WO2018094520A1

WO2018094520A1 - Smart wearable safety devices and systems

Info

Publication number: WO2018094520A1
Application number: PCT/CA2017/051397
Authority: WO
Inventors: Dylan Horvath; Joel Yatscoff; Borys Chylinski; John Wang; Vinay SUGUNANANDAN; Alfie Tham Keet WEI
Original assignee: DELOITTE LLP
Current assignee: DELOITTE LLP
Priority date: 2016-11-22
Filing date: 2017-11-22
Publication date: 2018-05-31
Anticipated expiration: 2019-05-22

Abstract

Wearable safety and monitoring devices are provided that are mounted to helmets. A mounting bracket is used for securing the devices to a helmet at a location visible to the user. The device has a wireless location tracking device and light indicators to visually indicate warning together with audio sound alerts. The device also has a health module for conveying health status of a user to a health monitoring system. The device may also comprise environmental sensors, touchscreen displays, and/or accelerometers.

Description

SMART WEARABLE SAFETY DEVICES AND SYSTEMS

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[1] The invention relates to the field of wearable devices, and in particular to safety helmets and systems thereof.

BACKGROUND

[2] The hard hat is the primary and most vital part of a miner's personal protection equipment (PPE). A hard hat is a type of helmet predominantly used in workplace environments such as industrial or construction sites to protect the head from injury due to falling objects, impact with other objects, debris, rain, and electric shock. Suspension bands inside the helmet spreads the helmet's weight and the force of any impact over the top of the head. As such hard hats are made from durable materials, such as thermoplastics.

[3] Hard hat requirements and specifications are regulated in many countries. For example in Canada, the Canadian Standards Association (CSA) prepares a series of tests to classify hard hats according to their level of protection. Hard hats that have been tested and assigned to certain class standards are considered to be in compliance with Canadian regulations.

[4] Currently, a standard mining helmet comprises a pair of ear protection pieces mounted on the sides of the helmet, and a wireless LED cap lamp mounted on the front of the helmet above the rim.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[5] A system of wearable devices is provided for assisting miner worker to work more safely. To this end, the device uses a variety of hardware to help the miner illuminate, document, communicate, sense, track, and interact with their environment to provide them and mine operations with more information.

[6] In one aspect, there is provided a wearable monitoring device comprising a mount bracket for mounting the device to a helmet such that the device is visible to a user; an electrical power source; a wireless location tracking device coupled to the electrical power source, the wireless location tracking device comprising a wireless transmitter in communication with a network of receivers distributed throughout a mine, the wireless tracking device configured to transmit a location signal to the network of receivers for determining the underground location of the user by a control center; and a first light indicator and a second light indicator coupled to the electrical power source and positioned such that the light indicators are visible to the user, wherein the first and second light indicator illuminate together with an audio output in response to an input signal.

[7] In one embodiment there is provided the device as described above, wherein the network of receivers comprises a WiFi network with routers distributed throughout the mine and the wireless location tracking device connects with the routers to transmit the location signal, and wherein the location of the user is determined based on received signal strength indication (RSSI) strength.

[8] In another embodiment there is provided the device as described above, wherein the network of receivers comprises a plurality of Bluetooth beacons installed throughout the mine and connected to a leaky feeder infrastructure, and wherein the Bluetooth beacons and the leaky feeder infrastructure transmit a digital communication signal to the control center in response to location signals received from the wireless location tracking device.

[9] In another embodiment there is provided the device as described above, further comprising a health module configured to transmit a health status signal in response to a health data signal received from at least one vital sensors.

[10] In another embodiment there is provided the device as described above, further comprising at least one environmental sensor and an environmental module configured to transmit an environmental status signal in response to an environmental data signal received from the at least one environmental sensor.

[11] In another embodiment there is provided the device as described above, wherein the at least one environmental sensor is a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, an air quality sensor, or combinations thereof. [12] In another embodiment there is provided the device as described above, wherein the location signal, the health status signal, the environmental status signal, or combinations thereof trigger the control center to transmit an response signal to the device.

[13] In another embodiment there is provided the device as described above, wherein the wireless location tracking device further comprises a GPS receiver.

[14] In another embodiment there is provided the device as described above, further a comprising a housing for providing an electronic enclosure to prevent ingress of water and debris and for protection of the device against impact.

[15] In another embodiment there is provided the device as described above, wherein the first and second light indicators comprise first and second backlit tactile buttons, respectively, and wherein the first and second backlit tactile buttons are configured to transmit a binary feedback signal in response to activation of the first or second backlit tactile buttons.

[16] In another embodiment there is provided the device as described above, wherein the first and second backlit tactile buttons illuminate in response to the input signal, and wherein the first and second backlit tactile buttons are configured to transmit a binary feedback signal in reply to the input signal by activating the first or second backlit tactile button.

[17] In another embodiment there is provided the device as described above, wherein the first and second light indicators are attached to the mount bracket, and wherein the first light indicator is position in the user's right field of view and the second light indicator is positioned the user's left field of view.

[18] In another embodiment there is provided the device as described above, wherein the mount bracket comprises: a body; a right arm pivotally connected to the body by a right flexible joint; and a left arm pivotally connected to the body by a left flexible joint; wherein the first light indicator is attached to the right arm and the second light indicator is attached to the left arm of the mount bracket. [19] In another embodiment there is provided the device as described above, further comprising an accelerometer, a gyroscope, or both.

[20] In another embodiment there is provided the device as described above, further comprising a forward facing camera, a user-facing camera, or both coupled to the housing or the mount bracket.

[21] In another embodiment there is provided the device as described above, further comprising a touchscreen device for displaying visual output in response to the input signal and for providing a touchscreen interface for the user to enter a touchscreen input in reply to the visual output.

[22] In another embodiment there is provided the device as described above, wherein the touchscreen device is removable.

[23] In another embodiment there is provided the device as described above, wherein the power source is coupled to the touchscreen device and is detached from the housing when the touchscreen device is removed to power the touchscreen device.

[24] In another embodiment there is provided the device as described above, wherein the mount bracket mounts the device to a brim of the helmet.

[25] In another embodiment there is provided the device as described above, wherein the mount bracket mounts the device to bottom surface of the brim of the helmet.

[26] In another aspect there is provided a helmet comprising the device described above.

[27] In another embodiment there is provided the device as described above, comprising a speaker for generating the audio output.

[28] In another embodiment there is provided the device as described above, wherein the speaker is an internal ear-muff speaker.

[29] In another aspect there is provided a wearable monitoring device comprising: a helmet having an integrated wireless location tracking module, and first and second light indicators; wherein the integrated wireless location tracking module comprises a wireless transmitter in communication with a network of receivers distributed throughout a mine, the wireless tracking device configured to transmit a location signal to the network of receivers for determining the underground location of the user by a control center; wherein the first and second light indicators are positioned such that the light indicators are visible to the user, wherein the first and second light indicator illuminate together with an audio output in response to an input signal.

[30] In another aspect there is provided a system for monitoring and alerting users, each user having the wearable monitoring device of any one of claims 1-27, the system comprising: a plurality of reporting units, wherein each reporting unit comprises the wearable monitoring device, and wherein each reporting unit is configured to transmit location signal; a control center for receiving the location signal, the control center configured to transmit a response signal to at least one of the plurality of reporting units; wherein the response signal triggers the first and second light indicators to illuminate together with an audio output.

[31] In another embodiment there is provided the device as described above, wherein the control center determines a response procedure based on the received location signal, a received health status signal, a received environmental signal, or combinations thereof, and selectively transmits the response procedure to the plurality of reporting units.

[32] In various further aspects, the disclosure provides corresponding systems and devices, and logic structures such as machine-executable coded instruction sets for implementing such systems, and devices. Various combinations of the embodiments and aspects described above are within the scope of the present invention.

[33] In this respect, before explaining at least one embodiment in detail, it is to be understood that the embodiments are not limited in application to the details of construction and to the arrangements of the components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein are for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting.

[34] Many further features and combinations thereof concerning embodiments described herein will appear to those skilled in the art following a reading of the instant disclosure. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[35] A detailed description of the preferred embodiments is provided herein below by way of example only and with reference to the following drawings, in which:

[36] Fig. 1 is a bottom perspective view of a helmet with a first embodiment of the safety device of the present invention mounted on the bottom surface of the brim of the helmet.

[37] Fig. 2 is a top perspective view of the helmet of Fig. 1. [38] Fig. 3 is a bottom plan view of the helmet of Fig. 1. [39] Fig. 4 is a front view of the helmet of Fig. 1.

[40] Fig. 5 is a bottom perspective view of a helmet with a second embodiment of the safety device of the present invention mounted on the bottom surface of the brim of the helmet.

[41] Fig. 6 is a front view of the helmet of Fig. 5.

[42] Fig. 7 is an exploded view of the first embodiment of the device of the present invention.

[43] Fig. 8 is an exploded view of the second embodiment of the device of the present invention.

[44] Fig. 9 is an exploded view of a third embodiment of the safety device having a detachable touchscreen device.

[45] Figs. 10A and 10B are a front view of the first embodiment of the safety device having light indicators attached by flexible joints. Arrows indicate the direction of rotation. In Fig. 10A: the light indicators are in the non-rotated state; while in Fig. 10B: the light indicators are in the rotated state.

[46] Figs. 1 1A and 1 1 B is a front view of the second embodiment of the safety device having light indicators attached by flexible joints. Arrows indicate the direction of rotation. In Fig. 1 1 A: the light indicators are in the non-rotated state; while in Fig. 11 B: the light indicators are in the rotated state.

[47] Fig. 12 shows an example circuitry of electrical components within a safety device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[48] Numerous details are set forth to provide an understanding of the examples described herein. The examples may be practiced without these details. The description is not to be considered as limited to the scope of the examples described herein.

[49] Wearable devices are described herein which seamlessly integrate into a mine worker's existing personal protection equipment (PPE) and workflow. Current industry standard hard hats for mine workers do not provide means to monitor the status of mine workers, such as health and/or position status; or alerting means to manage emergency situations and/or to communicate warnings. Furthermore, device feedback testing and research conducted at underground facilities showed that a helmet brim-mounted light coupled with an auditory buzzer were best at getting the attention of a miner while they perform their work. To address these needs as well as other deficiencies of standard industrial helmets, such as mining helmets, a "Smart Helmet" was developed.

[50] Two non-limiting approaches to an improved helmet were developed. The first approach is a helmet with fully integrated sensing, feedback, and communication hardware. For example, the helmet has an onboard, rechargeable battery to power the head lamp and the electrical components, including but not limited to, environmental sensors, location tracking hardware, and/or communications equipment. Since the electrical components are embedded, they are not easily discernible from a distance, thereby providing a safety helmet with similar appearance to current standard safety helmets. Such embodiments may be preferred in situations where aesthetic features are important for adoption of a safety helmet for industrial operations.

[51] The second approach is to augment existing helmets by attaching electrical components, including but not limited to sensing, feedback, and/or communications hardware as independent modules. One advantage of this approach is that it accommodates a greater number and variety of helmets, since the hardware modules can be designed with less specificity and hence applicable to a large variety of industrial helmets. Similar to the first approach, a removable, rechargeable battery is used to power the hardware modules.

[52] One benefit of the second approach is that a greater degree of customization is possible. For example, environmental sensors could be added along with, for example, health monitoring sensors. This allows for improved monitoring and control for specific mine needs. For example, no lights are required in open pit mines, but a GPS & 3G/LTE SIM card could be added for location tracking and communications. As well, this approach creates an opportunity to design safety devices which can augment the capabilities of existing helmets which are already certified, approved, and in distribution and use.

[53] The approaches described above do not limit the applications of the embodiments of safety devices described below.

[54] It is important that any modifications to a hard hat or miner safety helmets should not make a mine worker less safe. At a minimum the most basic technology needed for underground mine operations is a helmet mounted, high powered light emitting diode (LED). For example, adding in additional electrical components which track the mine worker's location, monitor the environment, monitor the health status of the mine worker, and/or allow for communication with a control center more efficient significantly improves mine worker safety. Specific further additions to a helmet, for example, a user-facing camera and/or an onboard accelerometer and gyroscope will further assist mine operators and control centers, for example, to determine if a mine worker is working safely even if the mine worker is unable to or has forgotten to report in.

[55] Although various examples and embodiments of safety devices for a mine worker helmet are described, application of the safety devices is not limited to mine workers but instead are also applicable to other industrial helmets. For example, examples and embodiments of safety devices described herein can also be used with helmets of other industrial workers, including but not limited to factory workers, construction workers, forestry workers, power plant workers, or oil and gas industry workers. Helmets with Safety Devices

[56] In one embodiment of a safety device 100, the device is mounted onto a helmet 10 such that the safety device is visible to the user. For example, the safety device 100 can be mounted on to the brim 20 of the helmet, or on the side of the helmet. Other locations are also possible so long as when mounted the safety device is visible to the user. In the embodiment shown in Figs. 1-4, the safety device 100 is mounted on the bottom surface of a brim 20 of a helmet 10. As shown, helmet 10 has an integrated ear-muff 30, but other helmets without an integrated ear-muff can also be used. In this embodiment, the safety device 100 is preferably positioned so that it is substantially centered in the middle of the brim and sized and shaped such that the safety device does not significantly impeded the field of view of the user. In some embodiments, the safety device can also protrude beyond the edge of the brim. In preferred embodiments, the safety device is sized and shaped to compliment the contours and curvatures of the helmet brim.

[57] In some embodiments, safety device 100 is has a mount bracket 110 for securing the device to the bottom surface of the helmet brim 20. In preferred embodiments, the safety device comprises a housing and all electrical components are contained inside the housing, such that the housing acts as an electronics enclosure to prevent contaminants or debris, such as water or dust, from interfering with the electrical components, as well as protection from impact. In particular, a mine environment predicates that safety devices must be able to withstand impact from falling rocks and collisions with heavy equipment. There is also exposure to water, changes in ambient pressure, and potential electrical contact. As such, in preferred embodiments, the safety device employs materials, such as hard plastic, that have high impact ratings, do not lose integrity with regular and prolonged exposure to water, and are highly insulating if exposed to stray electrical currents or electro-static discharges. Preferably, an electronics enclosure is configured to prevent or minimize water ingress as well as be able to accommodate variations in ambient pressure.

[58] In preferred embodiments, one side of the mount bracket 110 attached to the bottom surface of the helmet brim, and has a second side that attaches to the housing, for example, by complementary snap-fit joints, to secure the housing to the bottom surface of the helmet brim 20. In this manner, components of the safety device are protected below the brim. In alternate embodiments, the mount bracket is attached to the top surface of the brim, both top and bottom surfaces of the brim, or other parts of helmet brim. For example in the case where the mount bracket 110 is attached to the top surface of the brim, a part of the housing spans from the bottom surface to the top surface of the helmet brim to engage the mount bracket. The mount bracket may be affixed to the helmet brim for example using, adhesives, screws, slips, or alternatively integrally molded or affixed to the helmet brim. The listed attachment mechanisms are non-limiting and other attachment mechanisms for the mount bracket and housing can be used.

[59] In some embodiments, for example as shown in Fig. 7, the housing is comprised of two components: a top enclosure member 120 and a lower enclosure member 130. Preferably, sensors are mounted to the lower enclosure member. In alternate embodiments, the safety device further comprises a detachable touchscreen. In some embodiments, the detachable touchscreen is coupled to the housing such that it comprises the bottom surface of the housing with the touchscreen exposed for view by the helmet wearer. In other embodiments, the touchscreen is contained inside the housing and accessed by detaching the lower enclosure member. For example, the lower enclosure member acts as a lid covering the touchscreen, or a detachable touchscreen is coupled to the lower enclosure member such that removal of the lower enclosure member also detaches the touchscreen from the housing for use as a portable touchscreen. Other arrangements for the touchscreen are also possible.

[60] The dimensions of the safety device is not limited by the examples illustrated in the figures, but may vary in size and shape as needed depending on the required electrical components comprising the safety device as well as the type of helmet and shapes and sizes of the brim to which the safety device is attached. Another embodiment of the safety device 200 with larger dimensions is shown in Figs. 5, 6, and 8. In this embodiment, as best seen in Fig. 8, the housing has a top opening 220 which is closed off by the mount bracket, when the housing is coupled the mount bracket.

[61] Electrical components are preferably contained inside the housing, including but not limited to health modules for coupling to a vitals monitoring system, and wireless location tracking means. Additional components include, but are not limited to: environmental sensors, accelerometer, gyroscope, forward facing camera, and user-facing camera, and a GPS tracking module. In some embodiments, an environment sensor is mounted to the lower enclosure member 130 and exposed to the outside environment through a perforated lid covering the environment sensor. In one embodiment, the perforated lid is integral with the lower enclosure member, while in other embodiments, the perforated lid is detachable from the lower enclosure member. These components are described in further detail below.

[62] Turning to Fig. 7, the block chart shows an exemplary embodiment of the safety device 100 of Figs. 1-4 and the arrangement of components comprising the device 100. The identified components are: mount bracket 110, top enclosure member 120, lower enclosure member 130, left light indicator 150, right light indicator 160, environmental sensor perforated lid 170, environmental sensor 175; USB contacts for dock charging 180, and control buttons 190. In some embodiments, the control buttons 190 comprise LED lights.

[63] Turning to Fig. 8, the block chart shows an exemplary embodiment of the safety device 200 of Figs. 5 and 6, and the arrangement of components comprising the device 200. The identified components are: mount bracket 210, top opening 220, lower enclosure member 230, left light indicator 250, right light indicator 260, environmental sensor perforated lid 270, environmental sensor 275; USB contacts for dock charging 280, and control buttons 290. In some embodiments, the control buttons 290 comprise LED lights.

[64] Turning to Fig. 9, another exemplary embodiment of the safety device 300 is shown further comprising a touchscreen 380. The block chart illustrates an example arrangement of components comprising the device 300. The identified components are: mount bracket 310, top enclosure member 320, lower enclosure member 330, left light indicator 350, right light indicator 360, environmental sensor perforated lid 370, environmental sensor 375, USB contacts for dock charging 380, control buttons 390, and a touchscreen device 340. In some embodiments, the control buttons 390 comprise LED lights.

Monitoring and Managing Mine Workers

[65] The safety device is configured to provide added functionalities to a mine worker's helmet. In order to properly monitor mine workers for health issues and to manage emergency situation response, the Smart Helmet has three main functionalities. In some embodiments, other functionalities are added based on intended use and requirements. [66] The first functionality is location tracking. In some embodiments, the safety device is configured to track the location of the mine workers, and comprises electrical components such as wireless signal receivers and transmitters that integrate with a wireless network to determine and obtain location information of individual mine workers. Alternatively or in conjunction, the safety device comprises GPS modules to obtain location information, which is useful for example in open pit mine situations.

[67] The second functionality is interaction and communication. In some embodiments, the safety device is a two-way device configured to allow communication between, for example, a control center and mine workers, such that warnings and/or information are conveyed to mine workers easily and effectively. As well, the safety device is configured to output response instructions or warnings to mine workers in response to their location information obtained by location tracking. For example, the safety device has a transmitter that sends a location information signal to a central network, which in response to sends a response signal which is detected up by the wireless signal receivers of the safety device. In some embodiments, the response signal is outputted by the safety device as an audio/visual output, for example using speakers, light indicators, display screens, or combinations thereon. It is also important that mine workers be able to communicate their status and other gathered information to the control center.

[68] For example as described above, in testing and research it was determined that helmet brim-mounted light coupled with an auditory buzzer were best at getting the attention of a mine worker. In preferred embodiments, the safety device has two light indicators attached to the mount bracket or the housing, and positioned so that the two light indicators flank the housing one on each side. The attachments and arrangements of the light indicators illustrated in the figures are non-limiting, and other attachments are possible to position the light indicator within a user's field of view. For example, one light indicator is positioned closer to the user, while the second light indicator is positioned further away from the user. In preferred embodiments, one light indicator is generally in a user's right field of view and a second light indicator is generally in a mine worker's left field of view. Other positions are also possible that distinguishes one light indicator from the other.

[69] In the preferred arrangement of two indicators on either side of the houseing, when the safety device is attached to the brim of a helmet, a user can easily see the two light indicators and easily distinguish between the left and the right light indicator 150, 160. In preferred embodiments, to augment the light indicators, speakers are provided, such as an internal ear-muff speaker, to generate audible cues. The light indicators illuminate in a coordinated fashion with the audible cues to convey alarm and/or information. For example, the safety device comprises a receiver which, in response to receiving a warning signal from control center, triggers an internal ear-muff speaker to output a sound and simultaneously triggers the light indicators to illuminate. In another example, the safety device triggers an internal ear-muff speaker to output a siren or warning sound and also triggers the light indicators to flash in rhythm with the siren or warning sound. The safety device may also trigger both audio output and light illumination in other patterns or using other audio/visual output devices, in response to receiving a warning signal. For example, a visual output device includes a display screen or touchscreen of some embodiments of the safety device.

[70] In more preferred embodiments, the light indicators are buttons, for example, translucent tactile buttons each illuminated by RGB LEDs. The light indicator buttons allow a user to respond and/or acknowledge the alarm by depressing an illuminated button. By providing two light indicator buttons, a user can send a simple binary feedback response. For example, "yes" is associated with the right indicator button, while "no" is associated with the left indicator button. Other binary coding can also be associated with the two light indicator buttons as needed. In these embodiments, the safety device comprises a transmitter for transmitting a binary feedback signal to a control center in response to depression or activation of the tactile buttons. In some embodiments, activation of the tactile buttons is only available after the light indicator buttons are illuminated.

[71] As used herein, "audible cues" include, but are not limited to, buzzers, audios messages, and text to voice capability. As used herein, a "transmitter" includes, but is not limited to, wireless transmitters, Wi-Fi transmitters, Bluetooth transmitters or beacons, radio transmitters, two-way transmitters, and other electromagnetic wave transmitters. As used herein, a "receiver" includes, but is not limited to radio receivers, wireless receivers, Wi-Fi receivers, Bluetooth receivers, audio-visual receivers, and other electromagnetic wave receivers. As used herein, a "signal", includes but are not limited to, wireless signals, Wi-Fi signals, Bluetooth signals, radio signals, or other electromagnetic wave signals. [72] As used herein, references to transmission of a signal includes references to transmission of signals through a wireless transmitter of the safety device. For example, the wireless transmitter can be part of a wireless location tracking device, a separate wireless transmitter for each type of signal transmitted, or a single general wireless transmitter for the safety device.

[73] In some embodiments, the safety device further comprises a touchscreen interface to further enhance communication between mine workers and the control center. The touchscreen interface comprises a digital display that can output messages, vitals readouts, sensor readings, location information, and also accept mine worker input. For example, data signals from the sensors or signals received by the receiver are displayed as output on the digital display or touchscreen. As well, for example, input from the touchscreen is transmitted to a control center by the transmitter. In this manner, the control center can interact with mine workers using the touchscreen to obtain more information regarding an emergency situation and determine an appropriate response. For example when an emergency situation is identified, the control center identifies a mine worker located closest to the emergency situation using the location tracking functionality of the safety device, and requests a status update from the closest mine worker. The request is displayed on the touchscreen interface of the closest mine worker, who then also uses the interface to provide additional feedback and status information regarding the emergency situation. Touchscreen input includes, but a not limited to, audio and/or visual input, or a character string. Based on the touchscreen input transmitted to the control center by the safety device, the control center then further analyzes the emergency situation and selectively transmits emergency response instructions in the form of response signals to the safety devices of those mine workers identified by the location tracking as being situated within the emergency zone. Alternate response instructions can also be transmitted to mine workers located outside the emergency zone. Response signals received by the safety device may then trigger an audio and/or visual output as described above.

[74] The third main functionality of the Smart Helmet is health and vital monitoring. The safety device comprises a health module configured to obtain health and physical information regarding the mine worker. In some embodiments, the safety device comprises a health module that receives health data from one or more vital sensors, such as heart and breathing rate, and then transmits health status information or signal to the control center for analysis. In other embodiments, the health module comprises one or more vital monitoring devices that track vitals (ie. heart and breathing rate) and send notice signals if abnormalities or deviations are detected. In yet other embodiments, the health module comprises vital sensors and/or monitoring devices that integrate with a health monitoring system to oversee the health of mine workers. The health monitoring system then cooperates with control center systems to detect and address emergency or distress situations.

[75] For example, the vital sensors detect increased heart and breathing rate of mine workers who are in physical proximity to a particular location in the mine operation based on location tracking. Based on the health status signal and location signals received, the control center can then request investigation of this location to determine if an emergency situation has arisen. In some embodiments, the health module further comprises a gyroscope and/or an accelerometer to track physical movement of the mine workers. In this case for example, detection of increased heart and breathing rate as well as rapid downward movement from mine workers who are in physical proximity to a particular location may indicate that a cave- in has occurred. In some embodiments, the safety device comprises a processor configured to output a warning audio and/or visual output when the health module and/or the accelerometer detects a reading beyond a predetermined threshold. In other embodiments, the safety device transmits health status and movement signals to a control center for monitoring and tracking. Activity monitoring based on accelerometer data allows the system or control center to ascertain, for example, if the a user is walking, riding in a vehicle, including what type of vehicle, lying down, looking up, falling or fallen, have removed his or her helmet with the safety device. The listed types of activity monitoring base on accelerometer data is non-limiting, and other types of movement or activity may also be discerned. The accelerometer data, together or separately from health data generated by vital sensors, can be used to monitor the health of a user. For example, is the user fatigued and thus not looking left-to-right with the same regularity they usually do? Such health monitoring activities can also be automated by incorporating automated detection and response protocols to the safety devices or at the control center.

[76] Additional components can be added to the safety device, to further enhance the functionality of the Smart Helmet. The following examples are illustrative of various aspects of the invention, and do not limit the broad aspects of the invention as disclosed herein. Location Tracking

[77] In some embodiments, the safety device is configured to connect with Wi-Fi networks. Wi-Fi networks use received signal strength indication (RSSI) strength to determine relative location. For example, routers are distributed throughout a mine. As a mine worker moves through the drift, their safety device connects to the closest router. With known router locations, the mine worker's position within the mine can be determined to within half of the average router spacing.

[78] In other embodiments, other wireless communication protocols can be used such as a leaky feeder. For example, a mine with leaky feeder infrastructure may comprise coaxial cables running along tunnels which emits and receives radio waves, acting as an antenna. In one embodiment, a mine with leaky feeder infrastructure uses Bluetooth (BT) beacons communicating with the safety-helmet system for location tracking. These low cost, low power beacons can be installed throughout the mine with tight spacing to increase location resolution. The safety device connects to the BT beacons and the leaky feeder transmits digital communication signals to the surface. As one example, EM Microelectronic™ manufactures EMBC01 Bluetooth beacons which can be used with the safety device described herein.

[79] To expand the wireless capability, the hardware and firmware is configured to use USB to serial port for modularized communications. This design allow for easy integration for leaky feeder and cellular network modem (SIM) communication infrastructure, as well as provide the interface for leaker-feeder communications.

[80] The safety device optionally includes GPS receivers and integrated asset tracking modules. This added functionality couples GPS modules for outdoor application and either a standard Wi-Fi module or BT beacons to leaky feeder for location tracking. For example, this system could use Vandrico's Canary™ software to add equipment proximity alarms to prevent collisions and maintain safe working distances from heavy equipment.

Interaction and Communication

[81] As described above, in testing and research it was determined that a helmet with a brim-mounted light was the most effective means of getting the mine worker's attention. To expand on this, two translucent tactile buttons, each illuminated by RGB LEDs, are housed under the helmet brim.

[82] To augment the light indicator, in some embodiments an internal ear-muff speaker is used for alarm states and also for mine operations to use a text-to-voice system for added information dissemination. In some embodiments, the internal ear-muff speaker is integrated with the helmet, while in other embodiments the internal ear-muff speaker is provided separately from the helmet. By providing both light and audible cues, the mine worker's attention could be immediately captured, and then the reason for the alarm could be communicated through the mine worker's ear-muff speaker. For example, an audio output is transmitted by the internal ear-muff speaker in response to a warning signal from the control center. The mine worker could be prompted to acknowledge the alarm by depressing an illuminated tactile button, and then provide added information back to mine operations with additional input from other buttons, or through the touchscreen interface in embodiments of the safety device comprising a touchscreen device. While more complex interaction methods could be used, this simple binary feedback (yes/no) is fast and would not be overwhelming to the user. The risk of providing too much information and requiring a commensurate amount of response takes the mine worker's attention off their job and potentially impacts their safety and efficiency.

[83] In preferred embodiments where the two light indicators are positioned one on each side of the housing and opposite to each other (for example in Fig. 1), the light indicators may need to be angled down or curved to complement the curvature of the brim and/or for improved access to the tactile indicator buttons. Referring to embodiments of the safety devices 400 of Figs. 10A and 10B, and the embodiments of safety devices 500 of Figs. 11A and 1 1 B, the two light indicators are attached to left and right arms 412, 414, 512, 514 of the mount bracket 410, 510. The left and right arms are pivotally attached to a body of the mount bracket with flexible joints allowing the light indicators to rotate inwards and downwards towards the sides of the housing for helmet brims with a small radius of curvature. For helmet brims a large radius of curvature, the light indicators need not be bent or rotated down to accommodate the brim curvature.

[84] In some embodiments, the safety device comprises a touchscreen display device, and more preferably the touchscreen device is removable. In one example embodiment, the touchscreen display and interface comprises the bottom surface of the housing, such that the display is visible to the mine worker when the safety device is secured to the bottom surface of the helmet brim and provides a communication interface between the mine worker and the control center. In another example, the touchscreen display may also be removably coupled to the housing through a bottom opening in the housing. In another example embodiment, the touchscreen is contained inside the housing with the touchscreen display orientated facing away from the bottom surface of the helmet brim when the safety device is secured to the helmet, and covered by the lower enclosure member. The touchscreen display is exposed and visible to the mine worker wearing the helmet, when the lower enclosure member is removed thereby uncovering the touchscreen display. In yet another example embodiment, the touchscreen is contained inside the housing, or comprises a bottom portion of the housing, with the display orientated facing toward the bottom surface of the helmet brim when the safety device is secured to the helmet. In this case, the touchscreen device is coupled to the lower enclosure member, and detaching the lower enclosure member together with the touchscreen device allows the mine worker to access the display and interface. Other arrangements of the touchscreen are also possible that permits easy access to the touchscreen display device.

[85] In some embodiments, a power source (ie. a battery) is coupled to the touchscreen display device such that when the touchscreen display device is attached to the housing, the power source powers all the electrical components of the safety device. When the touchscreen display device is detached from the housing, the remaining electrical components are depowered. The touchscreen display device can then be positioned elsewhere on the body or in proximity to the mine worker for easier access when using a different equipment or performing different operations. Since the power source is coupled to the removable touchscreen display device, this feature also facilitates easier recharging of the battery.

[86] The touchscreen device and interface may also cooperatively interact with the two light indicator buttons, for example, so that a mine worker can respond to questions displayed on the touchscreen interface using the two light indicator buttons. In yet other embodiments, the safety device further comprises memory storage and information playback modules to repeat received messages. For example, if a specific task has been communicated to the mine worker, he/she can access and/or replay the instruction on the interface, in order to ensure that all steps have been completed.

Health Monitoring

[87] In preferred embodiments, the safety device is coupled to a continuous vitals monitoring system to provide health sensing and/or monitoring capabilities. In some embodiments, the safety device may further comprise vital signs sensors. Vitals monitoring of mine workers may add significant insights into the job tasks the mine worker faces every shift. Other than purely monitoring the health metrics, vital signs can be used to determine chronic health conditions (hypertension, high blood pressure). There is also the potential to determine stress levels using heart rate (HR), heart rate variability (HRV), and blood pressure (BP). Skin conductive response (SCR) sensors could also be used to see if they can help determine stress levels in a mine environment.

[88] In some embodiments, the safety device comprises health modules configured to integrate the safety device with an existing vitals monitoring system, such as a third-party health monitoring system. For example, the health modules may comprise vital signs sensors that send vital data to third party health monitoring systems. Alternatively, the health modules may be configured to integrate with existing vital monitoring devices, such as third- party vital monitoring devices, which are in turn configured to integrate with the health monitoring system.

Power Source

[89] In some embodiments, the housing also contains a power source, such as a battery for the operation of the environmental sensors and other electrical components of the safety device. The battery is preferably a rechargeable, lithium ion (Li-ion) battery, which is known for their high energy density, low mass, and low cost compared to other battery technologies. Other types of rechargeable batteries may also be used. Li-ion batteries are chosen based on dimensions, power availability, and capacity to suit the mechanical design and hardware requirements. Battery capacity should be sufficient to ensure that with typical usage, the device will last during the entire shift of a mine worker (for example a 12 hour shift) with reserve power for emergencies. With the variety of batteries available, the voltage, discharge current, recharge time, and shape can be very selectively chosen. The batteries will be readily accessible for easy removal and replacement.

Other Components

[90] A variety of environmental sensors exist that can be incorporated in the safety device to provide additional monitoring capabilities. Examples of environmental sensors include, but are not limited to, temperature sensors, humidity sensors, or air quality sensors.

[91] Temperature and humidity sensors give mine operations a picture of the mine condition in real-time. In an underground mine, a system monitoring these two parameters can manage and limit worker hours in areas of extreme heat and humidity. Temperature and humidity sensors are readily available, for example a combination temperature and humidity sensor, Si7020, from Silicone Labs™.

[92] In order to assess air quality for both for the mine worker and mine operators, measuring the constitution of air for carbon monoxide (CO), methane (CH₄), diesel emissions (Nitrogen dioxide, N0₂), and particulate is very important. Carbon monoxide is an invisible gas that cannot be detected by smell and is fatal in high concentrations. Methane is another dangerous combustible gas that is prevalent underground. Detecting these gases and making workers in the immediate area aware of their levels can help prevent workplace injuries. Currently there are air quality sensors placed around a mine, but having each mine worker become their own air quality monitoring station allows for a more accurate and detailed information gathering of a mine's total air quality. There are again combination sensor packages available that are suitable for the safety device, for example, AMS™ manufactures a micro electronic machine (MEM) gas sensor, AS-MLV-P2, that can detect both CO and CH . Knowing the particulate levels in the air, such as diesel particulates in the form of Nitrogen dioxide (N0₂), would be another good environmental metric to measure. N0₂ is the byproduct of diesel combustion and is required to be measured by mining regulatory bodies. For example, SGX Sensortech™ makes a dedicated N0₂ surface mount technology (SMT) sensor, MICS-2714.

[93] In some embodiments, environmental data from the environmental sensors are transmitter via a transmitter to a control center. [94] Additionally, some embodiments the safety device has an onboard accelerometer and gyroscope, forward facing camera, and user-facing camera. This added hardware radically opens up the possibilities of gesture based inputs from the mine worker. Head nodding up and down for yes, or side-to-side for no could be easily interpreted from accelerometer data if the mine worker is prompted to provide information back to mine operations. These sensors could also be used to determine the mine worker's activity without requiring their active input. From operating a vehicle and walking, or whether they are standing or lying prone and potentially incapacitated, algorithms could be used to judge what the mine worker is doing at any given time. Example sensors include a 6-axis accelerometer manufactured by InvenSense™, the MPU-6500 sensor.

[95] The front facing camera could be used to live stream what the mine worker is looking at and can be used to interpret hand signals for yes/no inputs when prompted (thumbs-up or thumbs-down). In addition, a forward facing camera can be used to document worksite issues using visual data capture. If there is a problem that the mine worker in unsure how to approach or solve, the equipment, or area could be live streamed back to mine operations for help.

[96] The user-facing camera is another piece of hardware that could allow mine operations to assess the health of the mine worker as they work. There has been some research that indicates that fatigue can be measured by eye blink frequency and duration. If there is an accident this camera could also be used to see the status of the mine worker.

[97] In some embodiments, the audio and/or visual feeds captured by the front facing camera and/or the user-facing camera in transmitted via a transmitter to a control center.

[98] Fig. 12 is a schematic diagram of an example Smart helmet or wearable safety device 900 according to some embodiments. Electrical components of the safety device can include a processing device 910, a power unit, and an I/O Unit and communication interface, each providing various connections.

[99] For example, in some embodiments, processing device 910 can execute instructions in memory in relation to data received from one or more inputs through I/O unit and/or communication interface. Processing device 910 can execute instructions in memory to configure any one or more components described herein. [100] Each I/O unit can enable the electrical component 900 to interconnect with one or more input devices, such as a flash memory 940, USB hub 942, one or more ports 944a, 944b, 944c (for example that can enable connection to USB flash disks), analogue-to-digital converter 934 (for example, that can receive analogue signals from temperature sensor 936, transform the analogue signals to digital signals), accelerometer and/or gyroscope 938 (for example, to receive gesture inputs from a miner or allow for monitoring of a miner's activity), one or more brim buttons 932 (for example, light indicator buttons providing binary options for input), a touchscreen device, microphone, environmental sensors (for example, temperature sensors, humidity sensors, air quality sensors for monitoring capabilities), and/or vital sensors (for example, vital signs sensors, vital monitoring devices, skin conductive response sensors for health monitoring). Each I/O unit can enable the electrical component 900 to interconnect with one or more output devices, for example, audio units (for example, speakers), light indicators (for example, RGB LEDs), display screens, and touchscreen displays (for example, a removable touchscreen display).

[101] Temperature sensor 936 can gather data from the environment, for example, using a thermometer. Analogue-to-digital converter 934 can receive raw temperature data, for example, as analogue signals, and provide a suitable signal to processor 910, for example, as digital signals. Processor 910 can execute instructions in memory to configure transmission of alerts, warnings, or messages to a remote control centre, for example, indicating the temperature and other data such as location or identity of the minor. This can enable a remote control centre to monitor mine conditions as well as in combination with other data and provide warnings to one or more miners via output units of Smart Helmets 900 when the temperature reaches a specified threshold, for example. The temperature data can be combined with other data received from and/or collected by one or more Smart Helmets (900 for example, at a Smart Helmet 900, multiple Smart Helmets 900 in a peer-to- peer network, or at a remote control centre) and a Smart Helmet 900 and/or a control centre can actuate one or more events in response, for example, depending on the temperature data and/or combination with other data. For example, a control centre can transmit an alert to a selection of Smart Helmets 900, where the selection is based on the Smart Helmet's 900 proximity to a Smart Helmet 900 at which temperature data exceeding a threshold value was collected. [102] Similarly, other sensors can interconnect with or be included in Smart Helmet 900. For example, accelerometer or gyroscope 938 can collect position data, for example, accelerometer or gyroscope data, and provide the data to Smart Helmet 900 . The data can be received via an I/O unit and a processor 910 can be configured to execute instructions for its storage (for example, in a storage device included in Smart Helmet 900) or transmission (for example, to a remote control centre). As another example, two brim buttons 932 can interconnect with and be included in Smart Helmet 900. A miner wearing the Smart Helmet 900 can engage with each of the buttons 932, for example, depress, flip, or perform other haptic or gestural engagement, and upon said engagement, a signal can be received at an I/O unit, which can provide data to processor 910 corresponding to the nature or type of the engagement, for example, which button was depressed. Processor 910 can execute instructions in memory to cause this data can be combined with other data, for example, clock data encoding the time at which the button was depressed.

[103] In some embodiments, Smart Helmet 900 can include a USB port 924. USB port 924 can provide Smart Helmet 900 with connection to a USB flask disk for receiving data or data from other sensory devices. For example, a device with sensors attuned to the environment can be connected to USB port 924 via a USB connection. This can improve monitoring capabilities of Smart Helmet 900 and the accuracy, efficiency, and usefulness of conveying warnings to miners from a remote control centre via Smart Helmets 900. In some embodiments, USB port 924 can connect to an on-the-go programming port 926, which can enable Smart Helmet 900 to act as either a host or a device/peripheral. A host supplies power to the link, while a device can receive the power, for example. This can enable a Smart Helmet 900 to connect with peripheral devices as a host and connect with hosts as a peripheral device.

[104] In some embodiments, Smart Helmet 900 can include a USB hub 942 that can provide interconnection with a one or more USB flash disks, for example, simultaneously via USB ports. Smart Helmet 900 can include a connection for flash memory 940. Smart Helmet 900 can include one or more ports 944a, 944b, 944c that can provide interconnection with other devices. For example, the ports 944a, 944b, 944c can be I2C expansion ports, audio, serial, video, HDMI, RCA, DVI, VGA, parallel, or other ports. The ports can enable Smart Helmet 900 interconnection with a wide range of inputs and outputs. Processor 910 can cause instructions to be executed in memory to store, process, or transmit data (for example, from one or more input devices). For example, a leaky feeder communications system can connect to Smart Helmet 900 via a USB hub 942. This can enable Smart Helmet 900 to receive communication in a mining environment, where portability, mobility, and signal requirements in communication transmission can be enhanced.

[105] In some embodiments, Smart Helmet 900 can store drivers, for example, software files enabling one or more devices to interconnect with Smart Helmet 900, for example, a Linux operating system. For example, Smart Helmet 900 can include LED drivers 928 that can enable Smart Helmet 900 to control one or more light indicators, such as RGB light indicators, 930a, 930b, 930c, for example, that are positioned strategically in relation to Smart Helmet 900 to optimize communication to a miner wearing Smart Helmet 900. For example, ability to see the lights, to understand a message from the lights, or to not be negatively impacted (e.g., interrupted or intolerably distracted) may be optimized. Processor 910 can cause instructions to be executed to synchronize or coordinate light indicators 930a, 930b, 930c with audible cues, for example, via internal ear-muff speakers. The nature of the synchronization or coordination can be based on a function to conveying alarm and/or information, for example. For example, a specific pattern and audio content can be conveyed for certain warnings and a different pattern or audio content can be conveyed for other warnings.

[106] In some embodiments, Smart Helmet 900 can include wireless unit 920, such as a Wifi unit, that can enable Smart Helmet to connect with wireless networks, including enabling WiFi connectivity, for example via external antenna 954. Smart Helmet 900 can include a WiFi sync button 956 that can enable a miner to control wireless connectivity. This can facilitate communication and/or location tracking within a mine. Wireless unit 920 can include wireless signal receivers and transmitters that integrate with a wireless network. In some embodiments, other wireless communication protocols can be used. For example, Smart Helmet can connect to a leaky feeder infrastructure via leaky feeder unit 946, for example, connected to Smart Helmet via USB Hub 942. This can enable communication and/or location tracking, for example, where WiFi connectivity is limited or not attainable. In some embodiments, Smart Helmet 900 can include bluetooth unit 922 that can enable Smart Helmet to connect with bluetooth-enabled devices. This can enable Smart Helmet 900 to connect to BT beacons installed in tight spacing in a mine, for example, via leaky feeder infrastructure, for communication including location tracking and two-way communication.

[107] In some embodiments, Smart Helmet 900 can include a power source 948 connected to a power management unit 950 to provide power for its components. For example, a power source 948 can be a 3.7V lithium ion battery (5000mAH). In some embodiments, power management unit 950 can connect to a DC-DC boost unit 952 connected to Smart Helmet 900 and DC-DC boost unit 952 can step up voltage received from a batter (e.g., 3.3V to 5V).

[108] Each communication interface can enable the electrical component 900 to communicate with other components, to exchange data with other components, to access and connect to network resources, to serve applications, and perform other computing applications by connecting to a network (or multiple networks) capable of carrying data including the Internet, Ethernet, plain old telephone service (POTS) line, public switch telephone network (PSTN), integrated services digital network (ISDN), digital subscriber line (DSL), coaxial cable, fiber optics, satellite, mobile, wireless (e.g. Wi-Fi, WiMAX), SS7 signaling network, fixed line, local area network, wide area network, and others, including any combination of these.

[109] A processing device 910 can be, for example, any type of general-purpose microprocessor or microcontroller, a digital signal processing (DSP) processor, an integrated circuit, a field programmable gate array (FPGA), a reconfigurable processor, or any combination thereof. The oversampling is optional and in some embodiments there may not be an oversampling unit. For example, in some embodiments, processing device 910 can be a Linux microcontroller or microcontroller running a Linux operating system.

[110] Memory may include a suitable combination of any type of computer memory that is located either internally or externally such as, for example, random-access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), compact disc read-only memory (CDROM), electro- optical memory, magneto-optical memory, erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), and electrically-erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), Ferroelectric RAM (FRAM) or the like. [11 1] The technical solution of embodiments may be in the form of a software product. The software product may be stored in a non-volatile or non-transitory storage medium, which can be a compact disk read-only memory (CD-ROM), a USB flash disk, or a removable hard disk. The software product includes a number of instructions that enable a computer device (personal computer, server, or network device) to execute the methods provided by the embodiments.

[112] The foregoing discussion provides many example embodiments. Although each embodiment represents a single combination of inventive elements, other examples may include all possible combinations of the disclosed elements. Thus if one embodiment comprises elements A, B, and C, and a second embodiment comprises elements B and D, other remaining combinations of A, B, C, or D, may also be used.

[113] The term "connected" or "coupled to" may include both direct coupling (in which two elements that are coupled to each other contact each other) and indirect coupling (in which at least one additional element is located between the two elements).

[114] It will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that the present invention is not limited to what has been particularly shown and described hereinabove, and instead should be understood that various changes, substitutions and alterations can be made herein. As can be understood, the examples described above and illustrated are intended to be exemplary only. The scope of the present invention includes both combinations and subcombinations of the various features described hereinabove, as well as variations and modifications thereof that are not in the prior art, which would occur to persons skilled in the art upon reading the foregoing description.

[115] Moreover, the scope of the present application is not intended to be limited to the particular embodiments of the process, machine, manufacture, composition of matter, means, methods and steps described in the specification.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A wearable monitoring device comprising:

a mount bracket for mounting the device to a helmet such that the device is visible to a user;

an electrical power source;

a wireless location tracking device coupled to the electrical power source, the wireless location tracking device comprising a wireless transmitter in communication with a network of receivers distributed throughout a mine, the wireless tracking device configured to transmit a location signal to the network of receivers for determining the underground location of the user by a control center; and

a first light indicator and a second light indicator coupled to the electrical power source and positioned such that the light indicators are visible to the user, wherein the first and second light indicator illuminate together with an audio output in response to an input signal.

2. The device of claim 1 , wherein the network of receivers comprises a WiFi network with routers distributed throughout the mine and the wireless location tracking device connects with the routers to transmit the location signal, and wherein the location of the user is determined based on received signal strength indication (RSSI) strength.

3. The device of claim 1 , wherein the network of receivers comprises a plurality of Bluetooth beacons installed throughout the mine and connected to a leaky feeder infrastructure, and wherein the Bluetooth beacons and the leaky feeder infrastructure transmit a digital communication signal to the control center in response to location signals received from the wireless location tracking device.

4. The device of any one of claims 1-3, further comprising a health module configured to transmit a health status signal in response to a health data signal received from at least one vital sensors.

5. The device of any one of claims 1-4, further comprising at least one environmental sensor and an environmental module configured to transmit an environmental status signal in response to an environmental data signal received from the at least one environmental sensor.

6. The device of claim 5, wherein the at least one environmental sensor is a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, an air quality sensor, or combinations thereof.

7. The device of claim 5 or 6, wherein the location signal, the health status signal, the environmental status signal, or combinations thereof trigger the control center to transmit an response signal to the device.

8. The device of any one of claims 1-7, wherein the wireless location tracking device further comprises a GPS receiver.

9. The device of any one of claims 1-8, further a comprising a housing for providing an electronic enclosure to prevent ingress of water and debris and for protection of the device against impact.

10. The device of any one of claims 1-9, wherein the first and second light indicators comprise first and second backlit tactile buttons, respectively, and wherein the first and second backlit tactile buttons are configured to transmit a binary feedback signal in response to activation of the first or second backlit tactile buttons.

11. The device of claim 10, wherein the first and second backlit tactile buttons illuminate in response to the input signal, and wherein the first and second backlit tactile buttons are configured to transmit a binary feedback signal in reply to the input signal by activating the first or second backlit tactile button.

12. The device of any one of claims 1-11 , wherein the first and second light indicators are attached to the mount bracket, and wherein the first light indicator is position in the user's right field of view and the second light indicator is positioned the user's left field of view.

13. The device of any one of claims 1-12, wherein the mount bracket comprises:

a body;

a right arm pivotally connected to the body by a right flexible joint; and

a left arm pivotally connected to the body by a left flexible joint;

wherein the first light indicator is attached to the right arm and the second light indicator is attached to the left arm of the mount bracket.

14. The device of any one of claims 1-13, further comprising an accelerometer, a gyroscope, or both.

15. The device of any one of claims 1-14, further comprising a forward facing camera, a user-facing camera, or both coupled to the housing or the mount bracket.

16. The device of any one of claims 1-15, further comprising a touchscreen device for displaying visual output in response to the input signal and for providing a touchscreen interface for the user to enter a touchscreen input in reply to the visual output.

17. The device of claim 16, wherein the touchscreen device is removable.

18. The device of claim 17, wherein the power source is coupled to the touchscreen device and is detached from the housing when the touchscreen device is removed to power the touchscreen device.

19. The device of any one of claims 1-18, wherein the mount bracket mounts the device to a brim of the helmet.

20. The device of claim 19, wherein the mount bracket mounts the device to bottom surface of the brim of the helmet.

21. A helmet comprising the device of any of the preceding claims.

22. The helmet of claim 16, comprising a speaker for generating the audio output.

23. The helmet of claim 16, wherein the speaker is an internal ear-muff speaker.

24. A wearable monitoring device comprising:

a helmet having an integrated wireless location tracking module, and first and second light indicators;

wherein the integrated wireless location tracking module comprises a wireless transmitter in communication with a network of receivers distributed throughout a mine, the wireless tracking device configured to transmit a location signal to the network of receivers for determining the underground location of the user by a control center;

wherein the first and second light indicators are positioned such that the light indicators are visible to the user, wherein the first and second light indicator illuminate together with an audio output in response to an input signal.

25. The device of claim 24, wherein the network of receivers comprises a WiFi network with routers distributed throughout the mine and the wireless location tracking device connects with the routers to transmit the location signal, and wherein the location of the user is determined based on received signal strength indication (RSSI) strength.

26. The device of claim 24, wherein the network of receivers comprises a plurality of Bluetooth beacons installed throughout the mine and connected to a leaky feeder infrastructure, and wherein the Bluetooth beacons and the leaky feeder infrastructure transmit a digital communication signal to the control center in response to location signals received from the wireless location tracking device.

27. The device of any one of claims 24-26, wherein the first and second light indicators comprise first and second backlit tactile buttons, respectively, and wherein the first and second backlit tactile buttons are configured to transmit a binary feedback signal in response to activation of the first or second backlit tactile buttons.

28. A system for monitoring and alerting users, each user having the wearable monitoring device of any one of claims 1-27, the system comprising:

a plurality of reporting units, wherein each reporting unit comprises the wearable monitoring device, and wherein each reporting unit is configured to transmit location signal; a control center for receiving the location signal, the control center configured to transmit a response signal to at least one of the plurality of reporting units;

wherein the response signal triggers the first and second light indicators to illuminate together with an audio output.

29. The system of claim 28, wherein the control center determines a response procedure based on the received location signal, a received health status signal, a received

environmental signal, or combinations thereof, and selectively transmits the response procedure to the plurality of reporting units.