Abstract: Methods and systems for transmitting a torch angle and/or a torch-to-workpiece distance error to a welding operator when these parameters are outside of a preset optimal range via real time visual and/or audio cues are provided. One embodiment of the present disclosure relates to weld characteristic communication via intuitive arrays of visual indicators located on the periphery of a lens, which indicate to the welding operator the direction and severity of the torch angle error. In one embodiment, audio cues, such as pulsed or continuous tones may be used to communicate torch-to-workpiece distance to the welding operator. In certain embodiments, vertical visual indicator arrays may be used to indicate additional weld or auxiliary information, such as battery charge state, torch speed and so forth, to the welding operator. All the components of the communication system may be located in or on the welding helmet or the components may be split between the helmet and a belt pack.

Abstract: The head cooling apparatus is housed in a case removably fitted within an existing hat crown of a hat, without structural modification to the hat. The case has a plurality of air vents including an intake and a trio of vents which direct air across a hat wearer's head. The fan within the case is adjacent to the intake. The non-evaporative refreezable cooling cartridge is removably fitted within the case. The switched power source within the case is in communication with the fan and a power source. The fan forces air into the intake, across the cooling cartridge and out the vents toward a wearer's head.

Abstract: A welding light detection and anti-glare eye protection apparatus, which shields welding light generated in welding or cutting environments to safely protect eyes of a worker from the welding light, and a method for controlling the same are provided. When the apparatus is powered on, it is determined, based on a reference value, whether or not a specific time has passed without detecting welding light. If the specific time has passed without detecting welding light, a power saving mode is performed. If welding light is detected while the power saving mode is performed, normal power is supplied and light transmittance is controlled. When the power saving mode is performed, the reference value is reset so that photosensitivity is reduced below a specific value. This method saves energy while preventing the apparatus from operating abnormally. Thus, it is possible to drive the anti-glare eye protection plate most efficiently according to ambient environments.

Abstract: An eye protector (16) is provided for use in connection with a protective helmet (10) worn by a firefighter or other emergency worker. The protective helmet (10) has a crown (12) and a brim (14) which projects forwardly and laterally from a lower edge of the crown (12). The eye protector (16) includes a pair of transparent, shatter-resistant eye shields (18) that are mounted to the underside of the brim (14) for movement between a storage position and a usage position. Each of the eye shields (18) may have a width W of at least 5.147 inches, may be manufactured from a coated polycarbonate sheet material, and may include an edge enhancement (29) to limit heat related deformation of the eye shield.

Abstract: A dazzle prevention device having an electromagnetic wave detection function is disclosed. The device includes an optical detection means, an electromagnetic wave sensor means, the electromagnetic wave detection means, a control means, and a light transmission control means. The optical detection means detects light generated from the welding or cutting torch. The electromagnetic wave sensor means detects an electromagnetic wave. The electromagnetic wave detection means compares a signal, which is input through the electromagnetic wave sensor means and resonated, with a variably set reference value. The control means applies the electromagnetic wave detection mean drive signal to the electromagnetic wave detection means and monitors the variation of an electromagnetic signal using the output of the electromagnetic wave detection means. The light transmission control means controls the variation of light transmittance of the dazzle prevention plate in response to an output signal from the control means.

Abstract: An indicator system and method for an auto-darkening lens or other device that is intended to be placed relatively close to the face of a wearer includes one or more indicators adjacent the lens and generally provides the indicators in the peripheral field of view of the wearer, allowing the indicators to be discerned without having to focus eye vision on them and while allowing the wearer to direct eye focus on a work piece or the like.

Abstract: A helmet assembly includes dedicated features that are configured to matingly engage with a mating structure attached to a distinct accessory unit. The corresponding mating configurations enable the operable securement of one or more of such distinct accessory units to the helmet body.