Description:SMART MINING HELMET
FIELD OF THE INVENTION [001] The present invention relates to the field of mining safety and engineering, and more particularly, the present invention relates to the smart mining helmet.
BACKGROUND FOR THE INVENTION:
[002] The following discussion of the background to the invention is intended to facilitate an understanding of the present invention. However, it should be appreciated that the discussion is not an acknowledgment or admission that any of the material referred to was published, known, or part of the common general knowledge in any jurisdiction as of the priority date of the application. The details provided herein the background if belongs to any publication is taken only as a reference for describing the problems, in general terminologies or principles or both of science and technology in the associated prior art.
[003] Mining is one of the most hazardous industries, where workers face multiple risks daily. The key dangers include:
- Toxic Gas Exposure – Mines often contain harmful gases like carbon monoxide (CO), methane (CH4), and low oxygen levels, which can lead to suffocation or poisoning.
- Dust and Air Pollution – Continuous exposure to dust can cause severe respiratory diseases such as lung infections and silicosis.
- Accidents Due to Falls or Falling Objects – Miners often work in unstable environments where rocks, equipment, or debris can fall, leading to serious injuries.
- Poor Communication in Emergencies – Underground workers may not be able to call for help if they are trapped or unconscious due to poor connectivity. 1
- Power Supply Issues – Many mines operate in remote areas where constant power is unavailable, making electronic safety devices difficult to use.
[004] In light of the foregoing, there is a need for a smart mining helmet that overcomes problems prevalent in the prior art.
OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION:
[005] Some of the objects of the present disclosure, which at least one embodiment herein satisfies, are as follows.
[006] The principal object of the present invention is to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art by providing the Smart mining helmet.
[007] Another object of the present invention is to provide the Smart Mining Helmet that detects dangerous gases and dust by monitoring the surrounding environment for high levels of toxic gases, such as carbon monoxide, and excessive dust, alerting the miner to evacuate the area for safety.
[008] Another object of the present invention is to provide the Smart Mining Helmet that senses accidents and falls by detecting sudden impacts, such as a miner falling or being struck by a rock, and transmitting an emergency signal for immediate assistance.
[009] Another object of the present invention is to provide the Smart Mining Helmet that improves health and safety by utilizing advanced sensors to minimize long-term health risks associated with inhaling polluted air in mining environments.
[010] Another object of the present invention is to provide the Smart Mining Helmet that features an emergency alert system capable of automatically sending distress signals to supervisors when a miner is in danger or requires urgent help. 2
[011] Another object of the present invention is to provide the Smart Mining Helmet that is solar-powered for continuous use, incorporating a built-in solar panel to ensure uninterrupted operation even in remote mining locations.
[012] Other objects and advantages of the present disclosure will be more apparent from the following description, which is not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION: [013] Mining is one of the most dangerous jobs in the world, where workers face risks like toxic gases, dust, falling objects, and lack of oxygen. The present invention provides a smart mining helmet that is designed to protect miners by detecting dangers and providing real-time alerts. The helmet is equipped with special sensors that monitor the environment and the miner’s condition. It can detect harmful gases, dust levels, and lack of oxygen. If a worker falls or is injured, the helmet immediately senses the impact and sends an alert. Additionally, it has communication features that allow workers to stay connected with their team.
[014] The Smart Mining Helmet is designed to prevent accidents before they happen by continuously monitoring the environment and the miner’s condition.
[015] Gas and Oxygen Sensors for Early Warnings: The helmet is equipped with sensors that detect harmful gases and oxygen levels. If dangerous levels are detected, an alarm sounds, and the miner receives a warning to evacuate. At the same time, an automatic alert is sent to the control room, ensuring rapid response.
[016] Dust Sensors to Protect Health: The helmet measures dust concentration in the air.
[017] If the levels become hazardous, the miner is alerted to wear additional protective gear or leave the area. This helps reduce long-term lung diseases caused by dust inhalation. 3
[018] Impact Sensors for Fall and Accident Detection: If a miner falls or is hit by a heavy object, the helmet immediately detects the impact. An emergency alert is sent to supervisors with the miner’s location, allowing faster medical help.
[019] Real-Time Communication for Emergency Response: The helmet includes a wireless communication module that ensures connectivity between miners and supervisors. Even if a miner is unconscious, the system can automatically send alerts, ensuring faster rescue operations.
[020] Sustainable Power with Solar Panels: The helmet has a built-in solar panel that ensures continuous power supply. This makes it ideal for remote mining areas where charging facilities are unavailable
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS:
[021] Reference will be made to embodiments of the invention, examples of which may be illustrated in accompanying figures. These figures are intended to be illustrative, not limiting. Although the invention is generally described in the context of these embodiments, it should be understood that it is not intended to limit the scope of the invention to these particular embodiments. [022] Figure 1: Block Diagram of Smart Mining Helmet [023] Figure 2: System Flowchart [024] Figures 3a-3i: Helmet Views in accordance with the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS:
[025] While the present invention is described herein by way of example using 4
embodiments and illustrative drawings, those skilled in the art will recognize that the invention is not limited to the embodiments of drawing or drawings described and are not intended to represent the scale of the various components. Further, some components that may form a part of the invention may not be illustrated in certain figures, for ease of illustration, and such omissions do not limit the embodiments outlined in any way. It should be understood that the drawings and the detailed description thereto are not intended to limit the invention to the particular form disclosed, but on the contrary, the invention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claim.
[026] As used throughout this description, the word "may" is used in a permissive sense (i.e. meaning having the potential to), rather than the mandatory sense, (i.e. meaning must). Further, the words "a" or "an" mean "at least one” and the word “plurality” means “one or more” unless otherwise mentioned. Furthermore, the terminology and phraseology used herein are solely used for descriptive purposes and should not be construed as limiting in scope. Language such as "including," "comprising," "having," "containing," or "involving," and variations thereof, is intended to be broad and encompass the subject matter listed thereafter, equivalents, and additional subject matter not recited, and is not intended to exclude other additives, components, integers, or steps. Likewise, the term "comprising" is considered synonymous with the terms "including" or "containing" for applicable legal purposes. Any discussion of documents, acts, materials, devices, articles, and the like are included in the specification solely for the purpose of providing a context for the present invention. It is not suggested or represented that any or all these matters form part of the prior art base or were common general knowledge in the field relevant to the present invention.
[027] In this disclosure, whenever a composition or an element or a group of elements is 5
preceded with the transitional phrase “comprising”, it is understood that we also contemplate the same composition, element, or group of elements with transitional phrases “consisting of”, “consisting”, “selected from the group of consisting of, “including”, or “is” preceding the recitation of the composition, element or group of elements and vice versa.
[028] The present invention is described hereinafter by various embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawing, wherein reference numerals used in the accompanying drawing correspond to the like elements throughout the description. This invention may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiment set forth herein. Rather, the embodiment is provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art. In the following detailed description, numeric values and ranges are provided for various aspects of the implementations described. These values and ranges are to be treated as examples only and are not intended to limit the scope of the claims. In addition, several materials are identified as suitable for various facets of the implementations. These materials are to be treated as exemplary and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. [029] Mining is one of the most dangerous jobs in the world, where workers face risks like toxic gases, dust, falling objects, and lack of oxygen. The present invention provides a smart mining helmet that is designed to protect miners by detecting dangers and providing real-time alerts. The helmet is equipped with special sensors that monitor the environment and the miner’s condition. It can detect harmful gases, dust levels, and lack of oxygen. If a worker falls or is injured, the helmet immediately senses the impact and sends an alert. Additionally, it has communication features that allow workers to stay connected with their team. [030] While other safety measures exist, such as handheld gas detectors or walkie-talkies, they often rely on manual use and are not always accessible during emergencies. The Smart 6
Mining Helmet automates safety, ensuring that miners are protected at all times without needing to take extra actions. By combining gas detection, impact sensing, real-time alerts, and sustainable power, this helmet provides a comprehensive safety solution that can significantly reduce mining accidents and health risks.
[031] The Smart Mining Helmet is an advanced safety device that builds on existing mining safety measures but introduces unique and innovative features that make it more effective, automated, and reliable.
[032] Automatic Detection & Instant Alerts (No Manual Action Needed): Existing safety gear, such as gas detectors, requires miners to manually check readings. This helmet automatically senses danger (toxic gases, low oxygen, impact from a fall, or excessive dust) and instantly alerts both the miner and the control room without requiring any action from the worker.
[033] Multiple Safety Sensors are Integrated in Helmet: Currently, miners carry separate devices for gas detection, communication, and impact detection. This helmet combines all essential safety sensors into one compact device, making it easier to use.
[034] Smart Communication with Remote Monitoring: Many existing mining helmets do not have wireless communication features. This helmet includes a real-time communication module, allowing supervisors to monitor workers from a distance.
[035] Impact Detection for Immediate Emergency Response: Standard helmets protect against head injuries but do not detect falls or accidents. This helmet has an impact sensor that can detect a fall or a hit and automatically send an alert.
[036] Solar-Powered for Continuous Operation: Many safety devices require frequent charging, which is difficult in remote mining areas. This helmet has a built-in solar panel, 7
ensuring it stays powered even in areas without electricity.
[037] Sensors for Hazard Detection:
- Gas Sensors: Detect harmful gases like carbon monoxide (CO), methane (CH4), and low oxygen levels.
- Models Used: Figaro KE-25 (Oxygen), City Technology 402, Alphascense O2-A2.
- Dust Sensors: Measure dust concentration to prevent lung diseases.
- Models Used: Sharp GP2Y1010AU0F, Honeywell HPMA11550-002, Sensirion SPS30.
- Impact Sensors: Detect falls, blows, or sudden impacts to alert supervisors.
- Models Used: STMicroelectronics LIS2HH12, Bosch BMA400, Analog Devices ADXL345.
- Environmental Sensors: Monitor temperature, humidity, and air quality.
- Models Used: Bosch BME680, Sensirion SHT85, AMS CCS811.
- Open and Closed Sensors: Detect whether mine shafts or ventilation pathways are blocked.
- Models Used: Servo Sensors, Photoelectric Sensors, Ultrasonic Sensors.
[038] Communication System:
- Wireless Module: Allows real-time data transmission.
- Models Used: Espressif ESP32, u-box C027, Texas Instruments CC2650. 8
- Emergency Alerts: If a miner is injured, the helmet automatically transmits SOS signals with location details.
[039] Power System:
- Solar Panel: Provides continuous power for sensors and communication modules.
- Rechargeable Battery: Ensures backup power supply.
- Power Management System: Optimizes energy usage.
[040] Additional Required Features:
- Emergency Alert Alarm: Audible and visual alerts in case of danger.
- LED Indicators: Display status of gas concentration, battery, and connectivity.
- GPS Module: Tracks miners’ locations in case of emergencies.
[041] Working Principle:
- Environmental Monitoring: The helmet continuously scans the surroundings for toxic gases, dust levels, temperature, and humidity.
- Data Processing: The built-in microcontroller analyzes the sensor data and determines if there is a potential hazard.
- Alert Mechanism: If danger is detected, the helmet triggers alarms (sound, vibration, and LED) and sends real-time alerts to the control room.
- Communication & Emergency Response: The helmet transmits emergency signals via wireless modules, allowing instant response from supervisors. 9
- Power Management: The solar panel recharges the battery, ensuring uninterrupted operation.
[042] Advantages over Existing Technologies: The Smart Mining Helmet offers several key advantages over traditional mining safety equipment:
[043] Automated Hazard Detection: Unlike standard mining helmets, this helmet continuously monitors environmental conditions and automatically detects hazards such as gas leaks, excessive dust, or temperature changes.
[044] Real-Time Alerts and Communication: Traditional helmets do not provide communication features. This helmet includes wireless connectivity to instantly alert miners and supervisors about potential dangers.
[045] Impact and Fall Detection: Unlike conventional helmets that only provide passive protection, this helmet actively detects falls or collisions and sends emergency notifications.
[046] Integrated Multi-Sensor System: Instead of requiring separate devices for gas detection, dust monitoring, and communication, this helmet combines all essential safety features into a single wearable unit.
[047] Solar-Powered for Continuous Operation: While other helmets rely on batteries that require frequent charging, this helmet features a solar panel for continuous energy supply, reducing downtime and maintenance.
[048] GPS Tracking for Emergency Response: Unlike traditional helmets, this smart helmet includes GPS tracking, enabling quick rescue in case of accidents or miners getting lost underground.
[049] Enhanced Comfort and Usability: Despite integrating multiple sensors, the helmet 10
remains lightweight and ergonomically designed, ensuring comfort during extended work hours.
[050] The disclosure has been described with reference to the accompanying embodiments herein and the various features and advantageous details thereof are explained with reference to the non-limiting embodiments in the following description. Descriptions of well-known components and processing techniques are omitted so as to not unnecessarily obscure the embodiments herein.
[051] The foregoing description of the specific embodiments so fully revealed the general nature of the embodiments herein that others can, by applying current knowledge, readily modify and/or adapt for various applications such specific embodiments without departing from the generic concept, and, therefore, such adaptations and modifications should and are intended to be comprehended within the meaning and range of equivalents of the disclosed embodiments. It is to be understood that the phraseology or terminology employed herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation. Therefore, while the embodiments herein have been described in terms of preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that the embodiments herein can be practiced with modification within the scope of the embodiments as described herein. , C , C , Claims:We Claim: 1) A smart mining helmet, the helmet comprising: - a gas sensor configured to detect toxic gases; - a dust sensor to measure airborne dust concentration in the mining environment; - an impact sensor to detect falls, sudden impacts, or accidents involving the miner; - a wireless communication module for transmitting real-time alerts to a supervisory control system; - a power system including a solar panel and a rechargeable battery for continuous operation; and - an emergency alert system configured to send distress signals upon detecting hazardous conditions. 2) The helmet as claimed in claim 1, wherein said gas sensor is selected from an oxygen sensor (O2), a carbon monoxide sensor (CO), or a methane sensor (CH4), configured to trigger an audible and visual alarm when gas concentration exceeds a predetermined threshold. 3) The helmet as claimed in claim 1, wherein said dust sensor measures airborne particulate matter and activates a warning signal if the dust level crosses a predefined safety limit, reducing the risk of long-term respiratory issues. 4) The helmet as claimed in claim 1, wherein said impact sensor comprises an accelerometer or gyroscope capable of detecting sudden movement changes indicative of a fall, collision, or impact, and subsequently triggering an emergency alert with location details. 5) The helmet as claimed in claim 1, wherein said wireless communication module is selected from Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Zigbee, LoRa, or GSM/GPRS, enabling remote data transmission and real-time connectivity with the control center. 12
6) The helmet as claimed in claim 1, wherein said power system includes a solar energy harvesting unit integrated with a power management system, allowing the helmet to operate independently without external charging. 7) The helmet as claimed in claim 1, further comprising a GPS module to determine the miner’s location in real time and transmit geolocation data to ensure rapid emergency response. 8) The helmet as claimed in claim 1, wherein said emergency alert system automatically transmits distress signals via SMS, email, or an alarm notification when hazardous conditions such as gas leaks, excessive dust, or falls are detected. 9) The helmet as claimed in claim 1, further comprising a two-way communication system enabling miners to send and receive voice or text messages with supervisors, ensuring enhanced safety coordination. 10) The helmet as claimed in claim 1, wherein said helmet body is ergonomically designed with shock-absorbing materials while housing all electronic components in a waterproof and dustproof enclosure.