Abstract: Improvements to helmet assemblies with flip-type welding visors are provided. In one embodiment, a return mechanism applies a predetermined force to a wireform spring. The return mechanism applies a force between a welding visor and a grinding shell, while concurrently reducing rotational forces needed to flip up the welding visor from the grinding shell. In another embodiment, a combination of an adjustable spring and a slide stop provides an adjustable stopping position for the wireform spring. The adjustable stopping position permits adjustable balancing of the forces that are applied to the wireform spring.

Abstract: A grinding mode selector switch for welding masks which controls an anti-glare device blocking hazardous light during a welding operation or an operation using a cutting torch and protecting eyes of a worker during a grinding operation without taking off a welding mask during the welding operation and the grinding operation is disclosed. The grinding mode selector switch for welding masks is installed on the outer surface of the welding mask and is not touched by an external object, and the protruding height of a button protective cap is equal to or greater than the height of a button so as to prevent the button from being touched by an external object when the worker performs an operation.

Abstract: A lens assembly for securing in an opening in a face plate of a face protector has a first, retainer lens of shape and dimensions configured to be secured in the front opening of a face plate and having a curvature substantially matching the curvature of the face plate. A second lens of smaller dimensions is secured behind the first lens to provide a lens-in-a-lens configuration. The lens assembly may be releasably secured in the face plate opening and the second lens is interchangeable with sets of lenses having different properties such as lens shade. The retainer assembly has a back cover and a gasket or spacer between the back cover and second lens to allow second lenses of different depths to be secured in the assembly.

Abstract: A system enables 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 audio cues. Weld characteristics are communicated via audio signals, which indicate to the welding operator the direction and severity of the torch angle error. Audio cues, such as pulsed or continuous tones, are used to communicate torch-to-workpiece distance to the welding operator.

Abstract: A welding mask includes a mask body formed with a viewing window, and an eye shield assembly including a window frame, a lens and a resilient positioning frame. The window frame is connected to the mask body, surrounds the viewing window, and includes an inwardly projecting stop and an opposing pair of inwardly projecting retaining portions disposed rearwardly of the stop. The lens is disposed removably between the stop and the retaining portions. The positioning frame is disposed removably between the lens and the retaining portions. The positioning frame defines a convex surface facing a direction away from the lens, and abuts against the retaining portions to thereby result in resilient deformation of the positioning frame and enable the positioning frame to press the lens against the stop.

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: A welding mask includes a mask body and a screen assembly. The mask body has a viewing window. The screen assembly covers the viewing window, and includes a first frame mounted on the mask body, a second frame connected detachably to the first frame, an elastic piece provided on the second frame, and a lens sandwiched between the elastic piece and the first frame.