Headrest ventilation system and method for a seat assembly

Abstract

The present application relates to a headrest ventilation system and method for a seat assembly. The headrest ventilation assembly is configured to be secured to a headrest of a seat assembly and includes an air duct including one or more air inlets and one or more air outlets, and an air filter disposed within the air duct between the one or more air inlets and the one or more air outlets. The air filter is configured to remove contaminants from air drawn into the air duct before the air is delivered out of the one or more air outlets. The assembly can also include a fan disposed on or within the air duct. The fan is configured to draw air into the one or more air inlets and provide an airflow to deliver the air out of the one or more air outlets. The assembly can also include one or more UV light emitters disposed on or within the air duct. The UV light emitters are configured to emit UV light into the air to sanitize the air before the air is delivered out of the one or more air outlets.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Examples of this disclosure generally relate to headrest ventilation systems and methods for seat assemblies in the interior cabins of vehicles. Background Technology

[0002] Vehicles such as commercial aircraft are used to transport passengers between different locations. Many commercial vehicles, such as airplanes, have high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters in their air conditioning systems, which are capable of capturing microorganisms and pathogens. HEPA filters receive and clean the air leaving or about to enter the cabin. HEPA filters and frequent cabin cleaning between flights are some of the ways to ensure the health of passengers and crew on board.

[0003] Furthermore, to reduce the risk of spreading pathogens, some passengers may prefer to wear masks inside the cabin of the vehicle. However, wearing a mask, for example, during a long-haul flight may be uncomfortable for some passengers. Summary of the Invention

[0004] There is a need for a system and method to prevent, minimize, or otherwise reduce the transmission of pathogens between passengers on a means of transport during travel, such as between passengers in the interior compartments of an aircraft during flight, without causing harm to passengers.

[0005] In view of this need, certain embodiments of this disclosure provide a headrest ventilation assembly configured to be fixed to a headrest of a seat assembly. The headrest ventilation assembly includes: an air duct including one or more air inlets and one or more air outlets; and an air filter disposed within the air duct between the one or more air inlets and one or more air outlets. The air filter is configured to remove contaminants from the air drawn into the air duct before delivering it to the one or more air outlets.

[0006] In at least one instance, the headrest ventilation assembly also includes a fan disposed on or within an air duct. The fan is configured to draw air into one or more air inlets and provide airflow to deliver air to one or more air outlets.

[0007] In at least one instance, the headrest ventilation assembly also includes one or more ultraviolet (UV) light emitters disposed on or within an air duct. The one or more UV light emitters are configured to emit UV light into the air to sterilize the air before it is delivered to one or more air outlets. As an example, the UV light emitters are configured to emit UV light at a wavelength within one or both of the far UV spectrum and the UVC spectrum.

[0008] In at least one instance, the headrest ventilation component is separate from and distinct from the headrest.

[0009] In at least one instance, one or more air inlets are coupled to an air source via fluid conduits.

[0010] In at least one instance, the headrest ventilation assembly also includes a housing that houses at least a portion of the air duct and air filter.

[0011] As an example, the headrest ventilation assembly also includes a covering drape fitted over at least a portion of the headrest. As an example, the air duct includes one or both of an inflatable chamber or an expandable bellows.

[0012] As an example, the headrest ventilation assembly also includes side wings, which include one or more air vents. The side wings are movable between a retracted position and an extended position.

[0013] Certain embodiments of this disclosure provide a method for providing a headrest ventilation assembly configured to be fixed to a seat assembly. The method includes: providing an air duct within the headrest ventilation assembly, the air duct including one or more air inlets and one or more air outlets; arranging an air filter within the air duct between the one or more air inlets and the one or more air outlets, wherein the air filter is configured to remove contaminants from the air before delivering air drawn into the air duct to the one or more air outlets; and fixing the headrest ventilation assembly to the headrest.

[0014] Certain examples of this disclosure provide a system including a seat assembly comprising a headrest and a headrest ventilation assembly fixed to the headrest as described herein. Attached Figure Description

[0015] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a headrest ventilation assembly coupled to a headrest of a seating system according to an example of this disclosure is shown.

[0016] Figure 2 A perspective top view of a first seat assembly having a first headrest ventilation assembly and a second seat assembly having a second headrest ventilation assembly, according to an example of the present disclosure, is shown.

[0017] Figure 3 A side view of a first headrest ventilation assembly mounted on the headrest of a first seat assembly, according to an example of this disclosure, is shown.

[0018] Figure 4 It shows Figure 3 A top view of the first headrest ventilation assembly.

[0019] Figure 5A side view of a second headrest ventilation assembly mounted on the headrest of a second seat assembly, according to an example of this disclosure, is shown.

[0020] Figure 6 It shows Figure 5 A top view of the second headrest ventilation assembly.

[0021] Figure 7 A perspective front view of an aircraft according to an example of this disclosure is shown.

[0022] Figure 8A A top plan view of the interior compartment of an aircraft according to an example of this disclosure is shown.

[0023] Figure 8B A top plan view of the interior compartment of an aircraft according to an example of this disclosure is shown.

[0024] Figure 9 A flowchart is shown of a method for providing a headrest ventilation assembly configured to be fixed to a seat assembly, according to an example of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0025] The foregoing description and the following detailed description of certain examples will be better understood when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. As used herein, elements or steps listed in the singular and preceded by the words "a" or "an" should be understood to not necessarily exclude multiple elements or steps. Furthermore, the reference to "an example" is not intended to exclude the existence of additional examples also incorporating the listed features. Moreover, unless expressly stated to the contrary, examples that "comprise" or "have" one or more elements having a particular condition may include additional elements that do not have that condition.

[0026] Certain embodiments of this disclosure provide a ventilation system including a seat assembly with a headrest ventilation component. The headrest ventilation component provides personal ventilation for an individual seated in the seat assembly. In at least one embodiment, the headrest ventilation component includes an air filter such as a HEPA filter, one or more UV light emitters configured to emit ultraviolet (UV) light into the airflow to disinfect the air, and one or more fans. The air filter, UV light emitters, and fans cooperate to provide clean, purified air to the breathing space of the individual seated within the seat assembly. This system and method eliminate, minimize, or otherwise reduce the transmission of pathogens, contaminants, etc., relative to an individual in the interior cabin of a vehicle and other individuals seated nearby.

[0027] The headrest ventilation assembly is configured to draw in air (e.g., via a fan), disinfect the air (e.g., via an air filter and / or a UV light emitter), and deliver the disinfected air to the breathing space of the seat assembly. In at least one instance, one or more air outlets, such as nozzles, are formed in the headrest of the headrest ventilation assembly and / or the headrest of the seat assembly. The disinfected air is delivered to the breathing space through the air outlets. As another example, the disinfected air may be delivered to a hood coupled to the headrest of the headrest ventilation assembly and / or the headrest of the seat assembly. As yet another example, the disinfected air may be delivered from the headrest ventilation assembly to a face mask configured to be worn by an individual seated in the seat assembly.

[0028] In at least one instance, an air source is coupled to a headrest ventilation assembly. The air source supplies air to the headrest ventilation assembly, which then sterilizes the air before delivering it to the breathing space of the seat assembly. The air source can be installed directly to the headrest ventilation assembly or connected to it via a delivery duct such as a hose.

[0029] In at least one instance, the headrest ventilation assembly can be fixed to an existing seat assembly. For example, the headrest ventilation assembly is configured to be mounted on the headrest of the seat assembly. Alternatively, the seat assembly can be integrally formed with the headrest ventilation assembly.

[0030] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a headrest ventilation assembly 100 coupled to a headrest 102 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. The seat assembly 104 may be located in the interior cabin of a vehicle such as a commercial aircraft. Alternatively, the seat assembly 104 may be located within a fixed structure, such as in a room of a residential or commercial building.

[0031] Seat assembly 104 includes a seat cushion 106 coupled to a backrest 108. Backrest 108 includes a headrest 102 or is otherwise coupled to a headrest.

[0032] In at least one embodiment, the headrest ventilation assembly 100 is fixed to the headrest 102. In at least one embodiment, the headrest ventilation assembly 100 is not the headrest 102. Instead, the headrest ventilation assembly 100 is mounted on and / or above the headrest 102. For example, the headrest ventilation assembly 100 may be mounted on, around, or above at least a portion of the headrest 102. The headrest ventilation assembly 100 may be a portable assembly that can be selectively mounted to and removed from the headrest 102. Alternatively, the headrest ventilation assembly 100 may be integrally formed with the headrest 102.

[0033] The headrest ventilation assembly 100 includes a fan 110 that draws air 112 into the headrest ventilation assembly 100, such as through one or more air inlets 114. The fan 110 may draw air 112 from an air source 114, which may be coupled to the air inlet 114 via a fluid conduit 116, such as one or more pipes, ducts, hoses, etc. Alternatively, the headrest ventilation assembly 100 may not be coupled to a separate air source. Instead, the headrest ventilation assembly 100 draws air 112 from the surrounding environment, such as the interior cabin of a vehicle.

[0034] Air inlet 114 leads to air duct 118 housed within housing 120 of headrest ventilation assembly 100. Housing 120 houses air duct 118, fan 110, one or more ultraviolet (UV) light emitters 122, and air filter 124. Optionally, at least a portion of air duct 118, a portion of fan 110, a portion of UV light emitter 122, and a portion of air filter 124 may be disposed outside housing 120.

[0035] A fan 110 is arranged on and / or inside an air duct 118. In this way, the fan 110 is able to draw air 112 into the air duct 118 and provide airflow through and out of the headrest ventilation assembly 100.

[0036] A UV light emitter 122 is disposed on and / or inside an air duct 118. The UV light emitter 122 may be a lamp, light bulb, light-emitting diode, etc., configured to emit UV light into the air as the air 112 passes through the air duct 118. The UV light emitted into the air 112 disinfects the air 112, for example, by eliminating, killing, or otherwise inhibiting pathogens such as germs, bacteria, viruses, etc.

[0037] The UV light emitter 122 can be completely housed within the headrest ventilation assembly 100. Therefore, the UV light emitter 122 does not emit UV light outside the headrest ventilation assembly 100. In this way, individuals sitting within the seat assembly 104 are not at risk of exposure to UV light.

[0038] In at least one instance, the UV light emitter 122 is configured to emit UV light within the far UV spectrum, such as 220 nm to 230 nm. For example, the UV light emitter 122 may emit UV light at 222 nm. As another example, the UV light emitter 122 is configured to emit UV light within the UVC spectrum, such as 230 nm to 280 nm. For example, the UV light emitter 122 may emit UV light at 254 nm. In at least one instance, some UV light emitters in the UV light emitter 122 may emit UV light within the far UV spectrum, while other UV light emitters in the UV light emitter 122 may emit UV light within the UVC spectrum. Optionally, the UV light emitter may emit UV light of other UV wavelengths.

[0039] In at least one instance, the UV light emitter 122 is disposed downstream of the fan 110 within the air duct 118. Alternatively, the UV light emitter 122 may be disposed upstream of the fan 110 within the air duct 118. Alternatively, the headrest ventilation assembly 100 may not include the UV light emitter 122. For example, the headrest ventilation assembly 100 may include the fan 110 and an air filter 124.

[0040] An air filter 124 is disposed on and / or within an air duct 118. The air filter 124 is configured to remove contaminants from the air 112. For example, the air filter 124 may be a HEPA filter. As another example, the air filter 124 may be an adsorbent material. As yet another example, the air filter 124 may be activated carbon.

[0041] In at least one embodiment, the air filter 124 is disposed within the air duct 118 downstream of one or both of the fan 110 and / or the UV light emitter 122. Alternatively, the air filter 124 may be disposed within the air duct upstream of the fan 110 and / or the UV light emitter 122. Alternatively, the headrest ventilation assembly 100 may not include the air filter 124. For example, the headrest ventilation assembly 100 may include the fan 110 and the UV light emitter 122.

[0042] In operation, fan 110 draws air 112 into air duct 118 via air inlet 114. Fan 110 operates to provide an airflow direction that moves air 112 from air inlet 114 through air duct 118 and out of one or more outlets 126 (such as openings, nozzles, etc.). Air duct 118 extends from air inlet 114 to outlet 126. Fan 110, UV light emitter 122, and air filter 124 are arranged within air duct 118 between air inlet 114 and outlet 126.

[0043] Air 112 passes through the air duct 118 of the headrest ventilation assembly 100. As the air 112 passes through the air duct 118, the UV light emitter 122 emits UV light into the air 112, thereby disinfecting the air. Further, the air filter 124 removes contaminants from the air 112. Thus, purified air 128 is delivered from the air outlet 126 to the breathing space of the individual seated within the seat assembly 104. The air filter 124, the UV light emitter 122, and the fan 110 work together to provide clean, purified air 128 to the breathing space.

[0044] In at least one instance, an air outlet 126, such as a nozzle, is formed in the headrest ventilation assembly 100. Alternatively, the air outlet 126 is formed in the headrest 102 of the seat assembly 104. For example, the air outlet 126 may be formed in the headrest 102 and connected, for example, via an intermediate conduit to the air outlet of the headrest ventilation assembly 100. As another example, purified air 128 may be delivered to a cover coupled to the headrest 102 of the headrest ventilation assembly 100 and / or the seat assembly 104. As another example, purified air 128 may be delivered from the headrest ventilation assembly 100 to a face mask configured to be worn by an individual seated within the seat assembly 104.

[0045] In at least one instance, air source 114 is coupled to headrest ventilation assembly 100, such as via fluid conduit 116. Air source 114 supplies air 112 to headrest ventilation assembly 100, which then sterilizes the air 112 before delivering it to the breathing space of seat assembly 104. As an example, air source 114 may be part of the air conditioning system of a vehicle. As another example, air source 114 is a portable unit that may be mounted to headrest ventilation assembly 100 or connected to headrest ventilation assembly 100 via an inlet conduit such as a hose.

[0046] The air source 114 can be a modular component. The air source 114 can be housed below the seat assembly 104. As another example, the air source 114 can be positioned above the seat assembly 104.

[0047] In at least one instance, the headrest ventilation assembly 100 may be fixed to an existing seat assembly 104. For example, the headrest ventilation assembly 100 may be configured to be mounted on the headrest 102 of the seat assembly 104. Alternatively, the seat assembly 104 may be integrally formed with the headrest ventilation assembly 100.

[0048] In at least one instance, the headrest ventilation assembly 100 can be a disposable unit. For example, the housing 120 can be formed from paper, cardboard, etc. The headrest ventilation assembly 100 can be replaced after use.

[0049] The headrest ventilation assembly 100 can provide airflow on either side of the head of an individual seated within the seat assembly 104. The airflow can be directed into the breathing space and / or into areas surrounding the breathing space, such as into the interior cabin of the vehicle. In one example, purified air 128 can be delivered from one side (e.g., via a first wing of the headrest) into the breathing space, flow through the breathing space, and then be discharged to the opposite side (e.g., to a second wing of the headrest). Thus, the headrest ventilation assembly 100 can deliver purified air 128 into the breathing space near the individual's face, flow through the breathing space, and exhaled air can be exhausted through and discharged outside the headrest ventilation assembly 100. In this way, certain embodiments create a limited amount of control, which reduces energy consumption and improves effectiveness.

[0050] As described herein, the headrest ventilation assembly 100 is configured to be attached to the headrest 102 of the seat assembly 104. The headrest ventilation assembly 100 includes an air duct 118 that includes one or more air inlets 114 and one or more air outlets 126. An air filter 124 is disposed within the air duct 118 between the one or more air inlets 114 and the one or more air outlets 126. The air filter 124 is configured to remove contaminants from the air 112 drawn into the air duct 118 before it is delivered to the one or more air outlets 126.

[0051] In at least one instance, the headrest ventilation assembly 100 also includes a fan 110 disposed on or within an air duct 118. The fan 110 is configured to draw air 112 into one or more air inlets 114 and provide airflow to deliver air 128 to one or more air outlets 126.

[0052] In at least one instance, the headrest ventilation assembly 100 also includes one or more UV light emitters 122 disposed on or within an air duct 118. The one or more UV light emitters 122 are configured to emit UV light into the air 112 to disinfect the air 112 before delivering it outside one or more air outlets 126.

[0053] In at least one instance, the headrest ventilation assembly 100 is separate from and distinct from the headrest 102. For example, the headrest ventilation assembly 100 is coupled to the headrest 102 (e.g., mounted on or above at least a portion of the headrest).

[0054] Figure 2A perspective top view of a first seat assembly 104a having a first headrest ventilation assembly 100a and a second seat assembly 104b having a second headrest ventilation assembly 100b, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, is shown. As shown, the first seat assembly 104a and the second seat assembly 104b may be coupled together. Alternatively, the first seat assembly 104a and the second seat assembly 104b may not be coupled together. The first headrest ventilation assembly 100a may be of a different type than the second headrest ventilation assembly 100b. Alternatively, headrest ventilation assemblies 100 of the same type may be coupled to each of the seat assemblies 104a and 104b.

[0055] Figure 3 A side view of a first headrest ventilation assembly 100a mounted on a headrest 102 of a first seat assembly 104a is shown. Figure 4 It shows Figure 3 A top view of the first headrest ventilation assembly 100a. See also Figures 2 to 4 The headrest ventilation assembly 100a may include a cover 200 mounted above the headrest 102. An air chamber 202 is coupled to the cover 200 and is initially located above the top 204 of the headrest 102. As an example, Figure 1 The air duct 118 shown includes an air chamber 202. The air chamber 202 is fluidly coupled to an air source 114, such as an air conditioning system of a vehicle or building, via a fluid conduit 116, such as a hose, duct, etc.

[0056] The air duct 118 may also include an expandable bellows 206 coupled to the inflation chamber 202. The bellows 206 is also mounted on the headrest 102. The bellows 206 can be selectively extended or shortened to provide an ideal height for the individual within the seat assembly 104a or otherwise accommodate the individual.

[0057] Air duct 118 is fluidly connected to air outlet 126 of side wing 208 of headrest ventilation assembly 100. Side wing 208 is configured to be arranged on the side of headrest ventilation assembly 100. For example, hinge 210 can movably couple side wing 208 to cover 200. Hinge 210 allows side wing to move selectively between a stowed position and an extended position. In the extended position, side wing 208 can be spaced apart from the side of the head of an individual seated within seat assembly 104a. Alternatively, side wing 208 may not move between the stowed and extended positions.

[0058] The headrest ventilation assembly 100a may also include an adjustment member 212 located on the back of the headrest 102. The adjustment member 212 may be a clamp, strap, etc., which allows the headrest ventilation assembly 100 to be adapted to headrests of different sizes and shapes.

[0059] refer to Figures 1 to 4The fan 110, UV light emitter 122, and filter 124 may be arranged within the air chamber 202, bellows 206, or side wing 208. In at least one embodiment, the headrest ventilation assembly 100a may not include the fan 110. Instead, airflow may be provided by one or more fans from the air source 114.

[0060] like Figure 4 As shown, the side wings 208 can be in the deployed position 208', such that the side wings 208 are positioned on both sides of the breathing space 220. In the deployed position 208', the air vents 126 pivot away from the headrest 102 of the seat assembly 104a. The side wings 208 can be moved to the retracted position 208'. In the retracted position 208', the side wings 208 can cover the headrest 102 of the seat assembly 104a.

[0061] Figure 5 A side view of a second headrest ventilation assembly 100b mounted above the headrest 102 of the second seat assembly 104b, according to an example of the present disclosure, is shown. Figure 6 It shows Figure 5 A top view of the second headrest ventilation assembly 104b. (Reference) Figure 2 , Figure 5 and Figure 6 The second headrest ventilation assembly 100b is similar to the first headrest ventilation assembly 100a, except that the second headrest ventilation assembly 100b is not coupled to a separate air source via ductwork. The fan 110 can draw ambient air 112 into the air inlet 114.

[0062] The fan 110, UV light emitter 122, and air filter 124 may be arranged within various parts of the headrest ventilation assembly 100b. For example, the fan 110, UV light emitter 122, and / or air filter 124 may be arranged within the inflation chamber 202, the bellows 206, and / or the side wing 208.

[0063] Figure 7 A perspective front view of an aircraft 10 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. The aircraft 10 includes a propulsion system 12, which includes, for example, engines 14. Optionally, the propulsion system 12 may include more engines 14 than shown. The engines 14 are carried by wings 16 of the aircraft 10. In other embodiments, the engines 14 may be carried by a fuselage 18 and / or a tail 20. The tail 20 may also support a horizontal stabilizer 22 and a vertical stabilizer 24.

[0064] The fuselage 18 of the aircraft 10 defines an interior compartment 30, which includes a flight deck or cockpit, one or more work areas (e.g., galley, carry-on baggage area, etc.), one or more passenger areas (e.g., first class, business class, and second class), one or more lavatories, etc. As described herein, the interior compartment 30 includes one or more lavatory systems, lavatory units, or lavatories.

[0065] Interior compartment 30 includes a seat assembly. The headrest ventilation assembly described herein may be coupled to the seat assembly within the interior compartment. Alternatively, instead of aircraft, embodiments of this disclosure may be used with a variety of other means of transportation such as automobiles, buses, locomotives and trains, ships, etc. Furthermore, embodiments of this disclosure may be used with fixed structures such as commercial buildings and residential buildings.

[0066] Figure 8A A top plan view of an interior compartment 30 of an aircraft according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. The interior compartment 30 may be located within the fuselage 32 of the aircraft 10, such as... Figure 7 The fuselage 18. For example, one or more fuselage walls may define an interior compartment 30. The interior compartment 30 includes multiple sections, including a forward section 33, a first-class section 34, a business-class section 36, a forward galley station 38, an extended economy or second-class section 40, a standard economy or second-class section 42, and a rear section 44, which may include multiple lavatories and galley stations. It should be understood that the interior compartment 30 may include more or fewer sections than shown. For example, the interior compartment 30 may not include a first-class section and may include more or fewer galley stations than shown. Each of these sections may be separated by a compartment transition area 46, which may include class partition components located between aisles 48.

[0067] like Figure 8A As shown, the interior compartment 30 includes two passageways 50 and 52 leading to the aft section 44. Alternatively, the interior compartment 30 may have fewer or more passageways than shown. For example, the interior compartment 30 may include a single passageway extending through the center of the interior compartment 30 leading to the aft section 44.

[0068] Passageways 48, 50, and 52 extend to an exit path or doorway 60. An exit door 62 is located at the end of the exit path 60. The exit path 60 may be perpendicular to passageways 48, 50, and 52. Interior compartment 30 may include additional exit paths 60 at different locations as shown. As described herein, a lavatory system may be located at or near the intersection of passageways 48, 50, 52, and exit path 60.

[0069] Figure 8B A top plan view of an interior compartment 80 of an aircraft according to an example of this disclosure is shown. Interior compartment 80 is... Figure 7 An example of an interior compartment 30 is shown. The interior compartment 80 may be located within the fuselage 81 of the aircraft. For example, one or more fuselage walls may define the interior compartment 80. The interior compartment 80 includes multiple sections, including a main compartment 82 with passenger seats 83 and a tail section 85 behind the main compartment 82. It should be understood that the interior compartment 80 may include more or fewer sections than shown.

[0070] The interior compartment 80 may include a single passageway 84 leading to the aft section 85. The single passageway 84 may extend through the center of the interior compartment 80 leading to the aft section 85. For example, the single passageway 84 may be aligned coaxially with the central longitudinal plane of the interior compartment 80.

[0071] The passageway 84 extends to the exit path or doorway 90. An exit door 92 is located at the end of the exit path 90. The exit path 90 may be perpendicular to the passageway 84. The interior compartment 80 may include more exit paths than shown.

[0072] Figure 9 A flowchart is shown of a method for providing a headrest ventilation assembly configured to be fixed to a seat assembly, according to an example of the present disclosure. The method includes: in step 300, providing an air duct including one or more air inlets and one or more air outlets within the headrest ventilation assembly; in step 302, arranging an air filter within the air duct between the one or more air inlets and the one or more air outlets, wherein the air filter is configured to remove contaminants from the air before delivering air drawn into the air duct to the one or more air outlets; and in step 304, fixing the headrest ventilation assembly to the headrest.

[0073] In at least one instance, the method further includes arranging a fan on or within an air duct. The fan is configured to draw air into one or more air inlets and provide airflow to deliver air to one or more air outlets.

[0074] In at least one instance, the method further includes arranging one or more ultraviolet (UV) light emitters on or within an air duct. The one or more UV light emitters are configured to emit UV light into the air to disinfect the air before it is delivered to one or more outlets.

[0075] As an example, the method also includes coupling one or more air inlets to an air source via a fluid conduit.

[0076] In at least one instance, the method includes housing at least a portion of the air duct and air filter within a housing.

[0077] In at least one instance, the method further includes fitting a cover of the headrest ventilation assembly over at least a portion of the headrest.

[0078] In at least one instance, the method further includes arranging one or more air vents within the side wing. As yet another example, the method includes moving the side wing between a retracted position and an extended position.

[0079] As described herein, examples of this disclosure provide systems and methods for preventing, minimizing, or otherwise reducing the transmission of pathogens between passengers on a means of transport during travel, such as passengers in the interior compartments of an aircraft during flight, without causing harm to passengers.

[0080] Furthermore, this disclosure includes examples pursuant to the following provisions:

[0081] Clause 1. A headrest ventilation assembly configured to be fixed to a headrest of a seat assembly, the headrest ventilation assembly comprising:

[0082] An air duct, comprising one or more air inlets and one or more air outlets; and

[0083] An air filter disposed within an air duct between one or more air inlets and one or more air outlets, wherein the air filter is configured to remove contaminants from the air drawn into the air duct before delivering the air to the one or more air outlets.

[0084] Clause 2. The headrest ventilation assembly according to Clause 1 also includes a fan disposed on or within an air duct, wherein the fan is configured to draw air into one or more air inlets and provide airflow to deliver air to one or more air outlets.

[0085] Clause 3. The headrest ventilation assembly pursuant to Clause 1 or 2 further includes one or more ultraviolet (UV) light emitters disposed on or within an air duct, wherein the one or more UV light emitters are configured to emit UV light into the air to disinfect the air before delivering the air to one or more outlets.

[0086] Clause 4. The headrest ventilation assembly pursuant to Clause 3, wherein the UV light emitter is configured to emit UV light at a wavelength in one or both of the far UV spectrum or the UVC spectrum.

[0087] Clause 5. A headrest ventilation assembly according to any one of Clauses 1 to 4, wherein the headrest ventilation assembly is separate from and distinct from the headrest.

[0088] Clause 6. A headrest ventilation assembly according to any one of Clauses 1 to 5, wherein one or more air inlets are coupled to an air source via fluid conduits.

[0089] Clause 7. The headrest ventilation assembly according to any one of Clauses 1 to 6 also includes a housing that houses at least a portion of the air duct and air filter.

[0090] Clause 8. The headrest ventilation assembly pursuant to any one of Clauses 1 to 7 further includes a cover fitted over at least a portion of the headrest.

[0091] Clause 9. A headrest ventilation assembly pursuant to any one of Clauses 1 to 8, wherein the air duct comprises one or both of an inflatable chamber or an expandable bellows.

[0092] Clause 10. The headrest ventilation assembly according to any one of Clauses 1 to 9 also includes a side wing, which includes one or more air vents.

[0093] Clause 11. The headrest ventilation assembly according to Clause 10, wherein the side wings are movable between a stowed position and an extended position.

[0094] Clause 12. A method for providing a headrest ventilation assembly configured to be fixed to a seat assembly, the method comprising:

[0095] An air duct including one or more air inlets and one or more air outlets is provided within the headrest ventilation assembly;

[0096] An air filter is disposed within an air duct between one or more air inlets and one or more air outlets, wherein the air filter is configured to remove contaminants from the air drawn into the air duct before delivering the air to one or more air outlets; and

[0097] Secure the headrest ventilation assembly to the headrest.

[0098] Clause 13. The method according to Clause 12 also includes arranging a fan on or within an air duct, wherein the fan is configured to draw air into one or more air inlets and provide airflow to deliver air to one or more air outlets.

[0099] Clause 14. The method according to Clause 12 or 13 further includes arranging one or more ultraviolet (UV) light emitters on or within an air duct, wherein the one or more UV light emitters are configured to emit UV light into the air to disinfect the air before delivering the air to one or more outlets.

[0100] Clause 15. The method according to any one of Clauses 12 to 14 further includes coupling one or more air inlets to an air source via a fluid conduit.

[0101] Clause 16. The method according to any one of Clauses 12 to 15 further includes housing at least a portion of the air duct and air filter within the housing.

[0102] Clause 17. The method according to any one of Clauses 12 to 16 further includes fitting a cover of the headrest ventilation assembly over at least a portion of the headrest.

[0103] Clause 18. The method according to any one of Clauses 12 to 17 also includes arranging one or more air vents within the wing.

[0104] Clause 19. The method according to Clause 18 also includes moving the wing between the stowed position and the deployed position.

[0105] Article 20. A system comprising:

[0106] Seat components including headrests; and

[0107] A headrest ventilation assembly fixed to the headrest, the headrest ventilation assembly comprising:

[0108] An air duct, comprising one or more air inlets and one or more air outlets; and

[0109] An air filter disposed within an air duct between one or more air inlets and one or more air outlets, wherein the air filter is configured to remove contaminants from the air drawn into the air duct before delivering the air to the one or more air outlets.

[0110] Clause 21. The system according to Clause 20, wherein the headrest ventilation assembly further includes a fan disposed on or within an air duct, wherein the fan is configured to draw air into one or more air inlets and provide airflow to deliver air to one or more air outlets.

[0111] Clause 22. A system pursuant to Clause 20 or 21, wherein the headrest ventilation assembly further includes one or more ultraviolet (UV) light emitters disposed on or within an air duct, wherein the one or more UV light emitters are configured to emit UV light into the air to disinfect the air before delivering the air to one or more outlets.

[0112] Although various spatial and directional terms (such as top, bottom, lower, middle, horizontal, horizontal, vertical, front, etc.) may be used to describe instances of this disclosure, it should be understood that these terms are used only relative to the orientations shown in the accompanying drawings. These orientations may be inverted, rotated, or otherwise altered such that upper becomes lower, and vice versa, horizontal becomes vertical, etc.

[0113] As used herein, structures, constraints, or elements “constructed to” perform a task or operation are specifically formed, constituted, or adjusted in a manner corresponding to the task or operation. For clarity and to avoid ambiguity, objects that can only be modified to perform a task or operation are not “constructed to” perform the task or operation as used herein.

[0114] It should be understood that the above description is intended to be illustrative and not restrictive. For example, the above examples (and / or aspects thereof) may be used in combination with each other. Furthermore, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of various examples of this disclosure without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Although the dimensions and types of materials described herein are intended to define parameters of various examples of this disclosure, these examples are by no means restrictive. Many other examples will be apparent to those skilled in the art upon review of the above description. Therefore, the scope of various examples of this disclosure should be determined by referring to the appended claims and the full scope of their equivalents. In the appended claims and the detailed description herein, the terms “comprising” and “containing” are used as plain English equivalents to the term “including”, and the term “wherein” is used as a plain English equivalent to the term “wherein”. Furthermore, the terms “first,” “second,” and “third,” etc., are used only as designations and are not intended to impose numerical requirements on their objects. Furthermore, the limitation of the appended claims is not written in the manner of means plus function, nor is it intended to be interpreted based on Section 112(f) of Chapter 35 of the United States Code, unless and until such limitation of claims is expressly expressed by the phrase “means for…” followed by a functional statement lacking further structure.

[0115] This written description uses examples to disclose various instances of this disclosure, including best practices, and also enables those skilled in the art to practice various instances of this disclosure, including making and using any device or system and performing any combined methods. The patentable scope of the various instances of this disclosure is defined by the claims, and may include other instances that would occur to those skilled in the art. Such other instances are intended to fall within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that are not different from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements that are not substantially different from the literal language of the claims.

Claims

1. A headrest ventilation assembly configured to be fixed to a headrest of a seat assembly, wherein, The headrest ventilation assembly includes: The housing is configured to be removably mounted on or above the headrest, wherein the housing can be selectively mounted on or above the headrest. An air duct, located within the housing, comprising one or more air inlets and one or more air outlets; and An air filter is disposed within the air duct between one or more air inlets and one or more air outlets, wherein the air filter is configured to remove contaminants from the air before delivering air drawn into the air duct to the outside of the one or more air outlets; A covering, fitted over at least a portion of the headrest; The air duct includes an inflation chamber coupled to the cover, wherein the inflation chamber is mounted above at least a portion of the headrest; The air duct includes an expandable bellows coupled to the inflation chamber, wherein the expandable bellows is fitted over at least a portion of the headrest, and wherein the expandable bellows selectively extends or shortens to provide a suitable fit; and An adjustment member is located on the back of the headrest, wherein the adjustment member allows the headrest ventilation assembly to be adapted to the size and shape of the headrest.

2. The headrest ventilation assembly according to claim 1 further includes a fan disposed on or within the air duct, wherein, The fan is configured to draw air into the one or more air inlets and provide airflow to deliver the air to the one or more air outlets.

3. The headrest ventilation assembly according to claim 1 further includes one or more ultraviolet light emitters disposed on or within the air duct, wherein, The one or more ultraviolet emitters are configured to emit ultraviolet light into the air to disinfect the air before it is delivered out of the one or more outlets.

4. The headrest ventilation assembly according to claim 3, wherein, The ultraviolet emitter is configured to emit ultraviolet light at a wavelength in one or both of the far-ultraviolet spectrum or the short-wave ultraviolet spectrum.

5. The headrest ventilation assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The headrest ventilation assembly is separate from and distinct from the headrest.

6. The headrest ventilation assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The one or more air inlets are coupled to an air source via fluid conduits.

7. The headrest ventilation assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 6, further comprising a side wing, the side wing including the one or more air outlets.

8. The headrest ventilation assembly according to claim 7, wherein, The side wings can move between a retracted position and an extended position.

9. A method for providing a headrest ventilation assembly configured to be fixed to a seat assembly, wherein, The method includes: An air duct including one or more air inlets and one or more air outlets is provided within the headrest ventilation assembly; An air filter is disposed within the air duct between the one or more air inlets and the one or more air outlets, wherein the air filter is configured to remove contaminants from the air before delivering the air drawn into the air duct to the outside of the one or more air outlets; The headrest ventilation assembly is removably secured to the headrest; wherein the removable securing includes selectively mounting the headrest ventilation assembly onto or above the headrest; The cover of the headrest ventilation assembly is fitted over at least a portion of the headrest; An inflatable chamber coupled to the cover is fitted over at least a portion of the headrest; An expandable bellows coupled to the inflatable chamber is fitted over at least a portion of the headrest, wherein the expandable bellows selectively elongates or shortens to provide an ideal fit; and The adjustment member is positioned on the back of the headrest, wherein the adjustment member allows the headrest ventilation assembly to adapt to the size and shape of the headrest.

10. The method of claim 9, further comprising arranging a fan on or within the air duct, wherein, The fan is configured to draw air into the one or more air inlets and provide airflow to deliver the air to the one or more air outlets.

11. The method of claim 9, further comprising arranging one or more ultraviolet emitters on or within the air duct, wherein, The one or more ultraviolet emitters are configured to emit ultraviolet light into the air to disinfect the air before it is delivered outside the one or more air outlets.

12. The method of claim 9, further comprising coupling the one or more air inlets to an air source via a fluid conduit.

13. The method of claim 9, further comprising housing at least a portion of the air duct and the air filter within a housing, the housing being removably mounted on or above the headrest.

14. The method of claim 9, further comprising arranging the one or more air outlets within the side wing.

15. The method of claim 14, further comprising moving the wing between a stowed position and an extended position.

16. A ventilation system, comprising: Seat components including headrests; as well as A headrest ventilation assembly fixed to the headrest, the headrest ventilation assembly comprising: The housing is removably mounted to or above the headrest, wherein the housing can be selectively mounted to or above the headrest. An air duct, located within the housing, includes an inflation chamber and an expandable bellows coupled to the inflation chamber. The air duct includes one or more air inlets and one or more air outlets. The inflation chamber is fitted over at least a portion of the headrest, and the expandable bellows is fitted over at least a portion of the headrest, wherein the expandable bellows is selectively elongated or shortened to provide a suitable fit. An air filter is disposed within the air duct between one or more air inlets and one or more air outlets, wherein the air filter is configured to remove contaminants from the air before delivering air drawn into the air duct to the outside of the one or more air outlets; A cover, fitted over at least a portion of the headrest, wherein the air chamber is coupled to the cover; and An adjustment member is located on the back of the headrest, wherein the adjustment member allows the headrest ventilation assembly to be adapted to the size and shape of the headrest.

17. The ventilation system according to claim 16, wherein, The headrest ventilation assembly also includes a fan disposed on or within the air duct, wherein the fan is configured to draw air into the one or more air inlets and provide airflow to deliver the air to the one or more air outlets.

18. The ventilation system according to claim 16 or 17, wherein, The headrest ventilation assembly also includes one or more ultraviolet (UV) emitters disposed on or within the air duct, wherein the one or more UV emitters are configured to emit UV light into the air to disinfect the air before delivering the air to the one or more air outlets.

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