet 50 therethrough as generally depicted in FIGS. 6-11.

In some embodiments, the first mounting ring 11 may further comprise a front attachment point 22 and a rear attachment point 23. In some embodiments, the front attachment point 22 and the rear attachment point 23 are provided to enable a user to mount at least the first mounting ring 11 to a safety helmet having helmet portions that extend forwardly and rearwardly. The front attachment point 22 and the rear attachment point 23 each comprise a resilient tab member 24 extending between opposed apertures 25. The resilient tab members 24 may be deflected from the plane of the first mounting ring 11 so as provide a brim/rim-receiving gap for receiving a helmet portion extending either forwardly or rearwardly from the crown portion 53.

The inherent resiliency of the tab members 24 return the tab members 24 into engagement with the helmet portions thereby affixing the first mounting ring 11 to forwardly and rearwardly extending certain helmet portions in some embodiments. For the front attachment point 22, the resilient tab members 24 are provided because all the climber style safety helmets on the market have a small lip on the front of the helmet for directing water away from the wearer's eyes. Such lips provide good anchor points for the resilient tab members 24. In some embodiments, the user may thereby attach the light accessories 10/0/30/60 to the front lip first and then wedge rear portions of the light accessories 10/20/30/60 under the rear edge or brim portion 58 of the safety helmet 50.

The resilient tab members 24 of the first mounting ring 11 are optional features and as such are not central to the practice of the presently disclosed subject matter. For example, it will be seen from a consideration of FIGS. 6-11 that the tab elements 24 are not operable with the safety helmet 50 there illustrated to affix the first mounting ring 11 to the safety helmet 50. Safety helmets, usable in combination with the light accessories 10, 20, 30, and 60 are provided with differing features and in some applications may include brim/rim portions extending forwardly and/or rearwardly from the crown portion 53 so as to be insertable into the brim/rim-receiving gaps supported by the resilient tab elements 24. The resilient tab elements 24 are thus provided in some embodiments so as to enable a user to affix the first mounting ring 11 to such safety helmets.

In the case of the second mounting ring 21 of the second light accessory 20 as depicted and referenced in FIGS. 12-14, for example, a resilient tab element 24 is positioned at the front attachment point 22 and a first tab form 26 is provided at the rear attachment point. The resilient tab element 24 positioned at the front attachment point 22 is operable to affix the front attachment point 22 to a forwardly extending brim/rim or peak portion in some embodiments substantially as described above. The first tab form 26 is operable to engage a rear helmet portion of certain safety helmet types. The first tab form 26 is flanked by opposed slot portions 29 and comprises a forward edge 32 that extends along a tab plane 100 in line with rear portions 33 of edging 64 defining the central ring opening 13 at rear portions thereof as generally depicted and referenced in FIGS. 17 and 18.

In the case of the third mounting ring 31 of the third light accessory 30 as depicted and referenced in FIGS. 21-24, for example, a resilient tab element 24 is positioned at the front attachment point 22 and a second tab form 27 is provided at the rear attachment point. The resilient tab element 24 positioned at the front attachment point 22 is operable to affix the front attachment point 22 to a forwardly extending brim/rim or peak portion in some embodiments substantially as described above. The second tab form 27 is operable to engage a rear helmet portion of certain safety helmet types. The second tab form 27 is flanked by opposed slot portions 34 and comprises a radiused forward edge 35 and laterally opposed extensions 36 extending forward toward the central ring opening 13 away from the rear portions 33 of edging 64 defining the central ring opening 13 at rear portions thereof as generally depicted and referenced in FIG. 24.

In the case of the fourth mounting ring 41 of the fourth light accessory 60 as depicted and referenced in FIGS. 25-28, for example, a resilient tab element 24 is positioned at the front attachment point 22 and a third tab form or tongue element 28 is provided at the rear attachment point. The resilient tab element 24 positioned at the front attachment point 22 is operable to affix the front attachment point 22 to a forwardly extending brim/rim or peak portion in some embodiments substantially as described above. The third tab form 28 is operable to engage a rear helmet portion of certain safety helmet types. The third tab form 28 comprises laterally opposed sides 37 and a forward edge 38 extending transversely relative to the laterally opposed sides 37 as generally depicted and referenced in FIG. 28.

In some embodiments, the first through fourth mounting rings 11, 21, 31, and 41 are formed from a substantially planar plastic or polymeric material. In some embodiments, the first through fourth mounting rings 11, 21, 31, and 41 having a ring thickness extending between the top ring surface 14 and the bottom ring surface 15 on the order of 1.0 to 1.5 millimeters. In some embodiments, the ring thickness of the first through fourth mounting rings 11, 21, 31, and 41 may be of greater thicknesses. The ring thicknesses here discussed should not be construed as limiting. In some embodiments, the first through fourth mounting rings 11, 21, 31, and 41 may be formed from flame-resistant or fire-resistant materials. In some applications, for example, the safety helmet ensemble 70 or the first through fourth light accessories 10, 20, 30, and 60 may be used in environments where high heat may be encountered and in view of such applications, a flame-resistant or fire-resistant material may be preferable.

In some embodiments, the first through fourth mounting rings 11, 21, 31, and 41 are configured for mounted attachment to the crown portion 53 of a safety helmet 50. In some embodiments, the first through fourth mounting rings 11, 21, 31, and 41 are configured for mounted attachment to a rim or brim portion as exemplified by the peak portion 57 or the brim portion 58 of the safety helmet 50. In some embodiments, the first through fourth mounting rings 11, 21, 31, and 41 are attachable to a brim or rim portion of the safety helmet 50 at one of the front attachment point 22 or the rear attachment point 23. In some embodiments, the first through fourth mounting rings 11, 21, 31, and 41 are removably attachable to the at least a brim portion or rim portion of the safety helmet 50.

In most applications, however, the central ring opening 13 is dimensioned and configured in a generally ovular form so as to fit over the crown portion 53 and be directed downwardly toward the crown portion circumference 56 at the flaring portion 63. In some embodiments, the flaring portion 63 is smoothly sloped and continuous with the exterior crown portion surface 55. A radially inner edge 64 defining the central ring opening 13 is supported by a circumferential portion of the exterior crown portion surface 55 which is dimensioned to substantially equal that of the radially inner edge 64. Accordingly, in some embodiments, the radially inner edge 64 is wedge-supported by the exterior crown portion surface 55. In some embodiments, the first through fourth mounting rings 11, 21, 31, and 41 are removably attachable to the crown portion 53 of the safety helmet 50.

In some embodiments, the crown portion 53 at the exterior crown portion surface 55 comprises an exterior crown portion contour as generally depicted in FIG. 5. The exterior crown portion contour is referenced at 75 and essentially comprises the crown portion circumference 56 and the intersection thereof with a plurality of radially outwardly extending crown protrusions as at 59 along an X axis 120 and Z axis 122 plane extending therethrough. In some embodiments, the mounting rings 11/21/31/41 comprise a radially inner edge 64 that defines the central ring opening 13, which edge or edging 64 is configured to mate with the exterior crown portion contour 75 for eliminating positional shift of the light accessory 10 relative to the safety helmet 50 when mounted thereto.

In some embodiments, the first mounting ring 11 comprises scalloped portions 19 at the radially inner edge 64. In some embodiments, the scalloped portions 19 define radially extending contours relative to the central ring opening 13 configured to mate with radially extending contours of the exterior crown portion surface 55 at the crown portion circumference 56. Referencing the first mounting ring 11 as generally depicted in FIGS. 1-3 and 6-11, the reader will there consider that in some embodiments, the central ring opening 13 comprises scalloped portions as at 19 at the radially inner edge 64. The scalloped portions 19 define radially outwardly extending cavity portions 18 extending radially outwardly from the central ring opening 13 configured to mate with the plurality of radially outwardly extending crown protrusions as at 59 in FIGS. 4-11. In other words, the outwardly extending cavity portions 18 each have a cavity length as at 103 and a cavity depth 104 corresponding to a protrusion width 105 and a protrusion depth 106 of the crown protrusions 59 as further depicted and referenced in FIG. 29. The crown protrusions 59 are thus matable with the cavity portions 18 so as to provide for a more secure fit of the first mounting ring 11 with the crown portion 53 of the safety helmet 50.

Comparatively referencing FIGS. 12-14, it will there be seen the central ring opening 13 of the second mounting ring 21 comprises scalloped portions 65. Referencing FIGS. 21-23, it will there be seen the third mounting ring 31 comprises scalloped portions 68. The scalloped portions 19, 65, and 68 respectively of the first, second, and third mounting rings 11, 21, and 31 are essentially formations that conform the radially inner edge 64 or portions thereof to the exterior crown portion surface 55 at the exterior crown portion circumference 56. In other words, the mounting rings 11, 21, and 31 are scalloped to exactly match or conform to the contour 75 of the exterior crown portion surface 55.

It will be noted the safety helmet 50 depicted in FIGS. 4-11 is a MSA V-guard Cap Style hard hat or safety helmet. Since there are varied hard hats or safety helmets on the on the market, each with its own unique contour, the mounting rings according to the presently disclosed subject matter may be scalloped or tailored to uniquely conform to various models of safety helmets. Accordingly, in some embodiments, the scalloped portions enable a precise fit for any style hard hat or safety helmet and allows the mounting ring to lay as flat as possible. Further, scalloping helps eliminate shifting between the mounting rings and the exterior crown portion surfacing 55 by way of the tab elements 24 at the front and/or rear attachment points 22/23.

The light source assembly 12 is common to all light accessories 10, 20, 30, and 60 and comprises at least one circumferential light source 40 and a control unit 61. The circumferential light source 40 is positioned at the top ring surface 14 in radially outer adjacency to the central ring opening 13 so as to extend about at least a circumferential portion of the crown portion circumference 56 at the exterior crown portion surface 55. The circumferential light source 40 is configured to emit light as at 101 at least radially outwardly as at arrow 102 relative to the crown portion 53. The radially outwardly directed 102 emitting light 101 enables visibility as at eye symbols 76 of the circumferential light source 40 from nearly all radially directed vantage points relative to the user donning the safety helmet ensemble 70 or light accessories 10, 20, 30 and 60 thereof as generally and diagrammatically depicted in FIG. 5.

In some embodiments, the circumferential light source 40 may be characterized by a side glow fiber optic cable 42. The side glow fiber optic cable 42 can be provided in a number of diameters. In some embodiments, the diameter of the side glow fiber optic cable 42 is on the order of 5 millimeters, but this should not be construed as limiting. The radially outwardly directed 102 emitting light 101 enables visibility of the circumferential light source 40 from nearly all radially directed vantage points relative to the user donning or wearing the safety helmet ensemble 70 or light accessories 10, 20, 30 and 60, which is central to the practice of the presently disclosed subject matter. In some embodiments, however, the circumferential light source 40 may alternatively be characterized by a flat (ribbon) style light strip with varied thicknesses.

Noting that in some embodiments, the circumferential light source 40 may be characterized by a side glow fiber optic cable 42 with a certain diameter, it will be understood the circumferential light source 40 may be further characterized by having a circular transverse cross-section 69 as generally depicted in FIG. 30. Accordingly, in some embodiments, the emitting light 101 is directed radially outwardly 102 from the circular transverse cross-section 69 along all 360 degrees of the circular cross-section 69 for maximizing visibility thereof. In some embodiments, the radially outwardly directed 102 emitting light 101 is directed along a horizontal axis or plane 116 assuming the safety helmet 50 is worn such that the radially outward direction 102 is so positioned. However, reference is further made to certain other directional characteristics of the emitting light 101. Referencing FIG. 30, it will be seen that the emitting light 101 is also directed toward the exterior crown portion surface 55 as at incident ray 107 and also directed toward the top ring surface 14 as at incident ray 112.

In some embodiments, the exterior crown portion surface 55 may comprise a light-reflective material or otherwise be configured to reflect emitting light 101 therefrom. It will be seen from a consideration of FIG. 30 the emitting light 101 directed as at incident ray 107 has a certain angle of incidence 109. The reflected ray 110 has an angle of reflection 111 equal to the angle of incidence 109. The emitting light 101 and the reflecting light as at reflected ray 110 may both be visually perceived as at 76 from differing vantage points relative to the circumferential light source 40. The reflective exterior crown portion surface 55 thereby functions to enhance the visibility of the light accessories 10, 20, 30, and 60. Accordingly, it will be understood the circular transverse cross-section 69 of the circumferential light source 40 supports enhanced visibility 76 thereof at least by way of the reflective exterior crown portion surface 55.

Similarly, in some embodiments, the top ring surface 14 may comprise a light-reflective material or otherwise be configured to reflect emitting light 101 therefrom. It will be further seen from a consideration of FIG. 30 the emitting light 101 directed at incident ray 112 has a certain angle of incidence 113. The reflected ray 114 has an angle of reflection 115 equal to the angle of incidence 114. The emitting light 101 and the reflecting light as at reflected ray 114 may both be visually perceived as at 76 from differing vantage points relative to the circumferential light source 40. The reflective top ring surface 14 thereby also functions to enhance the visibility of the light accessories 10, 20, 30, and 60. Accordingly, it will be understood the circular transverse cross-section 69 of the circumferential light source 40 supports enhanced visibility 76 thereof at least by way of the reflective top ring surface 14. It will be noted the circular transverse cross-section 69 of the circumferential light source 40 extends in two dimensions or along the Y axis 121 and the Z axis 122 as referenced in FIG. 30.

Comparatively referencing FIG. 7, it will be understood the circumferential light source 40 also emits light 101 along 360 degrees relative to a user donning or wearing the safety helmet ensemble 70 or the light accessories 10, 20, 30, and 40 or relative a central crown axis 103 generally extending vertically when the safety helmet ensemble 70 is worn by a user. In other words, comparatively referencing FIGS. 7 and 30, it will be seen the radially outwardly directed 102 emitting light 101 is directed along a two-dimensional plane 116 orthogonal to the circular transverse cross-section 69 of the circumferential light source 40 in some embodiments. Accordingly, in some embodiments, the circumferential light source 40 is configured to direct emitting light 101 from the circular transverse cross-section 69 extending in two dimensions exemplified by the Y axis 121 and the Z axis 122 and along the two-dimensional plane 116 extending transversely thereto. It will be understood the circumferential light source 40 supports enhanced visibility 76 thereof at least by way of directing emitting light 101 along 360 degrees relative to the safety helmet ensemble 70 and the light accessories 10, 20, 30, and 60.

The positioned placement of the circumferential light source 40 is central to the practice of the presently disclosed subject matter. The circumferential light source 40 is positioned as close to the crown portion 53 of the safety helmet 50 so as to not interfere with the exterior crown portion surface 55 thereof. In some embodiments, the circumferential light source 40 may be alternatively positioned. In some embodiments, the circumferential light source 40 is in communication with at least one Light Emitting Diode or LED 67 positioned within the control unit 61. In some embodiments, an LED 67 and a harness assembly 77 is positioned at each light source end 43 of the circumferential light source 40 for connecting to the power source 44 via circuitry. In some embodiments, other types of light-emitting products may be utilized. For example, in some embodiments, electroluminescent wire may be alternatively used as a light source for the circumferential light source 40.

In some embodiments, the LEDs 67 may emit light of a single solid color. In some embodiments, the emitting light 101 may be of white coloration, for example. In some embodiments, other single solid colors of the emitting light 101 are contemplated, although it is noted that white coloration is typically the most common or preferred coloration. In some embodiments, the LEDs 67 may alternatively be of a RGB style (red, green blue) LED. In some embodiments, with the use of programming, the LED(s) 67 can provide a wide range of colors, tones and brightness. In this regard, the spectrum of possible colors is virtually infinite. In some embodiments, the emitting light 101 may be pulsed or periodic according to how circuitry housed within the control unit is programmed or directed via software-based implementations (e.g., controlled by device-based applications). Accordingly, in some embodiments, the circumferential light source 40 is configured to emit light 101 in at least one of a continuous light-emitting mode and a periodic light-emitting mode.

In some embodiments, the light source ends 43 of the circumferential light source 40 are directed into and housed within the control unit 61. In some embodiments, the control unit 61 comprises a power source 44 exemplified by a battery. In some embodiments, the power source 44 or battery may be characterized by either a Li-Ion or Li-Polymer style power source that is rechargeable. In this regard, the reader is directed to port 45 as referenced in FIG. 16B at the rear portion of the control unit 61 for enabling a user to recharge the power source 44 or battery via the port 45 in some embodiments. In some embodiments, different styles and types of power sources 44 and/or batteries may be used to power the circumferential light source 40. In some embodiments, a button type switch 66 may enable the user to selectively power on and power off the circumferential light source 40. In this regard, the circumferential light source 40 is in electrical communication with the power source 44 via the control unit 61 such that the control unit 61 enables the user to selectively power on and power off the circumferential light source 40 for enhancing visibility 76 of the safety helmet ensemble 70.

In some embodiments, the circumferential light source 40 as exemplified by a side glow fiber optic cable 42, may be affixed to the first through fourth mounting rings 11, 21, 31, and 41 by way of a mounting mechanism. In some embodiments, a plurality of mounting mechanisms may mount the circumferential light source 40 to the mounting rings 11, 21, 31, and 41. In some embodiments, the plurality of mounting mechanisms may be periodically spaced along the length of the circumferential light source 40. In some embodiments, the number of mounting mechanisms may number four and be substantially equally spaced along the length of the circumferential light source 40.

In some embodiments, the mounting mechanisms may be characterized by P-clips 46 and ratchet rivets 47. In some embodiments, however, alternative attachment means are contemplated. In some embodiments, the control unit 61 may comprise an upper housing portion 48 and a lower housing portion 49. In some embodiments, the upper and lower housing portions 48 and 49 are formed from a plastic or polymeric material. In some embodiments, the upper and lower housing portions 48 and 49 may be formed from flame-resistant or fire-resistant materials. In some applications, it will be recalled for example, the safety helmet ensemble 70 or the first through fourth light accessories 10, 20, 30, and 60 may be used in environments where high heat may be encountered and in view of such applications, a flame-resistant or fire-resistant material may be preferable.

In some embodiments, the control unit 61 may be mounted to the first through fourth mounting rings 11, 21, 31, and 41 at the rear ring portion(s) 17. In some embodiments, the upper housing portion 48 of the control unit 61 may be mounted to the top ring surface 14 at the rear ring portion(s) 17 and in some embodiments, the lower housing section 49 of the control unit 61 may be mounted to the bottom ring surface 15 at the rear ring portion(s) 17. In some embodiments, the upper housing portion 48 houses the light source ends 43 and the lower housing portion 49 houses the power source 44 or battery. In some embodiments, the button type switch 66 is positioned at the upper housing portion 48 such that users may selectively power on and power off the light accessories 10, 20, 30, and 60 by downwardly depressing the button type switch 66 from a top side thereof.

Preferred features, embodiments and variations of the presently disclosed subject matter may be discerned from the foregoing detailed descriptions which provide sufficient information for those skilled in the art to perform the light accessories 10/20/30/60 and/or the safety helmet ensemble 70 incorporating the same. These detailed descriptions are not to be regarded as limiting the scope of the presently disclosed subject matter. The mounting rings 11/21/3141 or mounting base portions each comprise a central ring opening 13 configured to receive the crown portion 53 of a hard hat or safety helmet 50 thereby fitting over the top of a variety of different styles and shapes of hard hats or safety helmets. The central ring opening 13 is not so large that it cannot be attached securely. The front or anterior and rear or posterior attachment points 22/23 are optional to the design of the mounting rings 11/21/31/41 or mounting base portions. The front or anterior and rear or posterior attachment points 22/23 allow the user to removably attach the safety light accessories 10/20/30/60 quickly and easily and without the need for tools. Removal of the safety light accessories 10/20/30/60 as needed is just as easy and the unit can be taken off and placed back on hundreds of times without breakage.

The series of P-Clips 46 are commercially available and sold in many different sizes. They are primarily used for securing wiring inside of electrical cabinets but provide excellent results when securing the (5 mm) side glow fiber optic cable 42 to the mounting rings 11/21/31/41 or mounting base portions in some embodiments according to the presently disclosed subject matter. The P-Clips 46 are durable and typically made of a plastic or nylon material. The circumferentially spaced placement of the P-Clips 46 is configured to help secure the (5 mm) side glow fiber optic cable 42 to the mounting rings 11/21/31/41 or mounting base portions. The series of ratchet rivets 47 are also commercially available on the market and are typically made of a plastic or nylon material. In some embodiments, the ratchet rivets 47 are configured to fasten the P-Clips 46 to the mounting rings 11/21/31/41 or mounting base portions through rivet-receiving apertures formed in the mounting rings 11/21/31/41 (not specifically illustrated).

The control box or control unit 61 is designed to have an IP54 rating at a minimum in some embodiments. An IP54 rating generally means a product is fully protected against solid objects and splashing of water from any angle. The product is further protected against dust ingress sufficient to enable normal product operation. Additionally, the product will be protected against contamination from limited amounts of dust and other particles. In some embodiments, the control unit 61 may have a higher IP rating such as IP66. In some embodiments, for example, the control unit 61 may be explosion proof.

The control unit 61 comprises two main sections, including a top or upper housing portion 48 and a bottom or lower housing portion 49. In some embodiments, the upper housing portion 48 may comprise a circuit board as generically depicted and referenced at 78 in FIGS. 17 and 19. The upper housing portion 48 further locates power button 66, and provides mounting anchors 79 for the LEDs 67 and side glow fiber optic cable 62 in some embodiments. The top or upper housing portion 48 is mounted on the top ring surface 14 of the mounting rings 11/21/31/41 in some embodiments. In some embodiments, the bottom or lower housing portion 49 of the control unit 61 contains the power source 44 or battery and is mounted to the bottom ring surface 15 of the mounting rings 11/21/31/41 . In some embodiments, the upper and lower housing portions 48/49 of the control unit 61 are held together with self-tapping screws with the mounting rings 11/21/31/41 sandwiched between the upper and lower housing portions 48/49 of the control unit 61.

The side glow fiber optic cable 42 is configured for placement in peripheral radial adjacency to the central ring opening 13 of the mounting rings 11/21/31/41 so as to be as near the crown portion 53 of the safety helmet 50 as possible. The side glow fiber optic cable 42 provides sufficient visibility to passersby or others as at eye symbols 76. By positioning the side glow fiber optic cable 42 in peripheral radial adjacency to the central ring opening 13 of the mounting rings 11/21/31/41 reflects emitting light 101 off the outer, upper surfacing or exterior crown portion surface(s) 55 of the safety helmet 50. The visual effects are thereby brighter and can be seen from a greater distance than that of just side glow emitting light 101 alone. Secondarily to this enhanced lighting effect, the color of the safety helmet 50 can also be more easily or readily seen.

The light accessories 10/20/30/60 according to the presently disclosed subject matter are collectively is referred to as the, “HAL360”. This nomenclature is essentially an acronym for Helmet Active Lighting 360. The presently disclosed subject matter provides a structurally simplified, effective product that provides nearly 360 degrees of visible light around the peripheral crown portion 53 of a safety helmet 50 and of the user wearing an outfitted safety helmet 50 or safety helmet ensemble 70 making the wearer more visible to other workers on the job site and approaching vehicular/equipment traffic, for example.

The HAL360™ safety helmet light accessory according to the presently disclosed subject matter is designed in such a way that the power requirement is minimal thereby allowing for the use of a minimally sized on board battery or power source 44 to obtain between 12 and 15 hours of use before recharging is required. In some embodiments, the preferred method of recharging the power source 44 or battery is achieved by way of a USB type port 45 integrated into the control unit 61. The HAL360™ safety helmet accessories 10/20/30/60 use two LEDs 67 in some embodiments. In these embodiments an LED 67 is located on each light source end 43 of the side glow fiber optic cable 42 or circumferential light source 40, which LEDs 67 are housed at the control unit 61.

In some embodiments, emitting light 101 from the LEDs 67 is transmitted through the side glow fiber optic cable 42 and it is the side glow fiber optic cable 42 that provides the visible 76 emitting light 101. The unique design also makes use of the crown portion 53 of the safety helmet 50 as a light reflector in some embodiments thereby enhancing the visual effect of the emitting light 101 while simultaneously making the surface coloration of the hard hat easily recognizable. This is because of the preferred placement of the side glow fiber optic cable 42 in peripheral radial adjacency to the crown portion 53 of the safety helmet 50.

Noting that color recognition of safety helmets is often problematic at night or in low light conditions, the HAL360™ safety helmet light accessory according to the presently disclosed subject matter as variously exemplified and referenced provides variously colored lighting options to align with the color schema of the safety helmet industry. For example, in some cases all employees may be required to wear a uniform safety helmet color (e.g. white), but the employer would prefer to categorize workers or job site areas by color designation. The HAL360™ safety helmet light accessory according to the presently disclosed subject matter can remedy this perceived need by providing categorized coloration upon uniform safety helmet coloration.

The HAL360™ safety helmet light accessory is cooperable with standard safety helmets or hard hats (cap and full brim) as well and climber style helmets. Although the HAL360™ safety helmet light accessory according to the presently disclosed subject matter has been described by reference to a number of different embodiments, it is not intended that the novel combinations or assemblies be limited thereby, but that modifications thereof are intended to be included as falling within the broad scope and spirit of the foregoing disclosure, the appended drawings, and the following claims.

Safety Helmet Ensemble and Light Accessory Therefor

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