WO2020016839A1

WO2020016839A1 - Air processing system and method for manufacturing it, headgear having the same and method of processing air

Info

Publication number: WO2020016839A1
Application number: PCT/IB2019/056179
Authority: WO
Inventors: Timothy V. Stagg; Ravi Palaniswamy; Sheldon Baylosis Ruiz; Alejandro Aldrin II NARAG; Antonny E. FLOR; Muhammad BAGIR; Arokiaraj Jesudoss; Shin Shimizu; Ganesh Prasad KANNAN; Aby VARGHESE
Original assignee: 3M Innovative Properties Company
Priority date: 2018-07-19
Filing date: 2019-07-18
Publication date: 2020-01-23
Also published as: TW202011838A

Abstract

An air processing system (100, 200, 400, 700, 1200), a headgear (300, 500, 1100A) having such air processing system (100, 200, 400, 700, 1200), a method of processing air, and a method of manufacturing an air processing system (100, 200, 400, 700, 1200) are disclosed. The air processing system (100, 200, 400, 700, 1200) includes a manifold (202, 402, 1102), and air filtration module and an air processing module (1100). The manifold (202, 402, 1102) has at least one air inlet (404, 1104). The air filtration module is disposed in the manifold (202, 402, 1102) and configured to receive an air flow from the at least one air inlet (404, 1104). The air processing module (1100) is disposed in the manifold (202, 402, 1102) and configured to modify at least one property of the air. The manifold (202, 402, 1102) is configured to be mounted to a headgear (300, 500, 1100A), and a weight of the system is less than 1000 g.

Description

AIR PROCESSING SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING IT, HEADGEAR HAVING THE SAME AND METHOD OF PROCESSING AIR

FIELD OF INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates broadly, but not exclusively, to an air processing system, a headgear having such air processing system, a method of processing air, and a method of manufacturing an air processing system.

BACKGROUND

[0002] Two-wheeled vehicles, such as motorcycles, scooters and bicycles, are a common mode of transport in emerging economies. A large majority of riders of motorcycles live in countries with a tropical climate, usually in or around crowded cities. In these countries, motorcycles are an attractive alternative to walking, riding a bicycle or utilizing mass transit, and it has been noted that the use of two-wheelers in the taxi segment is on the rise with the advent of app-based booking.

[0003] Typically, a safety helmet is required or recommended when riding a motorcycle to prevent or reduce the risk of head trauma in the event of an accident. It may be uncomfortable to wear a safety helmet when the weather is hot, leading to some motorcycle riders ignoring the requirement and compromising on their safety. On the other hand, the hot conditions inside the helmet can make riders tired and even cause heatstroke, again affecting riders’ safety.

[0004] Several types of helmets incorporating air conditioning elements, usually to cool the air, have been proposed. However, these air conditioning elements are inadequate in addressing a myriad of other air quality issues, such as urban air pollution. Further, they are not adaptable to different use conditions such as varying hot and cold conditions.

[0005] A need therefore exists to provide an air processing system and a headgear that seek to address at least some of the above problems. SUMMARY

[0006] An aspect of the present disclosure provides an air processing system comprising a manifold, and air filtration module and an air processing module. The manifold has at least one air inlet. The air filtration module is disposed in the manifold and configured to receive an air flow from the at least one air inlet. The air processing module is disposed in the manifold and configured to modify at least one property of the air. The manifold is configured to be mounted to a headgear.

[0007] Another aspect of the present disclosure provides a method of processing air. An air flow is received through at least one air inlet of a manifold. The manifold is configured to be mounted to a headgear. Air in the air flow is filtered using an air filtration module disposed in the manifold. At least one property of the air in the air flow is modified using an air processing module disposed in the manifold. The air processing module is controlled based on a control signal from a control unit communicatively coupled to the air processing module.

[0008] Another aspect of the present disclosure provides a method of manufacturing an air processing unit. A manifold having at least one air inlet is provided such that the manifold is mountable to a headgear. An air filtration module is disposed in the manifold. The air filtration module is configured to filter air in an air flow received from the at least one air inlet. An air processing module is disposed in the manifold. The air processing module is configured to modify at least one property of the air.

[0009] The present disclosure also relates to a headgear, such as a motorcycle helmet, incorporating the air processing system as described above.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] Embodiments of the invention will be better understood and readily apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art from the following written description, by way of example only, and in conjunction with the drawings, in which:

[0011] Figure 1 shows a schematic diagram of an air processing system according to an example embodiment. [0012] Figures 2A and 2B show perspective views of one implementation of the air processing system of Figure 1.

[0013] Figure 3A-3E show schematic views of a headgear incorporating the air processing system of Figures 2A and 2B.

[0014] Figures 4A and 4B show perspective views of another implementation of the air processing system of Figure 1.

[0015] Figure 5A-5E show schematic views of a headgear incorporating the air processing system of Figures 4A and 4B.

[0016] Figure 6 shows a schematic diagram of a layout of an air channel according to an example embodiment.

[0017] Figure 7A and 7B show schematic diagrams of an air processing system according to another example embodiment.

[0018] Figure 8 shows a schematic diagram of a communication system between the air processing system of Figure 7A, 7B and a wireless device according to an example embodiment.

[0019] Figure 9 shows a flow chart illustrating a method of processing air according to an example embodiment.

[0020] Figure 10 shows a flow chart illustrating a method of manufacturing an air processing unit according to an example embodiment.

[0021] Figures A- H show various views of an air processing system comprising an air delivery insert for a headgear.

[0022] Figures 12A-12C show an air processing system for use on a headgear visor.

[0023] Figure 13 shows a schematic diagram of an electronic control unit (ECU) receiving various sensor inputs from the air processing system.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION [0024] The present disclosure provides an air processing system that incorporates air filtration and other functions in a common unit. The air processing system can be mounted to a headgear, e.g. a motorcycle helmet, without significantly altering the overall weight or becoming a hindrance, and is adaptable to different use conditions such that a wearer of the headgear is provided with an the appropriate air output even as the ambient conditions change.

[0025] Figure 1 shows a schematic diagram of an air processing system 100 according to an example embodiment. The system 100 includes an air filtration module and an air processing module. While not specifically shown in Figure 1 , the air filtration module and air processing modules are typically disposed within a housing or manifold. The air filtration module is configured to receive a flow of ambient air. The air processing module may be disposed upstream or downstream of the air filtration module. In this figure, the air processing module is disposed downstream of the air filtration module and can modify at least one property of the air flow filtered by the air filtration module. In this example, the air filtration module is in the form of air filters 102a, 102b, and the air processing module is in the form of a temperature management module having at least one thermoelectric module 104 to modify a temperature of the air flow.

[0026] For example, fans or air blowers 106a, 106b are provided to draw ambient air into the system 100. Filtered air from the air filters 102a, 102b is channelled by the fans or air blowers 106a, 106b to the thermoelectric module 104. As would be appreciated by a person skilled in the art, the thermoelectric module 104, when activated, has a cold junction/surface and a hot junction/surface. The cold junction/surface is in thermal contact, e.g. via a thermal interface material 108a, with a conduction element 110, and air passing the conduction element 110 is cooled. The hot junction/surface is in thermal contact, via a thermal interface material 108b, with a heat exchanger 112, and air passing the heat exchanger 112 is heated. If the weather is hot, the cooled air can be dispensed to a wearer of the headgear to improve the comfort of the wearer, while the heated air can be expelled to the environment. On the other hand, if the weather is cold, the heated air can be dispensed to the wearer to improve the comfort of the wearer, while the cooled air can be expelled to the environment.

[0027] As shown in Figure 1 , the system 100 also includes a circuit 114 to control the thermoelectric element 104, fans or air blowers 106a, 106b, conduction element 110 and heat exchanger 112. The circuit 114 is connected to a power source, such as a rechargeable battery 116, and typically includes components such as controllers, power management sub-circuit, direct current (DC) to DC converters, etc. as would be appreciated by a person skilled in the art.

[0028] Figures 2A and 2B show perspective views of one implementation of the air processing system 100 of Figure 1. Figure 3A-3E show schematic views of a headgear 300 incorporating the air processing system 200 of Figures 2A and 2B.

[0029] In this implementation, the air processing system 200 includes a manifold 202 having two air inlets 204a, 204b spaced from each other. For example, the manifold 202 can be mounted to the back of the headgear 300 and the air inlets 204a, 204b receives ambient air passing the sides of the headgear 300. An air filtration module and an air processing module (not visible) are disposed within the manifold 202. Ambient air is drawn into the air inlets 204a, 204b and is filtered by the air filtration module before a portion of the air is cooled by a thermoelectric module 206 of the air processing module. Cooled air from cool air outlets 208a, 208b of the manifold 202 is channelled through flexural hose or tubes 210a, 210b (Figure 3) and released to a space between a face 302 of a wearer of the headgear 300 and a face shield (or visor) 304 of the headgear 300 to improve the comfort of the wearer when the ambient weather is hot. The remaining portion of the air undergoes heat exchange with a hot surface of the thermoelectric module 206 and is drawn by an axial fan 212 to be expelled to the environment via a hot air outlet 214.

[0030] Figures 4A and 4B show perspective views of another implementation of the air processing system 100 of Figure 1. Figure 5A-5E show schematic views of a headgear 500 incorporating the air processing system 400 of Figures 4A and 4B.

[0031] In this implementation, the air processing system 400 includes a manifold 402 having one air inlet 404. For example, the manifold 402 can be mounted on a shell of the headgear 500 such that the air inlet 404 is positioned on top of the headgear 500, and the manifold 402 conforms to the curvature of the shell and extends to the back of the headgear 500. An air filtration module and an air processing module (not visible) are disposed within the manifold 402. The air inlet 404 directs a flow of air to two channels. A thermoelectric module 406 of the air processing module is disposed between the two channels. Ambient air is drawn into the air inlet 404 and is filtered by the air filtration module, before the air flowing through a first channel is cooled through contact with a cold surface of a thermoelectric module 406 while the air flowing through the second channel is heated through contact with a hot surface of the thermoelectric module 406. Cooled air is drawn by air blowers 408a, 408b to cool air outlets 410a, 410b of the manifold 402 where the cooled air is channelled through flexural hose or tubes 412a, 412b (Figure 5) and released to a s pace between a face 502 of a wearer of the headgear 500 and a face shield (or visor) 504 of the headgear 500 to improve the comfort of the wearer when the ambient weather is hot. Heated air is drawn by an axial fan 414 to be expelled to the environment via a hot air outlet 416.

[0032] As described in the above examples, the air processing system 200, 400 has a manifold that conforms to an exterior of the headgear 300, 500, such that the air processing system 200, 400 can be easily mounted to the headgear 300, 500 without being obtrusive. Mounting can be effected quickly and securely by one or more techniques including but not limited to adhesives, snap-fit locks, fasteners, 3M™ Hook and Loop and Dual Lock™ Reclosable Fasteners, etc. Also, as can be seen from Figures 3 and 5, the headgear 300, 500 includes a face shield or visor 304, 504 that is capable of transmitting visible light and blocking ultra-violet and infra-red radiation. Other properties such as anti-glare, anti-fog, scratch and mar resistance, water repellence, etc. can also be incorporated to the visor 304, 504.

[0033] Figures 11A shows a perspective view of another implementation of the air processing system, comprising an air delivery insert for placement within a headgear. The insert comprises an inlet connected to the air processing module, and a curved panel connected to the inlet, the curved panel comprising a plurality of apertures for discharging processed air. The insert is designed to be interposed between a headgear wearer’s head and the headgear itself. In this implementation, air processing system 1100 features a manifold 1102. The manifold comprises air intake openings 1104, which may be located at opposing ends of the manifold. An electrically driven blower is provided at each opening 1104 to draw external air into the manifold 1102 and towards the air processing module 1106. In one embodiment, the air processing module comprises a thermoelectric module capable of modifying the temperature of air, so that the air is cooled or heated. Air leaving the air processing module is directed into an air delivery insert 1108 which transports the air into the headgear for discharge. Referring to Figure 11 B, air delivery insert 1108 is placed within the headgear 1100A, such that the insert is sandwiched between the wearer’s head and the headgear. Other alternative configurations of the air delivery insert are possible, such as around the wearer’s neck similar to a collar, or around the wearer’s ears similar to a ear muff. [0034] Referring to Figure 1 1 C, the air delivery insert 1108 comprises an inlet 11 10 which is connectable to the air processing module 1 106, and a curved panel 1 1 12. The inlet 11 10 may comprise a single connected air passageway, while in another embodiment, the inlet 11 10 comprises a plurality of separate, individual air passageways. As shown in Figure 1 1 E, the inlet may be a closed chamber in which the internal passageway is molded in the shape of a venturi 1120, i.e. the passageway comprises a constriction connecting a narrowing inlet and a flared outlet, such that a plurality of venturi shaped passageways (hereinafter “venturis”) 1 120 are arranged parallel to each other in a row within the inlet. It is thought that the venturis enable air pressure to increase in the constriction and as air leaves the constriction, air expands and drops in temperature, thereby cooling the air further. A high-powered blower at the manifold intake may be provided to generate sufficient pressure to work with venturis. Alternatively, straight-through passageways without venturis may be used in the inlet.

[0035] After leaving the inlet, the air is directed into the curved panel 11 12. The curved panel 1 112 is an airway system that carries cool air into the headgear and also serves to cushion the weight of the headgear on a wearer’s head. Accordingly, it may comprise a curved shape to suit the contour of a human head and also to snugly fit into the underside of the headgear. For greater comfort, external surface 1119 of the curved panel may be provided with a resilient lining, such as that made from rubber or foam, or a fluid filled pouch made from a similar resilient material. The fluid may comprise hydrogel or other suitable fluids, such as fluids having a high heat capacity, e.g. water. Below this layer is a flat hollow passageway 11 13 that fluidly connects the inlet to apertures 11 14 through which air is discharged. In a preferred embodiment, the curved panel comprises a plurality of support studs comprising a resilient material. Apertures 1 1 14 may be interspersed amongst a plurality of support studs 11 15 extending from the base of the curved panel (see magnified illustration in Figure 1 1 D) that will come into contact with a user’s head. The support studs help to provide a gap between the curved panel and the wearer’s head, so that the discharged air is more effectively distributed across the wearer’s head. The support studs 11 15 may comprise a firm yet resilient material, preferably with rounded tips, and are evenly distributed across the curved panel in order to support the headgear comfortably on the wearer’s head. The resilient material may comprise any resilient material, such as rubber, polymer foams, polymer composites, and spring loaded structures. [0036] In order to direct air to the facial region of the wearer, the curved panel may extend forward to the vicinity of the forehead of the wearer and comprises apertures at the end thereof where the processed air is vented out of the air processing system. In one embodiment, an air guide 1 122 is arranged at the terminal end of the curved panel 11 12. The air guide 1122 may comprise a plurality of horizonal and vertical vanes (Figure 11 F). The direction of the vanes may be easily altered to direct air towards the desired areas of the face. Other than the facial region, other regions of the wearer’s head may benefit from an air guide, such as the ears and the neck.

[0037] In one embodiment, the inlet may be provided with a selector switch (Figure 1 1G) to block air flow to the head region while permitting air flow to the front air guide, in response to the wearer’s selection. The construction of the inlet 1 110 may be made in such a way that a slidable cover 1 125 with matching openings 1129 that correspond with the size and location of venturis of the inlet is placed between the inlet and the outlet of the air processing module 1 100. When it is desired to switch air supply to the face only, the slidable cover 1125 may be moved towards one side (arrow 1 127), thereby covering the entrance to the centre venturis, while the venturis 1131 , 1132 located at the sides remain open, allowing air to bypass the head region, being discharged on the wearer’s face instead. This provides the wearer with a choice where to direct the processed air.

[0038] The components of the system are selected to operate within a relatively small space while still delivering the required performance. Typically, a plurality of thermoelectric modules are used and they can be arranged in various configurations, e.g. series, serpentine, etc. , to increase cooling capacity. Also, in embodiments which use a plurality of thermoelectric modules, the modules may be independently activated or controlled to adapt to different needs and use conditions.

[0039] In a preferred embodiment, the air processing system comprises a plurality of thermoelectric modules, each comprising a housing in which one or more thermoelectric Peltier chips are disposed, said housing comprising an inlet for receiving air flow from the atmosphere and an outlet for discharging processed air, and the at least one Peltier chip arranged in a plane having a parallel orientation with respect to the direction of the air flow to contact the air flow. One example of such an arrangement is shown in detail in Figure 11 H. The thermoelectric module 1 106 comprises a plurality of thermoelectric Peltier chips 1 140 arranged with the cold side 1 142 facing the internal air passageway 1 143, while the hot side 1 144 faces outwards. Hot side 1 144 of the Peltier chips may be attached to a heatsink 1 146 that is in turn attached to the cover of the thermoelectric module, or exposed to ambient air (not shown) in order to effectively transmit heat away from the air passageway 1143. Conversely, if it is desired to provide heated air, the thermoelectric Peltier chips may be arranged with the hot side facing the air passageway, while the cold side faces outwards. Atmospheric air drawn in through the intake 1104 travels through the manifold and subsequently directed through passageway 1143 where the air comes into contact with the Peltier chips, which are placed parallel to the air flow, and then discharged through outlet 1150. In one embedment, intake 1104 for drawing atmospheric air may be comprised directly in the thermoelectric module, at location 1152. The thermoelectric module 1106 may also house a battery at 1152 for powering the thermoelectric Peltier chips.

[0040] The system is also configured to be light-weight such that user comfort is provided. It is presently found that in order for a user to maintain overall comfort and mechanical balance with the system mounted onto a headgear, an upper limit for the overall weight of the system should be observed which corresponds to the response of the neck muscles to the added weight of the system. Typically, the overall weight of the system is less than about 1000g. Preferably, the overall weight of the system is less than about 750g. Most preferably, the overall weight of the system is less than about 500g. In certain embodiments, the overall weight of the system is 600g or more. In one implementation, the components of the system are selected such that the weight of the power source (i.e. battery) is about 90g, the weight of the axial fan is about 30g, the weight of the air blower is about 20g, the weight of the heat sink with thermoelectric module is about 150g, the weight of the circuit board is about 30g, and the weight of the manifold is about 130g. The overall weight of the system in that implementation is about 450g.

[0041] Moreover, air channels within the manifold are adapted to maximise the cooling provided by the at least one thermoelectric module. Figure 6 shows a schematic diagram of a layout of an air channel 600 according to an example embodiment. The air channel 600 includes a plurality of surfaces (also known as fins) 602 acting as a heat sink of the thermoelectric module. Each surface 602 is in thermal contact with a plurality of heat pipes 604 that extend from the cold junction/surface of the at least one thermoelectric module. The multiple surfaces 602 can increase heat exchange with the air flow as the air flow passes through the air channel 600 and contacts the surfaces. Furthermore, as can be seen in Figure 6, the heat pipes 604 are disposed along a central axis of the air channel 600 parallel to a direction of the air flow. This arrangement can improve the efficiency of the conduction from the heat pipes 604 to the surfaces 602 and to the air flow and reduce drag on the air flow.

[0042] In some embodiments, it may be preferable to arrange the air processing system on the visor of the headgear (see 304 in Figure 3D; 504 in Figure 5D). For example, an air processing system comprising at least one thermoelectric module for modifying the temperature of the air may be arranged on the visor. Such an arrangement may be an alternative to or in addition to the air processing system provided on the shell of the headgear, and may help to increase the volume of processed air to the wearer. The visor helps to keep the processed air within the facial region of the wearer while keeping out ambient air from the surroundings, which would otherwise mix with processed air generated by the air processing system, thereby making it ineffective. Referring to Figure 12A, air processing system 1200 comprises a horizontal manifold 1220 arranged on the upper edge of a visor 1210 that is usable for a headgear, and which may be operated by switch 1221. In Figure 12B, air processing system 1200 comprises a plurality of thermoelectric modules 1230 that are operated to draw in external air via fans 1232, and then cooled (or heated) via thermoelectric Peltier chips arranged within each thermoelectric module 1230, and subsequently discharged via outlets 1234, which are aligned to apertures on the visor so that the processed air is discharged onto the wearer’s facial region. Battery 1240 provides power to electrically operate the thermoelectric modules and fans. Figure 12C shows a cross-sectional view the air processing system 1200, in which thermoelectric Peltier chip 1250 is arranged to have its cold side 1251 facing the air passageway 1260 and hot side 1252 attached to heatsink 1254. External air is blown through air passageway 1260 by fan 1232, rendering it cold, after which cold air exits via outlet 1234.

[0043] Other air processing modules may be incorporated, such as an air filter 1270, which may be provided to remove particulate pollutants at the inlet of the module. A camera module may be provided at 1280 if desired. A solar strip 1290 may be provided for recharging the battery.

[0044] The air processing unit 1220 may further comprise sensors fitted to determine the quality and flow of incoming air. Additionally, it may also comprise an adjacent slot/port for filtering air. In some embodiments, fans 1232 are activated by the air-flow sensor e.g. when the wearer is stationary, the fan switches on. An air control knob may be provided to regulate air volume. The temperature management module 220 may be attached to the visor through mechanical fasteners or through the use of adhesives.

[0045] The air filtration module in some embodiments may include a porous polymeric membrane, such as porous polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE). In other embodiments, the air filtration module may include composite filter media being made from a membrane filtration layer comprising a porous polymeric membrane, such as porous polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE), and/or melt blown non-woven fabric comprising polyolefin fibers, and being disposed on an upstream side of the membrane filtration layer relative to a direction of the air flow through the filter. In use, the air filtration module can remove at least 95% of particulates from the air flow. In some example, the air filtration module may include a sensor or detector configured to provide a signal indicative of an authenticity of the filter, for example, if an incompatible filter is used. The air filtration module can also have an integrated sensor to provide a signal indicative of the end of life of the filtration media in the filter, so that replacement can be carried out.

[0046] In the examples as described above with reference to Figures 1-6, the air processing module includes a temperature management module to modify a temperature of the air flow. However, it will be appreciated that other air processing functions may be provided in alternate embodiments. For example, the air processing module can include a humidity management module to modify a humidity level of the air flow. The humidity management module may act as a dehumidification module to remove excess moisture from the air flow and may comprise a condensate receiver for receiving condensation from cooling surfaces, or a desiccant to removably absorb moisture from the air flow. Alternatively, the humidity management module may act as a humidification module to provide cool mist to the wearer of the headgear.

[0047] Alternatively or in addition, the air processing module can include an odor management module to modify an odor of the air flow. In some embodiments, the odor management module can act as a deodorizer to remove unpleasant odors from the air flow. Non-limiting examples of suitable deodorizer includes carbon, baking soda powder and chemical odor removers. In other embodiments, the odor management module can act as an aromatizer to release a scent into the air flow.

[0048] Alternatively or in addition, the the air processing module can include a sterilization module to substantially sterilize the air flow. For example, an ultraviolet (UV) light emitting device can be used to kill harmful pathogens that may be present in the air flow.

[0049] It will also be appreciated that multiple air processing modules may be provided in the same system to address different needs. For example, if the ambient air is hot and humid, a temperature management module may be used in conjunction with a humidity management module, or both modules may be integrated to provide both cooling and dehumidification. Other combinations and permutations are possible depending on actual needs.

[0050] Figure 7 A and 7B shows a schematic diagram of an air processing system 700 according to another example embodiment. Figure 8 shows a schematic diagram of a communication system 800 between the air processing system 700 of Figure 7A and a wireless device 802 according to an example embodiment.

[0051] The air processing system 700 generally has the same functional air processing module as the air processing system 100 of Figure 1 , but with enhanced control functions provided by a control module 702. The control module 702 includes input/output devices and can provide a control signal to optimise the operation of the air processing module. Some example control regimes are described below with reference to Figures 7A, 7B and 8.

[0052] In one implementation, the control module 702 has an audio input device in the form of microphone 704 and an audio output device in the form of a head phone or speaker 706. The speaker 706 can provide feedback on the status of the air processing system, e.g. whether battery is low, whether the filter in the filtration module requires replacement, whether any part is overheating, etc. The microphone 704 can detect a voice command of of the wearer of the headgear and generate an appropriate control signal to operate the air processing system. For example, the microphone 704 can receive a voice command“Activate dehumidifier” from the wearer and a controller 708 converts this command into a control signal to turn on the humidity management module of the air processing system 700. Similarly, other commands such as “Reduce air temperature”, “Increase fan speed”, etc. can be suitably converted. This functionality can improve safety, as the motorcycle rider wearing the headgear can still control the system 700 while keeping his/her hands on the handle bar of the motorcycle. [0053] Alternatively or in addition, the control unit 702 can include at least one sensor to detect at least one property of air on an exterior or interior of the headgear, and the controller 708 can generate the control signal based on the output of the at least one sensor. In one example, the sensor is an accelerometer 7 0 which can detect whether the headgear is moving, i.e. whether the motorcycle and rider are moving or stationary. The controller 708 can interpret the signal generated by the accelerometer to control whether to switch the air blower of the air processing system 700 on or off. For example, while the motorcycle is moving, there is a degree of ventilation to the rider and air can be drawn easily into the system, so the system can run on a low fan speed mode. On the other hand, when the motorcycle is not moving, e.g. at a traffic junction or in a traffic jam, the accelerometer reading can trigger a high fan speed mode to ensure that sufficient cool air is provided to improve the comfort of the rider.

[0054] It will be appreciated that other types of sensors, e.g. temperature sensor, humidity sensor, odor sensor, brightness sensor, air speed sensor, etc. can be suitably integrated.

[0055] In order to translate the various inputs from the sensors into a logical output for controlling the air processing unit, an electronic control unit (ECU) may be provided. As shown in Figure 13, the ECU may receive signals from mass air flow sensors, humidity sensors, temperature sensors, and air quality sensors, and output appropriate signals to the fan motors and/or the Peltier chips to increase or decrease air processing power. An integrated temperature controller, such as Maxim Integrated ® MAX1978/M AX1979 single chip temperature controller, may be used to control the current (or voltage) to the Peltier chips, or the air intake fans. For more complex controls, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) may be designed to provide an integrated control for the entire air processing system. In one example, if the air flow needed to cool the scalp area is 95%, the TEG control unit will signal the thermoelectric module to ramp up to 95% capacity till the desired scalp temperature is achieved.

[0056] Alternatively or in addition, the control unit 702 can include a transceiver 712 configured to be communicatively coupled to a wireless device 802 (Figure 8), and the controller 708 can generate the control signal based on data transmitted from the wireless device 802 to the transceiver 712. For example, the wireless device 802 is a mobile phone or tablet computer that is connected via a wireless network to the Internet, a cloud computing platform, or a database and can provide real-time data to the control unit 702. Typically, the data is location-based. Some non-limiting examples of such data include air quality at the rider’s location, traffic conditions, temperature and humidity levels, etc. The controller 708 can interpret the data received by the transceiver 712 to selectively operate the modules of the air processing system 700. In some embodiments, the data can be analysed to provided advisory or feedback to the motorcycle rider. For example, the lifetime of the air filtration module can be calculated based on frequency of use, mileage, etc. and a signal for its replacement can be provided.

[0057] In the example shown in Figure 8, the wireless device 802 is a mobile phone or tablet computer with wireless connectivity and the transceiver 712 is a Bluetooth module. However, it will be appreciated that in other embodiments the wireless device 802 can be a device compatible with the Internet of Things (loT) framework, including but not limited to, a sensor node, a relay, a transmitter, or a similar air processing system. For example, a sensor unit mounted on a road-side structure, e.g. a signpost or lamppost, can communicate with the air processing system 700 via the transceiver 712 to provide real-time data to optimise the operation of the air processing system 700. In such embodiments, the transceiver 712 may operate on a different wireless network or system, such as ZigBee, Wi-Fi, etc.

[0058] Figure 9 shows a flow chart illustrating a method of processing air according to an example embodiment. At step 902, an air flow is received through at least one air inlet of a manifold. The manifold is configured to be mounted to a headgear. At step 904, air in the air flow is filtered using an air filtration module disposed in the manifold. At step 904, at least one property of the air in the air flow is modified using an air processing module disposed in the manifold. The air processing module is controlled based on a control signal from a control unit communicatively coupled to the air processing module.

[0059] Figure 10 shows a flow chart illustrating a method of manufacturing an air processing unit according to an example embodiment. At step 1002, a manifold having at least one air inlet is provided such that the manifold is mountable to a headgear. At step 1004, an air filtration module is disposed in the manifold. The air filtration module is configured to filter air in an air flow received from the at least one air inlet. At step 1006, an air processing module is disposed in the manifold. The air processing module is configured to modify at least one property of the air. The manifold, air filtration module and air processing module are selected such that a weight of the system is less than 1000g. [0060] As described, the air processing system in the example embodiments can alleviate issues associated with urban air pollution and exposure to heat that motorcycle riders often encounter. The system can be incorporated into existing helmets of the motorcycle riders without a significant change in weight or appearance. The system can adaptively adjust the performance or operation of the various modules such that battery life can be maximised. Hands-free control can be provided through voice commands or automatic triggers (e.g. sensor reading, network data) such that safety of the riders is not compromised.

[0061] It will be appreciated by a person skilled in the art that numerous variations and/or modifications may be made to the present invention as shown in the specific embodiments without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention as broadly described. The present embodiments are, therefore, to be considered in all respects to be illustrative and not restrictive.

Claims

1. An air processing system comprising:

a manifold having at least one air inlet;

an air filtration module disposed in the manifold and configured to receive an air flow from the at least one air inlet; and

an air processing module disposed in the manifold and configured to modify at least one property of the air,

wherein the manifold is configured to be mounted to a headgear.

2. The air processing system as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the weight of the system is less than 1000g.

3. The air processing system as claimed in claim 2, wherein the weight of the system is less than 750g.

4. The air processing system as claimed in claim 3, wherein the weight of the system is less than 500g.

5. The processing module as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the air processing module is disposed in the manifold downstream of the air filtration module.

6. The air processing system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a control unit communicatively coupled to the air processing module and configured to control an operation of the air processing module based on a control signal.

7. The air processing system as claimed in claim 6, wherein the control unit comprises a microphone, and wherein the control signal comprises a signal generated based on a voice command of a wearer of the headgear received by the microphone.

8. The air processing system as claimed in claim 6, wherein the control unit comprises at least one sensor configured to detect at least one property of air on an exterior or interior of the headgear, and wherein the control signal comprises a signal generated by the at least one sensor.

9. The air processing system as claimed in claim 6, wherein the control unit comprises a transceiver configured to be communicatively coupled to a wireless device, and wherein the control signal comprises a signal generated based on data transmitted from the wireless device to the transceiver.

10. The air processing system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the air processing module comprises a temperature management module configured to modify a temperature of the air.

11. The air processing system as claimed in claim 10, wherein the temperature management module comprises at least one thermoelectric module for modifying the temperature of the air.

12. The air processing system as claimed in claim 11 , wherein the at least one thermoelectric module comprises a thermoelectric Peltier chip.

13. The air processing system as claimed in claim 11 or 12, wherein the temperature management module comprises an air channel and a heat sink disposed in the air channel and configured to contact the air flow in the air channel.

14. The air processing system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the air processing module comprises a humidity management module configured to modify a humidity level of the air.

15. The air processing system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the air processing module comprises an odor management module configured to modify an odor of the air.

16. The air processing system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the air processing module comprises a sterilization module configured to substantially sterilize the air.

17. The air processing system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the air filtration module comprises a filter, and wherein the air filtration module is configured to provide a signal to indicative of an authenticity of the filter.

18. The air processing system as claimed in claim 17, wherein the air filtration module is configured to provide a signal for replacement of filtration media in the filter.

19. A headgear comprising an impact-resistant shell and the air processing system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims mounted to the shell.

20. The headgear as claimed in claim 19, further comprising a face shield, wherein the face shield is capable of one or more of transmitting visible light, blocking ultra-violet and infra-red radiation, preventing fog formation, resisting scratch and mar, and repelling water.

21. A method of processing air, the method comprising:

receiving an air flow through at least one air inlet of a manifold, wherein the manifold is configured to be mounted to a headgear;

filtering air in the air flow using an air filtration module disposed in the manifold; and

modifying at least one property of the air in the air flow using an air processing module disposed in the manifold, wherein the air processing module is controlled based on a control signal from a control unit communicatively coupled to the air processing module.

22. The method as claimed in claim 21 , wherein the air processing module is disposed in the manifold downstream of the air filtration module.

23. The method as claimed in claim 21 or 22, wherein modifying at least one property of the air in the air flow comprises modifying a temperature of the air.

24. The method as claimed in any one of claims 21 to 23, wherein modifying at least one property of the air in the air flow comprises modifying a humidity level of the air.

25. The method as claimed in any one of claims 21 to 24, wherein modifying at least one property of the air in the air flow comprises modifying an odor of the air.

26. The method as claimed in any one of claims 21 to 25, wherein modifying at least one property of the air in the air flow comprises substantially sterilizing the air.

27. A method of manufacturing an air processing system, the method comprising:

providing a manifold having at least one air inlet such that the manifold is mountable to a headgear;

disposing an air filtration module in the manifold, wherein the air filtration module is configured to filter air in an air flow received from the at least one air inlet; and

disposing an air processing module in the manifold, wherein the air processing module is configured to modify at least one property of the air.

28. The method as claimed in claim 27, wherein the manifold, air filtration module and air processing module are selected such that a weight of the system is less than 000g.

29. The method as claimed in claim 28, wherein the weight of the system is less than 750g.

30. The method as claimed in claim 29, wherein the weight of the system is less than 500g.

31. The method as claimed in any one of claims 27 to 30, wherein disposing the air processing module in the manifold comprises disposing the air processing module downstream of the air filtration module.

32. The method as claimed in any one of claims 27 to 31 , wherein the air processing module comprises a temperature management module configured to modify a temperature of the air.

33. The method as claimed in claim 32, wherein the temperature management module comprises at least one thermoelectric module for modifying the temperature of the air.

34. The method as claimed in claim 33, wherein the at least one thermoelectric module comprises a thermoelectric Peltier chip.

35. The method as claimed in any one of claims 27 to 34, wherein the air filtration module comprises a filter, and wherein the air filtration module is configured to provide a signal to indicative of an authenticity of the filter.

36. The method as claimed in claim 35, wherein the air filtration module is configured to provide a signal for replacement of filtration media in the filter.

37. The air processing system as claimed in any one of claims 1- 8, further comprising an air delivery insert for placement within a headgear.

38. The air processing system as claimed in claim 37, wherein the air delivery insert comprises

an inlet connected to the air processing module, and

a curved panel connected to the inlet, the curved panel comprising a plurality of apertures for discharging processed air.

39. The air processing system as claimed in claim 38, further comprising an air guide arranged at the end of the curved panel.

40. The air processing system as claimed in claims 11 and 12, further comprising a plurality of thermoelectric modules, each comprising a housing in which one or more thermoelectric Peltier chips are disposed, said housing comprising an inlet for receiving air flow from the atmosphere and an outlet for discharging processed air, and the at least one Peltier chip arranged in a plane having a parallel orientation with respect to the direction of the air flow to contact the air flow.

41. A visor for a headgear comprising the air processing system as claimed in any one of claims 1-18 and 37-40.

42. The visor of claim 41 , wherein the air processing system discharges processed air through apertures in the visor.