CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application is a continuation-in-part of co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/974,500 filed Oct. 11, 2007, entitled “Electrical Power System for Crash Helmets,” which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/040,974 filed Jan. 21, 2005 entitled “Electrical Power System for Crash Helmets,” which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/544,687 entitled “Helmet Power System” filed Feb. 17, 2004, all of which are herein incorporated by reference for all purposes.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates generally to safety equipment. Specifically, an electrical power system for crash helmets is described.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Crash helmets (“helmets”) are used for a variety of purposes, providing cranial and neck safety protection for users in industries such as sports and leisure, equipment and vehicle operation, construction, military, law enforcement, and others. Helmets offer basic protection of head and neck areas, providing hard surfaces to deflect impacts from physical force or traumas that could cause temporary or permanent physical injury. Helmets can also provide other features beyond basic protection.
Conventional helmets may offer features such as heads-up displays, optical or aural protection, lighting, and communication systems. However, conventional helmet systems often require power sources or supplies that may be heavy or externally coupled to a helmet. Conventional helmets also require significant user interaction in order to activate or deactivate a feature. Equipment such as batteries, power cells, processors, communication transceivers, night/low vision goggle or visor systems can be implemented but require external electrical power supplies and electrical connections to a power supply. The external connections and power supplies are often bulky, difficult to use, and vulnerable to damage. Additionally, external components may require significant user interaction in order to attach and use the feature, creating a potential safety risk. For example, a motorcycle police officer attempting to activate and hold an external flash light while handling a notepad or other equipment exposes the officer to potential harm while preoccupied with activating his light. Military personnel using a heads-up display or night/low-vision system with their helmet while maneuvering through difficult terrain may risk damage or vulnerability due to external wires and power supplies inhibiting movement.
Thus, what is needed is a solution for electrical power for crash helmets and related systems without the limitations of conventional techniques.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Various embodiments of the invention are disclosed in the following detailed description and the accompanying drawings:
FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary electrical power system for a crash helmet;
FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary electrical power system for a crash helmet including a chinbar;
FIG. 3A illustrates an exemplary electrical power system for a crash helmet coupled to a power supply;
FIG. 3B illustrates an exemplary power system for a crash helmet coupled to an alternative power supply;
FIG. 4 illustrates an exemplary electrical power system insert for a crash helmet;
FIG. 5 illustrates an alternative exemplary electrical power system for a crash helmet;
FIG. 6 illustrates another alternative exemplary electrical power system for a crash helmet;
FIG. 7 illustrates another alternative exemplary helmet electrical power system;
FIG. 8 is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary helmet electrical power system;
FIG. 9 is a circuit diagram illustrating an exemplary helmet electrical power system circuit;
FIG. 10 is a circuit diagram illustrating an alternative exemplary helmet electrical power system circuit;
FIG. 11 illustrates an angled perspective of an exemplary electrical power system;
FIG. 12 illustrates a front perspective of an exemplary electrical power system;
FIG. 13 illustrates a side perspective of an exemplary electrical power system;
FIG. 14 illustrates another side perspective of an alternative electrical power system;
FIG. 15 illustrates a side perspective of an alternative electrical power system including a helmet and a visor;
FIG. 16 illustrates a front perspective of an alternative electrical power system;
FIG. 17 illustrates a top perspective of an alternative electrical power system;
FIG. 18 illustrates another side perspective of a further alternative exemplary electrical power system; and
FIG. 19 is a circuit diagram illustrating an exemplary electrical power system circuit.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Implementation of described techniques may occur in numerous ways, including as a system, device, apparatus, process, a computer readable medium such as a computer readable storage medium, or a computer network wherein program instructions are sent over optical or electronic communication links.
A detailed description of one or more embodiments is provided below along with accompanying figures that illustrate the principles of the embodiments. The scope of the embodiments is limited only by the claims and encompasses numerous alternatives, modifications and equivalents. Numerous specific details are set forth in the following description. These details are provided solely for the purposes of example and the embodiments may be practiced according to the claims without some or all of these specific details.
Electrical power systems for crash helmets are described. Various devices, components, and systems using electrical power may be implemented. In keeping with various embodiments described herein, electrical power may be supplied from a power cell or battery to different devices, systems, or components integrated with a helmet. These devices, systems, or components may be manually or automatically activated using a switch coupled to a power cell using various electrical leads, wires or connectors (“leads”). By implementing an electrical power system in a helmet, external power sources and the need for external attachments or hardware are eliminated, enabling features or enhancements to be coupled to a helmet while using power drawn from a helmet electrical power supply. Further, electrical power may be supplied to related systems such as footwear, gloves, visors, hydration packs, bicycle seats, bicycle bags, and other uses.
FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary electrical power system for a crash helmet. Here, helmet 100 is shown including shell 102, visor 104, power cell 106, electrical leads 108, connector 110, vent 112, and side vents 114. In some embodiments, shell 102 may be implemented using materials such as plastic, metal, metal alloys, composite materials (e.g., Kevlar), or other materials that provide impact-resistant strength. Also, power cell 106 may be implemented as a single power cell or as a series of power cells (i.e., a battery), which may be used to store a DC charge when charged by, for example, an AC (e.g., 110 V, 60 Hz) or DC (e.g., 12V) power source. Power distribution from power cell 106 may also be implemented by conducting current along electrical leads 108. Electrical leads 108 may be implemented using copper, steel, various metal alloys, or other types of electrically conductive materials. In some embodiments, power cell 106 may also include components such as a processor, switch, a ventilation fan and motor, and other electrical or electronic devices. In other embodiments, power cell 106 may be implemented using various types of batteries (e.g., Lithium Ion, Nickel Cadmium, Nickel Metal Hydroxide, and others). Additionally, connector 110 may be used to couple, either directly or indirectly, power cell 106 to an external charger or power inverter. A power charge or inverter may be used to build, store, or discharge electrical energy stored in power cell 106. An electrical charge may be provided from power cell 106 along electrical leads 108 to various components, or systems. Although not shown, an electrical switch (e.g., contact, pressure, mechanical, electromechanical, or others) may be used to allow electrical current to flow from power cell 106 to other systems. Additionally, power cell 106 may be coupled to other systems attached, coupled, connected, or formed in shell 102. In some embodiments, features, enhancements, or other systems providing lighting, communication, or information may be provided in other parts of helmet 100.
FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary electrical power system for a crash helmet including a chinbar. In some embodiments, helmet 200 includes shell 202, visor 204, chinbar 206, power cell 208, electrical leads 210, and connector 212. Here, chinbar 206 may be implemented using various materials such as polystyrene, injection molded plastic, or other plastic compounds of varying stiffness material rigidity. Chinbar 206 may also be implemented as a single piece or as multiple pieces and are not limited to the examples described herein. Modifications to chinbar 206 may be implemented using alternative materials and configurations other than those discussed herein. For example, different materials, shapes, material compositions, configurations, components, and other modifications may be implemented. As an example, chinbar 206 may include power cell 208 and electrical leads 210 secured within an internal cavity or pocket. As part of chinbar 206, an exemplary electrical power system such as those described herein may be implemented to provide electrical power to other components attached, connected, or coupled to helmet 200 without requiring an external source of power or leads. Further, the need for wiring, mounting, and mounting hardware for coupling an external power source are eliminated. Additionally, numerous components may be operated using power delivered by an electrical current from power cell 208. Some components may include one or more ventilation fans, heads-up display, lighting, communication systems (e.g., Bluetooth, IEEE 802.11 standard-based wireless communications modules and components), and others.
FIG. 3A illustrates an exemplary electrical power system for a crash helmet coupled to a power supply. In some embodiments, helmet 300 may be implemented using shell 302, visor 304, power cell 306, electrical leads 308, connectors 310 and 312, supply lead 314, plug 316, and power outlet 318. Here, power cell 306 may be charged and re-charged by plugging into a DC or AC power supply, power inverter, charger, or other device such as power outlet 318. In some embodiments, power outlet 318 may be a portable or installed power source. In other embodiments, power outlet 318 may be implemented differently.
Here, electrical current charges power cell 306, which may used to provide an electrical current to other devices, systems, or components in helmet 300. Although not shown, other devices, systems, or components such as fans, fan motors, processors and microprocessors, display systems, and the like may be included. Connectors 310 and 312 provide a connection between power cell 306 and power outlet 318, enabling electrical current to flow between components located at various endpoints of an electrical system embedded in a helmet. In some embodiments, connectors 310 and 312 may be implemented using female-male connectors, snap, mechanical, or other types of connectors. When connector 310 is not coupled to connector 312, connector 310 may be inserted or tucked into a pocket, cavity, or other restraining structure within chinbar or cheek pad (not shown) to prevent it from catching on any passing obstructions. Alternatively, electrical leads 308 and connector 310 may be detached from power cell 306 and stored separately. In other embodiments, electrical leads 308 and connector 310 may be attached to another device, system, or component in helmet 300.
FIG. 3B illustrates an exemplary power system for a crash helmet coupled to an alternative power supply. Here, helmet 300 includes shell 302, visor 304, power supply 306, electrical leads 308, connectors 310-312, supply lead 314, and charger 320. In some embodiments, charger 320 may be used to provide a DC voltage to charge or recharge power cell 306. Charger 320 may be implemented as a single cell or multiple cell battery (e.g., LiOH, NiMH, NiCD, and others), as a solar charger, power inverter, or as another AC/DC charger. In some embodiments, supply lead 314 may be detachable or hard-wired into charger 320. If hard-wired, charger 320 may be remotely, but proximally located to helmet 300. For example, helmet 300 may be worn by a motorcyclist while charger 320 may be physically located elsewhere on a suit worn by the motorcyclist or on the motorcycle. If a solar charger is used, charger 320 may be worn on an external surface of helmet 300, converting solar energy to electrical energy to provide a constant charge to power cell 306. In some embodiments, charger 320 may be a motorcycle battery (e.g., 12V DC) that, when connected via connectors 310 and 312, supplies an electrical current to charge or recharge power cell 306.
FIG. 4 illustrates an exemplary electrical power system insert for a crash helmet. Here, system 400 includes pad 402, which has cheekpad 404, power cell 406, electrical leads 308, connector 410, output leads 412, and light 414. In some embodiments, pad 400 may be fitted for half or three-quarter (¾) helmets with no chinbar. If no chinbar is included, power cell 406 may be integrated, secured within, or formed into cheekpad 404. In other embodiments, cheekpad 404 may be manufactured with a hollow pocket having an opening for inserting power cell 406 inside. The elasticity of material used to implement cheekpad 404 may be high enough to permit the opening to be stretched to allow the passage of power cell 406 to the cavity formed within cheekpad 404. In other embodiments, power cell 406 may be inserted before, during, or after manufacturing pad 402 and cheekpad 404. In still other embodiments, power cell 406 may be implemented differently.
In some embodiments, power cell 406 may be used to provide electrical current to additional devices, systems, or components included with the electrical power system. For example, light 414 may be powered using an electrical DC voltage provided by power cell 406. Power cell 406 may be a single or multiple cell battery storing an electrochemical charge that, when output, provides a DC voltage to light 414. In some embodiments, light 414 may be implemented as an incandescent, light emitting diode, or other light-emitting device. A switch (not shown) disposed between power cell 406 and light 414 may provide a user with the ability to control the light (i.e., activate, deactivate). In other embodiments, light 414 may be replaced or supplemented with other components such as a power or voice-activated wireless transmission system for cellular or mobile phone communications, short-range RF transceivers, camera or imaging device, display (e.g., heads-up display), or other electrically-powered devices.
FIG. 5 illustrates an alternative exemplary electrical power system for a crash helmet. Here, helmet 500 includes shell 502, pad 504, cheekpad 506, power cell 508, electrical leads 510, connector 512, output leads 514, and light 516. Here pad 504, which, in some embodiments, may be similar to pad 402 described above in connection with FIG. 4, may be inserted into helmet 500 and shell 502 as shown. Power cell 508, electrical leads 510, connector 512, output leads 514, and light 516 may be configured in helmet 500 as shown. If a half or three-quarters (i.e., the helmet varies in the length of coverage or protection offered to the wearer) helmet is used, light 516 may be slightly recessed into the side lining of shell 502, providing a housed light that is under shell 502 but able to illuminate a field of view. Additionally, the cone of illumination provided by light 516 may also be adjusted in terms of height, angle, lateral displacement, and other factors that may provide efficient lighting for a person wearing helmet 500. In other embodiments, different or additional devices, systems, or components may be included in different positions or locations of pad 504. As an example, light 516 may be included in the left cheekpad of pad 504 while a camera may be included in the wearer's right cheekpad. In law enforcement applications, light 516 provides illumination without requiring burdensome physical activity by the user while engaging in other activities (e.g., writing on a notepad, observing or stopping a suspect while illuminating a dimly lit vehicle, and the like).
Electrical current flows from power cell 508 to light 516 and other components. In some embodiments, a camera (not shown), or other electrically-powered equipment may be coupled to shell 502, pad 504 or other portions of helmet 500 without the need for an external power source. In other embodiments, additional equipment may be easily replaced by providing easily manipulated pads having pockets, fasteners, locks, or other devices used to secure equipment to pad 504.
FIG. 6 illustrates another alternative exemplary electrical power system for a crash helmet. Here, helmet 600 includes shell 602, pad 604, right cheekpad 606, left cheekpad 608, power cell 610, electrical leads 612, connector 614, output leads 616, and light 618. In some embodiments, helmet 600 may be a half or three-quarter helmet, providing an electrical power system in cheekpads or other liners such as right cheekpad 606 or left cheekpad 608. An electrical power system may be used to provide power to light 618. In other embodiments, power cell 610 may supply power via output leads 616 to other systems such as a microprocessor, wireless communications transceiver (e.g., Bluetooth, or another RF transmitter), heads-up-display, or other electrical or electronic system. Some or all of these systems may be included with helmet 600, which provides electrical power to various systems from power cell 610, which is formed or placed within an internal structure (e.g., left cheekpad 608) of helmet 600. In additional embodiments, a switch (not shown) may be incorporated which provides a user with the ability to open or close an electrical path to supply power to an electrically connected or coupled system (e.g., light 618). Other variations may be provided and are not limited to the embodiments described above.
FIG. 7 illustrates another alternative exemplary helmet electrical power system. In some embodiments, helmet 700 includes shell 702, peak 704, neck curtain 706, strap 708, power cell 710, electrical leads 712, switch 714, output leads 716, and light 718. As an example, helmet 700 may be a law enforcement helmet worn such as that worn by a police officer. An electrical power system for helmet 700 may be installed in neck curtain 706. In some embodiments, the electrical power system including, at least, power cell 710, switch 714, electrical leads 712, and output leads 714, may be implemented as part of neck curtain 706. Here, the left side of neck curtain 706 includes power cell 710, switch 714, electrical leads 712, and output leads 714. However, in other embodiments, more or fewer components may be included. For example, in addition to light 718, a camera or imaging device may be included. A microprocessor, heads-up-display, or other electrical component may be used, providing additional functionality installed in helmet 700 without requiring the use of external systems. In the context of law enforcement applications, having systems such as power cell 710, switch 714, electrical leads 712, and output leads 716, internal electrical distribution provides for ease of use and frees the hands of the wearer to engage in other activities such as handling different equipment while providing illumination from the helmet at approximately the user's eye level. In some embodiments, light 718, which may be set at eye level, provides for direct or indirect illumination at a convenient height and direction for the user. As a user moves, turns, or directs her vision, light 718 illuminates the field of view for the user without requiring the user to direct or handle an external light, flashlight, or illumination source. This may also be useful in contexts in addition to law enforcement aspects, including military, emergency services, and basic vehicle (e.g., motorcycle) operator safety. In other embodiments, some or all of power cell 710, switch 714, electrical leads 712, and output leads 716 may be implemented in a different part of helmet 700 (e.g., right side of neck curtain 706) and are not limited to the embodiment shown.
Other embodiments may include additional or fewer components with the electrical power system that at least includes power cell 710, switch 714, electrical leads 712, and output leads 716. For example, power cell 710 may be implemented as a single electrical storage cell device or as a multiple cell storage device (e.g., battery) for electrical power. In still other embodiments, some or all of power cell 710, switch 714, electrical leads 712, and output leads 716 may be implemented in a liner, cranial pad, or other internal structure within shell 702, providing an alternative location other than neck curtain 708. Power cell 710, switch 714, electrical leads 712, and output leads 716 may be located within, for example, peak 704 or another related structure of helmet 700.
FIG. 8 is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary helmet electrical power system. In some embodiments, system 800 may include a battery module 802, light 804, display 806, memory 808, processor 810, communications module 812, electrical bus 814, and communications signal 816. Here, battery module 802 may also include logic for controlling electrical power distribution to other components in system 800. Battery module 802 may also provide an AC or DC power to other components in system 800. In other embodiments, there may be more, fewer, or different components other than those shown in system 800.
The components shown in system 800 may be implemented using various techniques and equipment. For example, light 804 may be implemented using a light emitting diode (LED), fluorescent, incandescent, or other type of bulb. In other embodiments, battery module 802 may be implemented using a single or multiple cell battery. In some embodiments, Lithium Ion, Nickel-Metal-Hydride, or other fuel cell technologies may be used for battery module 802. In other embodiments, display 806 may be implemented using a simple back-lit display, a heads-up-display, an electrophoretic display, a display built into a visor, or other variations as may be envisioned. In other embodiments, processor 810 may be implemented using a microprocessor (e.g., 32-bit, 64-bit, and others) for processing control signals to control various components in system 800, including memory 808. For memory 808, various implementations may be used to provide data storage for various purposes such as power settings to extend or shorten the duration of use for battery module 802, pre-determined settings for display 806, light 804 (e.g., light 804 may be pre-programmed using a program stored in memory 808 and controlled by processor 810 to determine a particular time of day or night as to when light 804 is activated), and others. In other embodiments, processor 810 may process control signals with communications module 812, which may be implemented using various types of wireless (e.g., RF) communications systems for either short-range (e.g., motorcycle-to-motorcycle, unit-to-unit), cellular, or other mobile communications. In some embodiments, systems installed on a motorcycle may be activated or deactivated by control signals sent from processor 810 over communications module 812. In some embodiments, control programs stored in memory 808 may be used to control functions such as activating a motorcycle headlamp when a low-level light environment is detected. Power from battery module 802 distributed over system 800 provides flexible, safe, and efficient power distribution.
FIG. 9 is a circuit diagram illustrating an exemplary helmet electrical power system circuit. Here, circuit 900 includes power cell 902, switch 904, and lamp 906. Lamp 906 may be activated or deactivated by closing or opening, respectively, switch 904. In some embodiments, other circuit components may be included and circuit 900 may be implemented differently, including various circuit elements or components added in either series or parallel configurations. In other embodiments, switch 904 may be coupled to a wireless transceiver (not shown) that enables remote activation and deactivation of electrical current to one, some or all circuit elements.
FIG. 10 is a circuit diagram illustrating an alternative exemplary helmet electrical power system circuit. In some embodiments, circuit 1000 includes power cell 1002, motor switch 1004, motor 1006, lamp switch 1008, and lamp 1010. Here, motor 1006 may be activated or deactivated by closing or opening, respectively, motor switch 1004. Likewise, lamp 1010 may be activated or deactivated by closing or opening, respectively, lamp switch 1008. In some embodiments, other circuit components may be included and circuit 1000 may be implemented differently, including various components in either series or parallel configurations. In other embodiments, motor switch 1004 may be coupled to a wireless transceiver (not shown) that enables remote activation and deactivation of electrical current to one, some or all circuit elements. In the above embodiments, variations may be performed to enable local or remote control, using direct or indirect means (e.g., wireless RF transceivers) for sending control signals to activate or deactivate a switch (e.g., switch 904, motor switch 1004) or other elements of electrical power systems for helmets. Different circuit configurations may be implemented by modifying some or all of the circuit elements shown and described above. Various implementations may be used and electrical circuit configurations are not limited to those embodiments described above.
FIG. 11 illustrates an angled perspective of an exemplary electrical power system. Here, visor system 1100 includes connector 1102, switch 1104, electrical leads 1106, light 1108, camera 1110, and visor 1112. In some embodiments, visor 1112 may be implemented using materials such as plastic or other materials that provide weather-resistant, structural strength. Visor 1112 may be implemented to form different shapes, extensions, moldings, or grooves to mount other systems, channel air or liquid (e.g., moisture, rain), flow, or to perform other purposes. In some embodiments, extensions may be elongated portions of visor 1112, including distal ends, formed grooves, and other shapes, features, or structures associated with visor 1112. In other embodiments, connector 1102 may be used to couple to an external power source (not shown) and receive electrical current to flow to various components or systems on visor 1112. Connector 1102 may be attached, coupled, connected, formed, or integrated with visor 1112. For example, connector 1102 may be implemented at a distal end of visor 1112. In addition, connector 1102 may be implemented to attach, connect, or otherwise couple (“couple”) to an external system (e.g., a helmet system). Power distribution from connector 1102 may be implemented by conducting electrical current along electrical leads 1106. Electrical leads 1106 may be implemented using conductive materials such as copper, gold, steel, various metal alloys, and other electrically conductive materials. As used herein, the term “electrical leads” may refer to “conducting or conductive medium” or “distribution system.” In some embodiments, electrical leads 1106 may be mounted, formed, fastened, attached, or otherwise integrated (“integrated”) with a bottom side (not shown) of visor 1112. In other embodiments, electrical leads 1106 may be disposed within a channel (not shown) formed on the bottom side of visor 1112, thus sealing electrical leads 1106 from plain view. The channel (“conducting channel”) may extend throughout visor 1112 to house electrical leads that may be used to conduct electrical current to other systems.
In some examples, switch 1104 may be implemented to control electrical current to flow to various components (e.g., camera 1110). As used herein, the term “control” may refer to activating and deactivating usage by allowing or stopping the electrical current flow. In other embodiments, visor system 1100 may implement another switch (not shown) to connect to another component (e.g., light 1108) integrated with visor system 1100. In one example, visor system 100, when coupled to a helmet system (not shown), may enable switch 1104 to be remotely manipulated. In addition, a helmet system may be implemented with other systems, components, or elements, including a communications system (e.g., wireless RF transceiver) handling the control of visor system 1100.
In other examples, various components such as light 1108 and camera 1110 may be integrated with visor 1112. In some embodiments, there may be other components or systems integrated with visor system 1100. Here, light 1108 may be operated using switch 1104 to open or close a circuit to permit electrical current to flow from a battery (not shown) to light 1108. In another example, light 1108 may be coupled to another switch (not shown) and provide a user with the ability to control the light (i.e., activate, deactivate) from a position other than that shown. In other embodiments, light 1108 may be implemented with a high-luminance, wide-angle, or ultra-flux radiating light system (e.g., light-emitting diode). Also, light 1108 may be integrated with a substantially flat surface to illuminate in the direction of sight (i.e., a user's field of vision). In addition, light 1108 may be implemented near an edge of a substantially flat surface. In still other embodiments, visor system 1100 may be implemented to integrate with more than one light. Here, camera 1110 may be integrated with moldings, extensions, or grooves of visor system 1100. For example, camera 1110 may be implemented on one or more extensions to provide a stable and level mounting surface. In addition, electrical leads 1106 may be implemented on various surfaces of visor 1112 (e.g., on the bottom of) and extend throughout the extensions to provide electrical current to camera 1110. In still other embodiments, camera 1110 may be implemented to integrate with a substantially flat surface of visor 1112. Other variations may be provided and are not limited to the embodiments described above.
FIG. 12 illustrates a front perspective of an exemplary electrical power system. Here, visor system 1200 includes switch 1204, light 1208, camera 1210, visor 1212, and antenna 1214. In some embodiments, camera 1210 may include antenna 1214 to communicate with other components or systems. Antenna 1214 may be a communication device (e.g., wireless RF transceiver, Bluetooth, IEEE 802.11, or others) configured to transmit images captured by camera 1210. In other embodiments, antenna 1214 may be configured to receive control signals to provide other operations (e.g., save captured images, delete captured images, or others).
Here, switch 1204 may be implemented as described above in connection with 1104 of FIG. 11. Switch 1204 may be implemented to manipulate electrical current to flow to other components (e.g., camera 1210). In one example, visor system 1200 when coupled to a helmet system (not shown) may configure switch 1204 to be remotely manipulated. In addition, a helmet system may be implemented with a communications system (e.g., wireless RF transceiver) handling remote manipulation of visor system 1200. Various components such as light 1208 and camera 1210 may be integrated with visor 1212. Here, light 1208 may be implemented to operate with another switch that provides the ability to control the light (i.e., activate, deactivate). Light 1208 may be implemented as described above in connection with light 1108 (FIG. 11). In other embodiments, light 1208 may be implemented using a light-emitting diode. For example, a light-emitting diode may be white or another color variation. Also, light 1208 may be implemented (i.e., mounted, coupled, connected, or the like) near an edge of a substantially flat surface. In still other embodiments, visor system 1200 may be implemented to integrate with more than one light. In some embodiments, camera 1210 may be implemented on extensions to provide a stable and level mounting. Camera 1210 may be implemented as described above in connection with camera 1110 (FIG. 11). In addition, electrical leads 1106 (FIG. 11) may be attached, coupled, connected, formed, or integrated with visor 1212 and extend throughout extensions to provide electrical current to camera 1210 and light 1208. In other embodiments, visor system 1200 and the above-described elements may be varied and are not limited to the functions, structures, configurations, implementations, or other examples provided above.
FIG. 13 illustrates a side perspective of an exemplary electrical power system. Here visor system 1300 includes switch 1304, light 1308, camera 1310, visor 1312, and switch 1316. In some embodiments, visor system 1300 may implement a switching system that includes switch 1304 and switch 1316. Here, switch 1304 may be implemented as described above in connection with switch 1104 (FIG. 11). For example, switch 1304 may be implemented (e.g., coupled, mounted, connected) to camera 1310 and provide the ability to control the flow of electrical current to or from camera 1310 or other elements. In some embodiments, camera 1310 may be integrated with visor 1312 by coupling to extensions, moldings, or grooves to provide an elevated vantage point. In other embodiments, switch 1316 may be coupled to light 1308 by using electrical leads 1106 (FIG. 1) to electrically conduct between components. In some examples, switch 1316 may be remotely operated when coupled to a helmet (not shown). In other embodiments, visor system 1300 and the above-described elements may be varied and are not limited to the functions, structures, configurations, or implementations provided.
FIG. 14 illustrates another side perspective of an alternative electrical power system. Here, visor system 1400 includes switch 1404, light 1408, visor 1412, switch 1416, helmet system 1420, light 1422, and light 1424. Here, visor system 1400 may be coupled, fastened, mounted, or otherwise attached (“attached”) to helmet system 1420. In some embodiments, helmet system 1420 may implement lighting, communications, or other functionality that includes, for example, one or more lights being implemented as described above in conjunction with light 1108 (FIG. 11). Helmet system 1420 includes light 1422 and light 1424 to provide illumination in the vicinity of helmet system 1420. In some embodiments, helmet system 1420 may implement an electrical power system as described above in connection with system 800 (FIG. 8). In still other embodiments, connector 1102 (FIG. 11) may be coupled to helmet system 1420 to provide electrical current to visor system 1400. For example, connector 1102 may be connected to another system within the lining of helmet system 1420. In addition, electrical current may provide power to components or systems located on visor 1412 such as light 1408, switch 1404, switch 1416, and others. In other embodiments, visor system 1400 and the above-described elements may be varied and are not limited to the functions, structures, configurations, or implementations provided.
FIG. 15 illustrates a side perspective of an alternative electrical power system including a helmet and a visor. Here, visor system 1500 includes switch 1504, light 1508, visor 1512, switch 1516, helmet system 1520, light 1522, and light 1524. In some embodiments, helmet system 1520 may implement lighting, communications, or other functionality that includes, for example, one or more lights being implemented as described above in conjunction with light 1108 (FIG. 11). In other embodiments, visor system 1500 may be implemented as described above in connection with visor system 1400. In still other embodiments, lights of helmet system 1520 and visor system 1512 (e.g., light 1108 (FIG. 11), light 1522, light 1524) may be implemented using a variation of colors including white. In addition, lights (light 1108 (FIG. 11), light 1522, light 1524) may be implemented as wide-angle, ultra-flux light-emitting diodes. In still other embodiments, visor 1512 may be detached from helmet system 1520. In addition, visor 1512 may be coupled to helmet system 1520 using other components or systems. Other variations may be provided and are not limited to the embodiments described above.
FIG. 16 illustrates a front perspective of an alternative electrical power system. Here, visor system 1600 includes switch 1604, light 1608, visor 1612, helmet system 1620, light 1624, and light 1626. In some embodiments, helmet system 1620 may implement one or more light-emitting diodes coupled to another switch (not shown). One or more light-emitting diodes of helmet system 1620 (e.g., light 1624, light 1626) including light 1608 may be configured to illuminate using white or another color. In various embodiments, lights of visor system 1600 and helmet system 1620 (i.e., light 1608, light 1624, light 1626) may be configured to illuminate in the direction of sight (i.e., a user's field of vision). Here, switch 1604 may be disposed at a distal end of visor 1612. In some embodiments, visor system 1600 may be implemented as described above in connection with visor system 1400 (FIG. 14). Other variations may be provided and are not limited to the embodiments shown and described above.
FIG. 17 illustrates a top perspective of an alternative electrical power system. Here, visor system 1700 includes switch 1704, light 1708, visor 1712, helmet system 1720, light 1724, and light 1726. In some embodiments, visor system 1700 may be implemented as described above in connection with visor system 1600 (FIG. 16). Here, visor 1712 may be attached, coupled, or mounted on helmet system 1720. Helmet system 1720 may be implemented using an electrical power system such as that described above in connection with system 800 (FIG. 8). Here, visor system 1712 may be implemented to maintain a low-profile structure and compact assembly of components or systems. As used herein, the term “low-profile” may refer to an aspect, view, or configuration where a structure (e.g., visor 1712, helmet system 1720, and others) has a low (i.e., unsubstantial) cross-section, view, profile, or other physical characteristic that has a low degree of exposure. Here, switch 1716 may be configured to activate or deactivate (i.e., turn on or turn off, respectively) light 1708. In other embodiments, switch 1516 (FIG. 15) may be configured to handle switching of electrical current to light 1708. Other lights belonging to helmet system 1720 (e.g., light 1724, light 1726) may be integrated with a helmet (e.g., helmet system 1720) having an electrical power system as described above in connection with system 800 (FIG. 8). In other embodiments, visor system 1700 and the above-described elements may be varied and are not limited to the functions, structures, configurations, implementations, or examples provided.
FIG. 18 illustrates another side perspective of a further exemplary electrical power system. Here, visor system 1800 includes switch 1804, light 1808, camera 1810, visor 1812, switch 1816, helmet system 1820, and light 1822. In some embodiments, visor system 1800 may be implemented as described above in connection with visor system 1400 (FIG. 14). In other embodiments, camera 1810 may be integrated with visor system 1800 using mounting support from formed moldings, extensions, or fixtures of visor 1812. As used herein, the term “camera” may refer to “imaging system.” For example, helmet system 1820 may be attached to visor system 1800 and camera 1810 may be coupled to helmet system 1820 for added stability. In addition, camera 1810 may be mounted on visor 1812 to be facing in the direction of sight during usage (e.g., image capturing). In some embodiments, camera 1810 may be attached (i.e., coupled) or detached to or from visor 1812. In other embodiments, switch 1804, using electrical leads 1106 (FIG. 11) coupled to connector 1102 (FIG. 11), may be configured to turn on or off camera 1810. In still other embodiments, switch 1816 may be configured to switch activation of camera 1810. In addition, lights mounted on visor 1812 (e.g., light 1808) and helmet system 1820 (e.g., light 1822, light 1824) may be powered by an electrical power system (e.g., system 800 (FIG. 8)) housed in helmet system 1820. Other variations may be provided and are not limited to the embodiments described above.
FIG. 19 is a circuit diagram illustrating an exemplary electrical power system circuit. Here, circuit 1900 includes resistors 1902-1906, light sources 1912-1916, switch 1920, connector 1922, and power cell 1924. Light sources 1912-1916 may be activated or deactivated by closing or opening switch 1920. Resistors 1902-1906 may have various resistance values, depending on the respective light sources 1912-1916. For example, light sources 1912-1916 may be light emitting diodes (LED). In some embodiments, light source 1912 may be a white LED. In other embodiments, light source 1912 may be a blue LED or a LED of a different color. In still other embodiments, light sources 1912-1916 may be implemented using LEDs, fluorescent, incandescent, halogen, or other light-emitting devices. Although three light sources are shown in FIG. 19, in other embodiments, there may be more or fewer light sources in circuit 1900. In still other embodiments, additional accessories (e.g., high-powered flashlight, cell phone, MP3 player, and others) may receive power from power cell 1924. Power cell 1924 may be implemented using a single or multiple cell battery. Power cell 1924 may be rechargeable. In some embodiments, power cell 1924 may be a rechargeable battery. In other embodiments, Lithium Ion, Nickel-Metal-Hydride, or other fuel cell technologies may be used for power cell 1924. Connector 1922 may be configured to provide electrical energy from power cell 1924 to circuit 1900. In some embodiments, power cell 1924 may provide a DC or AC voltage to activate circuit 1900. In contrast to using a regular battery-powered light source (not shown), in which the light may become dim or non-functional over time (e.g., during an extended bicycle ride), the steady current of circuit 1900 ensures that light sources 1912-1916 remain steady in brightness and do not dim during use. In some embodiments, other circuit components may be included and circuit 1900 may be implemented differently, including various components in either series or parallel configurations. In other embodiments, switch 1920 may be coupled to a wireless transceiver (not shown) that enables remote activation and deactivation of electrical current to one, some, or all circuit elements. In the above embodiments, variations may be performed to enable local or remote control, using direct or indirect means (e.g., wireless RF transceivers) for sending control signals to activate or deactivate a switch (e.g., switch 1920) or other elements of electrical power systems for visor systems. Different circuit configurations may be implemented by modifying some or all of the circuit elements shown and described above. In other examples, circuit 1900 and the above-described elements may be varied and are not limited to the functions, structures, configurations, implementations, or examples provided.
Although the foregoing embodiments have been described in some detail for purposes of clarity of understanding, the invention is not limited to the details provided. There are many alternative ways of implementing the invention. The disclosed embodiments are illustrative and not restrictive.
