GB2499433A

GB2499433A - Head torch modules

Info

Publication number: GB2499433A
Application number: GB1202723.1A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Geoffrey Mchugh
Original assignee: Unipart Rail Ltd
Current assignee: Unipart Rail Ltd
Priority date: 2012-02-16
Filing date: 2012-02-16
Publication date: 2013-08-21
Also published as: GB201202723D0

Abstract

A head torch 1 comprises a front light module 7 located at the front of a wearer's head and an indicator light module 5 with integral battery pack 3 spaced from the front light module 7. The indicator light module 5 is switchable between two or more light output colours, thereby allowing identification of the wearer by the indicated light output colour. The indicator light module 5 may comprise a tri-colour LED light source. The front light module 7 comprises a housing having first light and second lights, a switch located within the housing for switching between operation of the first and second lights, and a mount. The housing is movably attached to the mount and movement of the housing relative to the mount operates the switch.

Description

HEAD TORCH AND TORCH MODULES FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to head torches and modules that can be used in head torches. In particular, the present invention relates to head torches for use in work 5 environments, especially safety-critical environments such as the railways.

BACKGROUND

It is common for infrastructure maintenance work to be carried out by groups of workers in the dark. For example, repair of road and rail infrastructure is commonly carried out at night to avoid disrupting their use during the day, when such use is generally at its greatest. In 10 addition, it is common for such maintenance work to be carried out in dark enclosed places, such as unlit tunnels. Although there can be certain benefits to working in the dark, there are also a number of disadvantages.

A problem associated with working in the dark is the difficulty of identifying workers. Identification of workers and the tasks they are carrying out is necessary to organise the 15 workforce, and to work safely and efficiently. In certain situations, systems for identifying different works may be a mandatory requirement.

One method of identifying workers in dark conditions is to floodlight their working area. However, floodlighting is expensive and inconvenient, particularly for short jobs or work which covers a large area. In situations where floodlighting is not used, identifying workers 20 is more difficult. Another method is to use a torch to illuminate and identify workers, but this can distract the workers and may also dazzle them. Furthermore, this method requires the assessment of workers one at a time or in small groups, which can be time consuming. In environments with a large number of workers, this method can also make it difficult for a person to build up a clear mental picture of the location of the workers. An alternative

method is to use a chemiluminescent patch which can be stuck on to a worker's clothing to identify their role, such as the patches sold by Unipart Rail as "light shapes". However, these patches have some disadvantages in that a particular patch can only emit a single colour, can only be used once, and cannot be "turned off' once the chemiluminescence 5 reaction has been started.

Therefore, there is a need to provide an alternative method for identifying workers in dark conditions.

When working in dark conditions, it is also necessary to provide a light source to illuminate the working area. A cheap and versatile alternative to floodlighting is for workers to use 10 individual head torches, sometimes known as headlamps. Head torches are particularly useful in situations where it is necessary to carry out work using both hands in dark conditions. However, a disadvantage of head torches is that they allow the wearer only limited control over the direction of light emission, especially in comparison to hand torches. The light will generally be directed towards the direction in which the wearer looks and, 15 because the torch is located at head height, a wearer who looks at a co-worker whilst wearing the head torch will direct the light towards the co-worker's eyes. This can result in the other person becoming temporarily and (at least) partially blinded by the light- i.e., dazzled.

As well as the discomfort caused by being dazzled, a dazzled co-worker will generally have 20 to pause whilst their vision recovers, which will decrease their productivity. In addition,

dazzling of co-workers can have significant safety implications. The co-worker may become disoriented and may reflexively seek to shield their eyes from the light, which can be an issue when that person is operating machinery or operating at height, for example.

The chances of dazzling others in a team working environment are particularly high. Firstly, 25 before commencing work it is common for a team to meet for a briefing, requiring several

workers to communicate face-to-face. Secondly, it is common for teams to work in close proximity. Thirdly, the level of illumination used in work situations is generally higher than that for other situations, such as when the head torch is being used to illuminate a wearer's path as they walk.

5 Thus, there exists a need to provide workers with means for illuminating their working area whilst mitigating problems associated with dazzling of co-workers.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

To address the above problems, at its most general, the present invention proposes that workers may be identified by an indicator light module provided on a head torch, the 10 indicator light module being additional to a front light module.

A first aspect of the invention provides a head torch comprising a front light module that is located in use at the front of a wearer's head and an indicator light module. The indicator light module is, in use, spaced from the front light module, and the indicator light module is switchable between two or more indicator light output colours, thereby allowing identification 15 of the wearer by the indicator light output.

The indicator light module allows the role of a worker wearing the head torch to be indicated by the colour of the indicator light output, i.e., the colour of the light emitted from the module. Advantageously, this indication is visible in the dark without having to illuminate workers, either individually or in small groups. Disparate workers can be monitored simultaneously, 20 allowing a monitor (e.g., a supervisor) to have a clear picture of where workers are located at any particular time.

Advantageously, the same indicator light module can be switched between different output colours, meaning that the same head torch can be used by workers fulfilling different roles. The output colour of the indicator light module is easily changed which means that a worker

can change the colour at the job site to indicate that their role has changed (or indicate that they are on a break, for example). This is clearly advantageous compared to systems in which the colour of a small number of workers have their clothing (such as a coloured armlet) indicate their role, because in that situation the worker must change into another item 5 of clothing to indicate a change in roles, which can be inconvenient and thus lead to poor compliance from workers. In all instances the roles of the operators are briefed in at the onset of the shift and the workers are responsible for remembering each others' roles. It is also advantageous over chemiluminescent patches because the indicator light module can be used multiple times, can change colour and can be turned on and off, whereas 10 chemiluminescent patches are single use, emit only one colour and cannot be turned off.

In use, the indicator light module is positioned on the wearer's head (more usually on a helmet) so as to be spaced from the front light module. Spacing the indicator light module from the front light module will allow the emission from the indicator light module to be clearly distinguished from the front light module. Most preferably, the indicator light module 15 is positioned opposite the front light module at the rear of the head torch so that it will be positioned at the rear of a wearer's head or helmet in use. Preferably the head torch will be configured so that, in use, the indicator light module emits light to the rear of the wearer's head or helmet.

Preferably, the indicator light module is switchable between two or more non-white indicator 20 light output colours. Since normal working illumination is provided by a white light, a white emission colour will be harder to distinguish from other light sources. In addition, coloured lights are likely to be more eye-catching and easier to distinguish than a white light.

More preferably, the indicator light module is switchable between three or more non-white emission colours, more preferably four or more non-white colours and most preferably five or 25 more non-white emission colours.

In preferred embodiments, the head torch is a railway safety head torch for use in the railway industry. In these embodiments, it is preferred that the indicator light output colours match an established colour scheme used to distinguish railway workers, such as the system approved by Network Rail in the UK. In particular, it is preferable that the indicator light 5 module is switchable between colours of an approved Network Rail code comprising yellow emission (to highlight Engineering Supervisors and their designates), purple emission (to highlight Behavioural Safety (MAD) Coaches) and blue emission (to highlight Machine and Crane Controllers).

To achieve multi-colour illumination, the indicator light module may comprise multiple light 10 sources having different output colours. However, in preferred embodiments the indicator light module comprises a single light source that can emit said two or more indicator light output colours. The light source(s) of the indicator light module is preferably located behind a transparent or translucent window.

In preferred embodiments, the indicator light module comprises a light emitting diode (LED) 15 light source. In such embodiments, it is preferred that the LED light source is capable of emitting different colours, for example a tri-colour LED light source. A tri-colour LED is a single package containing a green, red and blue LED that can be operated in any combination to produce a variety of colours. For example, the tri-colour LED could be part number FCL-P5DR078G03B12WCCI made by Forge Europa. The output colour of the tri-20 colour LED can be changed by altering the intensity of light produced from each of the green, red and blue LEDs. This can be achieved by altering the current supplied to each LED. Generally, the electronics controlling the power supply to the indicator light module are configured to produce certain pre-determined colours. Where a tri-colour LED light source is used, the indicator light module preferably has predetermined configurations of resistance 25 values to produce predetermined colours from the tri-colour LED light source.

5

The indicator light module will generally comprise a switch (e.g., a button) for alternating between the two or more emission colours. For example, the indicator light module may have a switch (e.g., a push-button) which turns the light on when first activated (e.g., pressed), cycles through the different colours upon subsequent activations, and turns the 5 light off when the end of the colour-cycle is reached. Alternatively, the switch may simply cycle through the different colours upon subsequent activations, and another mechanism may be used to turn the indicator light module on and off. Preferably, the indicator light module switch cycles through the different colours upon presses and a separate switch on the front light module is used to turn both the indicator light module and the front light 10 module on and off. This configuration has the advantage that the front light module cannot be operated without the indicator light module being on, meaning that it is not possible for a worker to accidentally or intentionally leave the indicator light off whilst working. This improves the safety of the head torch wearer. Preferably, the switch is provided on a surface which is easily accessible when the head torch is in use. For example, the switch is 15 preferably provided on an upper surface of the indicator light module. Alternatively, the switch may be provided on a front surface (the front surface being a surface which, when the head torch is in use, faces away from the wearer's head or helmet).

In some embodiments, the indicator light module comprises a battery module. Suitably the battery module comprises a battery compartment for receiving one or more batteries 20 preferably 4 or more preferably 6 or more batteries, suitably AA-type batteries. Suitably the battery module comprises one or more batteries, for example located in the battery compartment. In some embodiments, the battery module is integral to the rest of the indicator light module. Suitably the light source(s) and the battery are located in the same housing. This avoids the need for external wiring between the indicator light module and a 25 power source, which may become damaged during use. It also decreases the chance of external wiring becoming tangled.

Preferably, the indicator light module has a rear surface which is concave, to accommodate (e.g., to match) the curvature of the helmet or wearer's head on which the head torch is placed. By "rear surface" we mean a surface that will sit against the wearer's head or helmet in use. Advantageously, this helps the indicator light module to sit closely and securely 5 against the helmet or wearer's head, making it easier to position the head torch on the helmet or head, and increasing the comfort of a wearer.

Preferably, the indicator light module has a light source that is positioned on the front surface of the module. By "front surface" we mean a surface that is opposite the rear surface (as defined above). In use, the front surface of the indicator light module will face outwards, so 10 that the indicator light output is clearly visible. Preferably, the indicator light module is adapted to emit over a wide angle. Differently stated, it is preferred that the indicator light output is not highly directional. Advantageously, a wide angle of emission allows the indicator light output colour to be identified over a wide range of angles, meaning that a monitor can identify workers from a wide range of angles. In preferred embodiments, the 15 indicator light module is fitted with a lens system that is designed to provide a brighter focussed central output and a dimmer peripheral output. In addition, it is preferred that the angle of the indicator light output is not adjustable. This means that, should the indicator light output have a degree of directionality, the indicator light module cannot be adjusted so as to adjust the direction of the output. Advantageously, this prevents a worker from 20 accidentally or intentionally adjusting the indicator light module so that its output is less visible (for example, by directing the output upwards or downwards).

Preferably, the indicator light module is provided with a labelling area to present information such as the worker's name, role or employer. This may take the form of a recessed area, for receiving a label, which can be overlaid with a transparent window. The transparent window 25 may clip into place within the recessed area, for example, by providing the transparent

7

window with one or more tabs which slot into one or more grooves on the indicator light module.

In preferred embodiments, the front light module comprises a housing and a mount. The housing has a first light, a second light and a switch, the switch being for switching between 5 operation of the first light and operation of the second light. The housing is moveably attached to the mount, and movement of the housing relative to the mount operates the switch. Suitably the mount and housing are configured to provide movement in the up and down direction, thereby permitting in use the light(s) in the housing to be moved up and down (e.g. to optimise illumination of a work area) reflective to the housing (and helmet if 10 attached to a helmet).

Advantageously, a front light module which allows switching between operation of the first light and the second light by moving the housing relative to the mount avoids the need to search for a switch located at a specific part of the housing, which can be fiddly and awkward to find. This is particularly advantageous in situations where a worker is dazzled, 15 or has the potential to be dazzled, by a head torch worn by a colleague, and the worker wishes to quickly alter the illumination provided by his colleague's head torch to alleviate or prevent dazzling. Since light emanates from the housing, it will be easy for the worker to locate the housing to alter illumination- the worker does not need to search for a switch on his colleague's head torch. This is particularly advantageous in face-to-face conversations, 20 such as in group meetings, where a worker can switch between the first and second lights of his colleague's head torch quickly and easily.

Preferably, the switch for switching between the first light and second light is an internal switch. Having an internal switch minimises the number of external moving parts that may become damaged during use.

8

Preferably, the movement of the housing relative to the mount is achieved by pushing or pulling the housing, e.g. pushing an upper portion of the housing towards the user's head, or pulling it away from the user's head. When the head torch is worn by a worker the mount will be held in a fixed position relative to the wearer's head or helmet, providing resistance 5 against which the housing can be pushed or pulled. Advantageously, a pushing or pulling motion is easy to achieve because the worker does not need to grip the housing. The lack of a need to grip the housing means the worker can operate the front light module whilst holding another object, or whilst wearing gloves that reduce the worker's ability to grip the housing. A pushing or pulling motion is generally easier to achieve than a screwing motion 10 (e.g., as required on the barrel of hand torches), where the worker must grip the housing.

The pushing or pulling mode of operation is particularly advantageous when a worker wishes to operate the head torch of a colleague to prevent or alleviate dazzling.

In preferred embodiments, the housing of the front light module is pivotably attached to the mount, and is rotatable relative to the mount between a first position in which the first light 15 operates and a second position in which the second light operates, said rotation causing actuation of the switch. In such embodiments the housing can be pushed and pulled to switch between operation of the two lights, which has the advantages described above.

In these preferred embodiments, it is preferable that the front light module has a mechanism to control movement of the housing relative to the mount. Preferably the movement of the 20 housing relative to the housing moves in graduated steps. For example, the mechanism may be a ratchet mechanism which permits incremental or indexed movement.. Advantageously, a ratchet mechanism allows the housing to adopt a number of stable configurations relative to the mount. In preferred embodiments incorporating a ratchet mechanism, the mount has a protrusion or key which cooperates with gaps between teeth 25 provided on the housing. Suitably the protrusion key is biased to engagement with the gaps. Graduated movement of the housing is achieved as the protrusion cooperates with gaps

between different teeth. The gaps between teeth may vary in size. For example, in preferred embodiments, the gaps between teeth become larger as the housing moves from its first to its second position. For example, two sizes of gap may be present, a first (smaller) size and a second (larger) size, the larger size being engaged when the housing is in its 5 second position. In particularly preferred embodiments, the gaps between teeth are such that the housing is initially rotatable in 5-15 degree, e.g. 13 degree, steps from its first to its second position, and these steps increase to 16 to 30 degree, e.g. 20 degree, steps as the housing reaches its second position. Advantageously, increasing the gap between teeth from the first to the second position makes it easier to manipulate the housing from its first to 10 its second position. This is because it is easier for the housing to snap to its second position with increasing gap sizes.

In preferred embodiments, it is preferable that the housing of the front light has a top surface and a bottom surface separated by a height, and the axis of rotation about which the housing is rotatable is offset relative to the centre of this height. Advantageously, offsetting 15 the axis of rotation decreases the minimum effort that is required to rotate the housing. In addition, it has the advantage of providing a large region of the housing that can be pushed or pulled to operate the device. This means that it is easy for a worker to locate the part of the housing that should be engaged to switch between the first and second lights. This is particularly advantageous when a worker wishes to operate the head torch of a colleague to 20 prevent or alleviate dazzling.

In this preferred embodiment, it is also preferred that the switch is a rocker switch.

Preferably the rocker switch is an internal switch (i.e., within the housing). A rocker switch provides a simple mechanism for converting the pivoting motion of the housing into switching between the two lights. Preferably, the housing is mounted to the mount via pivot or a

25 fulcrum member (referred to herein as a fulcrum), and the fulcrum has a projection for operating the rocker switch (i.e. closing the circuit). Suitably, the fulcrum does not move

10

when the housing is moved (e.g. pivoted). The fulcrum can be formed as part of the mount or part of the housing, Preferably, the rocker switch is an internal switch and the fulcrum extends into the housing and has a projection inside the housing for operating the rocker switch. For example, the fulcrum may have a lobe within the housing that operates the 5 rocker switch. In this way, the fulcrum is a cam which converts rotation of the housing into operation of the rocker switch. Advantageously, such a system provides a simple way of switching between the first and second lights, and limits the number of moving parts required for the module's operation.

The first light is a torch light for illumination of a working area, or to illuminate a worker's path 10 when walking to a work site. Differently stated, the first light is a "work" light. The second light is a face light, for interacting with co-workers. The second light can be used for meetings and face-to-face conversations.

In preferred embodiments, the first light is brighter than the second light. By "brighter" we mean that the intensity of light emitted by the first light is greater than that of the second 15 light. This can be achieved by, for example, providing the first light with a greater number of light source elements than the second light (for example, a greater number of LEDs). Alternatively, this can be achieved by providing the same number of light source elements in the first and second light, but using different types of light source elements for the first light and second light and/or supplying different levels of power to those light sources. Another 20 alternative is to provide filters that decrease the intensity of light emitted by the second light compared to the first light. In preferred embodiments, the difference in brightness is achieved by providing different power levels to the first and second light.

Preferably the first light or second light comprises an LED light source, most preferably a warm white LED light source (sometimes known as a soft white LED). For example, the 25 warm white LED light source can be a CREE® LED X LAMP® XMLA 260LM, as sold by

Farnell as part number 1892509. Warm white LEDs have an emission spectrum which is further towards the red end of the spectrum than the emission spectrum of lunar white LEDs. Advantageously, a warm white LED provides an emission spectrum that allows clear differentiation of colours. In contrast, the emission spectrum of lunar white LEDs makes 5 colour differentiation difficult, making it hard to perform tasks that require colour differentiation, especially electrical wiring.

The front light module is preferably provided with a switch (e.g., a button) for controlling power to the module. The switch can be used to turn the front light module on and off (i.e., turn on/off whichever light the front light module is configured to provide power to). 10 Preferably, the switch can also be used to alternate between different power modes, for providing different illumination intensities. For example, the switch may turn the torch on in a low power mode when actuated for the first time (e.g., a 50% power mode), change the torch to a high power mode when actuated a second time (e.g., a 100% power mode), and turn the torch off when actuated a third time. Advantageously, the different power modes may be 15 suited to different tasks, for example, the low power mode may be suited to illuminating a worker's path when walking (whilst conserving battery power) and the higher power mode may be suited to working (which will generally require greater illumination intensity).

Preferably, the indicator light module has a switch for switching between output colours of the indicator light module and the front light module has a switch for switching both the 20 indicator light module and the front light module on and off. Advantageously, such an arrangement means that the indicator light module will operate when the front light module is turned on. This means that a worker cannot accidentally or intentionally leave the indicator light module off when using the front light module, improving the safety of the worker.

The front light module and indicator light module may receive power from separate power 25 sources. However, it is preferred that the front light module and indicator light module

receive power from a single power source. For example, in a preferred embodiment the indicator light module is integral to, and receives power from, a battery pack which provides power to the front light module by a wire.

The head torch preferably has a strap for holding the head torch on the wearer's head, or a 5 helmet. Preferably, the head torch has one or more circumferential straps that circumscribe the wearer's head or helmet. Preferably, the head torch has a strap that passes over the crown of the head/helmet, from a rear position to a front position, to stabilise the position of the head torch when worn. Most preferably, the head torch has one or more circumferential straps and a strap that passes over the crown of the head/helmet. In the 10 most preferred head torch, the over-the-crown strap may be connected to the circumferential strap, for example by threading through or looping around the circumferential strap. The straps are preferably made from a fabric material. The straps may be adjustable and/or elasticated. An adjustable and/or elasticated strap will allow the head torch to sit more closely to a wearer's head or helmet.

15 In embodiments in which the head torch comprises a strap, the indicator light module is preferably provided with a strap-attachment part. Similarly, in these embodiments the front light module is preferably provided with a strap-attachment part. Most preferably, the strap-attachment part is a slot through which the strap may be threaded. Advantageously, this provides a simple method of connecting the indicator light module or front light module to the 20 strap, and allows the module to be easily and reversibly removed. In these embodiments, the slot may be formed by a looped section which projects from the module. In certain embodiments, the slot may have a gap part way along its length, and the strap may be pushed through the gap as an alternative to being threaded through the slot (and removed by being pulled through the gap). In preferred embodiments, the front light module and/or 25 indicator light module may be removable from the straps. For example, the straps could be provided with a buckle, or Velcro® strips to permit their removal.

In preferred embodiments the head torch has a high degree of waterproofness. In particular, it is preferred that the front light module and indicator light module have a high degree of waterproofness. Preferably, the front and/or indicator light modules are sealed to a waterproofness of IP65. For example, the modules may incorporate O-ring seals to prevent 5 water ingress.

In a second aspect, the present invention relates to a helmet mounted with the head torch of the first aspect.

Preferably, the head torch is attached to the helmet by a mounting clip. In preferred embodiments, the mounting clip is provided with a helmet-attachment region and a head-10 torch attachment region. The helmet-attachment region is preferably a hook-shaped clip, for hooking under a rim of the helmet. On many helmet designs there is a small lip or gutter that runs around the rim of the helmets to avoid rain water running down the neck of the operators, and for such helmets it is preferred that the hook-shaped clip engages this gutter. In embodiments in which the head torch comprises a strap, the head-torch attachment 15 region is preferably a loop through which the strap may be threaded. In these embodiments, the loop may be an incomplete loop having a gap, and the strap may be mounted through the loop via the gap. The clip is preferably made from a deformable plastic.

The mounting clip may also incorporate a wire-attachment region, for securing a wire to the mounting clip. Advantageously, this can be used to keep external wiring of the head torch 20 tidy. The wire-attachment region is preferably a channel through which the wire can be threaded, preferably having a circular cross-section. Most preferably the wire-attachment region is a channel having an opening along its length, wherein the wire can be pushed through the opening to be secured within the channel. In embodiments where the head-torch attachment part is a loop through which a strap may be threaded, it is preferred that

14

the wire-attachment region is proximate to, e.g. side-by-side with, the loop. This allows a wire attached to the wire-attachment region to conform to the strap.

In a third aspect, the present invention relates to an indicator light module comprising a head-torch attachment part or a helmet attachment part, for attaching the module to a head 5 torch or a helmet respectively, wherein the indicator light module is switchable between two or more emission colours, and is for allowing identification of a person wearing the head torch or helmet by the output colour. The indicator light module may have any of the preferable features described above, and shares the same advantages. In preferred embodiments, the helmet attachment part is a clip, for clipping onto a section of the helmet.

10 In a fourth aspect, the present invention relates to a torch module, for attaching to a head torch or helmet. The torch module comprises a housing, having a first light, a second light, and a switch, for switching between operation of the first light and operation of the second light. The module also comprises a mount, having a head-torch attachment part of helmet attachment part, for attaching the module to a head torch or a helmet respectively. The

15 housing is moveably attached to the mount, and movement of the housing relative to the mount operates the switch. The torch module may have any of the preferable features described for the front light module above, and will share the same advantages.

In a fifth aspect, the present invention relates to a head torch having a front light module of the fourth aspect.

20 In a sixth aspect, the present invention relates to a helmet having a head torch of the fifth aspect.

In a seventh aspect, the present invention relates to a mounting clip for attaching a head torch to a helmet, wherein the head torch has a strap and the helmet has a rim. The mounting clip comprises a helmet-attachment region and a head-torch attachment region.

25 The helmet-attachment region is a hook-shaped clip, for hooking under the rim of the helmet.

15

The head-torch attachment region is a loop through which the strap may be threaded. In preferred embodiments the loop is an incomplete loop having a gap, and the strap may be mounted through the loop via the gap. The clip is preferably provided with reinforcement ridges to strengthen the clip. The clip is preferably made from a deformable plastic.

5 The mounting clip may also incorporate a wire-attachment region, for securing a wire to the mounting clip. Advantageously, this can be used to keep external wiring of the head torch tidy. The wire-attachment region is preferably a channel through which the wire can be threaded. Most preferably the wire-attachment region is a channel having an opening along its length, wherein the wire can be pushed through the opening to be secured within the 10 channel. In embodiments where the head-torch attachment part is a loop through which a strap may be threaded, it is preferred that the wire-attachment region is proximate to the loop. This allows a wire attached to the wire-attachment region to conform to the strap.

Any one or more of the aspects of the present invention may be combined with any one or more of the other aspects of the present invention. Similarly, any one or more of the 15 features and optional features of any of the aspects may be applied to any one of the other aspects. Thus, the discussion herein of optional and preferred features may apply to some or all of the aspects.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference 20 to the accompanying drawings in which:

Figure 1 shows a back elevation of a head torch having an indicator light module which is integral to a battery pack, and a front light module;

Figure 2 shows a front elevation of the head torch of Figure 1;

Figure 3 shows a front elevation of the battery pack;

16

Figure 4 shows a back elevation of the battery pack;

Figure 5 shows a front elevation of the front light module;

Figure 6 shows schematically different configurations of the front light module;

Figure 7 shows a back elevation of the front light module;

5 Figures 8 to 11 show cross-sectional views of the front light module.

Figures 12 and 13 show a helmet fitted with the head torch of Figures 1 and 2 respectively; and

Figure 14 shows a clip for attaching the head torch to the helmet in Figures 12 and 13.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

10 Figures 1 and 2 show a head torch 1 according to the present invention. The head torch comprises a battery pack 3 having an integral indicator light module 5 and a front light module 7 linked by circumferential straps 9 and 11 and over-the-head strap 13.

Figures 3 and 4 show the battery pack 3 in greater detail. The battery pack 3 is formed from moulded plastic and includes an integral light module 5 for identifying the wearer of the head 15 torch. The indicator light module 5 comprises a tri-colour LED held behind a translucent window. In this case, the electronics controlling the LED are configured to allow switching between yellow, purple and blue emission colours. The battery pack has a compartment for receiving standard batteries.

Operation of the indicator light module is controlled by push-button 15. Multiple depressions 20 of push button 15 cycles between different colour outputs from the tri-colour LED.

The battery pack includes a recessed area 17 protected by a removable transparent window. A label has been placed into recessed area 17 and overlaid with the transparent window, to

identify the helmet's owner. The transparent window is held in position within the recessed area by tabs which slot into grooves which are provided in the walls of the recessed area 17.

The rear of battery pack 3 can be seen in Figure 4. The rear surface 19 of battery pack 3 is concave to aid seating of the battery pack against the rear of a wearer's head, or the rear 5 surface of a helmet. The battery pack mounts to the head torch via loops 21, 23 and 25. Circumferential strap 9 is threaded through loop 21, circumferential strap 11 is threaded through loop 23 and over-head-head strap 13 is threaded through loop 13.

Figures 5 to 11 show front light module 7 in greater detail. The front light module 7 comprises housing 27, containing a first light 29 and a second light 31 held behind 10 transparent windows. The first light 29 is the main working light and is a high-power white light, in this case, a warm white LED. The main light is predominantly used whilst carrying out work, or when walking to a work site. The second light 31 is a lower power white light, and is designed to be used for face-to-face conversations without dazzling others. The unit is provided with power by a wire which extends from battery pack 3 (not shown).

15 The housing 27 is attached to a mount 33 by a fulcrum 35, which extends into the housing and allows the housing to rock back and forth. The fulcrum 35 engages a bar 49 within the housing (shown in Figures 8 to 11). The housing 27 is pivotable between a first position in which the first light operates and a second position in which the second light operates, as shown in Figure 6 (the housing is shown in its first position and the dotted line indicates the 20 second position).

The fulcrum 35 that connects the housing 27 to the mount 33 is positioned towards the base 37 of the housing 27. This means that there is a large region of the housing 17 that a wearer or co-worker can push to pivot the housing, and minimises the effort that is required to carry out such a manipulation.

18

At the top of the housing is power-button 39. Pressing the button 39 once turns on first light 29 or second light 31 (depending on which position the housing is in) in a low power illumination, pushing the button a second time increases the power supplied to the light to give a high power illumination, and pressing the button a third time turns the light off. Push-5 button 39 also turns the indicator light module on and off.

The front light module 7 is mounted to the head torch by the use of slots 41, 43 and 45 in mount 33. Circumferential strap 9 is threaded through slot 41, circumferential strap 11 is threaded through loop 43 and over-the-head strap 13 is threaded through loop 45.

Switching between first light 29 and second light 31 is achieved through actuation of a rocker 10 switch located within housing 27. The rocker switch is actuated by bar 49, which is fixed in position relative to mount 33 by locking on to fulcrum 35. The bar 49 is provided with a lobe 50, which is positioned so that is suitable for engaging a rocker switch 47 within the housing. In Figure 8, the housing is in its second position and the rocker switch 47 is engaged by lobe 50 on bar 49 so that the second light operates. In Figures 9 and 10, the housing has been 15 pivoted forward towards its first position, and the rocker switch 47 has been switched so that first light operates.

Movement of the housing relative to the mount is controlled by a ratchet mechanism, as shown in Figures 8 to 11. The mount is provided with a protrusion 51 which has a tooth 55 which cooperates with gaps 53 and 57 formed between a plurality of teeth. Interaction of 20 tooth 55 with gaps 53 and 57 causes the housing 7 to move in graduated steps relative to the mount. Gaps 53 are adapted such that the housing is rotatable in 13 degree steps relative to the mount. Gap 57 is larger than gaps 53, and allows a 20 degree rotation of the housing relative to the mount.

Figures 12 and 13 show head torch 1 positioned on a safety helmet 59.

19

Figure 14 shows a mounting clip 61 for attaching head torch 1 to helmet 59. The clip is made from a moulded plastic. It is provided with a slot region 63, for attaching to circumferential strap 9 or 11, and a hooked-clip region 65, for hooking under the rim of the helmet. The slot region 63 is provided with reinforcing tabs 67 to increase the strength of 5 this region. Clip 61 is also provided with ridge 69 to provide greater rigidity to the clip. To attach clip 61 to a strap, the user can thread the strap through slot 63, or push the strap through gap 71. The mounting clip is also provided with a channel 73 for securing a wire. The channel has an opening 75 along its length, which allows a wire to be pushed into the channel.

20

Claims

1. A head torch comprising a front light module that is located in use at the front of a wearer's head and an indicator light module, wherein the indicator light module is in use spaced from the front light module, and the indicator light module is switchable between two

5 or more indicator light output colours, thereby allowing identification of the wearer by the indicator light output colour.

2. A head torch according to claim 1, wherein the indicator light module is switchable between two or more non-white indicator light output colours.

3. A head torch according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the indicator light module comprises 10 a single light source that can emit said two or more indicator light output colours.

4. A head torch according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the indicator light module comprises a tri-colour LED light source.

5. A head torch according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the indicator light module comprises a switch for switching between the two or more indicator light output colours.

15 6. A head torch according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the indicator light module has a concave rear surface to accommodate the curvature of a helmet.

7. A head torch according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the indicator light module has a concave rear surface to match the curvature of the rear of the wearer's head.

8. A head torch according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the indicator light module 20 comprises a battery compartment.

9. A head torch according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the front light module comprises:

a housing, having:

21

a first light and a second light;

a switch, for switching between operation of the first light and operation of the second light; and a mount;

5 wherein the housing is moveably attached to the mount, and movement of the housing relative to the mount operates the switch.

10. A head torch according to claim 9, wherein the switch is an internal switch, located within the housing.

11. A head torch according to claim 9 or 10, wherein the housing of the front light module 10 is pivotably attached to the mount, and is rotatable relative to the mount between a first position in which the first light operates and a second position in which the second light operates, said rotation causing actuation of the switch.

12. A head torch according to claim 11, wherein the housing of the front light module has a top surface and a bottom surface separated by a height, and the axis of rotation about

15 which the housing is rotatable is offset relative to the centre of this height.

13. A head torch according to any one of claims 11 or 12, wherein the switch is a rocker switch.

14. A head torch according to claim 13, wherein the housing is mounted to the mount by a fulcrum, and the fulcrum has a projection for operating the rocker switch.

20 15. A head torch according to any one of claims 9 to 14, wherein the first light is brighter than the second light.

16. A head torch according to any one of claim 9 to 15, wherein the first light or second light comprises a warm-light LED light source.

22

17. A head torch according to any one of claims 9 to 16, wherein the front light module has an external switch for controlling power supply to the torch module.

18. A head torch according to any one of claims 1 to 17 comprising a strap for holding the head torch on the wearer's head, or a helmet.

5 19. A head torch according to claim 18, wherein the indicator light module is provided with a strap-attachment part.

20. A head torch according to claim 18 or 19, wherein the front light module is provided with a strap-attachment part.

21. A helmet, comprising a head torch of any one of claims 1 to 20.

10 22. A helmet according to claim 21, wherein the head torch is attached to the helmet by a mounting clip.

23. An indicator light module comprising a head-torch attachment part or a helmet attachment part, for attaching to a head torch or a helmet respectively, wherein the indicator light module is switchable between two or more indicator light output colours, thereby

15 allowing identification of a person wearing the head torch or helmet by the indicator light output colour.

24. An indicator light module according to claim 23, wherein the coloured light is switchable between two or more non-white indicator light output colours.

25. An indicator light module according to claim 23 or 24, wherein the indicator light

20 module comprises a single light source that can emit said two or more indicator light output colours.

26. An indicator light module according to any one of claims 23 to 25, wherein the indicator light module comprises a tri-colour LED light source.

23

27. An indicator light module according to any one of claims 23 to 26, wherein the module comprises a switch for switching between the two or more indicator light output colours.

28. An indicator light module according to any one of claims 23 to 27, wherein the mount 5 has a concave rear surface to accommodate the curvature of a helmet.

29. An indicator light module according to any one of claims 23 to 27, wherein the mount has a concave rear surface to accommodate the curvature of the wearer's head.

30. An indicator light module according to any one of the claims 23 to 29, wherein the indicator light module comprises a battery compartment.

10 31. A torch module, for attaching to a head torch or helmet, comprising:

a housing, having:

a first light and a second light;

a switch, for switching between operation of the first light and operation of the second light; and

15 a mount, having a head-torch attachment part of helmet attachment part, for attaching the module to a head torch or a helmet respectively ;

wherein the housing is moveably attached to the mount, and movement of the housing relative to the mount operates the switch.

32. A torch module according to claim 31, wherein the switch is an internal switch, 20 located within the housing.

24

33. A torch module according to claim 31 or 32, wherein the housing of the module is pivotably attached to the mount, and is rotatable relative to the mount between a first position and a second position, said rotation causing actuation of the switch.

34. A torch module according to claim 33, wherein the housing has a top surface and a 5 bottom surface separated by a height, and the axis of rotation about which the housing is rotatable is offset relative to the centre of this height.

35. A torch module according to claim 33 or 34, wherein the switch is a rocker switch.

36. A torch module according to claim 35, wherein the housing is mounted to the mount by a fulcrum, and the fulcrum has a projection for operating the rocker switch.

10 37. A torch module according to any one of claims 31 to 36, wherein the first light is brighter than the second light.

38. A torch module according to any one of claim 31 to 37, wherein the first light or second light comprises a warm-light LED light source.

39. A torch module according to any one of claims 31 to 38, wherein the torch module 15 has an external switch for controlling power supply to the torch module.

40. A torch module according to any one of claims 31 to 39, wherein the head-torch attachment part is a slot for receiving a strap of a head torch.

41. A head torch comprising the torch module of any one of claims 31 to 40.

42. A mounting clip, for attaching a head torch having a strap to a helmet having a rim, 20 comprising a helmet-attachment region and a head-torch attachment region, wherein the helmet-attachment region is a hook-shaped clip, for hooking under the rim of the helmet and the head-torch attachment region is a loop through which the strap may be threaded.

25

43. A mounting clip according to claim 42, wherein the loop is an incomplete loop having a gap, and the strap may be mounted through the loop via the gap.

44. A mounting clip according to claim 42 or 43, comprising a wire-attachment region, wherein the wire-attachment region is a channel through a wire can be threaded.

5 45. A mounting clip according to claim 44, wherein the channel has an opening along its length, wherein the wire can be pushed through the opening to be secured within the channel.

46. A head torch substantially as described herein with reference to Figures 1 to 9.

47. An indicator light module substantially as described herein with reference to Figures 10 1 to 4, 8 and 9.

48. A torch module substantially as described herein with reference to Figures 1, 2, and 5 to 9.

49. A mounting clip substantially as described herein with reference to Figure 10.

26