AT527635A1 - Electro-optical radiation protection device - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to an electro-optical radiation protection device (1), in particular a light protection device, with at least one electro-optical protective screen (1) which covers at least the field of vision of one eye and comprises at least one liquid crystal element (2), at least two radiation sensors (3, 4, 5), each of which generates a control signal depending on the intensity of the incident radiation, and with control electronics (6) which are designed to receive the control signals and to control the or each liquid crystal cell (2), and which controls the transmittance (T) of the protective screen (1) as a function of the control signals of the radiation sensors. The radiation sensors (3, 4, 5) are designed as photodiodes with the highest sensitivity in the infrared range, predominantly in the range between 400 and 1100 nm, wherein the sensor surfaces (7, 8, 9) define sensor planes (SE3, SE4, SE5), wherein at least two of the sensor planes (SE3, SE4) intersect each other at an angle of less than 45°, and wherein the intersection line of these sensor planes (SE3, SE4) preferably lies in or parallel to the sagittal plane (S) of the protective screen (1).

Description

other light protection device according to the preamble of claim 1.

It is known to provide an electro-optical protective screen that covers at least the field of vision of one eye and comprises at least one liquid crystal element. It is also known to provide radiation sensors and to generate a control signal depending on the intensity of the incident radiation and then to control the transmittance of the protective screen. For example, US 8081262 B1 discloses a sun protection device, in particular sunglasses, with at least one optical sun protection filter that has at least one liquid crystal cell, and with at least one sensor unit that is provided for detecting solar radiation.

been proposed.

Furthermore, EP 3 258 306 B describes a sun protection device, in particular sunglasses, with at least one optical sun protection filter, which has at least one liquid crystal cell, and with at least one sensor unit, which is provided for detecting solar radiation. Preferably, the sun protection device also has a control and/or regulating unit, which is provided for controlling and/or regulating a permeability of the optical sun protection filter depending on solar radiation. A sensor surface of the at least one sensor unit is at least partially covered by at least one sensor cover, which is at least partially protected against radiation of a visible light spectrum at least substantially

is opaque.

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To control and/or regulate permeabilities.

WO 2022/038014 A1 describes an embodiment of a sun protection device whose optical sun protection filter comprises at least one photochromatic

cal protective element in addition to the optical sun protection filter.

US Pat. No. 5,552,841 A discloses glasses with electronically dimmable lenses via liquid crystal cells, which darken depending on the incident radiation. Power is supplied via a film applied to the lenses. Furthermore, a rechargeable battery can be provided, and a separate control unit for dimming with a manual adjustment knob can be arranged between the solar cell and the lens. One embodiment of these glasses provides at least one infrared sensor, the output signal of which is used to control dimming. The dimming can extend over the height of the lens, if necessary.

Can also be adjusted manually if necessary.

US 2023/0213787 A1 discloses a spectacle device with an ophthalmic lens with variable transmission, a method for controlling the transmission of such a lens, and a computer-readable storage medium for implementing such a method. The spectacle device comprises a light sensor configured to measure an amount of light in the environment of a wearer, and a control circuit configured to receive at least light data from the light sensor and to control the transmission of the ophthalmic lens based on the light. The control circuit

tion is configured to transmit the ophthalmic lens on the

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an estimate of a movement of the wearer's head.

The object of the present invention was to improve a device as described above in such a way that a better adjustment of the radiation protection to the actual lighting conditions in the entire environment of the device is provided, and a reliable operation of the device over a long period of time

while maintaining a compact design and low weight. This object is achieved by a device according to the claims.

To achieve this object, the device according to the invention is characterized in that the radiation sensors are designed as photodiodes with the highest sensitivity in the infrared range, predominantly in the range between 400 and 1100 nm, wherein the sensor surfaces define sensor planes that enclose an angle of less than 45° with the vertical axis of symmetry of the protective screen, wherein at least two of the sensor planes intersect each other at an angle of less than 45°, and wherein the intersection line of these sensor planes preferably lies in or parallel to the sagittal plane of the protective screen. Thus, the illumination conditions in a larger area in the horizontal plane around the protective device can be used to control the transmittance and thus

be used for the necessary protection factor.

Preferably, at least three radiation sensors are provided per protective screen, wherein the sensor surface of the central radiation sensor is oriented parallel to the transverse axis of the protective screen, and wherein the sensor planes of at least one radiation sensor arranged laterally on either side of the central radiation sensor, preferably of the immediately adjacent radiation sensor, intersect the sensor plane of the central radiation sensor at an angle of less than 45°. This allows an even larger area around the protective device to be used for controlling the transmittance and thus for the necessary

protection factor can be used.

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of the direction of radiation always remains at a sufficient height.

Furthermore, it is advantageously provided that at least one of the sensor planes forms an angle of less than 45° with the transverse axis of the protective screen. This allows an even larger area around the protective device to be used for controlling the transmittance, namely also in a larger angular range in the

Sagittal plane, can be used.

Preferably, the photodiodes intended as radiation sensors are operated in photovoltaic mode, with the output voltage being fed into the control electronics as a control signal and preferably also being used to power the control electronics and/or the liquid crystal cell. This avoids the need for additional power sources such as batteries, accumulators, etc.

both weight and installation space can be saved.

A particularly advantageous embodiment is one in which a photodiode and/or a photovoltaic element is connected to the control electronics and/or the liquid crystal cell as a power supply. In this embodiment, even devices with higher energy requirements can be operated without separate power sources such as batteries or accumulators, and accordingly

be kept sufficiently light and small.

According to a further feature of the invention, the control electronics are designed to determine an average value from the signals of all light sensors and to control the transmittance of the liquid crystal cell depending on this average value. This allows for a transmission of light that is as uniform as possible across the surface of the protective screen and also temporally stable, even in the case of a relative movement of the light source, particularly around the vertical axis of the protective device.

see consistent darkening is ensured.

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to set.

A further embodiment of the invention is characterized in that at least one of the radiation sensors is arranged on the side of the protective screen opposite the liquid crystal element. This can prevent impairments in the detection of the incident light due to optical deflections.

and/or mirroring should be avoided.

Another preferred embodiment is one in which the radiation sensors and preferably the control electronics are integrated into the protective screen or mounted thereon, preferably in the region of the upper edge and preferably in or near the sagittal plane. This offers a high degree of flexibility for the use of the protective screen in various support arrangements, for example, with support frames of different designs from different manufacturers.

learn, etc.

A further embodiment of the radiation protection device is characterized in that each radiation sensor is assigned a liquid crystal cell, whereby the transmittance of the protective screen in the area of each liquid crystal cell is individually controlled depending on the light incidence, which is determined by the assigned radiation sensor. This combination of features allows the protective effect, i.e., the darkening, to be precisely adjusted to the direction of incidence of the radiation, while the remaining viewing angles are not or only slightly darkened, maintaining optimal visibility.

the.

Yet another embodiment of the radiation protection device provides

that the protective screen is brightened when activated and in the deactivated state

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level can be reduced or avoided.

In order to be able to wear the radiation protection device according to the invention in the manner of glasses, in particular as sunglasses or sports glasses, it comprises a support frame and at least one protective screen that is mounted on or in a support frame or is replaceably connected to it. These protective screens

covers at least a large part of the visual field of at least one eye.

To achieve the object of the invention, such a protective device, in particular goggles, is characterized in that at least one of the radiation sensors, preferably all radiation sensors, and preferably also the control electronics are integrated into the protective screen or attached thereto, preferably near the upper edge of the protective screen. This offers a high degree of flexibility for the use of the protective screen in various support arrangements, for example, with support frames of different designs.

form, from different manufacturers, etc.

Alternatively, such a radiation protection device with a support frame can also be characterized in that at least some of the radiation sensors, preferably all of the radiation sensors, and the control electronics are integrated into the support frame or mounted thereon, preferably near the upper edge of the protective screen and in or near the sagittal plane of the support frame. This results in no restrictions of the field of view in the area of the protective screen, and all necessary components can be optimally positioned over the entire area of the support frame, depending on their structural design.

be positioned distributed.

A preferred embodiment is one in which a photodiode and/or a photovoltaic element is connected to the control electronics and/or the liquid crystal cell as a power supply and is preferably mounted in the supporting

frame or attached to the support frame. This allows for an improvement

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intended for the control of radiation protection.

A further embodiment of the invention is characterized in that two protective screens are mounted on or in a support frame or are interchangeably connected thereto, wherein the protective screens are arranged in such a way as to cover at least a large part of the field of vision of one eye. Thus, the device according to the invention is in the form of a conventional

glasses that are easy and comfortable to wear.

Yet another embodiment of the radiation protection device provides that the support frame completely encloses both protective screens along their edges and has a nose recess in the area of the sagittal plane or the central axis forming an axis of symmetry, extending from the lower edge and over part of the height of the protective screens towards the upper edge of the support frame. This provides optimal protection for the protective screens against accidental detachment from the support frame and against mechanical damage to these high-quality components, especially the

edges.

According to an alternative embodiment of the invention, a protective screen is mounted on or in a support frame or is replaceably connected to it, and covers at least a large part of the field of vision of both eyes. This eliminates any restrictions caused by interfering elements, such as frame sections, nose pads, etc., in the field of vision of the wearer of the protective device, and ensures optimal visibility over

the entire field of vision.

Preferably, the protective screen and/or an edge of the support frame surrounding the protective screen in the area of the sagittal plane or the central axis forming an axis of symmetry is a

part of the width of the protective screen towards the upper edge of the

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to ensure nationalization.

In the context of this application, a "radiation protection device" is to be understood in particular as a device intended to protect the eyes of a user from, in particular, disturbing light or solar radiation. Preferably, this is to be understood in particular as a device intended to at least reduce solar radiation. Particularly preferably, the radiation protection device is intended, in at least one operating state, to darken, in particular disturbing, light or solar radiation on the user's eyes. Various embodiments of this device that appear appropriate to a person skilled in the art are conceivable, such as, for example, as a screen and/or particularly

preferred as safety goggles.

Furthermore, in this context, a "sensor surface" of the sensor unit should be understood to mean, in particular, a detection surface of the sensor unit. This should preferably be understood to mean, in particular, a surface of the sensor unit on which the sensor unit can detect radiation, in particular incident light. This should particularly preferably be understood to mean, in particular, a cell surface of the sensor unit. The sensor surface is preferably directed forwards or diagonally forwards, i.e., in particular, in the direction of a hypothetical viewing direction or a larger field of vision of a user. The sensor surface preferably extends substantially parallel to an end face of the radiation protection device, in particular tangentially to

Surface of a protective screen of the radiation protection device.

Furthermore, in this context, a "protective screen" is to be understood as meaning, in particular, a screen made of glass and/or plastic. Preferably, its light transmission is adjustable, if necessary with an automatic and/or manually adjustable darkening. Particularly preferably, the protective screen has at least one liquid crystal element whose transmission can be switched.

level with at least one liquid crystal cell. There are various

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the theoretic line of sight of a user.

The darkening or change of the transmission of the protective device should be such that at least 50%, preferably at least 70% and particularly preferably at least 90% of a corresponding incident radiation is absorbed and/or reflected, at least in the range of visible light, i.e.

especially in the wavelength range from 380 nm to 780 nm.

"Control electronics" is understood to mean, in particular, a unit with at least one electronic circuit, which preferably consists of voltage and comparison control modules. In principle, however, the control electronics can also be more complex, in particular through the use of an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) and/or a

Microcontroller module.

For a better understanding of the invention, it will be explained with reference to the following

The figures explain this in more detail. They show, in a highly simplified, schematic representation:

Fig. 1 shows a first embodiment of a protective screen according to the invention

with three radiation sensors in the front view;

Fig. 2 the protective screen of Fig. 1 in a view obliquely from above;

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Fig. 3 is a section parallel to the transverse plane in the central area of the protective screen of Fig. 1 and Fig. 2, with the diagrams of the receiver

capture characteristics of the radiation sensors;

Fig. 4 is a diagram of the reception characteristics of the three radiation sensors of the protective screen of Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 and a schematic circuit diagram;

Fig. 5 a section parallel to the sagittal plane through a second embodiment

shape of a protective screen according to the invention;

Fig. 6 is a perspective view of a first embodiment of a radiation protection device according to the invention in the form of glasses with

a protective screen according to Figs. 1 to 4;

Fig. 7 a section parallel to the sagittal plane through the radiation protection device

direction of Fig. 6;

Fig. 8 is a perspective view of a second embodiment of a radiation protection device according to the invention in the form of glasses with

two separate protective screens;

Fig. 9 a diagram of the voltages of the three radiation sensors, the summ-

voltage and an average value.

By way of introduction, it should be noted that in the variously described embodiments, identical parts are provided with identical reference symbols or component designations, whereby the disclosures contained in the entire description can be applied analogously to identical parts with identical reference symbols or component designations. Furthermore, the positional information chosen in the description, such as top, bottom, side, etc., refers to the directly described and illustrated figure, and these positional information must be applied analogously to the new position in the event of a change in position. For a better understanding of the structure, some elements may be drawn not to scale.

may be displayed in a larger and/or smaller size.

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Fig. 1 shows a protective screen 1 for an electro-optical radiation protection device, in particular for a protection device against excessive light irradiation, for example for use as sun protection, as a sports or sun

glasses or even for self-darkening optical glasses.

The protective screen 1 covers at least the field of vision of one eye of the wearer and supports the electro-optical element or can itself be designed as an electro-optical element. The protective screen 1 can be made of a suitable plastic, for example, polycarbonate, or glass. The protective screen 1 can itself be provided with a supporting structure, such as temples, elastic bands, etc., to enable use as a standalone device.

to enable radiation protection device.

The radiation protection device further comprises at least one liquid crystal element 2 with at least one, preferably several, liquid crystal cells 2a, 2b,..., which liquid crystal element 2 can be part of the protective screen 1, as shown in Figs. 1 to 3. However, the protective screen 1 can support the liquid crystal element(s) 2 or their cells 2a, 2b,... and then serves as a carrier for the liquid crystal element 2. The liquid crystal element 2 can be arranged on the protective screen 1 in the direction of the line of sight to an object on the front or back thereof. When using the sun protection device, the front side faces the user of the radiation protection device, while the outside is on the opposite side facing the object to be viewed. The liquid crystal element 2 can also be attached to the outside or inside of a protective screen 1 acting as a carrier.

be brought.

A very advantageous embodiment provides the liquid crystal cells of the liquid crystal element 2 in a mirror-symmetrical arrangement with respect to the sagittal plane. The mirror-symmetrical arrangement of liquid crystal cells with respect to a transverse plane also has advantages, for example, in facilitating a different darkening of the protective device depending on the angle of incidence of the radiation relative to the horizontal.

cells each have a liquid crystal layer switchable in the transmission T

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In principle, however, it would also be conceivable that only one liquid crystal cell is present, which extends particularly over the field of vision of both eyes

of the user.

The liquid crystal cells are preferably each formed by a plastic liquid crystal cell. The liquid crystal cells can each consist of several layers and can also be adapted to the shape of the protective screen 1 with regard to the areal

Execution as well as any curved shaping will follow.

Furthermore, the protective screen 1 has at least two, but preferably three radiation sensors 3, 4, 5, which are preferably arranged in the region of the upper edge of the protective screen 1 and preferably centrally, i.e. in the region of the sagittal plane S or a vertical axis V through the protective screen 1. The vertical axis runs parallel to or at an acute angle of less than 45° to a height of the protective screen 1. Furthermore, it is advantageous if the radiation sensors 3, 4, 5 are arranged on the protective screen 1 adjacent to the liquid crystal element 2. Preferably, the radiation sensors 3, 4, 5 lie in a line next to one another along or parallel to a transverse axis Q of the protective screen 1, which runs parallel to the width of the protective screen 1. Furthermore, the frontal plane F is shown in Fig. 1, to which the transverse axis is parallel. and which runs parallel to a plane that is tangent to the protective screen 1 of Fig. 1 to Fig. 6 in its central area. Each of the radiation sensors 3, 4, 5 generates a control signal depending on the intensity of the incident radiation and is connected to control electronics 6 (Figs. 2 and 3) which is designed to receive the control signals and to control the liquid crystal element 2 or the or each liquid crystal cell 2a, 2b, .... in order to determine their transmittance and thus also the transmittance of the radiation protection device as a function of the control signals of the radiation sensors 3, 4, 5 and

also as a function of radiation intensity.

The radiation sensors 3, 4, 5 are preferably designed as photodiodes, the highest sensitivity of which is preferably in the infrared range. The range with the highest sensitivity, in which the preferably in the photovoltaic

Mode operated radiation sensors 3, 4, 5 have the highest current or

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The wavelength of the photodiode 10 that can deliver the highest voltage is preferably between 400 nm and 1100 nm. Thus, the output voltage or the output current can be fed into the control electronics 6 as a control signal, as well as used to supply energy to the control electronics 6 and/or the liquid crystal element 2 or the liquid crystal cell 2a, 2b, ... Should more energy be required for the operation of the control electronics 6 and/or the liquid crystal cells 2, a further photodiode 10 and/or a photovoltaic element 11 could be provided to supply energy to the control electronics 6 and/or the

to support or completely replace liquid crystal cells.

The sensor surfaces 7, 8, 9 of the radiation sensors 3, 4, 5 define or lie in sensor planes SE3, SE4 and SE5S5, which in the embodiment of Fig. 1 to Fig. 4 are aligned normal to the transverse plane T or parallel to the vertical axis V. The sensor surfaces 7, 8, 9 of the radiation sensors 3, 4, 5 can be arranged in different spatial relative positions to each other.

be.

If the sensor surfaces 7, 8, 9 of the radiation sensors 3, 4, 5 are located, for example, in the same frontal plane F, as schematically illustrated in Fig. 9, the radiation sensors 3, 4, 5 are designed and positioned relative to one another such that the lobes of the horizontal reception characteristics overlap in the edge regions. This allows for improved detection of the light intensity of the incident infrared radiation and improved averaging of the sum signal of the radiation sensors 3, 4, 5, and, in the case of obliquely incident radiation, an improved shading relationship between the incident light radiation at different angular positions of the same to the frontal plane F.

can be achieved.

The control electronics 6 are preferably designed to determine an average value from the signals of all radiation sensors 3, 4 or 4, 5 or all existing radiation sensors and to control the transmittance of the liquid crystal element 2 depending on this average value.

also attracts obliquely incident radiation to obtain an average value of the intensity

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of the radiation striking the protective screen 1. Due to the overlap of the sensor areas of the individual radiation sensors and in conjunction

By evaluating infrared radiation, a reduction in signal changes is achieved compared to the use of incident visible light, and a more harmonious adjustment of the darkening is achieved depending on the angle of incidence and the change in light intensity. Above all, this makes it possible for the radiation protection device to be applied over the entire surface of the protective

pane 1 is darkened slightly less in order to ensure sufficient light even in those areas where a lower light intensity occurs on the radiation protection device 1.

to provide sufficient visibility for the user.

In a further possible independent embodiment of the invention, the sensor surfaces 7, 8, 9 of the radiation sensors 3, 4, 5 can define sensor planes SE3 and/or SE4 and/or SE5 or lie in these, as is shown in the embodiment of Figs. 1 to 4. The sensor planes SE3 and/or SE4 and/or SE5 are aligned normal to the transverse plane T or parallel to the vertical axis V, i.e. their surface normals each lie in the transverse plane T. In the context of the present invention, they form a "curved" arrangement, as will be explained below, wherein the surface normal

are not oriented parallel, but form acute angles with each other.

To illustrate this feature, the sensor plane SE3 of the radiation sensor 3 is shown in Fig. 2. The sensor plane SE4 of the central radiation sensor 4 coincides with the frontal plane F in the example of Fig. 2, or will generally be oriented parallel to it. The sensor plane SE4 forms an angle a of less than 45° with the sensor plane SE3. Preferably, the arrangement of the radiation sensors 3, 4, 5 is symmetrical, and the sensor plane SE5 of the radiation sensor 5 opposite the radiation sensor 3 also intersects the sensor plane SE4 of the central radiation sensor 4 at the same angle a. Preferably, the angle a, or each angle between the sensor planes SE3 and SE4 or SE4 and SE5, is between 1° and 33°, preferably

between 3° and 25°. The intersection line of the sensor planes SE3 and SE4 respectively.

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SE4 and SE5 are preferably located in the sagittal plane S of the protective

disc 1 or parallel to it.

The sectional view of Fig. 3 shows a section through a protective screen 1 at the level of the sensors 3, 4, 5, i.e., in the upper edge area and centrally in the protective screen 1. In addition to the radiation sensors 3, 4, 5, the aforementioned photodiode 10 and a photovoltaic element 11 are also shown. Furthermore, this illustration in Fig. 3 shows the control electronics 6, which, like the radiation sensors 3, 4, 5, are arranged, molded into, or attached in some other way in an area of the protective screen 1 that is free from the liquid crystal element 2 on the inside of the protective screen 1. The area free from the liquid crystal element 2 can be seen, among other things, in Figs. 1 and 5. However, the control electronics 6 can also be arranged in a support frame 12 of the glasses, a temple 13, or the frame 14, as is schematically indicated, among other things, in Fig. 8. But even with protective screens 1 that are assigned to only one eye, the control electronics 6 can also be arranged on the respective protective screen 1. Furthermore, the symmetrical arrangement of the radiation sensors 3, 4, 5 and their sensor surfaces 7, 8, 9 can be seen. Both the sensor level SE5 on the left side and the sensor level SE3 on the right side close with the sensor level SE4 or a

Frontal plane F forms an acute angle a less than 45°.

This results in a situation for the reception characteristics of the radiation sensors 3, 4, 5 as also shown in Fig. 3, in which the lobes of the horizontal reception characteristics overlap each other and in which the adjacent lobes are inclined towards each other by the same angle a as between the sensor planes SE3 and SE4 or SE4 and SE5.

The control electronics 6 are preferably designed to determine an average value from the signals of all radiation sensors 3, 4, 5 and to control the transmittance of the liquid crystal cell 2 depending on this average value. The corresponding voltage diagrams of a preferred embodiment are shown in Fig. 9. On the left side of Fig. 9, the outputs

output voltages V3, V4 and V5 of the radiation sensors 3, 4, 5 are plotted as

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they arise when light hits the screen as shown in Fig. 4. On the right in Fig. 9, the sum signal VS is shown on the same scale, with the components of the output voltages V3, V4 and V5 being identified. Finally, an average signal VM is shown, here as preferred as a third of the sum signal VS. As can be seen from this, the average value VM of the three partial signals V3, V4, V5 of sensors 3, 4, 5, which were recorded by the three sensors at an angle depending on the light incidence, is in no way smaller than the signal V3 of the radiation sensor 3 which is most strongly hit by the radiation. This means that obliquely incident radiation is also used to calculate an average value of the intensity of the radiation hitting the protective screen 1. As can be better seen in Fig. 4, which only shows the lobes of the reception characteristics, in the case of, for example, oblique light incidence—symbolized in Fig. 4 by the oblique arrows—the radiation sensor facing more closely to the incident light compensates for the sharp reduction in sensitivity of the opposite radiation sensor facing furthest away from the incident light. This makes it possible to create a compensation for the brightness across the entire width of the protective screen 1, so that the areas of the protective screen 1 hit by radiation of lower intensity do not darken as much as if only the energy generated from the frontal incident radiation were used to darken the arrangement of the liquid crystals.

tall cells 2 would be used.

Furthermore, the value of the signal size could be taken into account differently when summing the signal for the intensity of the dimming. This is especially true in order to achieve a different dimming effect across the width B and/or height H of the protective screen 1. Especially with optical lenses or separate lenses for both eyes in one spectacle frame, the signals from the photodiodes of both lenses can be taken into account when summing or controlling the dimming of the respective lenses, so that when light is incident from the side, the dimming in the area of the less

radiated glass leads to a reduced overall darkening of both glasses.

As can be seen in Fig. 3, the radiation sensors 3, 4, 5 and

Preferably, the control electronics 6 are integrated into the protective screen 1 or

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These elements are preferably positioned in the region of the upper edge of the protective screen 1 and preferably in or near its sagittal plane S in an area adjacent to the liquid crystal elements 2.

oned.

Fig. 4 also includes a schematic basic circuit diagram for the radiation protection device according to the invention. The signals from the radiation sensors 3, 4, 5 are optionally preprocessed by signal conditioning circuits 17 assigned to these sensors and then fed to the control electronics 6 connected to the sensors 3, 4, 5 or these circuits 17. The output of the control electronics 6 is connected to the liquid crystal element 2 in order to control its transmittance according to the algorithm implemented in the control electronics 6. The algorithm can be implemented as a hard-wired circuit, as a software module, optionally using artificial intelligence, or as a combination thereof. The algorithm can implement a pure on-off function of the liquid crystal cell 2, switching only between two transmission levels, preferably maximum transparency and maximum darkening. The transmission can also be switched in several stages, or can also be a continuously variable one in direct proportional dependence on the radiation incident on at least one radiation sensor 3, 4 or 5 or on a total signal of several, preferably all, radiation sensors 3, 4, 5 or any function thereof.

cause transmission.

Furthermore, Fig. 4 shows the optional possibilities for manually influencing the transmission control by means of an actuating element 18 connected to the control electronics 6, for example an on/off button, a setting wheel for the transmission level or the characteristics of the algorithm, etc. Another optional possibility for influencing the control electronics 6 is control via an external operating unit, for example a mobile phone 20, which communicates wirelessly with an external receiving module 19 connected to the control electronics 6. The receiving module 19 could also be integrated into control-

electronics 6. Data can also be transferred via the mobile phone 20

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which is then fed into the liquid crystal cell 2 by controlling the

can be displayed in the wearer's field of vision.

For example, it is also possible to assign a liquid crystal cell 2 or a group of neighboring cells to each radiation sensor 3, 4, 5, wherein the transmittance of the protective screen 1 in the area of this liquid crystal cell 2 or group of cells is controlled individually depending on the radiation intensity, which is determined by the assigned radiation sensor 3, 4, 5. However, regardless of the previously described control, it is also possible for the entire liquid crystal element or the liquid crystal cell or cells to be controlled with the same control signal from the control electronics, thus ensuring a uniform

darkening is achieved.

A further embodiment provides that the protective screen 1 or the respective liquid crystal cell 2 or group of cells is brightened in the activated state

and is darkened when deactivated.

A further embodiment of the protective device according to the invention is shown in Fig. 5. In order to optimally take into account incident radiation from directions oblique to the transverse plane T, at least one of the sensor surfaces 7, 8, 9 can be slightly inclined relative to the vertical axis V. Preferably, at least the sensor surface 8 of the central radiation sensor 4 is slightly inclined relative to the vertical axis V of the protective screen 1 and forms an angle of less than 45° with it, whereby the same also applies to the associated sensor plane SE4, which also forms this angle with the vertical axis V, which preferably lies between 1° and 33°, preferably between 3° and 25°. A larger angular range in the sagittal plane S can be covered by an embodiment in which, for example, the central sensor surface 8 and the sensor surfaces 7 and 9 of the adjacent radiation sensors are inclined in different directions about horizontally extending axes. For example, it could be achieved that when the sun is high, due to

the lower direct glare, less darkening is achieved, whereas

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when the sun is low in the sky, the darkening is stronger, especially when driving or

hen, takes place.

As an alternative to the design of the control electronics 6 just described, it could also be designed in such a way as to adjust the transmittance of the liquid crystal cell 2 depending on the respective highest control signal of all light sensors 3, 4, 5.

steer.

According to a further embodiment of the invention, it is possible that at least one of the radiation sensors 3, 4, 5 is arranged on the side of the protective pane 1 opposite the liquid crystal element 2, i.e. on its outer side A.

is in order.

An embodiment of a radiation protection device that is advantageous due to its comfortable portability is shown in Fig. 6 and also in section in the sagittal plane in Fig. 7. This embodiment comprises a support frame 12 and at least one protective screen 1, which is mounted on or in this support frame 12 or is replaceably connected to it. The protective screen 1 covers at least a large part of the field of view of at least one eye. In the first embodiment with support frame 12 shown in Fig. 6, at least one of the radiation sensors 3, 4, 5 is integrated into the protective screen 1 or arranged thereon. Preferably, all of the radiation sensors 3, 4, 5 and particularly preferably also the control electronics 6 are integrated into the protective screen 1 or attached thereto. In order to restrict the field of view as little as possible, said elements are preferably arranged near the upper edge of the protective screen 1 and

positioned as centrally as possible in the sagittal plane S.

The embodiment of Fig. 6 has a protective screen 1 which continuously covers the field of vision of both eyes and extends from the area of one temple 13 to the opposite temple 13. The temples 13 are attached to the sides of a frame 14, preferably in a foldable manner, which surrounds the edge area of the protective screen 1, preferably along the entire circumference, and wherein the frame 14 and also the protective screen 1 in the area of the sagittal plane S

have a nose recess 15 and the protective disc 1 has the lowest height

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Any further photodiode 10 and/or a photovoltaic element 11 as a power supply for the control electronics 6 and/or for the liquid crystal cell 2 are preferably integrated into the support frame 12. The preferred position for this is the upper edge of the frame 14 in

central area around the sagittal plane S.

The protective screen 1 can be exchangeably connected to the support frame 12, which is particularly easy to do if the support frame 12 has a frame 14 which is open at the bottom and is only connected or connectable to the protective screen 1 in the area of the upper edge thereof, at most up to the lateral area of the frame 12. In this case, too, a nose extension

recess 15 in the protective screen 1 is advantageous.

Fig. 8 shows a further embodiment of a protective device with a support frame 12 according to the invention, in which two protective screens 1 are held on or in the frame 14 of the support frame 12, each covering at least a large part of the field of view of one eye. These separate protective screens 1 can also be detachably or replaceably connected to the support frame 12.

be.

The frame 14 of the support frame 12 preferably holds both protective screens 1

along its edge completely. For increased wearing comfort and secure positioning of the protective device in the sagittal plane S

or the vertical axis V forming an axis of symmetry, a na-

recess 15 is provided.

Here, an arrangement of at least two radiation sensors 4 and 16 or 4 and 5 is provided for each of the protective panes 1, wherein for a particularly advantageous variant of this embodiment, the two middle radiation sensors 4 and 16 in their alignment with the planes and axes of the protective device correspond to the central radiation sensor 4 of the protective pane 1 of Figs. 1 to 5

are equivalent to.

A2023/88299-AT

In any case, for one and the same protective screen 1, the sensor plane SE3 of an external radiation sensor 3 intersects the sensor plane SE16 of an internal sensor 16 at an acute angle a of less than 45°, as explained above for the other embodiments. The same also applies

for the opposite protective glass 1, in a mirrored arrangement.

In all the embodiments described above, especially of course in those with radiation sensors 3, 4, 5 and/or control electronics 6 on or in a support frame 12 and liquid crystal cell(s) 2 on or in the protective screen 1, the contacting can be effected by printed conductors and contact elements.

be.

The control electronics 6 can be expanded with various modules and functionalities, in particular if the space available is relatively large due to positioning in the support frame 12, but also with a control electronics 6 in or on the protective screen 1. Thus, modules for receiving and displaying various information could be integrated, for example, distances to objects in the field of view, the speed of the wearer of the protective device, but also general information from weather services, warning services, or the like. Such data can also come from a mobile phone transmitted via Bluetooth or a similar protocol if the electro-optical protective device is equipped with a corresponding data interface. A mobile radio module could also be integrated into the control electronics 6 or in the

Support frame 12 or in the protective screen 1.

The control of the liquid crystal cells 2 or the retrieval of certain functions of the control electronics 6 can also be carried out by actuating elements on the protective glass

1 or on the support frame 12 at least in a supplementary or bridging manner.

The radiation sensors 3, 4, 5 can be protected by a common or separate sensor covers, whereby protective covers can be provided in the area of the respective actual sensor surfaces 7, 8, 9,

to protect the sensors mechanically and/or against moisture, contamination, etc.

A2023/88299-AT

The sensor cover consists of a partially translucent and/or transparent material, which absorbs, reflects, or transmits the radiation depending on the wavelength of the radiation. Preferably, the sensor cover is at least partially at least substantially translucent to radiation of an infrared light spectrum, in particular the range in which the radiation sensors 3, 4, 5 have their highest sensitivity. The transparency of the sensor cover in this wavelength range is

gene range more than 30%, preferably more than 80%, optimally approximately 90%.

The sensor cover can be partially constructed in one piece with the material of the protective screen 1 or the frame 14 and made of the same material as these components, but preferably have a smaller material thickness. It would also be conceivable in principle for the sensor cover and the protective screen 1 and/or the support frame 12 or the frame 14 to be made of different materials and/or manufactured separately and joined in one piece in any manner deemed appropriate by a person skilled in the art, such as

for example by means of an adhesive process.

The above-described embodiments show possible variants, whereby it should be noted at this point that the invention is not limited to the specifically illustrated variants of the same, but rather various combinations of the individual variants with each other are possible and this variation possibility due to the teaching of technical action by objective invention in the skill of the person based on this technical

of a specialist working in the field.

A2023/88299-AT

List of reference symbols

1 Protective screen a Angle between sensor planes 2 Liquid crystal element

2a Liquid crystal cell B width

2b _Liquid crystal cell H height

3 Radiation sensor | Inside

4 Radiation sensor A outside

5 Radiation sensor V3 Signal sensor 3 6 Control electronics V4 Signal sensor 4 7 Sensor level V5 Signal sensor 5 8 Sensor level VS Sum signal 9 Sensor level VM Average signal

10 photodiodes

11 Photovoltaic element 12 Support frame

13 brackets

14 frames

15 Nose recess 16 Radiation sensor 17 Sensor electronics 18 Control element 19 Radio module

20 mobile devices

F Frontal plane

Q transverse axis

Ss sagittal plane

SE3 Sensor level Sensor 3 SE4 Sensor level Sensor 4 SE5 Sensor level Sensor 5 V Vertical axis

A2023/88299-AT

Claims (19)

Patent claims 1. Electro-optical radiation protection device (1), in particular a light protection device, with at least one electro-optical protective screen (1) which covers at least the field of vision of one eye and comprises at least one liquid crystal element (2), at least two radiation sensors (3, 4, 5), each of which generates a control signal depending on the intensity of the incident radiation, and with control electronics (6) which is designed to receive the control signals and to control the or each liquid crystal cell (2), and which controls the transmittance (T) of the protective screen (1), characterized in that the radiation sensors (3, 4, 5) are designed as photodiodes with the highest sensitivity in the infrared range, predominantly in the range between 400 and 1100 nm, wherein the sensor surfaces (7, 8, 9) define sensor planes (SE3, SE4, SE5), wherein at least two of the sensor planes (SE3, SE4) intersect each other at an angle of less than 45°, and wherein the intersection line of these sensor planes (SE3, SE4) preferably in or parallel to the sagittal plane (S) of the protective screen (1). 2. Radiation protection device according to claim 1, characterized in that at least three radiation sensors (6, 7, ..) are provided per protective pane (1), wherein the sensor surface of the middle radiation sensor (7) is oriented parallel to the transverse axis of the protective pane (1), and wherein the sensor planes (15, 16) of at least one radiation sensor (6, ...) arranged laterally on both sides of the middle radiation sensor (7), preferably of the respectively immediately adjacent radiation sensor, the sensor plane of the middle Radiation sensor at an angle of less than 45°. 3. Radiation protection device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the protective screen (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the sensor planes (15, 16) form an angle between 1° and 33°, preferably between 3° and 25°. A2023/88299-AT 4. Radiation protection device according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that at least one of the sensor planes is aligned with the vertical len axis (V) of the protective screen (1) forms an angle of less than 45°. 5. Radiation protection device according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the photodiodes provided as radiation sensors (3, 4, 5) are operated in photovoltaic mode, wherein the output voltage is fed into the control electronics (6) as a control signal and preferably also for the energy supply of the control electronics (6) and/or the liquid crystal cell (2) is used. 6. Radiation protection device according to claim 5, characterized in that a photodiode (10) and/or a photovoltaic element (11) is used as a power supply for the control electronics (6) and/or for the liquid crystal cell (2) is connected with this/these. 7. Radiation protection device according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the control electronics (6) are designed to determine an average value from the signals of all light sensors (3, 4, 5) and to adjust the transmittance of the liquid crystal cell (2) as a function of this average value to control. 8. Radiation protection device according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the control electronics (6) are designed in such a way as to adjust the transmittance of the liquid crystal cell (2) depending on the respective highest Control signal of all light sensors (3, 4, 5). 9. Radiation protection device according to one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that at least one of the radiation sensors (3, 4, 5) is arranged on the side of the protective layer opposite the liquid crystal element (2). disc (1) is arranged. A2023/88299-AT 10. Radiation protection device according to one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the radiation sensors (3, 4, 5) and preferably the control electronics (6) are integrated into the protective screen (1) or mounted thereon, preferably in the region of the upper edge and preferably in or near the sagittal plane. 11. Radiation protection device according to one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that each radiation sensor (3, 4, 5) is assigned a liquid crystal cell (2), wherein the transmittance of the protective screen (1) in the area of each liquid crystal cell (2) is individually dependent on the light input. case which is determined by the associated radiation sensor (3, 4, 5). 12. Radiation protection device according to one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that the protective screen (1) in the activated state is brightened and darkened when deactivated. 13. Radiation protection device according to one of claims 1 to 12, comprising a support frame (12) and at least one protective screen (1) which is mounted on or in a support frame (12) or is replaceably connected thereto and covers at least a large part of the field of view of at least one eye, characterized in that at least one of the radiation sensors (3, 4, 5), preferably all radiation sensors, and preferably also the control electronics (6) are integrated into the protective screen (1) or fastened thereto is/are, preferably near the upper edge of the protective screen (1). 14. Radiation protection device according to one of claims 1 to 9, 11 or 12, comprising a support frame (12) and at least one protective screen (1) which is mounted on or in a support frame (12) or is replaceably connected thereto and covers at least a large part of the field of view of at least one eye, characterized in that at least some of the radiation sensors (3, 4, 5), preferably all of the radiation sensors (3, 4, 5), and the Control electronics (6) are integrated into the support frame (12) or mounted thereon, A2023/88299-AT preferably near the upper edge of the protective screen (1) and in or near the Sagittal plane of the support frame. 15. Radiation protection device according to claim 13 or 14, characterized in that a photodiode and/or a photovoltaic element as energy supply for the control electronics and/or for the liquid crystal cell (2) is connected to the latter and preferably integrated in the support frame (12) or on the Support frame (12) is attached. 16. Radiation protection device according to claim 14 or 15, characterized in that two protective panes (3) are mounted on or in a support frame (12) or are interchangeably connected thereto, the protective panes (3) being arranged in such a way as to each cover at least a large part of the field of vision of one eye. 17. Radiation protection device according to claim 16, characterized in that the support frame (12) completely surrounds both protective panes (3) along their edge and in the region of the sagittal plane or the central axis (23) forming an axis of symmetry, a radially extending edge extending from the lower edge and extending over part of the height of the protective panes (3) towards the upper edge of the support frame (12) extending nose recess (15). 18. Radiation protection device according to one of claims 13 to 15, characterized in that a protective screen (1) is mounted on or in a support frame (12) or is replaceably connected thereto, and at least covers a large part of the visual field of both eyes. 19. Radiation protection device according to claim 18, characterized in that the protective screen (1) and/or an edge of the support frame (12) enclosing the protective screen (1) in the region of the sagittal plane or the one symmet- forming the central axis (23) is a line extending from the lower edge and A2023/88299-AT over part of the width of the protective screen (1) towards the upper edge the protective screen (1) has/have a nose recess (15). A2023/88299-AT