WO1999012060A1 - Apparatus and method for protecting eyes from ultraviolet and bright visible light - Google Patents

Apparatus and method for protecting eyes from ultraviolet and bright visible light Download PDF

Info

Publication number
WO1999012060A1
WO1999012060A1 PCT/US1998/018277 US9818277W WO9912060A1 WO 1999012060 A1 WO1999012060 A1 WO 1999012060A1 US 9818277 W US9818277 W US 9818277W WO 9912060 A1 WO9912060 A1 WO 9912060A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
welding
panel
visible light
eye protection
liquid crystal
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/US1998/018277
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Thomas Kolb
Original Assignee
Jackson Products, Inc.
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Jackson Products, Inc. filed Critical Jackson Products, Inc.
Priority to AU90428/98A priority Critical patent/AU9042898A/en
Publication of WO1999012060A1 publication Critical patent/WO1999012060A1/en

Links

Classifications

    • G—PHYSICS
    • G02—OPTICS
    • G02B—OPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
    • G02B5/00—Optical elements other than lenses
    • G02B5/20—Filters
    • G02B5/208—Filters for use with infrared or ultraviolet radiation, e.g. for separating visible light from infrared and/or ultraviolet radiation
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61F—FILTERS IMPLANTABLE INTO BLOOD VESSELS; PROSTHESES; DEVICES PROVIDING PATENCY TO, OR PREVENTING COLLAPSING OF, TUBULAR STRUCTURES OF THE BODY, e.g. STENTS; ORTHOPAEDIC, NURSING OR CONTRACEPTIVE DEVICES; FOMENTATION; TREATMENT OR PROTECTION OF EYES OR EARS; BANDAGES, DRESSINGS OR ABSORBENT PADS; FIRST-AID KITS
    • A61F9/00—Methods or devices for treatment of the eyes; Devices for putting-in contact lenses; Devices to correct squinting; Apparatus to guide the blind; Protective devices for the eyes, carried on the body or in the hand
    • A61F9/04—Eye-masks ; Devices to be worn on the face, not intended for looking through; Eye-pads for sunbathing
    • A61F9/06—Masks, shields or hoods for welders
    • A61F9/065—Masks, shields or hoods for welders use of particular optical filters
    • A61F9/067—Masks, shields or hoods for welders use of particular optical filters with variable transmission
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B23—MACHINE TOOLS; METAL-WORKING NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B23K—SOLDERING OR UNSOLDERING; WELDING; CLADDING OR PLATING BY SOLDERING OR WELDING; CUTTING BY APPLYING HEAT LOCALLY, e.g. FLAME CUTTING; WORKING BY LASER BEAM
    • B23K9/00—Arc welding or cutting
    • B23K9/32—Accessories
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16P—SAFETY DEVICES IN GENERAL; SAFETY DEVICES FOR PRESSES
    • F16P1/00—Safety devices independent of the control and operation of any machine
    • F16P1/06—Safety devices independent of the control and operation of any machine specially designed for welding

Definitions

  • This invention relates generally to apparatus and methods for protecting eyes from ultraviolet light and bright visible light, and more particularly to apparatus and methods for protecting eyes from such light generated during a welding procedure.
  • Ultraviolet and bright visible light emanating from the arc developed in a welding operation are hazardous to unshielded eyes of persons viewing the welding operation. Such light even when viewed from a distance can burn and possibly permanently damage the viewer's eyes. For these reasons, among others, including the desire to completely enclose a workman with his/her welding project, welding safety screens (or curtains) have been widely used.
  • Some conventional welding safety screens comprise opaque curtains surrounding the welding work area for completely blocking visible and ultraviolet light emanating from the arc.
  • a disadvantage associated with such welding screens is they prevent persons outside the screen from viewing the welding work area.
  • Other conventional welding safety screens comprise panels which are transparent to visible light and absorb ultraviolet light. Although these screens enable others to view the welding work area without damage caused by ultraviolet light, they do not block the harmful effects of the intense visible light from the arc.
  • Liquid crystal shutters have been used in welding helmets to block the harmful effects of visible and ultraviolet light generated by a welding arc. Such liquid shutters are operable between a lightened state and a darkened state. In the lightened state, transmissivity of light through the shutter is high. In the darkened state, transmissivity of light through the shutter is low. Such shutters generally have an optical detector which generates a signal in response to light emanating from the arc to change the shutter from its lightened state to its darkened state. Although effective for welding helmets, such liquid crystal shutters are too small t be used for safety screens. Summary of the Invention
  • a welding protection apparatus of the present invention provides eye protection from ultraviolet light and visible light generated by a welding apparatus during a welding procedure.
  • the apparatus comprises an eye protection panel configured to absorb ultraviolet light in a manner to prevent the ultraviolet light generated during the welding procedure from injuring eyes of a user viewing the welding procedure through the panel.
  • the panel is switchable between a light scattering state and a transparent state. When in its light scattering state, the panel diffuses visible light in a manner to prevent harmful visible light (e.g. blue light) generated during the welding procedure from injuring the eyes of the user viewing the welding procedure through the panel.
  • the panel When in its transparent state, the panel permits the passage of visible light in a manner to facilitate a clear view of the welding apparatus by the user.
  • the panel is in its light scattering state during generation of intense visible light from the welding procedure, and is in its transparent state during periods when the welding apparatus is not generating intense visible light.
  • a welding protection apparatus of the present invention comprises a liquid crystal device and a shield layer.
  • the liquid crystal device is switchable between a light scattering state and a transparent state.
  • the liquid crystal device when in its light scattering state diffuses visible light in a manner to prevent the visible light generated during the welding procedure from injuring the eyes of the user viewing the welding procedure through the liquid crystal device.
  • the liquid crystal device when in its transparent state permits the passage of visible light in a manner to facilitate a clear view of the welding apparatus by the user when the user is viewing the welding apparatus through the liquid crystal device during periods when the welding apparatus is not generating visible light.
  • the shield layer is preferably superimposed with the liquid crystal device.
  • the shield layer is adapted to absorb ultraviolet light in a manner to prevent the ultraviolet light generated during the welding procedure from injuring eyes of a user viewing the welding procedure through shield layer.
  • a method in accordance with the present invention is for protecting eyes of a person from ultraviolet light and visible light generated by a welding apparatus during a welding procedure.
  • the method comprises providing an eye protection panel between the welding apparatus and the person.
  • the eye protection panel is switchable between a light scattering state and a transparent state.
  • the panel when in its light scattering state diffuses visible light in a manner to prevent the visible light generated during the welding procedure from injuring the eyes of the user viewing the welding procedure through the panel.
  • the panel when in its transparent state permits the passage of visible light in a manner to facilitate a clear view of the welding apparatus by the user when the user is viewing the welding apparatus through the panel during periods when the welding apparatus is not generating visible light.
  • the method further comprises switching the eye protection panel to its light scattering state when the welding apparatus is generating visible light.
  • Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a welding safety screen of the present invention having a plurality of eye protection panels surrounding a welding operation;
  • Fig. 2 is a cross-sectional view taken along the plane of line 2-2 of Fig. 1 showing the various layers of an eye protection panel of the welding safety screen of Fig. 1 ;
  • Fig. 3 is a cross-sectional view of a liquid crystal device of the eye protection panel of Fig. 2, the liquid crystal device being in a light scattering state so that visible light passing through the eye protection panel is diffused;
  • Fig. 4 is a cross-sectional view similar to Fig 3, but showing the liquid crystal device in a transparent state so that visible light passing through the eye protection panel is substantially not diffused;
  • Fig. 5 is a schematic view of the eye protection panel connected to a power source and a controller.
  • a welding safety screen of the present invention is indicated in its entirety by the reference numeral 20.
  • the welding safety screen 20 is configured for being positioned between a welding work area and a viewer (not shown) to protect the eyes of the viewer from ultraviolet light, infrared light, and intense visible light emanating from a welding arc generated during a welding operation.
  • the welding safety screen 20 includes at least one eye protection panel, generally indicated at 22.
  • the welding safety screen 20 includes a plurality of eye protection panels 22 surrounding the welding work area.
  • the eye protection panel 22 is of a layered construction comprising a liquid crystal device, generally indicated at 24, a transparent shield layer 26, and first and second transparent panes 28, 30.
  • the liquid crystal device 24 is switchable between a light scattering state and a transparent state for shielding a user from harmful effects of blinding visible light emanating from the arc of a weld.
  • the shield layer 26 is adapted to shield ultraviolet and infrared light.
  • the liquid crystal device 24 and shield layer 26 are positioned between the panes 28, 30.
  • the panes 28, 30 are preferably of heat-strengthened glass.
  • the eye protection panel 22 also preferably includes first, second and third thin, transparent interlayers (not shown) of a polymeric material.
  • the first interlayer is interposed between the first pane 28 and the liquid crystal device 24.
  • the second interlayer is interposed between the liquid crystal device 24 and the shield layer 26.
  • the third interlayer is interposed between the shield layer 26 and the second pane 30.
  • the interlayers act as a bonding/heat-sealing agent to hold together the layers of the eye protection panel 22 and are commercially available from Techniver Saint-Roch of Belgium.
  • the liquid crystal device 24, shield layer 26, panes 28, 30, and interlayers are all superimposed with one another so that a viewer looking through the eye protection panel 22 looks through all layers.
  • the liquid crystal device 24 preferably comprises a polymer dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC) film 32 having first and second opposite faces covered with first and second transparent electrically conductive layers 34, 36, and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) film layers 38 facing the electrically conductive layers.
  • PDLC polymer dispersed liquid crystal
  • PET polyethylene terephthalate
  • the liquid crystal device 24 is of the type commercially available from Techniver Saint-Roch of Belgium used in the switchable window, sold under the trade designation PRIVA-LITE®.
  • the conductive layers 34, 36 are connected to flat electrical bus bars (not shown) located on opposite edges of the panes 28, 30. The bus bars connect the liquid crystal film 32 to a power supply.
  • the liquid crystal device 24 is switchable from a translucent (or light scattering) state represented by Fig. 3, and a transparent state represented by Fig. 4.
  • the liquid crystal device 24 is in its light scattering state when it is not subjected to any electrical current.
  • the liquid crystals encapsulated in the PDLC film 32 are randomly positioned and their disorderly position diffuses light in all directions to block vision through the eye protection panel 22.
  • the liquid crystal device 24 diffuses visible lights sufficiently to prevent the intense visible light emanating from a welding arc from injuring the eyes of a viewer viewing the welding procedure through the eye protection panel 22.
  • the liquid crystals encapsulated in the PDLC film 32 align and reorient themselves to render the PDLC film transparent.
  • the liquid crystal device 24 In its transparent state, the liquid crystal device 24 is sufficiently transparent so as not to impede a clear view of welding apparatus by the viewer when the viewer is viewing the welding apparatus through the eye protection panel 22 during periods when the welding apparatus is not generating a welding arc.
  • the liquid crystal device 24 In its transparent state the liquid crystal device 24 is transparent, it is not necessarily colorless. If constructed as specified herein, the liquid crystal device 24 has an orange or bronze tint.
  • switching of the liquid crystal device 24 between its light scattering state and its transparent state is controlled by a suitable controller 40.
  • the controller 40 is electrically coupled to a suitable light detector 42.
  • the light detector 42 generates a welding signal responsive to operation of the welding apparatus.
  • the controller 40 switches the liquid crystal device 24 between its light scattering and transparent states in response to the generated welding signal.
  • the controller 40 preferably switches the liquid crystal device 24 from its transparent state to its light scattering state by disconnecting the liquid crystal device from a power source 44 when the light detector 42 generates a welding signal representative of the welding apparatus generating an arc.
  • the controller switches the liquid crystal device 24 from its light scattering state to its transparent state by connecting the liquid crystal device from the power source 44 when the light detector 42 generates a welding signal representative of no arc emanating from the welding apparatus.
  • switching from the light scattering state to the transparent state or from the transparent state to the light scattering state is nearly instantaneous.
  • the controller could be coupled directly to the welding apparatus and be responsive to current or voltage generated by the welding apparatus.
  • the transparent shield layer 26 preferably comprises a thin (e.g., 0.4 mm), transparent layer of PVC film.
  • the shield layer 26 absorbs ultraviolet and infrared light to a sufficient degree so that ultraviolet and infrared light emanating from a welding arc will not injure the eyes of a viewer viewing the welding procedure through the eye protection panel 22.
  • the UV/IR shield layer 26 satisfies the standard EN 1598 for arc-welding application.
  • the welding safety screen 20 is positioned to enclose a welding work area so that the eye protection panels 22 separate a viewing area from the welding work area.
  • power is supplied to the liquid crystal device 24 via the power source 44 to switch the liquid crystal device to its transparent state.
  • the liquid crystal device 24 In its transparent state, the liquid crystal device 24 is sufficiently transparent so as not to impede a clear view of welding apparatus by the viewer when the viewer is viewing the welding apparatus through the eye protection panel 22.
  • the light detector 42 During operation of the welding apparatus, e.g., when the welding apparatus is producing an arc, the light detector 42 generates a signal indicative of the welding apparatus generating an arc.
  • the controller 40 switches the liquid crystal device 24 from its transparent state to its light scattering state by disconnecting the liquid crystal device from the power source 44. Because of the diffusion of light through the eye protection panel 22 when the liquid crystal device 24 is in its light scattering state, a viewer in the viewing area watching the welding procedure is protected from the intense visible light by the liquid crystal device. As the liquid crystal device 24 protects the viewer from the harmful effects of visible light, the transparent shield layer 26 protects the viewer from the harmful effects of ultraviolet and infrared light. When the welding operation is discontinued, the controller 40 switches the liquid crystal device 24 back to its transparent state.
  • the eye protection panel 22 protects a viewer from the harmful effects of light generated during a welding procedure without the need for any additional eye protection, while allowing the viewer to inspect the welding operation during periods when the welding apparatus is not producing intense visible light.

Abstract

A welding protection apparatus for providing eye protection from ultraviolet light and visible light generated by a welding apparatus during a welding procedure. The apparatus comprises an eye protection panel (22) configured to absorb ultraviolet light with an absorber (26), in a manner to prevent the ultraviolet light generated during the welding procedure from injuring eyes of a user viewing the welding procedure through the panel. Further, the panel is switchable between a light scattering state and a transparent state, using an active medium (32). When in its light scattering state, the panel diffuses visible light in a manner to prevent the visible light generated by the welding procedure from injuring the eyes of the viewer. In its transparent state, the panel passes the visible light to allow the user a clear view of the welding apparatus. The panel is in its scattering state during the generation of intense visible light by the welding apparatus and is transparent when no intense visible light is generated.

Description

APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR PROTECTING EYES FROM ULTRAVIOLET AND BRIGHT VISIBLE LIGHT
Background of the Invention
This invention relates generally to apparatus and methods for protecting eyes from ultraviolet light and bright visible light, and more particularly to apparatus and methods for protecting eyes from such light generated during a welding procedure.
Ultraviolet and bright visible light emanating from the arc developed in a welding operation are hazardous to unshielded eyes of persons viewing the welding operation. Such light even when viewed from a distance can burn and possibly permanently damage the viewer's eyes. For these reasons, among others, including the desire to completely enclose a workman with his/her welding project, welding safety screens (or curtains) have been widely used.
Some conventional welding safety screens comprise opaque curtains surrounding the welding work area for completely blocking visible and ultraviolet light emanating from the arc. A disadvantage associated with such welding screens is they prevent persons outside the screen from viewing the welding work area. Other conventional welding safety screens comprise panels which are transparent to visible light and absorb ultraviolet light. Although these screens enable others to view the welding work area without damage caused by ultraviolet light, they do not block the harmful effects of the intense visible light from the arc.
Liquid crystal shutters have been used in welding helmets to block the harmful effects of visible and ultraviolet light generated by a welding arc. Such liquid shutters are operable between a lightened state and a darkened state. In the lightened state, transmissivity of light through the shutter is high. In the darkened state, transmissivity of light through the shutter is low. Such shutters generally have an optical detector which generates a signal in response to light emanating from the arc to change the shutter from its lightened state to its darkened state. Although effective for welding helmets, such liquid crystal shutters are too small t be used for safety screens. Summary of the Invention
Among the several features and advantages of the present invention may be noted the provision of improved apparatus and method for protecting eyes from the harmful effects of intense visible and ultraviolet light; the provision of such an apparatus and method which enables a viewer to view a welding work area while protecting such viewer from the harmful effects of intense visible and ultraviolet light generated by a welding arc; and the provision of such apparatus which is of relatively simple construction.
In general, a welding protection apparatus of the present invention provides eye protection from ultraviolet light and visible light generated by a welding apparatus during a welding procedure. The apparatus comprises an eye protection panel configured to absorb ultraviolet light in a manner to prevent the ultraviolet light generated during the welding procedure from injuring eyes of a user viewing the welding procedure through the panel. Further, the panel is switchable between a light scattering state and a transparent state. When in its light scattering state, the panel diffuses visible light in a manner to prevent harmful visible light (e.g. blue light) generated during the welding procedure from injuring the eyes of the user viewing the welding procedure through the panel. When in its transparent state, the panel permits the passage of visible light in a manner to facilitate a clear view of the welding apparatus by the user. Preferably, the panel is in its light scattering state during generation of intense visible light from the welding procedure, and is in its transparent state during periods when the welding apparatus is not generating intense visible light.
In another aspect of the present invention, a welding protection apparatus of the present invention comprises a liquid crystal device and a shield layer. The liquid crystal device is switchable between a light scattering state and a transparent state. The liquid crystal device when in its light scattering state diffuses visible light in a manner to prevent the visible light generated during the welding procedure from injuring the eyes of the user viewing the welding procedure through the liquid crystal device. The liquid crystal device when in its transparent state permits the passage of visible light in a manner to facilitate a clear view of the welding apparatus by the user when the user is viewing the welding apparatus through the liquid crystal device during periods when the welding apparatus is not generating visible light. The shield layer is preferably superimposed with the liquid crystal device. The shield layer is adapted to absorb ultraviolet light in a manner to prevent the ultraviolet light generated during the welding procedure from injuring eyes of a user viewing the welding procedure through shield layer.
A method in accordance with the present invention is for protecting eyes of a person from ultraviolet light and visible light generated by a welding apparatus during a welding procedure. The method comprises providing an eye protection panel between the welding apparatus and the person. The eye protection panel is switchable between a light scattering state and a transparent state. The panel when in its light scattering state diffuses visible light in a manner to prevent the visible light generated during the welding procedure from injuring the eyes of the user viewing the welding procedure through the panel. The panel when in its transparent state permits the passage of visible light in a manner to facilitate a clear view of the welding apparatus by the user when the user is viewing the welding apparatus through the panel during periods when the welding apparatus is not generating visible light. The method further comprises switching the eye protection panel to its light scattering state when the welding apparatus is generating visible light.
Other objects and features will be in part apparent and in part pointed out hereinafter. Brief Description of the Drawings
Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a welding safety screen of the present invention having a plurality of eye protection panels surrounding a welding operation; Fig. 2 is a cross-sectional view taken along the plane of line 2-2 of Fig. 1 showing the various layers of an eye protection panel of the welding safety screen of Fig. 1 ;
Fig. 3 is a cross-sectional view of a liquid crystal device of the eye protection panel of Fig. 2, the liquid crystal device being in a light scattering state so that visible light passing through the eye protection panel is diffused;
Fig. 4 is a cross-sectional view similar to Fig 3, but showing the liquid crystal device in a transparent state so that visible light passing through the eye protection panel is substantially not diffused; and
Fig. 5 is a schematic view of the eye protection panel connected to a power source and a controller.
Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiment
Referring now to the drawings, and first more particularly to Fig. 1 , a welding safety screen of the present invention is indicated in its entirety by the reference numeral 20. The welding safety screen 20 is configured for being positioned between a welding work area and a viewer (not shown) to protect the eyes of the viewer from ultraviolet light, infrared light, and intense visible light emanating from a welding arc generated during a welding operation. The welding safety screen 20 includes at least one eye protection panel, generally indicated at 22. Preferably, the welding safety screen 20 includes a plurality of eye protection panels 22 surrounding the welding work area.
Referring to Fig. 2, the eye protection panel 22 is of a layered construction comprising a liquid crystal device, generally indicated at 24, a transparent shield layer 26, and first and second transparent panes 28, 30. As discussed in greater detail below, the liquid crystal device 24 is switchable between a light scattering state and a transparent state for shielding a user from harmful effects of blinding visible light emanating from the arc of a weld. The shield layer 26 is adapted to shield ultraviolet and infrared light.
Preferably, the liquid crystal device 24 and shield layer 26 are positioned between the panes 28, 30. The panes 28, 30 are preferably of heat-strengthened glass. However, it is to be understood that the panes could be of other suitable transparent materials without departing from the scope of this invention. The eye protection panel 22 also preferably includes first, second and third thin, transparent interlayers (not shown) of a polymeric material. The first interlayer is interposed between the first pane 28 and the liquid crystal device 24. The second interlayer is interposed between the liquid crystal device 24 and the shield layer 26. The third interlayer is interposed between the shield layer 26 and the second pane 30. The interlayers act as a bonding/heat-sealing agent to hold together the layers of the eye protection panel 22 and are commercially available from Techniver Saint-Roch of Belgium. The liquid crystal device 24, shield layer 26, panes 28, 30, and interlayers are all superimposed with one another so that a viewer looking through the eye protection panel 22 looks through all layers.
As shown in Figs. 3 and 4, the liquid crystal device 24 preferably comprises a polymer dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC) film 32 having first and second opposite faces covered with first and second transparent electrically conductive layers 34, 36, and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) film layers 38 facing the electrically conductive layers. Preferably, the liquid crystal device 24 is of the type commercially available from Techniver Saint-Roch of Belgium used in the switchable window, sold under the trade designation PRIVA-LITE®. The conductive layers 34, 36 are connected to flat electrical bus bars (not shown) located on opposite edges of the panes 28, 30. The bus bars connect the liquid crystal film 32 to a power supply.
The liquid crystal device 24 is switchable from a translucent (or light scattering) state represented by Fig. 3, and a transparent state represented by Fig. 4. The liquid crystal device 24 is in its light scattering state when it is not subjected to any electrical current. In the light scattering state (Fig. 3), the liquid crystals encapsulated in the PDLC film 32 are randomly positioned and their disorderly position diffuses light in all directions to block vision through the eye protection panel 22. In its light scattering state (Fig. 4), the liquid crystal device 24 diffuses visible lights sufficiently to prevent the intense visible light emanating from a welding arc from injuring the eyes of a viewer viewing the welding procedure through the eye protection panel 22. When an electric current is applied across the conductive layers 34, 36, the liquid crystals encapsulated in the PDLC film 32 align and reorient themselves to render the PDLC film transparent. In its transparent state, the liquid crystal device 24 is sufficiently transparent so as not to impede a clear view of welding apparatus by the viewer when the viewer is viewing the welding apparatus through the eye protection panel 22 during periods when the welding apparatus is not generating a welding arc. Although in its transparent state the liquid crystal device 24 is transparent, it is not necessarily colorless. If constructed as specified herein, the liquid crystal device 24 has an orange or bronze tint.
Referring to Fig. 5, switching of the liquid crystal device 24 between its light scattering state and its transparent state is controlled by a suitable controller 40. The controller 40 is electrically coupled to a suitable light detector 42. The light detector 42 generates a welding signal responsive to operation of the welding apparatus. The controller 40 switches the liquid crystal device 24 between its light scattering and transparent states in response to the generated welding signal. In particular, the controller 40 preferably switches the liquid crystal device 24 from its transparent state to its light scattering state by disconnecting the liquid crystal device from a power source 44 when the light detector 42 generates a welding signal representative of the welding apparatus generating an arc. Likewise, the controller switches the liquid crystal device 24 from its light scattering state to its transparent state by connecting the liquid crystal device from the power source 44 when the light detector 42 generates a welding signal representative of no arc emanating from the welding apparatus. Preferably, switching from the light scattering state to the transparent state or from the transparent state to the light scattering state is nearly instantaneous. Although the preferred embodiment has been described as employing a light detector, it is to be understood that other means for signaling the controller can be used without departing from the scope of this invention. For example, the controller could be coupled directly to the welding apparatus and be responsive to current or voltage generated by the welding apparatus. The transparent shield layer 26 preferably comprises a thin (e.g., 0.4 mm), transparent layer of PVC film. The shield layer 26 absorbs ultraviolet and infrared light to a sufficient degree so that ultraviolet and infrared light emanating from a welding arc will not injure the eyes of a viewer viewing the welding procedure through the eye protection panel 22. Preferably, the UV/IR shield layer 26 satisfies the standard EN 1598 for arc-welding application.
In operation, the welding safety screen 20 is positioned to enclose a welding work area so that the eye protection panels 22 separate a viewing area from the welding work area. Before operation of the welding apparatus, power is supplied to the liquid crystal device 24 via the power source 44 to switch the liquid crystal device to its transparent state. In its transparent state, the liquid crystal device 24 is sufficiently transparent so as not to impede a clear view of welding apparatus by the viewer when the viewer is viewing the welding apparatus through the eye protection panel 22. During operation of the welding apparatus, e.g., when the welding apparatus is producing an arc, the light detector 42 generates a signal indicative of the welding apparatus generating an arc. In response to such signal, the controller 40 switches the liquid crystal device 24 from its transparent state to its light scattering state by disconnecting the liquid crystal device from the power source 44. Because of the diffusion of light through the eye protection panel 22 when the liquid crystal device 24 is in its light scattering state, a viewer in the viewing area watching the welding procedure is protected from the intense visible light by the liquid crystal device. As the liquid crystal device 24 protects the viewer from the harmful effects of visible light, the transparent shield layer 26 protects the viewer from the harmful effects of ultraviolet and infrared light. When the welding operation is discontinued, the controller 40 switches the liquid crystal device 24 back to its transparent state. Thus, the eye protection panel 22 protects a viewer from the harmful effects of light generated during a welding procedure without the need for any additional eye protection, while allowing the viewer to inspect the welding operation during periods when the welding apparatus is not producing intense visible light.
In view of the above, it will be seen that the several objects of the invention are achieved and other advantageous results attained.
As various changes could be made in the above constructions and methods without departing from the scope of the invention, it is intended that all matter contained in the above description or shown in the accompanying drawings shall be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense.

Claims

What is claimed is:
1. A welding protection apparatus for providing eye protection from ultraviolet light and visible light generated by a welding apparatus during a welding procedure, the apparatus comprising an eye protection panel adapted to absorb ultraviolet light in a manner to prevent the ultraviolet light generated during the welding procedure from injuring eyes of a user viewing the welding procedure through the panel, the panel further being switchable between a light scattering state and a transparent state, the panel when in its light scattering state diffusing visible light in a manner to prevent the visible light generated during the welding procedure from injuring the eyes of the user viewing the welding procedure through the panel, the panel when in its transparent state permitting the passage of visible light in a manner to facilitate a clear view of the welding apparatus by the user when the user is viewing the welding apparatus through the panel during periods when the welding apparatus is not generating visible light.
2. A welding protection apparatus as set forth in claim 1 wherein the eye protection panel is switchable between its light scattering state and its transparent state in response to an applied voltage.
3. A welding protection apparatus as set forth in claim 1 further comprising a detector for generating a welding signal responsive to operation of the welding apparatus, and a controller for switching the eye protection panel between its transparent and light scattering states in response to the generated welding signal.
4. A welding protection apparatus as set forth in claim 1 wherein the eye protection panel comprises a liquid crystal device switchable between the light scattering state and the transparent state.
5. A welding protection apparatus as set forth in claim 4 further comprising a shield superimposed with the liquid crystal device, the shield layer being transparent to visible light and being adapted to absorb ultraviolet light.
6. A welding protection apparatus as set forth in claim 4 wherein the eye protection panel constitutes a part of a welding screen.
7. A welding protection apparatus as set forth in claim 6 wherein the liquid crystal device comprises a polymer dispersed liquid crystal device.
8. A welding protection apparatus for providing eye protection from ultraviolet light and visible light generated by a welding apparatus during a welding procedure, the apparatus comprising: a liquid crystal device switchable between a light scattering state and a transparent state, the liquid crystal device when in its light scattering state diffusing visible light in a manner to prevent the visible light generated during the welding procedure from injuring the eyes of the user viewing the welding procedure through the liquid crystal device, the liquid crystal device when in its transparent state permitting the passage of visible light in a manner to facilitate a clear view of the welding apparatus by the user when the user is viewing the welding apparatus through the liquid crystal device during periods when the welding apparatus is not generating visible light; and a shield layer superimposed with the liquid crystal device, the shield layer being adapted to absorb ultraviolet light in a manner to prevent the ultraviolet light generated during the welding procedure from injuring eyes of a user viewing the welding procedure through shield layer.
9. A welding protection apparatus as set forth in claim 8 wherein the eye protection panel is switchable between its light scattering state and its transparent state in response to an applied voltage.
10. A welding protection apparatus as set forth in claim 9 further comprising a detector for generating a welding signal responsive to operation of the welding apparatus, and a controller for switching the eye protection panel between its light scattering and transparent states in response to the generated welding signal.
11. A welding protection apparatus as set forth in claim 8 wherein the liquid crystal device comprises a polymer dispersed liquid crystal device.
12. A welding protection apparatus as set forth in claim 8 wherein the liquid crystal device and the shield layer constitute an eye protection panel of a welding screen.
13. A welding apparatus comprising a plurality of eye protection panels as set forth in claim 12.
14. A method of protecting eyes of a person from ultraviolet light and visible light generated by a welding apparatus during a welding procedure, the method comprising: providing an eye protection panel between the welding apparatus and the person, the eye protection panel being switchable between a light scattering state and a transparent state, the panel when in its light scattering state diffusing visible light in a manner to prevent the visible light generated during the welding procedure from injuring the eyes of the user viewing the welding procedure through the panel, the panel when in its transparent state permitting the passage of visible light in a manner to facilitate a clear view of the welding apparatus by the user when the user is viewing the welding apparatus through the panel during periods when the welding apparatus is not generating visible light; switching the eye protection panel to its light scattering state proximal to a time when the welding apparatus is generating visible light.
15. A method as set forth in claim 14 further comprising switching the eye protection panel to its transparent state proximal to a time when the welding apparatus is not generating visible light.
16. A method as set forth in claim 15 wherein the step of switching the eye protection panel to its transparent state is performed in response to a signal generated by an optical detector.
17. A method as set forth in claim 14 wherein the step of switching the eye protection panel to its light scattering state is performed in response to a signal generated by an optical detector.
18. A method as set forth in claim 14 wherein the step of providing an eye protection panel between the welding apparatus and the person comprises providing at least two eye protection panels between the welding apparatus and the person, each eye protection panel being switchable between a light scattering state and a transparent state, each panel when in its light scattering state diffusing visible light in a manner to prevent the visible light generated during the welding procedure from injuring the eyes of the user viewing the welding procedure through the panel, each panel when in its transparent state permitting the passage of visible light in a manner to facilitate a clear view of the welding apparatus by the user when the user is viewing the welding apparatus through the panel during periods when the welding apparatus is not generating visible light.
19. A method as set forth in claim 18 further comprising the step of arranging the panels in a manner to form a welding screen.
PCT/US1998/018277 1997-09-04 1998-09-03 Apparatus and method for protecting eyes from ultraviolet and bright visible light WO1999012060A1 (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
AU90428/98A AU9042898A (en) 1997-09-04 1998-09-03 Apparatus and method for protecting eyes from ultraviolet and bright visible light

Applications Claiming Priority (4)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
DE19738665.2 1997-09-04
DE19738665 1997-09-04
DE19814280.3 1998-03-31
DE19814280 1998-03-31

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO1999012060A1 true WO1999012060A1 (en) 1999-03-11

Family

ID=26039671

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/US1998/018277 WO1999012060A1 (en) 1997-09-04 1998-09-03 Apparatus and method for protecting eyes from ultraviolet and bright visible light

Country Status (2)

Country Link
AU (1) AU9042898A (en)
WO (1) WO1999012060A1 (en)

Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2002049554A1 (en) * 2000-12-21 2002-06-27 Optrel Ag Antiglare device for welding protective masks

Citations (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US4749261A (en) * 1986-01-17 1988-06-07 Taliq Corporation Shatter-proof liquid crystal panel with infrared filtering properties
US5377032A (en) * 1993-02-05 1994-12-27 Osd Envizion Company Electro-optic light shutter and frame assembly with integrated switching mechanism
US5416617A (en) * 1991-11-22 1995-05-16 Thomson-Csf Image projection display screen employing polymer dispersed liquid crystal layer and electrochromic layer

Patent Citations (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US4749261A (en) * 1986-01-17 1988-06-07 Taliq Corporation Shatter-proof liquid crystal panel with infrared filtering properties
US5416617A (en) * 1991-11-22 1995-05-16 Thomson-Csf Image projection display screen employing polymer dispersed liquid crystal layer and electrochromic layer
US5377032A (en) * 1993-02-05 1994-12-27 Osd Envizion Company Electro-optic light shutter and frame assembly with integrated switching mechanism

Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2002049554A1 (en) * 2000-12-21 2002-06-27 Optrel Ag Antiglare device for welding protective masks

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
AU9042898A (en) 1999-03-22

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
US4071912A (en) Light filter for welder's mask
US4155122A (en) Light shield for welder's mask
US5189537A (en) Indicia display for electro-optic devices wherein the indicia comprises a dielectric material extending at least partially into the electro-optic medium
EP0238164B1 (en) Liquid crystal panel
US5074647A (en) Liquid crystal lens assembly for eye protection
US4749261A (en) Shatter-proof liquid crystal panel with infrared filtering properties
US5959705A (en) Welding lens with integrated display, switching mechanism and method
US5115346A (en) Anti-scatter, ultraviolet protected, anti-misting, electro-optical rearview mirror
US6819467B2 (en) Reduced ultraviolet radiation transmitting, variable transmission, glazing assembly
US8806662B2 (en) Welding helmet with protection cover for cartridge
US5239406A (en) Near-infrared reflecting, ultraviolet protected, safety protected, electrochromic vehicular glazing
JP3128553B2 (en) Helmet for welders
CN101820837B (en) Automatic darkening filter apparatus and method
JPH05506950A (en) Eye protection devices for welding helmets etc.
JPS6231329B2 (en)
CN106773202A (en) The method for manufacturing the switchable filter of bending
US4707860A (en) Welding shield
CN111658204B (en) Polymerization and reconditioning device
US5448382A (en) Nonlinear optical scattering screen viewer
US7440052B2 (en) Optical device with light attenuation and gain
US5877825A (en) Method and device including electro-optical shutter for protection from pulsed radiation
WO1999012060A1 (en) Apparatus and method for protecting eyes from ultraviolet and bright visible light
EP3538043B1 (en) Flat automatic darkening filter and welding protector
EP0693703A1 (en) Liquid crystal display device
KR20210034413A (en) Protector for welder including panel and AR coating layer

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
AK Designated states

Kind code of ref document: A1

Designated state(s): AL AM AT AU AZ BA BB BG BR BY CA CH CN CU CZ DE DK EE ES FI GB GE GH GM HR HU ID IL IS JP KE KG KP KR KZ LC LK LR LS LT LU LV MD MG MK MN MW MX NO NZ PL PT RO RU SD SE SG SI SK SL TJ TM TR TT UA UG US UZ VN YU ZW

AL Designated countries for regional patents

Kind code of ref document: A1

Designated state(s): GH GM KE LS MW SD SZ UG ZW AM AZ BY KG KZ MD RU TJ TM AT BE CH CY DE DK ES FI FR GB GR IE IT LU MC NL PT SE BF BJ CF CG CI CM GA GN GW ML MR NE SN TD TG

WWE Wipo information: entry into national phase

Ref document number: 09180137

Country of ref document: US

121 Ep: the epo has been informed by wipo that ep was designated in this application
REG Reference to national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: 8642

122 Ep: pct application non-entry in european phase
NENP Non-entry into the national phase

Ref country code: CA