Abstract: A worker safety system for confined space entry, comprising an anchoring structure 201 with multiple suction cups 202, secure the structure 201 near a confined space, a roller 203 managing a retrieval rope 204, a free end of which is connected to a gripping clip 205 attachable to a wearable body 101 worn by a user, multiple inflatable patches 102 on the inner portion of the body 101, an air compressor initiate inflation of the patches 102, an AI enabled camera 103 with a high-intensity LED light 104 assist in visual navigation and environmental monitoring, a display interface 206 providing continuous real-time visual feedback to a ground-based control team, a collision detection module monitor proximity, pressure, and movement for potential impact threats, an oxygen supply arrangement supply breathable air to the user and a gas exhaust module to evacuate hazardous gases.
Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to a worker safety system for confined space entry that ensures easy and safe access to confined spaces, reducing the risk of accidents by providing continuous monitoring, reliable communication for enhancing overall safety during entry, operation, and exit in hazardous confined space.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Worker safety in confined space entry is essential due to the hazardous nature of such environments, which often have limited ventilation, restricted movement, and potential exposure to toxic gases, oxygen deficiency, or flammable atmospheres. These conditions pose significant risks including suffocation, poisoning, or explosions. Ensuring the safety of workers requires continuous monitoring of air quality, reliable communication, and emergency responses. Challenges faced by users include difficulty in detecting invisible toxic gases, limited mobility due to bulky safety equipment, delayed alerts in emergencies, and the complexity of managing multiple safety devices simultaneously. An integrated, user-friendly safety system is crucial to mitigate these risks and protect workers effectively during confined space operations.
[0003] Several devices exist for confined space worker safety, including standalone gas detectors, personal protective equipment (PPE) like respirators, and communication systems. While gas detectors monitor toxic gases, they often lack integration with other safety features, requiring workers to manage multiple devices. Respirators provide breathable air but can be bulky, restricting movement and causing discomfort during extended use. Communication devices help in emergencies but fail in confined or noisy environments. Many existing systems lack real-time data integration and automated alerts, leading to delayed responses. Additionally, these devices often do not address the need for continuous environmental monitoring combined with user mobility and comfort, highlighting the need for a comprehensive, seamless safety solution.
[0004] US10507574B2 discloses a seat assembly. The seat assembly is adapted for use in entering confined spaces or otherwise entering spaces through confined entryways. The seat assembly includes a seat that is slidably disposed along a track. In one embodiment, the seat is rotatable. The seat assembly further includes a wire or tether that has multiple clamps positioned along its length. The assembly is utilized by placing the track such that it extends through a confined entryway and then securing the clamps about the perimeter edge of the opening such that the tether is held taut. The tension in the wire exerts a force that maintains the track, the seat, and a user or any equipment thereon in a horizontal position through the opening. Users can the utilize the slidable seat to enter and exit the confined opening with minimal difficulty.
[0005] US20180330595A1 discloses a method and safety device for use in accessing confined spaces that incorporates atmospheric safety monitoring and alarm annunciation into a physical access device/mechanism for the purpose of preventing the human confined space entrant from entering a confined space containing a hazardous atmosphere.
[0006] Conventionally, many systems are available in the market for confined space entry. However, the cited inventions lack to provide a fully integrated solution combining continuous air quality monitoring, mobility support, real-time alerts, and user comfort. Additionally, these existing systems also often fail to synchronize safety features like gas detection, communication, and emergency response in a single, user-friendly system, leaving gaps in comprehensive protection for workers in hazardous confined environments.
[0007] In order to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks, there exists a need in the art to develop a system that requires to be capable of integrating continuous air quality monitoring, breathable air supply, real-time communication, and emergency response in a compact, user-friendly system. In addition, the developed system also needs to enhance worker mobility and comfort while providing reliable, automated safety features to ensure comprehensive protection during confined space entry operations.
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 system that provides an easy and safe access to the confined spaces to minimize the risk of accidents.
[0010] Another object of the present invention is to develop a system that continuously monitors the environment and user health during confined space entry in order to maintain a safe environment during the operations in the confined space.
[0011] Another object of the present invention is to develop a system that enables real-time communication and visual feedback between the worker inside the confined space and the control team outside in order to eliminate the chances of misshaping within the confined space.
[0012] Another object of the present invention is to develop a system that improves worker mobility and comfort while ensuring protection against collisions and hazardous gases.
[0013] Yet another object of the present invention is to develop a system that automatically responds to emergency conditions by controlling breathable air supply and activating safety measures to protect the user.
[0014] 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
[0015] The present invention relates to a worker safety system for confined space entry that provides easy and safe access to confined spaces while minimizing accident risks. Additionally, the system continuously monitors the environment and the user’s health during entry, ensuring a safe and secure environment throughout operations inside the confined space.
[0016] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a worker safety system for confined space entry, comprises of an anchoring structure integrated with multiple suction cups for secure installation near the confined space entry point, and a motorized roller housed within the structure to manage a retrieval rope connected to a gripping clip attached to a wearable body worn by the user during descent, the wearable body includes an inflatable air-cushioned patches connected to an internal air compressor to provide impact protection, an AI-enabled camera paired with a high-intensity LED light to assist with visual navigation and environmental monitoring, real-time visual feedback is provided to a ground-based control team via a display interface mounted on the anchoring structure, the system incorporates a multi-sensor collision detection module, consisting of pressure, proximity, and motion sensors, linked to a microcontroller that triggers inflation of air-cushioned patches upon detecting imminent collisions,
[0017] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the system further comprises of an integrated oxygen supply arrangement with a compact cylinder, multi-jointed extendable linkage, a protective respiratory mask attached with the linkage and electronically actuated valve dynamically regulates breathable air flow based on physiological data, a health monitoring module with FBG, heart rate, temperature, and PPG sensors tracks vital signs and sends alerts if abnormalities occur, the AI camera also performs gear compliance verification to prevent unauthorized entry by disabling the motorized roller, a tension sensor monitors rope tension, enabling automatic retrieval when thresholds are exceeded, EEG sensors monitor brain activity and cognitive stress, adjusting oxygen delivery accordingly, deployment of the respiratory mask is automatic via toxic gas sensors or manual via an embedded gesture sensor and a gas exhaust module uses an expandable conduit with an exhaust fan and a multi-layered filtration unit to evacuate and purify hazardous gases before external release.
[0018] 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
[0019] 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 illustrate an isometric view of a worker safety system for confined space entry; and
Figure 2 an isometric view of an anchoring structure associated with the system.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0020] 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.
[0021] 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.
[0022] 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.
[0023] The present invention relates to a worker safety system for confined space entry that provides easy and safe access to confined spaces. Additionally, the system enables real-time communication and visual feedback between the worker inside and the control team outside, helping to prevent misunderstandings and ensure effective coordination during confined space operations.
[0024] Referring to Figure 1 and 2, an isometric view of a worker safety system for confined space entry and an isometric view of an anchoring structure associated with the system are illustrated, respectively, comprising an anchoring structure 201 integrated with plurality of suction cups 202, a motorized roller 203 housed within the anchoring structure 201, a retrieval rope 204, a free end of which is connected to a gripping clip 205 attachable to a wearable body 101, a plurality of inflatable air-cushioned patches 102 disposed on an inner portion of the wearable body 101, an AI (artificial intelligence)-enabled camera 103 paired with a high-intensity LED (Light Emitting Diode) light 104 mounted on the body 101, a display interface 206 mounted on the anchoring structure 201, a compact oxygen cylinder 105 securely mounted on the body 101, a multi-jointed extendable linkage 106 connected to a protective respiratory mask 107 worn by the user, the mask 107 is fluidly connected to the cylinder 105 via a flexible conduit 108, an electronically actuated valve 109 positioned at the interface of the conduit and cylinder 105, an expandable conduit 110, having a first end 207 connected with the anchoring structure 201 and a second end 111 connected to the shoulder region of the wearable body 101, an exhaust fan 112 disposed near the second end 111, and a multi-layered filtration unit 113 embedded within the conduit.
[0025] The system disclosed in the present invention comprises of an anchoring structure 201 with multiple suction cups 202 designed for secure attachment near the entrance of a confined space. These suction cups 202 provide strong adhesion to surfaces, ensuring the structure 201 remains firmly in place. The system herein is especially useful in environments where temporary or movable support is required, enhancing safety and accessibility when working near confined space entry points such as tanks, manholes, or enclosed chambers.
[0026] To activate the system, the user manually presses a push button which is installed on the anchoring structure 201. Upon pressing the button, the circuits within the system gets close, allowing electric current to flow. The push button has an outer casing and an inner arrangement, including a spring and metal contacts. When the button is pressed, the spring-loaded assembly inside is pushes down on. In the default state, the internal contacts are apart, so the circuit is open and no electricity flows. Pressing the button makes the contacts touch each other, closing the circuit and allowing electricity to flow, which activates an inbuilt microcontroller that regulates the further operations of the system.
[0027] A motorized roller 203 is housed within the anchoring structure 201 for managing a retrieval rope 204. A free end of the retrieval rope 204 is connected to a gripping clip 205, which is attachable to a wearable body 101 worn by a user while descending into the confined space. Upon activating the system, the microcontroller actuates the roller 203 to unwind the retrieval rope 204 allowing the user to enter the confined space. The motorized roller 203 consists of a DC motor that provides the power to wind and unwind the retrieval rope 204. The rope 204 is wound around the shaft of the roller 203 that is connected to the motor through a drive assembly to ensure the rotation of the shaft when the motor operates. One end of the rope 204 is fixed to the shaft, while the other end is engaged with a hoke installed on the body 101. When the roller 203 moves in a clockwise direction, the rope 204 is winded over the roller 203 and when the roller 203 moves in an anti-clockwise direction, the rope 204 starts unwinding descending the user into the confined space.
[0028] A tension sensor is coupled with the motorized roller 203 for continuous monitoring the rope 204 tension. The tension sensor measures the force applied to the rope 204, often using strain gauge technology. When tension is applied, the sensor’s material deforms slightly, causing a change in electrical resistance in the strain gauge attached to it. This resistance change alters the output voltage in a Wheatstone bridge circuit, which is then amplified and converted into a readable signal. The sensor’s output correlates directly with the amount of tension applied, allowing precise force measurement.
[0029] The microcontroller compares the determined tension against a pre-fed tension saved in a database. In case, the determined pressure reading exceeds the pre-fed tension, the microcontroller regulates actuates the roller 203 to retrieve the user from the confined space.
[0030] A plurality of inflatable air-cushioned patches 102 placed inside the wearable body 101. These patches 102 are connected to an air compressor built into the body 101, allowing the patches 102 to inflate or deflate to provide comfort.
[0031] An AI (artificial intelligence)-enabled camera 103 paired with a high-intensity LED (Light Emitting Diode) light 104 is mounted on the body 101. As the user enter the confined space, the microcontroller activates the AI-enabled camera 103 to assist in visual navigation and environmental monitoring. The AI-enabled camera 103 comprises of an image capturing arrangement including a set of lenses that captures multiple images and videos of the confined space and the captured images are stored within a memory of the AI-enabled camera 103 in form of an optical data. The AI-enabled camera 103 also comprises of a processor that employ computer vision and deep learning protocols, including object detection, segmentation, and edge detection, such that the processor processes the optical data and extracts the required data from the captured images. The extracted data is further converted into digital pulses and bits and are further transmitted to the microcontroller. The microcontroller processes the received data to assist in visual navigation and environmental monitoring.
[0032] The LED light 104 is activated by the microcontroller to illuminate the confined space in order to maintain a will illuminated surrounding in the confined space. LED light 104 is made from semiconductor materials which have properties that allow them to emit light. The LED light 104 contains a p-n junction, where a p-type region is positively charged and an n-type region is negatively charged. When voltage is applied, electrons from the n-region move towards the p-region, and holes from the p-region move towards the n-region. As the electrons move across the p-n junction, they recombine with the holes. During this process, the electrons lose energy, and this energy is released in the form of photons (light).
[0033] A display interface 206 is mounted on the anchoring structure 201 for providing continuous real-time visual feedback. As the AI-enabled camera 103 processes the captured images and videos of the confined space, the microcontroller activates the display interface 206 for displaying the visual feed of the interior conditions within the confined space to a ground-based control team as detected by the AI-enabled camera 103. The display interface 206 operates by receiving processed data from the microcontroller, which analyzes the interior conditions of the confined space. This data is converted into a digital format and transmitted to the display interface 206 via an integrated driver circuit. The display interface 206, typically an LCD or LED screen, uses pixels controlled by electrical signals to visually represent the visual feedback from the AI-enabled camera 103.
[0034] A multi-sensor collision detection module is integrated with the body 101. the collision detection module comprises of a pressure sensor, a proximity sensor and a motion sensor. As the user enters the confined space, the microcontroller activates the collision detection module to monitor proximity, pressure, and movement for potential impact threats.
[0035] The proximity sensor detects the presence of an object within its vicinity without physical contact. The proximity sensor used herein is a capacitive proximity sensor that detects changes in capacitance caused by the presence of an object near the sensor's surface. The capacitive proximity sensor operates by generating an electrostatic field from an electrode. When the object comes in contact with this field, it alters the capacitance between the proximity sensor and the object due to differences in the dielectric constants of materials. The proximity sensor detects the change in capacitance and confirms the presence the object in the confined space.
[0036] The pressure sensor used here is a capacitive pressure sensor that works by measuring changes in capacitance. The pressure sensor consists of two conductive members separated by a small gap. When pressure is applied on the user due to the body 101, the gap between these members changes, altering the capacitance. The sensor detects this change and converts it into an electrical signal that relates to the amount of pressure. This signal is then sent to the microcontroller to be processed to give a precise pressure reading.
[0037] The motion sensor detects weather the user is stable or swing with the rope 204 or any unwanted object is falling from above by sensing vibrations or mechanical disturbances in vicinity of the motion sensor. The motion sensor typically consists of a piezoelectric material that generates an electrical signal when subjected to vibration or motion. When the user swing or any object is free falling the motion sensor detects the resulting vibrations and converts them into corresponding electrical signals. The converted electrical signals are then sent to the microcontroller to determine the intensity, or pattern of the motion.
[0038] In case, the collision detection module detects the potential of any imminent collision or impact event, the microcontroller linked to collision detection module and air-cushioned patches 102, actuates the air compressor to initiate the inflation of the patches 102. The inflation of the air-cushioned patches 102 begins when the air compressor draws ambient air through a filter to remove impurities. The compressor then compresses the air using a piston, increasing the pressure of the drawn air. The high-pressure air is either stored in a reservoir or directly supplied to the patches 102, through an air hose connected to the valve stem of the air-cushioned patches 102. The valve stem opens to allow air to enter the patches 102 and seals to prevent backflow.
[0039] The oxygen supply arrangement is built into the back of the body 101 to provide breathable air during use. The oxygen supply arrangement features a compact oxygen cylinder 105 that is securely attached to the body 101, ensuring a stable and reliable air source for the user while operating.
[0040] A multi-jointed extendable linkage 106 is connected to the oxygen supply arrangement, allowing flexible movement and positioning. The extendable linkage 106 supports a protective respiratory mask 107 worn by the user, ensuring the mask 107 stays in place and adjusts as needed. The mask 107 is connected to the oxygen cylinder 105 through a flexible conduit 108, which enables a continuous and secure flow of breathable air.
[0041] A toxic gas sensor is integrated within the system to detect the presence of toxic gases in the confined space for automatically deploying the protective respiratory mask 107. The toxic gas sensor used herein is a metal oxide semiconductor (MOS)-based toxic gas sensor, which operates by detecting changes in electrical resistance when exposed to toxic gases. The toxic gas sensor consists of a sensing layer, typically made of metal oxides like tin dioxide (SnO₂), placed on a ceramic substrate with embedded electrodes. In clean air, oxygen molecules adsorb on the surface, capturing electrons and increasing resistance. When toxic gases such as carbon monoxide or ammonia are present, they react with the adsorbed oxygen, releasing electrons back into the toxic gas sensor and decreasing resistance. This change is measured and analyzed to determine gas concentration, and the analyzed concentration is sent to the microcontroller for further processing.
[0042] The microcontroller compares the determined concentration of the toxic gas in the confined space against a pre-fed concentration saved in the database. In case, the determined concentration exceeds/recedes the pre-fed concentration, the microcontroller automatically actuates the extendable linkage 106 to deploy the mask 107.
[0043] In an embodiment of the present invention, the extendable linkage 106 is made up of an actuator that is pneumatically powered by a pneumatic unit. The pneumatic unit that includes an air compressor, air cylinder, air valves and piston which works in collaboration to aid in extension and retraction of the linkage 106. The microcontroller controls the pneumatic valves to regulate the airflow and pressure, providing smooth and precise positioning of the linkage 106.
[0044] In another embodiment of the present invention, the extendable linkage 106 is made up of an actuator that hydraulically powered by a hydraulic unit. The hydraulic unit comprises of a hydraulic pump, a hydraulic reservoir, a hydraulic fluid, hydraulic valves, and hydraulic cylinders. The hydraulic actuator utilizes pressurized fluid supplied by the hydraulic unit to create strong linear force, which drives the extension and retraction of the linkage 106. The microcontroller controls hydraulic valves to modulate fluid flow and pressure, ensuring controlled and stable movement of the linkage 106.
[0045] Yet in an embodiment of the present invention, the extendable linkage 106 is made up of an actuator that is electromechanically powered which convert electrical energy into precise mechanical motion. These actuators typically consist of electric motors coupled with mechanical components such as gears that drive the extension and retraction of the linkage 106.
[0046] A gesture sensor is embedded on the body 101 for user-initiated deployment of the protective respiratory mask 107. The gesture sensor used herein is an ultrasonic gesture sensor. The gesture sensor uses high-frequency sound waves to detect hand movements. The gesture sensor consists of an ultrasonic transmitter that emits sound waves and a receiver that captures the waves after they reflect off moving hands of the user. As the hand moves near the sensor, the reflected waves change in time, frequency, or amplitude. The sensor’s microcontroller analyzes these changes using time-of-flight or Doppler shift principles to interpret the gesture's direction, speed, and distance. Based on the interpreted gesture, the microcontroller actuates the extendable linkage 106 to deploy the protective respiratory mask 107.
[0047] A gas exhaust module is associated with the body 101 to evacuate hazardous gases from the user’s immediate environment. In synchronization with the deployment of the protective respiratory mask 107, the microcontroller actuates the gas exhaust module to ensure safe respiration during confined space activity. The gas exhaust module includes an expandable conduit 110, having a first end 207 connected with the anchoring structure 201 and a second end 111 connected to the shoulder region of the wearable body 101.
[0048] An exhaust fan 112 is disposed on the second end 111 of the expandable conduit 110, to actively evacuate hazardous gases from the vicinity of the user. The exhaust fan 112 operates using an electric motor that rotates fan 112 blades, creating airflow by drawing air from the confined space and pushing it outside. The fan 112 is mounted on an opening of the second end 111 of the expandable conduit 110, where it expels hazardous gases.
[0049] The expandable conduit 110 contains a multi-layered filtration unit 113 with several filtering stages designed to purify extracted gases. The filtration unit 113 activates automatically in sync with the exhaust fan 112, ensuring that harmful or contaminated gases are thoroughly cleaned before being released outside. By coordinating filtration with ventilation, it effectively reduces pollutants and protects the external environment from exposure to toxic or hazardous substances during gas expulsion.
[0050] A health monitoring module is integrated into the wearable body 101, to detect the user’s vital parameters and blood flow characteristics of the user. The health monitoring unit comprises of a FBG (Fiber Bragg Grating) sensor, heart rate sensor, a temperature sensor and a PPG (Photoplethysmography) sensor. In synchronization with the deployment of the protective respiratory mask 107, the microcontroller activates the health monitoring module to detect the user’s vital parameters and blood flow characteristics.
[0051] The FBG (Fibre Bragg Grating) sensor effectively monitor the user's blood pressure. The sensor detects changes in pressure and strain as blood flows through arteries, with each heartbeat causing slight variations in the vessel's dimensions. These changes alter the wavelengths of light reflected by the sensor, allowing for precise measurement of blood pressure. The microcontroller processes the reflected signals and translating them into real-time vital signs.
[0052] The heart rate sensor detects the user’s pulse by measuring blood flow through the skin, typically using photoplethysmography (PPG). The sensor consists of a light source, usually a green LED, and a photodetector. When placed against the skin, the LED emits light into the tissue, and the photodetector measures the amount of light either absorbed or reflected. As the heart beats, blood volume in the capillaries changes, affecting light absorption. These variations are converted into electrical signals and processed to determine the pulse rate. The sensor continuously tracks these signals to calculate the user’s heart rate in beats per minute.
[0053] The temperature sensor operates by using a temperature-sensitive element, such as Resistance Temperature Detector (RTD), which changes its electrical resistance with temperature variations. As the temperature rises or falls, the resistance of the element changes accordingly. This change in resistance is converted into an electrical signal by the sensor's circuitry, which then processes the signal to determine the temperature.
[0054] The PPG (photo-plethysmography) sensor measures the cardiovascular parameters of the user by emitting light, usually from an LED, onto the skin, commonly at the wrist or fingertip. As blood pulses through the vessels with each heartbeat, it absorbs varying amounts of light. A photodetector measures the amount of light that is either transmitted through or reflected by the tissue. These light fluctuations are converted into electrical signals, forming a waveform known as the PPG signal. By analyzing this signal, cardiovascular parameters such as heart rate and blood oxygen saturation are determined, and the determined data are then sent to the microcontroller for further processing.
[0055] The microcontroller compares the determined physiological parameters against a pre-fed physiological parameters saved in the database. In case, the determined physiological parameters exceeds/recedes the pre-fed physiological parameters, the microcontroller transmit an alert notification to the display interface 206.
[0056] An electronically actuated valve 109 positioned at the interface of the conduit and cylinder 105. Upon deploying the mask 107, the microcontroller actuates the valve 109 to dynamically regulate oxygen flow to the user based on real-time physiological parameters determined by the health monitoring module. The valve 109 comprises of a gate and a magnetic coil which uses electricity from microcontroller to generate the force to control the opening/closing of gate to control the flow of oxygen through a small aperture of the valve 109, allowing for precise control of the flow of the oxygen.
[0057] One or more electroencephalogram (EEG) sensors are integrated into a collar section of the body 101 to monitor the user's brain activity and cognitive stress levels. The electroencephalogram (EEG) sensor measures electrical activity in the brain using multiple electrodes placed on the scalp. These electrodes detect tiny voltage fluctuations caused by neuron firing. The brain’s electrical signals, typically in the range of microvolts, are captured and amplified by the electroencephalogram (EEG) sensor. The signals are then filtered to remove noise and processed to extract specific brainwave patterns such as alpha, beta, delta, and theta waves each associated with different mental states.
[0058] Based on the determined brain activity and cognitive stress levels, the microcontroller dynamically adjusts oxygen delivery in response to neurological and physiological data to mitigate the risk of hypoxia or cognitive fatigue.
[0059] The AI enabled camera 103 is further configured to perform gear compliance verification by analyzing the presence and proper fitting of the body 101 and mask 107 on the user, and wherein failure of verification inhibits activation of the motorized roller to prevent unauthorized entry into the confined space.
[0060] The AI-enabled camera 103 verifies if the user is properly wearing the body 101 and mask 107 by analyzing the presence of the body 101 and the mask 107 and fit. In case, the gear compliance checks fail, the microcontroller prevents activation of the motorized roller 203, thereby stopping unauthorized entry into the confined space and ensuring only properly equipped users can access the hazardous environment safely.
[0061] Moreover, a battery is associated with the system to supply power to electrically powered components which are employed herein. The battery is comprised of a pair of electrodes known as a cathode and an anode. A voltage is generated between the anode and cathode via oxidation/reduction and thus produces the electrical energy to provide to the system.
[0062] The present invention works best in the following manner, where the system includes anchoring structure 201 with suction cups 202, where the motorized roller 203 manages the retrieval rope 204 connected to the gripping clip 205 on the wearable body 101 worn by the user during descent. The wearable body 101 includes inflatable air-cushioned patches 102 linked to the air compressor, and the AI-enabled camera 103 with the high-intensity LED assists in navigation and monitoring. The display interface 206 on the anchoring structure 201 provides real-time visual feedback to the ground control team. The multi-sensor collision detection module monitors proximity, pressure, and movement, triggering the microcontroller to inflate air-cushioned patches 102 upon detecting impact threats. The oxygen supply arrangement, including the compact cylinder 105, multi-jointed extendable linkage 106, and electronically actuated valve 109, supplies breathable air based on physiological data. The health monitoring module with FBG, heart rate, temperature, and PPG sensors tracks vital signs and alerts the control team of abnormalities. The AI camera 103 verifies gear compliance, preventing motorized roller 203 activation if improper. The tension sensor monitors rope 204 tension, enabling automatic retrieval. EEG sensors monitor brain activity and adjust oxygen delivery to reduce cognitive stress. Respiratory mask 107 deployment occurs automatically via toxic gas sensors or manually via the gesture sensor. The gas exhaust module uses the expandable conduit 110, exhaust fan 112, and multi-layered filtration unit 113 to evacuate and purify hazardous gases before release, ensuring user safety throughout confined space operations.
[0063] 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 worker safety system for confined space entry, comprising:
i) an anchoring structure 201 integrated with plurality of suction cups 202, configured for secure installation near an entry point of a confined space;
ii) a motorized roller 203 housed within the anchoring structure 201 for managing a retrieval rope 204, a free end of which is connected to a gripping clip 205 attachable to a wearable body 101 worn by a user while descending into the confined space;
iii) a plurality of inflatable air-cushioned patches 102 disposed on an inner portion of the wearable body 101 and operatively connected to an air compressor housed within the body 101;
iv) an AI (artificial intelligence)-enabled camera 103 paired with a high-intensity LED (Light Emitting Diode) light 104 mounted on the body 101 to assist in visual navigation and environmental monitoring;
v) a display interface 206 mounted on the anchoring structure 201 for providing continuous real-time visual feedback of interior conditions within the confined space to a ground-based control team;
vi) a multi-sensor collision detection module integrated with the body 101, configured to monitor proximity, pressure, and movement for potential impact threats;
vii) a microcontroller operatively linked to collision detection module and air-cushioned patches 102, configured to initiate inflation of the patches 102 upon detection of an imminent collision or impact event;
viii) an oxygen supply arrangement integrated with a rear section of the body 101, configured to supply breathable air to the user during operation; and
ix) a gas exhaust module associated with the body 101, configured to evacuate hazardous gases from the user’s immediate environment to ensure safe respiration during confined space activity.
2) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the oxygen supply arrangement, includes:
a) a compact oxygen cylinder 105 securely mounted on the body 101,
b) a multi-jointed extendable linkage 106 connected to a protective respiratory mask 107 worn by the user, wherein the mask 107 is fluidly connected to the cylinder 105 via a flexible conduit 108, and
c) an electronically actuated valve 109 positioned at the interface of the conduit and cylinder 105, configured to dynamically regulate oxygen flow to the user based on real-time physiological parameters.
3) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein a health monitoring module is integrated into the wearable body 101, configured to detect the user’s vital parameters and blood flow characteristics, and wherein the microcontroller is further configured to transmit an alert notification to the display interface 206 upon identification of any deviation beyond a predefined physiological threshold.
4) The system as claimed in claim 3, wherein the health monitoring unit comprises of a FBG (Fiber Bragg Grating) sensor, heart rate sensor, a temperature sensor and a PPG (Photoplethysmography) sensor.
5) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the camera 103 is further configured to perform gear compliance verification by analyzing the presence and proper fitting of the body 101 and mask 107 on the user, and wherein failure of verification inhibits activation of the motorized roller 203 to prevent unauthorized entry into the confined space.
6) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the multi-sensor collision detection module comprises of a pressure sensor, a proximity sensor and a motion sensor.
7) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein a tension sensor is operatively coupled with the motorized roller 203 for continuous monitoring of rope 204 tension, and when the tension exceeds a threshold, the microcontroller actuates the roller 203 to retrieve the user from the confined space.
8) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein one or more electroencephalogram (EEG) sensors are integrated into a collar section of the body 101, configured to monitor the user's brain activity and cognitive stress levels, and the microcontroller dynamically adjusts oxygen delivery in response to neurological and physiological data to mitigate the risk of hypoxia or cognitive fatigue.
9) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the deployment of the respiratory mask 107 is initiated:
a) automatically, upon detection of hazardous gas levels by integrated toxic gas sensors, and
b) manually, via a gesture sensor embedded on the body 101 for user-initiated activation.
10) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the gas exhaust module, includes:
a) an expandable conduit 110, having a first end 207 connected with the anchoring structure 201 and a second end 111 connected to the shoulder region of the wearable body 101,
b) an exhaust fan 112 disposed near the second end 111, configured to actively evacuate hazardous gases from the vicinity of the user, and
c) a multi-layered filtration unit 113 embedded within the conduit, comprising a plurality of filtering stages, the filtration unit 113 is automatically activated in coordination with the exhaust fan 112 to purify extracted gases before expulsion to the external environment.
| # | Name | Date |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 202521067991-STATEMENT OF UNDERTAKING (FORM 3) [16-07-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-07-16 |
| 2 | 202521067991-REQUEST FOR EXAMINATION (FORM-18) [16-07-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-07-16 |
| 3 | 202521067991-REQUEST FOR EARLY PUBLICATION(FORM-9) [16-07-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-07-16 |
| 4 | 202521067991-PROOF OF RIGHT [16-07-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-07-16 |
| 5 | 202521067991-POWER OF AUTHORITY [16-07-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-07-16 |
| 6 | 202521067991-FORM-9 [16-07-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-07-16 |
| 7 | 202521067991-FORM FOR SMALL ENTITY(FORM-28) [16-07-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-07-16 |
| 8 | 202521067991-FORM 18 [16-07-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-07-16 |
| 9 | 202521067991-FORM 1 [16-07-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-07-16 |
| 10 | 202521067991-FIGURE OF ABSTRACT [16-07-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-07-16 |
| 11 | 202521067991-EVIDENCE FOR REGISTRATION UNDER SSI(FORM-28) [16-07-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-07-16 |
| 12 | 202521067991-EVIDENCE FOR REGISTRATION UNDER SSI [16-07-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-07-16 |
| 13 | 202521067991-EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTION(S) [16-07-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-07-16 |
| 14 | 202521067991-DRAWINGS [16-07-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-07-16 |
| 15 | 202521067991-DECLARATION OF INVENTORSHIP (FORM 5) [16-07-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-07-16 |
| 16 | 202521067991-COMPLETE SPECIFICATION [16-07-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-07-16 |
| 17 | Abstract.jpg | 2025-07-26 |