Abstract: A safety device for mine workers, comprising a circular body 101 around the worker's neck, linked to an extendable plate 102 via a link 103, featuring a microphone 104 installed on body 101 for voice commands, laser sensors embedded on body 101 for neck dimension detection and air compressor-driven inflation of an inner grip, a gas sensor detecting toxic gases, an AI-based imaging unit 105 installed on body 101 to locate the worker's face and activate protection mechanisms, an L-shaped rod 106 with a motorized slider 107 deploying a face mask 108 connected to an oxygen chamber 110 via an electronic valve 109 for breathing support, in emergencies, a drawer covering the body 101 against fire, and GPS guiding in low visibility for safe mine exit, an FBG (Fiber Bragg Grating) sensor is arranged on unit for detecting health parameters of worker.
Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to a safety device for mine workers that is capable of enhancing operational efficiency and worker safety in dynamic mine environments. Additionally, the proposed device is also capable of accurately locate workers in low visibility situations within the mine alongside providing clear navigation instructions to guide workers along safe evacuation routes towards exits or safe zones.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Ensuring the safety of mine workers is paramount due to the inherent risks associated with mining operations. Mines are characterized by heavy machinery, hazardous materials, and challenging environmental conditions, making them prone to accidents and health hazards. Key safety measures include rigorous training for all personnel, emphasizing hazard awareness, emergency procedures, and proper equipment usage. Personal protective equipment (PPE) such as helmets, goggles, respirators, and specialized clothing is mandatory to mitigate risks from falling debris, toxic fumes, and other dangers. Regular inspections of equipment and infrastructure are essential to identify and address potential hazards promptly. Implementing strict protocols for handling explosives and toxic substances minimizes the risk of accidents and environmental contamination. Additionally, promoting a safety culture where workers are encouraged to report unsafe conditions without fear fosters a proactive approach to risk management. Collaborative efforts between management, workers, and regulatory authorities are essential for continually improving safety standards and implementing best practices.
[0003] Traditional methods of ensuring mine worker safety, such as basic training, personal protective equipment (PPE), and ventilation systems, have historically provided foundational safety measures. However, these approaches have significant drawbacks. They often rely heavily on individual worker vigilance and adherence to protocols, which is inconsistent and susceptible to human error. Basic PPE do not effectively protect against all hazards present in modern mining environments, such as exposure to toxic gases or fine particulate matter. Moreover, traditional ventilation systems have limited effectiveness in adequately controlling air quality in deep or complex mining operations. Resistance to adopting newer safety technologies and slow adaptation to advancements further hinder the efficacy of these methods. As mining practices evolve and hazards become more complex, there is a pressing need for the industry to embrace innovative safety solutions that offer more comprehensive protection for mine workers while fostering a culture of continuous improvement in safety standards.
[0004] CN211549733U discloses about an invention that discloses a safety protection device for mine excavation. Protective supporting top plate, the bottom of the middle of the protective supporting top plate is fixedly connected with a small lighting bulb. The bottom of the first tool box is movably connected with a second tool box; the bottom of the jack connecting plate is fixedly connected with a jack; the middle part of the jack is fixedly connected with a first automatic telescopic switch; and a connecting rod is fixedly connected to the left side of the bottom of the jack, an automatic driving cylinder is fixedly connected to the bottom of the connecting rod, a second automatic telescopic switch is fixedly connected to the top of the automatic driving cylinder, and universal brake trundles are movably connected to the bottom of the automatic driving cylinder. The safety protection device for mine excavation is provided with the protection supporting top plate, the bottoms of the four corners of the protection supporting top plate are fixedly connected with the jacks, a mine is effectively supported through the jacks, the anti-pressure capacity is high, mine collapse is prevented, and workers are effectively protected. Although, CN’733 discloses about an invention that provides a safety means for mine workers. However, the cited invention lacks in detecting hazardous conditions like toxic gas presence and fire outbreaks promptly.
[0005] CN108041740A discloses about an invention that discloses a safety helmet for a coal mine worker. The safety helmet comprises a helmet body, the front surface of the helmet body is rotationally connected with a mask, the bottom of the helmet body is connected with a neck guard, and a filter tip is arranged at the position, between the mask and the neck guard, of the front surface of the helmet body; the filter tip comprises a dustproof filter screen and an air pipe arranged in the middle of the dustproof filter screen, one end of the air pipe is connected with a suction nozzle, the top of the front surface of the helmet body is fixedly connected with a camera through a clamping device, and the top of the front surface of the helmet body is further provided with an LED lamp. The mask is a transparent tempered glass mask, so that a good protection effect is achieved, it is guaranteed that fresh air is breathed in, harm of dust to the human body is reduced, and working conditions of a user under a coal mine can be shot and recorded; the LED lamp is further installed on the top of the front surface of the helmet body, so that the lighting effect is guaranteed, and the safety helmet is convenient to use, diversified in function and high in practicability. Though, CN’740 discloses about an invention that provides a safe means such as helmet for workers working in mine. However, the cited invention lacks in continuously assess health vital signs and detect deviations from normal parameters in accordance to ends alerts to designated authorities for immediate medical intervention.
[0006] Conventionally, many devices are available in the market that aid in safety of the mine workers. However, the cited invention lacks in quickly identifying dangerous situations such as the presence of toxic gas and fire outbreaks. Also, the mentioned devices falls incapable to reliably locate miners inside the mine in low visibility conditions or to clearly provide navigational directions that direct workers along safe escape routes.
[0007] In order to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks, there exists a need in the art to develop a device that is capable of enhancing operational efficiency and worker safety in dynamic mine environments. Also, the device is capable of continuously assess health vital signs and detect deviations from normal parameters in accordance to ends alerts to designated authorities for immediate medical intervention.
OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION
[0008] The principal object of the present invention is to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art.
[0009] An object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of creating comprehensive safety device for mine workers to safeguard against multiple hazards such as toxic gases, fires, and low visibility conditions.
[0010] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of enhancing operational efficiency and worker safety in dynamic mine environments.
[0011] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of detecting hazardous conditions like toxic gas presence and fire outbreaks promptly.
[0012] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of continuously assess health vital signs and detect deviations from normal parameters in accordance to ends alerts to designated authorities for immediate medical intervention.
[0013] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of accurately locate workers in low visibility situations within the mine alongside providing clear navigation instructions to guide workers along safe evacuation routes towards exits or safe zones.
[0014] Yet another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of maintaining effective respiratory protection throughout varying work conditions.
[0015] The foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become readily apparent upon further review of the following detailed description of the preferred embodiment as illustrated in the accompanying drawings.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0016] The present invention relates to a safety device for mine workers that is capable of detecting hazardous conditions like toxic gas presence and fire outbreaks promptly. In addition, the proposed device is also capable of continuously assess health vital signs and detect deviations from normal parameters in accordance to ends alerts to designated authorities for immediate medical intervention.
[0017] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a safety device for mine workers, comprises of a circular body accommodated around neck of a mine worker working in a mine and connected with an extendable plate via a link that is positioned over torso region of the worker, a microphone is positioned on the body for enabling the worker to give voice commands for securing the body with the worker’s neck, plurality of laser sensors configured with the body for detecting dimensions of the worker’s neck, an air compressor installed with the body for inflating an inflatable unit equipped with inner portion of the body to securely grip the body with worker’s neck, a gas sensor positioned on the body for detecting presence of toxic gas in surroundings, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit mounted on the body for detecting exact location of the worker’s nose and mouth.
[0018] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the proposed device further comprises of an L-shaped telescopically operated rod installed on the plate via a motorized slider and equipped with a face mask, plurality of flaps are arranged with the mask via plurality of motorized hinges to tilt and deploy the flaps in view of securing the mask firmly with the worker’s face, an electronic valve installed with the mask and connected with an oxygen chamber installed with the body to open for allowing transfer of oxygen towards the mask for allowing the worker to breathe, a drawer arrangement integrated within the plate to extend for covering anterior portion of the worker’s body to protect the worker from the fire, a GPS (Global Positioning System) module installed with the body for detecting real-time location of the worker, a laser projection unit mounted on the body for projecting a laser beam to guide the working in followed the determined route to exit the mine, an FBG (Fiber Bragg Grating) sensor is arranged on the unit for detecting health parameters of the worker and a battery is associated with the device for supplying power to electrical and electronically operated components associated with the device.
[0019] While the invention has been described and shown with particular reference to the preferred embodiment, it will be apparent that variations might be possible that would fall within the scope of the present invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0020] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with regard to the following description, appended claims, and accompanying drawings where:
Figure 1 illustrates an isometric view of a safety device for mine workers; and
Figure 2 illustrates another isometric view of a mask associated with the proposed device.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0021] The following description includes the preferred best mode of one embodiment of the present invention. It will be clear from this description of the invention that the invention is not limited to these illustrated embodiments but that the invention also includes a variety of modifications and embodiments thereto. Therefore, the present description should be seen as illustrative and not limiting. While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative constructions, it should be understood, that there is no intention to limit the invention to the specific form disclosed, but, on the contrary, the invention is to cover all modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents falling within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the claims.
[0022] In any embodiment described herein, the open-ended terms "comprising," "comprises,” and the like (which are synonymous with "including," "having” and "characterized by") may be replaced by the respective partially closed phrases "consisting essentially of," consists essentially of," and the like or the respective closed phrases "consisting of," "consists of, the like.
[0023] As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” designate both the singular and the plural, unless expressly stated to designate the singular only.
[0024] The present invention relates to a safety device for mine workers that is capable of enhancing operational efficiency and worker safety in dynamic mine environments. Furthermore, the proposed device is also capable of maintaining effective respiratory protection throughout varying work conditions.
[0025] Referring to Figure 1 and 2, an isometric view of a safety device for mine workers another isometric view of a mask associated with the proposed device are illustrated, respectively, comprising a circular body 101 accommodated around neck of a mine worker working in a mine and connected with an extendable plate 102 via a link 103, a microphone 104 is positioned on the body 101, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 105 mounted on the body 101, an L-shaped telescopically operated rod 106 installed on the plate 102 via a motorized slider 107 and equipped with a face mask 108, an electronic valve 109 installed with the mask 108 and connected with an oxygen chamber 110 installed with the body 101, a laser projection unit 111 mounted on the body 101 and plurality of flaps 201 are arranged with the mask 108 via plurality of motorized hinges 202.
[0026] The device disclosed herein includes a circular body 101 that is typically constructed from robust and lightweight materials suitable for industrial environments, such as mines. Common materials used include high-impact plastics, reinforced polymers, or even lightweight metals like aluminum alloys. These materials are chosen for their durability, resistance to wear and tear, and ability to withstand harsh conditions underground. The design of the circular body 101 is ergonomic, ensuring a comfortable fit around the neck of the mine worker without causing discomfort during prolonged use to distribute pressure evenly and securely, accommodating different neck sizes and ensuring the device remains stable during movements and physical activities.
[0027] A link 103 is installed with the circular body 101 positioned over the worker's torso region, an extendable plate 102 allows for adjustable positioning and fit of the device. The extendable plate 102 is designed to provide flexibility and adjustability to the safety device worn by mine workers. Typically, the extendable plate 102 is made from lightweight yet durable materials such as strong plastics, carbon fiber, or metal alloys. These materials are chosen to withstand the rigors of industrial environments like mines while remaining lightweight enough not to impede the worker's movements. The plate 102 is designed to be adjustable in length or position, allowing it to accommodate different body 101 sizes and shapes of mine workers.
[0028] The link 103 serves as the intermediary connection between the circular body 101 worn around the neck and the extendable plate 102 positioned over the worker's torso. This ensures that the device remains securely attached and properly aligned on the worker's body 101. The link 103 is typically a sturdy and flexible component that is made from materials similar to those of the extendable plate 102. The link 103 and plate 102 are attached via a hinge that allow for movement and adjustment while maintaining structural integrity. The link 103 is designed to securely fasten the circular body 101 and extendable plate 102 together, preventing accidental detachment during movements or when exposed to external forces in the mine environment.
[0029] A microphone 104 positioned on the body 101 enables mine workers to interact with the body 101 using voice commands. This hands-free operation is essential in environments where the worker's hands are occupied with tasks. The microphone 104 captures spoken instructions from the worker, such as commands to secure or release the body 101. These commands are then processed by an inbuilt microcontroller which interprets them and initiates corresponding actions.
[0030] The microphone 104 works by converting sound waves into electrical signals. The microphone 104 is designed to detect variations in air pressure caused by user’s voice in the surrounding and transform those pressure fluctuations into electrical signals that is further processed, stored, or transmitted to the microcontroller. Whenever, the user speaker, it creates a series of compressions and rarefactions in the surrounding medium, which constitute sound waves. The microphone 104 typically consists of a diaphragm, a magnet, and a coil. The diaphragm is a thin, flexible membrane that vibrates in response to the changes in air pressure caused by sound waves in the housing. When the diaphragm vibrates, it moves the coil relative to the magnet, inducing an electric current in the coil due to electromagnetic induction. As the coil moves within the magnetic field of the sensor, it generates a varying electrical voltage proportional to the diaphragm’s motion. This voltage represents the electrical analog of the sound waves and is often referred to as the audio signal. The electrical signal is amplified and converted into an analog electrical signal which is processed by the microcontroller. After processing the microcontroller fetches the user’s voice input regarding the securing of the body 101.
[0031] Upon receiving the analog signals, the microcontroller converts them into digital data that it can process. This conversion allows the microcontroller to accurately interpret the voice commands issued by the mine worker. The microcontroller activates a plurality of laser sensors integrated into the circular body 101. These sensors are strategically positioned to measure the dimensions of the worker's neck accurately. Once activated, the laser sensors emit beams that scan and measure the circumference and shape of the worker's neck. The reflected signals from these beams provide precise data on the dimensions of the neck area. The microcontroller receives the dimensional data from the laser sensors and processes this information to determine the exact size and contours of the worker's neck, ensuring a customized fit.
[0032] Based on the processed neck dimensions, the microcontroller then triggers an air compressor integrated into the body 101. The air compressor inflates an inflatable unit positioned within the circular body 101. This unit is designed to expand and snugly fit around the inner portion of the worker's neck. As the inflatable unit inflates, it securely grips the worker's neck, ensuring a tight and comfortable fit of the body 101. This helps to stabilize the device and prevents it from shifting or loosening during the worker's movements.
[0033] The air compressor generates compressed air that draws in ambient air and compresses it to a higher pressure. The compressed air from the compressor is stored in an air cylinder, which acts as a reservoir for the pressurized air. These valves control the flow of compressed air from the cylinder to the inflatable member. They regulate the inflation process, ensuring controlled and precise filling. The microcontroller, based on the processed data from the laser sensors measuring neck dimensions, sends a signal to activate the air compressor and initiate the inflation process. Compressed air from the air compressor is directed through the air valves into the inflatable member. The valves open to allow the pressurized air to flow into the inflatable unit. As the pressurized air fills the inflatable member, it expands to conform closely to the inner contours of the worker's neck that ensures a secure and comfortable fit. The materials used in constructing the inflatable member are chosen for their strength and elasticity, ensuring durability and long-term functionality in harsh mining conditions.
[0034] A gas sensor is positioned on the body 101 to detect the presence of toxic gases in the surrounding environment of the mine. The gas sensor continuously monitors the air for specific gases known to be hazardous or toxic, such as methane, carbon monoxide, hydrogen sulfide, or others commonly found in mining environments. The Gas sensors operate based on specific chemical reactions that occur when target gases interact with materials within the sensor. Gas sensors are designed to be selective to particular gases of interest, such as methane, carbon monoxide, hydrogen sulfide, etc. This selectivity ensures accurate detection in environments where multiple gases are present.
[0035] The core of a gas sensor is its sensing element, which is typically composed of materials that react with the target gas. This reaction generates an electrical signal proportional to the concentration of the gas. The sensing element is connected to electrodes that measure the electrical changes caused by the gas interaction. These electrodes facilitate the conversion of the chemical reaction into an electrical signal. In operation, gas diffuses into the sensor through a membrane or porous material, allowing it to reach the sensing element.
[0036] Upon contact with the sensing element, the target gas triggers a chemical reaction. This reaction alters the conductivity, resistance, or other electrical properties of the sensing material. The change in electrical properties is detected by the electrodes, producing a measurable signal such as voltage, current, resistance change, etc. The output signal is then processed by the sensor's electronics to quantify the concentration of the detected gas. This processed data is typically output as a digital signal that is interpreted by the microcontroller.
[0037] Upon detecting toxic gas levels above a preset threshold deemed unsafe for human exposure, the gas sensor sends a signal to the microcontroller. This signal serves as a trigger for the microcontroller to initiate safety protocols, including activating the artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 105 mounted on the body 101 for determining the exact location of the worker’s nose and mouth.
[0038] The imaging unit 105 is equipped with a camera and a processor mounted on the body 101 that employs artificial intelligence (AI) protocols for advanced image processing and analysis. Upon activation triggered by the gas sensor, the imaging unit 105 swiftly captures multiple images of the mine worker's face to precisely locate and identify the worker's nose and mouth within the captured images. This information is crucial for the subsequent steps in the safety protocols. The processor within the imaging unit 105 uses AI protocols to analyze the captured images in real-time. The processor identifies specific facial features, particularly focusing on the nose and mouth areas. The AI protocols are designed to operate swiftly and accurately by ensuring rapid identification of the worker's facial features despite potentially challenging conditions in the mine environment such as low light or dust.
[0039] An L-shaped telescopically operated rod 106 configured on the plate 102 by means of a motorized slider 107 and equipped with a face mask 108. The L-shaped rod 106 consists of two segments such s vertical segment and horizontal segment, allowing for controlled extension and retraction. The horizontal segment holds a face mask 108 and extends outward to cover the worker’s nose and mouth. The telescopic rod 106 is powered by a pneumatic unit that consist of an air compressor, air valves, and a piston. The air compressor used herein extract the air from surrounding and increases the pressure of the air by reducing the volume of the air. The air compressor consists of two main parts including a motor and a pump. The motor powers the compressor pump which uses the energy from the motor drive to draw in atmospheric air and compress to elevated pressure. The compressed air is then sent through a discharge tube into the cylinder across the valve. The compressed air in the cylinder tends to pushes out the piston to extend which extends the frame. Similarly on evacuating of the compressed air from the cylinder results in retraction of the piston which results in retraction of the rod 106, thereby resulting in altering of the height of the rod 106 as per the requirement.
[0040] The motorized slider 107 is mounted on the extendable plate 102 that gets actuated by the microcontroller for translating the L-shaped rod 106 horizontally along the extendable plate 102 to position it in proximity to the worker’s face. Upon receiving signals indicating the need to deploy the face mask 108 such as detecting hazardous gases, the microcontroller activates the motorized slider 107. The face mask 108 is deployed to cover the worker’s nose and mouth, providing respiratory protection in hazardous environments. After the L-shaped rod 106 is translated into position by the motorized slider 107, the microcontroller sends further signals to extend the horizontal segment of the rod 106. The extension of the rod 106 positions the face mask 108 directly in front of the worker’s nose and mouth, ready for deployment.
[0041] The motorized slider 107 consists of a pair of sliding rails fabricated with grooves in which the wheel of a slider 107 is positioned that is further connected with a bi-directional motor via a shaft. The microcontroller actuates the bi-directional motor to rotate in a clockwise and anti-clockwise direction that aids in the rotation of the shaft, wherein the shaft converts the electrical energy into rotational energy for allowing movement of the wheel to translate over the sliding rail by a firm grip on the grooves. The movement of the sliding unit results in the translation of the rod 106 for positioning the face mask 108 in proximity of the user’s face.
[0042] The mask 108 is equipped with an electronic valve 109 that is connected with an oxygen chamber 110 installed with the body 101. The electronic valve 109 controls the flow of oxygen from the onboard oxygen chamber 110 to the face mask 108. The valve 109 is electronically controlled and operated by signals from the microcontroller. The electronic valve 109 comprises of an upper body 101 that serves to hold down all the components present inside the valve 109 including a permanent magnet that is incorporated with a shaft, a thread, a needle, and a seat to carry out the specified function of opening and closing the valve 109 in accordance with the user. A stepper motor equipped with copper coils is used in the electronic valve 109 to ensure smooth movement inside the valve 109 when oxygen is passed from the oxygen chamber 110. The valve 109 further includes a holder to hold down all the components aside from the motor and coil to maintain the longevity of the motor and is connected with the microcontroller to dispense the necessary amount of oxygen as per the requirement of the user. The oxygen chamber 110 stores a supply of breathable oxygen under pressure, ready to be delivered to the worker upon demand.
[0043] The valve 109 opens to allow the transfer of oxygen from the oxygen chamber 110 into the face mask 108. This ensures that the worker receives a continuous supply of breathable air while wearing the mask 108 in potentially hazardous environments. The mask 108 is equipped with multiple flaps 201 by means of multiple motorized hinges 202 that gets actuated by the microcontroller in view of tilting and deploying the flaps 201 for securing the face mask 108 firmly with the worker’s face appropriately.
[0044] Herein, in case the microcontroller in synchronization with the imaging unit 105 determines the presence of fire in the surroundings, the microcontroller immediately extends the plate 102 that is integrated with a drawer arrangement for covering the anterior portion of the worker’s body 101 to protect the worker from the fire. The drawer arrangement includes sliding racks and rails, such
that the plate 102 is mounted over the racks that are electronically operated by
the microcontroller for moving over the rails. Such that the microcontroller
actuates the drawer arrangement. The drawer arrangement is powered by a DC (direct current) motor that is actuated by the microcontroller by providing required electric current to the motor. The motor comprises of a coil that converts the received electric current into mechanical force by generating magnetic field, thus the mechanical force provides the required power to the racks to provide sliding movement to the plate 102 for extending/retracting as required for covering anterior portion of the worker’s body 101.
[0045] A GPS (Global Positioning System) module installed with the body 101 for ensuring constant access to satellite signals for location tracking. The GPS (Global Positioning System) module is a satellite-based navigation system that provides real-time geographical positioning and time information to a GPS receiver. The GPS module is integrated to enhance safety and facilitate rescue operations by accurately determining the worker's position within the mine environment. In scenarios where low visibility conditions are detected by the imaging unit 105 that is equipped with AI capabilities to assess environmental conditions, the microcontroller is alerted to potential hazards.
[0046] Upon detecting low visibility, the microcontroller automatically activates the GPS module to initiate location tracking of the mine worker. The GPS module communicates with a network of satellites orbiting Earth to determine the device's exact location through triangulation of signals received from multiple satellites. The GPS provides precise location coordinates, typically accurate to within a few meters, depending on signal strength and environmental conditions. The GPS module continuously updates the microcontroller with real-time location data of the mine worker, ensuring constant tracking and monitoring of their movements. Using the GPS data, the microcontroller analyzes the worker's current position relative to predefined exit routes or safe zones within the mine.
[0047] Based on the worker's location and the layout of the mine, the microcontroller determines the optimal route for the worker to follow to safely exit the mine. Once the microcontroller has determined the safest route for the worker to exit the mine using GPS data, it activates a laser projection unit 111 that is designed to project a visible laser beam onto surfaces within the mine environment to guide the mine worker along a predetermined route to the exit. The laser projection unit 111 is securely mounted on the body 101 that is positioned for optimal visibility and alignment with the worker's line of sight.
[0048] The unit emits a laser beam that serves as a visual guide, marking the path or highlighting obstacles, junctions, or other critical points along the predetermined route. The laser beam is visible even in low-light conditions or environments with poor visibility, providing clear guidance to the worker. The unit emits a laser beam, typically in a specific color such as red or green chosen for optimal visibility against the mine's background. The laser beam is projected onto surfaces within a specified range, ensuring that it remains visible and effective for guiding the worker. The laser projection unit 111 is designed to emit a safe, low-power laser beam that poses no harm to the worker's eyes or surrounding environment.
[0049] The body 101 is equipped with an FBG (Fiber Bragg Grating) sensor for detecting health parameters of the worker. The FBG fibre Bragg grating sensor comprises of a small length of optical fibre core having a pattern of multiple reflection points that generates a reflection of specific wavelengths of the incident IR (Infrared) light. The distance travelled by the IR (Infrared) light between the reflection points of a fibre Bragg grating is always equal. The wavelength that matches exactly with the distance between two reflection points gets reflected by the grating and the other wavelengths that are transmitted through the grating are damped. The reflected wavelength is turned into an electrical signal to analyses the abnormalities of the human body 101. Herein, in case the detected health parameters exceeds/recedes a threshold range, the microcontroller sends an alert on a computing unit for notifying concerned authorities to provide medical assistance to the worker.
[0050] A battery is associated with the device to supply power to electrically powered components which are employed herein. The battery is comprised of a pair of electrodes named as a cathode and an anode. The battery use a chemical reaction of oxidation/reduction to do work on charge and produce a voltage between their anode and cathode and thus produces electrical energy that is used to do work in the device.
[0051] The present invention works best in the following manner, where the circular body 101 as disclosed in the proposed invention is worn around the neck fabricated with the microphone 104 for enabling voice commands for securing the body 101. The microcontroller processes these commands and activates laser sensors to precisely measure the worker's neck dimensions. Upon detection, the air compressor inflates the inner grip to securely fit. Simultaneously, the gas sensor monitors for toxic gases, triggering the AI-based imaging unit 105 to scan the worker's face and locate their nose and mouth. In emergencies, such as detecting fire, the motorized drawer in plate 102 extends to shield the worker's body 101. Then, the GPS module aids navigation in low visibility, guiding the worker to safety. Health parameters are monitored using the FBG sensor with deviations prompting alerts for medical assistance via wireless communication modules.
[0052] Although the field of the invention has been described herein with limited reference to specific embodiments, this description is not meant to be construed in a limiting sense. Various modifications of the disclosed embodiments, as well as alternate embodiments of the invention, will become apparent to persons skilled in the art upon reference to the description of the invention. , Claims:1) A safety device for mine workers, comprising:
i) a circular body 101 accommodated around neck of a mine worker working in a mine and connected with an extendable plate 102 via a link 103 that is positioned over torso region of said worker, wherein a microphone 104 is positioned on said body 101 for enabling said worker to give voice commands for securing said body 101 with said worker’s neck;
ii) a microcontroller linked with said microphone 104 that processes said voice commands and activates plurality of laser sensors configured with said body 101 for detecting dimensions of said worker’s neck, wherein said microcontroller processes said detected dimensions and actuates an air compressor installed with said body 101 for inflating an inflatable unit equipped with inner portion of said body 101 to securely grip said body 101 with worker’s neck;
iii) a gas sensor positioned on said body 101 for detecting presence of toxic gas in surroundings, wherein upon detection of said toxic gas, said microcontroller activates an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 105 paired with a processor mounted on said body 101 for capturing and processing multiple images of said worker’s face, respectively, for detecting exact location of said worker’s nose and mouth;
iv) an L-shaped telescopically operated rod 106 installed on said plate 102 via a motorized slider 107 and equipped with a face mask 108, wherein said microcontroller actuates said slider 107 for translating said rod 106, followed by actuation of said rod 106 to extend for positioning said mask 108 on said worker’s nose and mouth to cover said mouth and nose;
v) an electronic valve 109 installed with said mask 108 and connected with an oxygen chamber 110 installed with said body 101, wherein upon actuation of said rod 106, said microcontroller actuates said valve 109 to open for allowing transfer of oxygen towards said mask 108 for allowing said worker to breathe;
vi) a drawer arrangement integrated within said plate 102, wherein in case said microcontroller via said imaging unit 105 detects fire in surroundings, said microcontroller actuates said drawer arrangement to extend for covering anterior portion of said worker’s body 101 to protect said worker from said fire;
vii) a GPS (Global Positioning System) module installed with said body 101, wherein in case said microcontroller via said imaging unit 105 detects low visibility in said surroundings, said microcontroller activates said GPS module for detecting real-time location of said worker, in accordance to which said microcontroller determines a route to be followed by worker for exiting said mine; and
viii) a laser projection unit 111 mounted on said body 101 that is activated by said microcontroller for projecting a laser beam to guide said working in followed said determined route to exit said mine.
2) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein plurality of flaps 201 are arranged with said mask 108 via plurality of motorized hinges 202 that are actuated by said microcontroller to tilt and deploy said flaps 201 in view of securing said mask 108 firmly with said worker’s face.
3) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein an FBG (Fiber Bragg Grating) sensor is arranged on said unit for detecting health parameters of said worker, and in case said detected health parameters exceeds/recedes a threshold range, said microcontroller sends an alert on a computing unit for notifying concerned authorities to provide medical assistance to said worker.
4) The device as claimed in claim 1 and 3, wherein said microcontroller is wirelessly linked with said computing unit via a communication module which includes, but not limited to Wi-Fi (Wireless Fidelity) module, GSM (Global System for Mobile Communication) module, Bluetooth module.
5) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein said L-shaped telescopically operated rod 106 is powered by a pneumatic unit that includes an air compressor, air cylinder, air valves and piston which works in collaboration to aid in extension and retraction of said rod 106.
6) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a battery is associated with said device for supplying power to electrical and electronically operated components associated with said device.
| # | Name | Date |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 202421094404-STATEMENT OF UNDERTAKING (FORM 3) [01-12-2024(online)].pdf | 2024-12-01 |
| 2 | 202421094404-REQUEST FOR EXAMINATION (FORM-18) [01-12-2024(online)].pdf | 2024-12-01 |
| 3 | 202421094404-REQUEST FOR EARLY PUBLICATION(FORM-9) [01-12-2024(online)].pdf | 2024-12-01 |
| 4 | 202421094404-POWER OF AUTHORITY [01-12-2024(online)].pdf | 2024-12-01 |
| 5 | 202421094404-FORM-9 [01-12-2024(online)].pdf | 2024-12-01 |
| 6 | 202421094404-FORM FOR SMALL ENTITY(FORM-28) [01-12-2024(online)].pdf | 2024-12-01 |
| 7 | 202421094404-FORM 18 [01-12-2024(online)].pdf | 2024-12-01 |
| 8 | 202421094404-FORM 1 [01-12-2024(online)].pdf | 2024-12-01 |
| 9 | 202421094404-FIGURE OF ABSTRACT [01-12-2024(online)].pdf | 2024-12-01 |
| 10 | 202421094404-EVIDENCE FOR REGISTRATION UNDER SSI(FORM-28) [01-12-2024(online)].pdf | 2024-12-01 |
| 11 | 202421094404-EVIDENCE FOR REGISTRATION UNDER SSI [01-12-2024(online)].pdf | 2024-12-01 |
| 12 | 202421094404-EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTION(S) [01-12-2024(online)].pdf | 2024-12-01 |
| 13 | 202421094404-DRAWINGS [01-12-2024(online)].pdf | 2024-12-01 |
| 14 | 202421094404-DECLARATION OF INVENTORSHIP (FORM 5) [01-12-2024(online)].pdf | 2024-12-01 |
| 15 | 202421094404-COMPLETE SPECIFICATION [01-12-2024(online)].pdf | 2024-12-01 |
| 16 | Abstract.jpg | 2024-12-27 |
| 17 | 202421094404-FORM-26 [03-06-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-06-03 |