Helmet processing system and method

Abstract

The invention provides a helmet processing system and method, and relates to the field of helmet processing. The helmet-based processing system includes a workspace defined for receiving a helmet to be processed, a plasma generator for generating a plasma for delivery to the workspace for further processing the helmet; the vaporizer module is used for vaporizing the cleaning liquid into vaporized liquid and then sending the vaporized liquid to the workspace treatment helmet; and a controller in signal communication with the plasma generator and the vaporizer module. A support structure of the workspace, a plasma generator for generating a plasma for delivery to the workspace for further treatment of the helmet, a vaporizer module for vaporizing a cleaning liquid into a vaporized liquid for delivery to the workspace of the treatment helmet, and a controller in signal communication with the plasma generator and the vaporizer module, and an ideal cleaning effect is provided.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the technical field of helmet processing, in particular to a helmet processing system and method. Background Art

[0002] When riding a motorcycle, the helmet becomes the lifeline for protecting the head. The helmet is embedded with a layer of cotton material that absorbs the inevitable elements of riding - sweat and rain. While this feature enhances comfort during the journey, it also sets the stage for the gradual accumulation of odors and the growth of bacteria inside the helmet. With the cotton layer becoming a breeding ground for unpleasant odors and potentially harmful bacteria, the need for regular cleaning of the helmet becomes obvious. A proactive cleaning routine is necessary to maintain the overall hygiene and longevity of this important safety equipment. Neglecting this aspect not only compromises the comfort of the user but also causes health issues related to long-term exposure to bacterial growth inside the helmet. In response to this need for cleaning, helmet cleaning cabinets have emerged as a technological solution. These cabinets use a two-phase method that includes a spray cleaning mechanism followed by a drying process. However, current methods do not provide an ideal cleaning result. Relying on water flow alone is not enough to tackle stubborn stains, which also leaves room for inconvenience in the overall user experience. Therefore, there is a need for a method and system to address the above issues. Summary of the invention

[0003] 1. Technical issues to be resolved

[0004] In view of the deficiencies of the prior art, the present invention provides a helmet processing system and method, which solves the problem of poor cleaning effect.

[0005] (II) Technical solution

[0006] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention is implemented through the following technical solutions: A helmet processing system, comprising:

[0007] defining a workspace for receiving helmets to be processed;

[0008] a plasma generator for generating plasma for delivery to the workspace for further processing of the helmet;

[0010] Vaporizer module, used to vaporize the cleaning liquid into vaporized liquid, which is then sent to the workspace for processing

[0011] a helmet; and a controller in signal communication with the plasma generator and the vaporizer module, wherein the plasma generator includes a plasma outlet for discharging the plasma, the vaporizer module includes a vaporizer outlet for discharging the vaporized liquid, and the helmet has an inner surface defined by its concavity.

[0012] Preferably, at least one brake assembly is coupled and used to displace and position the vaporizer module, the vaporizer outlet, the plasma generator and the plasma outlet for discharging at least one plasma and vaporized liquid into the workspace, wherein the at least one brake assembly is at least one of a robotic arm, a linear brake, a piston brake, an actuated scissor lift mechanism, an actuated cam mechanism, a servo motor and an electric translation stage, so as to communicate signals with the controller for control.

[0013] Preferably, a substrate defining at least one aperture is substantially inserted into the helmet and each vaporizer outlet and plasma outlet, the at least one aperture being substantially aligned with an opening in the inner surface of the helmet so that vaporized liquid from the vaporizer communication module and plasma generated by the plasma generator are connected to the inner surface of the helmet through the at least one aperture.

[0014] Preferably, at least one container is used to contain a cleaning liquid for delivery to the vaporizer module; and at least one pump is used to replace the cleaning liquid in the at least one container so as to be transported to the vaporizer module to be vaporized into vaporized liquid, and the at least one pump communicates signals with the controller for control.

[0015] Preferably, the vacuum generator comprises a suction head, wherein the suction force of the vacuum generator is used to substantially extract at least one of fluid and particles from the working space;

[0016] configured and arranged to dry at least a portion of the helmet;

[0017] and a scent diffuser for discharging scented liquid into a workspace, wherein the at least one actuator assembly is further used to displace and position the suction head of the vacuum generator, the vacuum generator and the scent diffuser are thereby in signal communication with the controller for control.

[0018] Preferably, at least one of the suction head, the vaporizer outlet and the plasma outlet is an end effector for removably connecting to at least one effector assembly.

[0019] Preferably, a brush module comprises a cylindrical brush configured for rotational displacement about a brush axis defined by the brush module, the brush module being operable to position and displace adjacent rotating cylindrical brushes and to pass through at least a portion of an outer surface of a helmet for treatment, the outer surface of the helmet being substantially outwardly facing an inner surface of the helmet.

[0020] Preferably, at least one brake assembly, to which the brush module is coupled, is adapted to be displaced and positioned along the outer surface of the helmet,

[0021] Wherein, the at least one brake assembly is at least one of a robotic arm, a linear brake, a piston brake, an actuated scissor lift mechanism, an actuated cam mechanism, a servo motor, and an electric translation stage, so as to communicate signals with the controller for control.

[0022] Preferably, an ultraviolet light module is provided for generating UV radiation and is configured to direct the UV radiation substantially toward an interior surface of the helmet.

[0023] Preferably, a shell structure is used to define the workspace and an opening for accessing the workspace; and the cover is rotatably connected to the shell structure for moving between an open position to allow passage through the opening of the shell structure and a closed position to block passage through the opening of the shell structure, when the helmet is placed in the workspace and the cover is in the closed position, the helmet is substantially enclosed by the shell structure.

[0024] A method for treating a helmet, comprising: generating plasma by a plasma generator and delivering the generated plasma to a workspace to treat a helmet received in the workspace, the workspace being defined by a support structure;

[0025] and vaporizing the cleaning fluid into a vaporized liquid through a vaporizer module, and delivering the vaporized liquid to a workspace for further processing the helmet, wherein the plasma generator includes a plasma outlet for discharging plasma, the vaporizer module includes a vaporizer outlet for discharging the vaporized liquid, the helmet having an inner surface defined by its concavity, the plasma generator and the vaporizer module thus being in signal communication with a controller for control.

[0026] Preferably, at least one of the vaporizer module, the vaporizer outlet, the plasma generator and the plasma outlet is displaced and positioned by at least one actuator assembly for discharging at least one plasma and vaporized liquid into the workspace,

[0027] Wherein, the at least one brake assembly is at least one of a robotic arm, a linear brake, a piston brake, an actuated scissor lift mechanism, an actuated cam mechanism, a servo motor, and an electric translation stage, so as to communicate signals with the controller for control.

[0028] Preferably, the vaporized liquid and generated plasma are directed through at least one aperture defined in a substrate that is substantially inserted into the helmet and each vaporizer outlet and plasma outlet, the at least one aperture being substantially aligned with an opening in an interior surface of the helmet to allow vaporized liquid to communicate from the vaporizer module and plasma generated by the plasma generator through the at least one aperture to the interior surface of the helmet.

[0029] Preferably, at least one container is provided for containing a cleaning liquid for delivery to the vaporizer module;

[0030] At least one pump is provided for replacing the cleaning liquid in the at least one container so as to transport the cleaning liquid to the vaporizer module for vaporization into the vaporized liquid. The at least one pump communicates with the controller by signals for control.

[0031] Preferably, at least one of fluid and particles is substantially extracted from the workspace by a vacuum generator, the vacuum generator comprising a suction head that generates suction; at least a portion of the helmet is dried by a heat lamp that is arranged and configured;

[0032] and discharging a scented liquid into a workspace through a scent diffuser, wherein the at least one actuator assembly is further used to displace and position a suction head of the vacuum generator, the vacuum generator and the scent diffuser thereby being in signal communication with the controller for control.

[0033] Preferably, at least one of the suction head, the vaporizer outlet and the plasma outlet is an end effector for detachably connecting to at least one effector assembly.

[0034] Preferably, the cylindrical brush of the brush module is rotated about a brush axis defined by the brush module, and the brush module can be used to position and replace the rotating cylindrical brush near and across at least a portion of the outer surface of the helmet, the outer surface of the helmet substantially facing outwardly toward the inner surface of the helmet.

[0035] Preferably, the brush module is displaced and positioned by at least one actuator assembly along the outer surface of the helmet, wherein the at least one brake assembly is at least one of a robotic arm, a linear brake, a piston brake, an actuated scissor lift mechanism, an actuated cam mechanism, a servo motor, and an electric translation stage, thereby communicating signals with the controller for control.

[0036] Preferably, the UV radiation generated by the UV module is directed to the inner surface of the helmet.

[0037] Preferably, a housing structure is provided for defining the working area and an opening for accessing the working area;

[0038] and providing a cover rotatably coupled to the shell structure for positioning between an open position allowing passage through the opening of the shell structure and a closed position obstructing passage through the opening of the shell structure, the helmet being substantially enclosed by the shell structure when the helmet is disposed in the workspace with the cover in the closed position.

[0039] (III) Beneficial effects

[0040] The present invention provides a helmet processing system and method, which have the following beneficial effects:

[0041] A support structure for the workspace, a plasma generator for generating plasma for delivery to the workspace for further processing of the helmet, a vaporizer module for vaporizing a cleaning liquid into a vaporized liquid for delivery to the workspace for processing the helmet, and a controller in signal communication with the plasma generator and the vaporizer module. The plasma generator includes a row, a plasma outlet for the plasma, the vaporizer module includes a vaporizer outlet for exhausting the vaporized liquid, and the helmet has an inner surface defined by its concavity to provide a desired cleaning effect.

[0042] According to a second aspect of the present invention, a method for treating a helmet is disclosed, comprising generating plasma by a plasma generator and delivering the generated plasma to a workspace to treat a helmet received in the workspace, the workspace being defined by a support structure, and vaporizing a cleaning liquid into a vaporized liquid by a vaporizer module, and delivering the vaporized liquid to the workspace to further treat the helmet. The plasma generator includes a plasma outlet for discharging the plasma, the vaporizer module includes a vaporizer outlet for discharging the vaporized liquid, the helmet has an inner surface defined by its concavity, and the plasma generator and the vaporizer module are in signal communication with a controller to be controlled thereby. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0043] Figure 1 is an exemplary system diagram of the helmet processing system of the present invention;

[0044] Figure 2 an exemplary process flow diagram of a helmet treatment method implemented for a helmet treatment system;

[0045] Figure 3 It is a partial front view of the helmet handling system;

[0046] Figure 4 a partial perspective view of a first brake assembly of a base plate of a helmet handling system;

[0047] Figure 5 It is a partial front view of the helmet handling system;

[0048] Figure 6 A partial front view of the helmet handling system.

[0049] Among them, 20, helmet processing system; 22, support structure; 24, workspace; 26, helmet; 28, plasma generator; 30, vaporizer module; 32, controller; 34, plasma outlet; 36, vaporizer outlet; 38, inner surface; 40, first brake assembly; 42, substrate; 44, hole; 46, opening; 47a, slender beam; 47b, bracket; 47c, column; 50, pump; 52, vacuum generator; 54, suction head; 56, fragrance diffuser; 70, brush module; 72, outer surface; 74, second brake assembly; 78, ultraviolet light module; 79, heating lamp; 82, fan module; 86, shell structure; 92, mechanism segment; 98, user interface; 100, helmet processing method. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0050] The technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention are described clearly and completely. Obviously, the described embodiments are only part of the embodiments of the present invention, not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by ordinary technicians in this field without creative work are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0051] The embodiments of the present invention provide a helmet processing system, including a helmet processing system 20 and a helmet processing method 100, which may also be referred to as the helmet processing system 20 and the processing method 100, respectively, and the helmet processing method 100 may be referred to and known.

[0052] The helmet processing system 20 includes a support structure 22 defining a workspace 24 for receiving a helmet 26 to be processed, and a generator 28 for generating plasma for delivery to the workspace 24 for further processing of the helmet 26.

[0053] The helmet treatment system 20 also includes a vaporizer module 30 for vaporizing a cleaning liquid into the workspace 24 to treat the helmet 26, and a controller 32 in signal communication with the plasma generator 28 and the vaporizer module 30, the plasma generator 28 including a plasma outlet 34 for discharging plasma, and the vaporizer module 30 including a vaporizer outlet 36, wherein the vaporized liquid is discharged. The helmet 26 has an inner surface 38 defined by its concavity. Each of the vaporizer outlet 36 and the plasma outlet 34 can be a nozzle, an opening 46 or a cluster of openings defined in a structure or article, a free end opening or an end cap defining an aperture, and a free end opening of a tube in fluid communication with the plasma generator 28 from each of the vaporizer modules 30.

[0054] The plasma generator 28 generates plasma in situ or within the chamber prior to discharging the plasma through the plasma outlet 34 .

[0055] Preferably, a voltage, such as a high frequency voltage, can be applied to a low pressure or atmospheric pressure gas, such as oxygen and hydrogen, to generate a plasma. The generated plasma enables the area surrounding the plasma or the area from which the plasma is exhausted to be effectively treated by cleaning without the need for subsequent exhaust and manual cleaning of the area.

[0056] In various implementations, the vaporizer module 30 vaporizes the washer fluid by heating the washer fluid provided thereto into a mist or aerosol.

[0057] In this embodiment, the vaporizer module 30 will include a heating element or heat exchanger for heating the cleaning liquid. The cleaning liquid used can be just water or a water-surfactant mixture. In addition, ethylene glycol or glycerin can be mixed into the cleaning liquid to promote its vaporization. In some embodiments, the vaporizer nozzle is an atomizer nozzle, in which the cleaning liquid is mixed with compressed air to be discharged through it. Alternatively, in the absence of compressed air, the vaporizer module includes a pump 50 or compressor for pressurizing the cleaning liquid so that it is discharged through the atomizer nozzle to produce a vapor liquid.

[0058] The helmet processing system 20 also includes at least one first actuator assembly 40 for displacing and positioning at least one of the vaporizer module, the vaporizer outlet 36, the plasma generator 28, the plasma generator, and the plasma outlet 34 for discharging at least one of the plasma and the vaporized liquid into the workspace 24.

[0059] Preferably, the at least one first brake assembly 40 is at least one of a robotic arm, a linear brake, a piston brake, an actuated scissor lift mechanism, an actuated cam mechanism, a servo motor, and an electric translation stage, so as to communicate signals with the controller 32 for control.

[0060] The helmet processing system 20 also includes a substrate 42 defining at least one aperture 44. The substrate 42 is substantially inserted into the helmet 26 and each of the vaporizer outlet 36 and the plasma outlet 34, and the at least one aperture 44 is substantially aligned with the opening 46 to the interior surface 38 of the helmet 26 so that the plasma generated from the vaporizer module 30 and the plasma generator 28 communicates with the interior surface 38 of the helmet 26 through the at least one aperture 44.

[0061] In some embodiments, at least one first brake assembly 40 includes an elongated beam 47a and a bracket 47b configured to move along a first axis defined by and substantially parallel to the length of the beam 47a, at least one first brake assembly 40 also includes a pair of posts 47c connected to the support structure 22 and configured to be substantially parallel to the support structure 22, a pair of posts 47c spatially displaced from each other to enable the beam 47a to extend between them, and both ends of the beam 47a are movably coupled to the pair of posts 47c to enable movement along a second axis, the second axis being defined by one of the pair of posts 47c and being substantially parallel. The second axis is substantially perpendicular to the first axis. The displacement and positioning of the bracket 47b can be controlled by the controller 32 by using at least one of a motorized belt, a gear, and a magnetic transducer between the pair of posts 47c and the beam 47a and between the bracket 47b and the beam 47a. This, in turn, enables displacement and positioning of at least one of the vaporizer module 30, the vaporizer outlet 36, the plasma generator 28, and the plasma outlet 34 when connected to the bracket 47b.

[0062] Preferably, the first axis is substantially parallel and the second axis is substantially perpendicular to the plane of the substrate 42. In use, at least one of the vaporizer module 30, the vaporizer outlet 36, the plasma generator 28, and the plasma outlet 34 is displaced along the second axis and toward the at least one hole 44. Once adjacent to the at least one hole 44, at least one of the plasma and the vaporized liquid is discharged from the vaporizer module 30, the vaporizer outlet 36, the plasma generator 28, and the plasma outlet 34. They can be displaced or reciprocated along the first axis to promote the dispersion of the plasma and the vaporized liquid into the workspace 24 and thus into the helmet 26. Once the helmet 26 is treated, at least one of the vaporizer module 30, the vaporizer outlet 36, the plasma generator 28, and the plasma outlet 34 is subsequently displaced along the second axis and away from the substrate 42, for example, to enable subsequent treatment on the helmet 26 through the at least one hole 44. In some embodiments, at least one of the plasma generator 28 and the plasma outlet 34 is fixedly connected to the support structure 22 and is arranged below the substrate 42 as shown. Multiple combinations of a pair of columns 47c, beams 47a, and brackets 47b can be implemented. For example, a first pair of pillars 47c of a first beam 47a having a first carriage 47a can be configured with a second pair of pillars 47c, the second beam 47a forming a lane for a second carriage 47b, the configuration allowing the first frame 47b and the second frame 47b to be independently displaced and positioned relative to each other, and further, multiple carriages 47b can be carried and positioned along a single beam 47a. The use of multiple carriages 47b allows two or more processes to be performed simultaneously, namely, exhausting plasma and exhausting vaporized liquid. The helmet treatment system 20 also includes at least one container for containing cleaning liquid delivered to the vaporizer module, and at least one pump 50 for displacing the cleaning liquid in the at least one container for transport to the vaporizer module 30 for vaporization into vaporized liquid, the at least one pump 50 communicating signals with the controller 32 for control.

[0063] The helmet processing system 20 also includes a vacuum generator 52 including a suction head 54 , wherein suction is generated for extracting at least one of fluid and particles from the workspace 24 .

[0064] Preferably, the vacuum generator 52 includes a cyclone filter for cyclonic separation and filtering of dust and particles.

[0065] Preferably, the cyclone filter is disposed away from the suction head for easier access to it for cleaning or replacement of the cyclone filter or dust container, and the helmet treatment system 20 also includes a fragrance diffuser 56 that exhausts into the workspace 24.

[0066] At least one first brake assembly 40 is further used to replace and position the suction head 54 of the vacuum generator 52, and the vacuum generator 52 and the fragrance diffuser 56 communicate signals with the controller 32 for control, and the at least one container may include a separate container containing a fragrance liquid, a fragrance aerosol or an essential oil for providing to the fragrance diffuser 56.

[0067] In some embodiments, at least one of the suction head 54, the vaporizer outlet 36, and the plasma outlet 34 can be modularized as an end effector detachably connected to at least one first brake assembly 40. When not in use, the suction head 54, the vaporizer outlet 36, and the plasma outlet 34 can be docked on a specially designed base for receiving and positioning them, so that at least one first brake assembly 40, such as one or two of them, can only be used as the required one or more suction heads 54. The vaporizer outlet 36 and the plasma outlet 34 need to be coupled to at least one first brake assembly 40. When needed, one of the suction head 54, the vaporizer outlet, and the plasma outlet 34 can be replaced by another for continuous use. However, this does not exclude having a dedicated first brake assembly 40 for each suction head 54, the vaporizer outlet 36, and the plasma outlet 34, even when a detachably coupled end effector is adopted.

[0068] The helmet treatment system 20 also includes a brush module 70 configured for rotational displacement about a brush axis defined by the brush module 70, the brush module 70 for positioning and displacing a rotating cylindrical brush proximate to and across at least a portion of an outer surface 72 of the helmet 26 for treatment, the outer surface 72 of the helmet 26 substantially facing outwardly toward the inner surface 38 of the helmet 26, and the helmet treatment system 20 also includes at least one second brake assembly 74 connected to the brush module 70 for displacement and positioning along the outer surface 72 of the helmet 26. The at least one second brake assembly 74 is at least one of a linear brake, a piston brake, an actuated scissor lift mechanism, an actuated cam mechanism, a servo motor, an electric translator, and a robotic arm, so as to communicate signals with the controller 32 for control, and the at least one second brake assembly 74 may have multiple degrees of freedom for positioning the brush module 70 at various locations on the outer surface 72 of the helmet 26. The brush module 70 may include one or more proximity sensors to keep the brush module 70 at a predetermined minimum distance away from the outer surface 72 of the helmet 26 and substantially avoid collision therewith during displacement of the brush module 70. Alternatively, the brush module 70 includes an arcuate arm for adapting to the curvature of the outer surface 72 of the helmet 26. The arcuate arm can be motorized to transmit a single degree of freedom displacement across the outer surface 72 of the helmet 26. The brush module 70 can also include a spring-loaded structure on the arcuate arm to resiliently force the cylindrical brush toward the outer surface 72 of the helmet 26.

[0069] The helmet treatment system 20 also includes at least one ultraviolet light module 78 for generating UV radiation and is configured to direct the UV radiation substantially to the inner surface 38 of the helmet 26. The at least one ultraviolet light module 78 may include a plurality of UV light emitting diodes or UV lamps positioned to direct the UV radiation to the inner surface 38 and the outer surface 72 of the helmet 26. The helmet treatment system 20 also includes a heating lamp 79 arranged and configured to dry at least a portion of the helmet 26. Preferably, the heating lamp 79 is in signal communication with the controller 32 and is configured to direct the heat to generate and direct the heat to the substantially inner surface 38 of the helmet 26 to promote its drying, however, this does not exclude the use of the heating lamp 79 to dry both the inner surface 38 and the outer surface 72 of the helmet 26. The heating lamp 79 may include an integrated fan or blower, or have an externally mounted fan or impeller for passing air through or through it. In addition, the ultraviolet light module 78 may be replaced or adapted to generate other wavelengths of light to kill bacteria, such as blue light generated from the ultraviolet light module 78 using a blue light LED or a blue light lamp. In this case, the generated light beam is preferably short or short wavelength electromagnetic radiation, such as blue light, also called high energy light.

[0070] The helmet treatment system 20 may further include a fan module 82 connected to the support structure 22 for extracting air from the workspace 24 and may be used in conjunction with or independently of the vacuum generator 52. The fan module 82 is preferably in signal communication with the controller 32 for control.

[0071] The helmet handling system 20 also includes a shell structure 86 for defining the workspace 24 and a workspace opening for accessing the workspace 24, and a cover rotatably coupled to the shell structure 86 for displacement between an open position enabling access through the workspace opening of the shell structure 86 and a closed position for blocking access through the workspace opening of the shell structure 86. When the cover is placed in the workspace 24, the helmet 26 is substantially enclosed by the shell structure 86.

[0072] The housing structure 86 can be implemented as a limit switch disposed at the workspace opening and in signal communication with the controller 32 to determine whether the lid is in the closed position. This will prevent the processing of the helmet 26 from starting, or pause the processing of the helmet 26 when the lid is not in the closed position or has moved away from the closed position. In addition, or alternatively, the housing structure 86 can implement an electromagnetic (EM) door lock in signal communication with the controller 32, which substantially prevents the lid from moving away from the closed position during the processing of the helmet 26.

[0073] Preferably, the support structure 22 is formed of a monolithic structure or an internal structural frame with an outer shell or cladding. The support structure 22 can be formed of metal, such as aluminum, non-metal, such as plastic or fiberglass, or any combination thereof, such as an aluminum internal frame structure with an ABS outer shell.

[0074] The shape and size of the support structure 22 is used to define a plurality of sections including a housing structure 86 , a mechanism section 92 , a supply section, and a controller section, the controller section being used to house the controller 32 .

[0075] The mechanism section 92 is inserted into the housing structure 86 and the supply section. The supply section is used to accommodate at least one container and at least one pump 50, and the mechanism section 92 is used to accommodate the plasma generator 28, the vaporizer module 30, at least one first brake assembly 40, the vacuum generator 52 and the aroma diffuser 56, and the fluid communication between the at least one container and the respective plasma module and vaporizer module is realized by a pipe extending therebetween.

[0076] The housing structure 86 encapsulates the UV light module 78 and the fan module 82 , and the base plate 42 is inserted into the housing structure 86 and the mechanism section 92 .

[0077] Preferably, the brush module 70 and the at least one second brake assembly 74 are disposed in the housing structure 86. Alternatively, the brush module 70 and the at least one second brake assembly 74 are disposed in an elevated section constituting the support structure 22, and the housing structure 86 is inserted into the elevated section and the mechanism section 92. Preferably, each of the mechanism section 92, the supply section, and the controller section includes a door that opens to an opening that enables access to a corresponding one of the plurality of sections.

[0078] Preferably, the helmet processing system 20 also includes a user interface 98, which communicates signals with the controller 32 for operating and communicating with the controller 32. Further preferably, the user interface 98 is coupled to the controller segment on its outward surface. The user interface 98 may include a touch screen display, a mechanical switch, a microphone, a speaker and a wireless communication module to wirelessly communicate with the controller 32 via Bluetooth, a wireless network, a wireless low-power network, such as a LoRa network and such as a 5G cellular network.

[0079] For clarity, treatment of the helmet 26 includes, but is not limited to, cleaning, deodorizing, drying, and odorizing any portion of the helmet 26 via the helmet treatment system 20 .

[0080] Additionally, it is disclosed that the helmet handling system 20 may be used to handle items or the like that contain sponges or sponge fillings, such as padded gloves.

[0081] To handle the helmet 26, the helmet 26 is first placed within the inner surface 38 of the opening 46 of the helmet 26 and aligned with the at least one hole 44 of the base plate 42. A raised lip or protrusion along the periphery of the at least one hole 44 may be formed on the base plate 42 to facilitate alignment.

[0082] Once the helmet 26 is in place within the workspace 24, the helmet treatment method 100 is initiated, for example, by user interaction, and in an implementation of the helmet treatment method 100 implemented by the helmet treatment system 20, the helmet treatment method includes step 110 of substantially directing ultraviolet (UV) radiation generated by the ultraviolet light module 78 to the inner surface 38 and the outer surface 72 of the helmet 26. Next, the plasma generator 28 or plasma outlet 34 is positioned at the at least one hole 44 of the substrate 42 by at least one first stopper assembly 24 prior to step 112 of generating the plasma generator 28 or plasma outlet 34 and delivering the generated plasma to the workspace 24. The vaporizer module 30, or vaporizer outlet 36, is positioned at the at least one hole 44 of the substrate 42 by the vaporizer module 30 prior to step 114 to the at least one hole 44 of the workspace 24 for further treatment.

[0083] After a predetermined duration, the vaporizer module 30 or the vaporizer outlet 36 moves from the at least one first stopper assembly 40 to the at least one hole 44. The at least one first stopper assembly 40 positions the suction head 54 of the vacuum generator 52 on the at least one hole 44 created by the suction head 54 before the substrate 42 to remove particles from the workspace 24, in particular from the helmet 26. After the predetermined duration, the suction head 54 moves away from the at least one hole 44.

[0084] To improve the thoroughness of treating the helmet 26 , steps 114 and 116 and the alternation therebetween may be repeated sequentially for multiple cycles, preferably three cycles, wherein the plasma in step 110 continues to be generated and transferred to the helmet 26 during multiple cycles of step 114 and step 116 .

[0085] Furthermore, during multiple cycles of steps 114 and 116, the brush module 70 will be activated by activating its cylindrical brush to rotate about the brush axis in step 118. In step 118, at least one second brake assembly 74 displaces the brush module 70 of the helmet 26, i.e., at least a portion of its outer surface 72, or, step 118 will be performed only during the execution of step 114.

[0086] Once the execution of multiple cycles of steps 114 and 116 has been completed, step 118 will be terminated by stopping the rotation of the rotating brush and moving the brush module 70 away from the helmet 26. The generation of plasma in step 112 will also be terminated after completing multiple cycles of steps 114 and 116.

[0087] Next, in step 120, the aroma diffuser 56 discharges the scented liquid into the work space 24 and the helmet 26, particularly the inner surface 38 and the outer surface 72. After step 120, the step 110 of generating UV radiation is terminated to end the helmet treatment method. In addition, the heating lamp 79 can dry the helmet 26 during or before the scented liquid is discharged into the work space 24.

[0088] In an optional implementation of the helmet processing system 20 and the helmet processing method 100, the at least one hole 44 includes a single hole 44, and the helmet processing system 20 further includes a third brake assembly configured to displace a rack structure between a raised position and a lowered position of the base plate 42 passing through the hole 44. The third brake assembly communicates signals with the controller 32 for control, and is at least one of a linear brake, a piston brake, an actuated scissor lift mechanism, an actuated cam mechanism, a servo motor, an electric translation table, and a robotic arm.

[0089] In this embodiment, the workspace 24 is defined in an area below the base plate 42 , which is formed by a plurality of segments that can be raised to enlarge the passage formed by the apertures 44 and extend between the housing structure 86 and the workspace 24 .

[0090] Preferably, the base plate 42 rotates at one or more portions of its periphery to enable the raising and lowering of the multiple segments of the base plate 42, and one or more motors or brakes are preferably coupled to the multiple segments of the base plate 42 and communicate signals with the controller 32 to enable controllable raising and lowering of the multiple segments of the base plate 42. The frame structure is shaped and sized to support the helmet 26 thereon.

[0091] In an alternative embodiment, the helmet 26 is first placed into the shell structure 86 and onto the frame structure when in a raised position, and then the multiple sections of the base plate 42 are raised to allow the frame structure, and thus the helmet 26, to be lowered into the work space 24 through the third brake assembly for processing according to the helmet processing method 100. During the processing of the helmet 26, multiple sections of the base plate 42 may or may not be lowered. Once the processing of the helmet 26 is completed, the helmet 26 is moved to the raised position before the multiple sections of the base plate 42 are lowered to shrink the hole 44. Then, the helmet 26 can be removed from the shell structure 86 and away from the frame structure. In an alternative embodiment, the brush module 70 is preferably arranged in the work space 24 and under the base plate 42.

[0092] Although embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that various changes, modifications, substitutions and variations may be made to the embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of the present invention, and that the scope of the present invention is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. Helmet processing system, It is characterized in that include: defining a workspace for receiving helmets to be processed; Plasma generator for generating plasma to be delivered to the workspace for further processing of the head helmet; Vaporizer module, used to vaporize the cleaning liquid into vaporized liquid, which is then sent to the workspace for processing a helmet; and a controller in signal communication with the plasma generator and the vaporizer module, wherein the plasma generator includes a plasma outlet for discharging the plasma, the vaporizer module includes a vaporizer outlet for discharging the vaporized liquid, and the helmet has an inner surface defined by its concavity.

2. The helmet processing system as claimed in claim 1, further comprising: include: At least one actuator assembly is coupled and used to displace and position the vaporizer module, the vaporizer outlet, the plasma generator, and the plasma outlet for discharging at least one plasma and vaporized liquid into the workspace, wherein the at least one actuator assembly is at least one of a robotic arm, a linear actuator, a piston actuator, an actuated scissor lift mechanism, an actuated cam mechanism, a servo motor, and an electric translation stage, so as to communicate signals with the controller for control.

3. The helmet processing system as claimed in claim 2, further comprising: include: A substrate defining at least one aperture, the substrate being substantially inserted into the helmet and each of the vaporizer outlet and the plasma outlet, the at least one aperture being substantially aligned with the opening in the interior surface of the helmet to allow vaporized liquid from the vaporizer communication module and plasma generated by the plasma generator to be connected to the interior surface of the helmet through the at least one aperture.

4. The helmet treatment system as described in claim 2 further comprises: at least one container for containing cleaning liquid for delivery to the vaporizer module; and at least one pump for displacing the cleaning liquid in the at least one container so as to be transported to the vaporizer module to be vaporized into vaporized liquid, and the at least one pump communicates with the controller by signals for control.

5. The helmet processing system as claimed in claim 2, further comprising: include: a vacuum generator including a suction head, the suction of which is used to substantially extract at least one of fluid and particles from the workspace; configured and arranged to dry at least a portion of the helmet; and a scent diffuser for discharging scented liquid into a workspace, wherein the at least one actuator assembly is further used to displace and position the suction head of the vacuum generator, the vacuum generator and the scent diffuser are thereby in signal communication with the controller for control.

6. The helmet treatment system of claim 5, wherein at least one of the suction head, the vaporizer outlet, and the plasma outlet is an end effector for removably connecting to at least one effector assembly.

7. The helmet processing system as claimed in claim 1, further comprising: include: A brush module includes a cylindrical brush configured for rotational displacement about a brush axis defined by the brush module, the brush module being operable to position and displace adjacent rotating cylindrical brushes and to pass at least a portion of an outer surface of a helmet for treatment, the outer surface of the helmet being substantially outwardly facing toward an inner surface of the helmet.

8. The helmet treatment system of claim 7, further comprising: include: at least one brake assembly to which the brush module is coupled for displacement and positioning along the outer surface of the helmet, Wherein, the at least one brake assembly is at least one of a robotic arm, a linear brake, a piston brake, an actuated scissor lift mechanism, an actuated cam mechanism, a servo motor, and an electric translation stage, so as to communicate signals with the controller for control.

9. The helmet processing system as claimed in claim 1, further comprising: include: An ultraviolet light module for generating UV radiation and configured to direct the ultraviolet radiation substantially toward an interior surface of the helmet.

10. The helmet processing system as claimed in claim 1, further comprising: include: an enclosure structure for defining the workspace and an opening for accessing the workspace; and a cover rotatably connected to the shell structure for movement between an open position to allow passage through the opening of the shell structure and a closed position to obstruct passage through the opening of the shell structure, the helmet being substantially enclosed by the shell structure when the helmet is placed in the workspace and the cover is in the closed position.

11. A method for treating a helmet, include: generating plasma from a plasma generator and delivering the generated plasma to a workspace to process a helmet received in the workspace, the workspace being defined by a support structure; and vaporizing the cleaning fluid into a vaporized liquid through a vaporizer module, and delivering the vaporized liquid to a workspace for further processing the helmet, wherein the plasma generator includes a plasma outlet for discharging plasma, the vaporizer module includes a vaporizer outlet for discharging the vaporized liquid, the helmet having an inner surface defined by its concavity, the plasma generator and the vaporizer module thus being in signal communication with a controller for control.

12. The method for treating a helmet according to claim 11, further comprising: include: displacing and positioning at least one of a vaporizer module, a vaporizer outlet, a plasma generator, and a plasma outlet via at least one actuator assembly for discharging at least one plasma and vaporized liquid into a workspace, Wherein, the at least one brake assembly is at least one of a robotic arm, a linear brake, a piston brake, an actuated scissor lift mechanism, an actuated cam mechanism, a servo motor, and an electric translation stage, so as to communicate signals with the controller for control.

13. The method for treating a helmet according to claim 12, further comprising: include: directing vaporized liquid and generated plasma through at least one aperture defined in a substrate that is substantially inserted into the helmet and each vaporizer outlet and plasma outlet, the at least one aperture being substantially aligned with an opening in an interior surface of the helmet to communicate vaporized liquid from the vaporizer module and plasma generated by the plasma generator through the at least one aperture to the interior surface of the helmet.

14. The method of treating a helmet as claimed in claim 12, further comprising: providing at least one container for containing a cleaning liquid for delivery to the vaporizer module; At least one pump is provided for replacing the cleaning liquid in the at least one container so as to transport the cleaning liquid to the vaporizer module for vaporization into the vaporized liquid. The at least one pump communicates with the controller by signals for control.

15. The method for treating a helmet according to claim 12, further comprising: include: substantially extracting at least one of fluid and particles from the workspace by a vacuum generator, the vacuum generator comprising a suction head that generates suction; drying at least a portion of the helmet by means of a heat lamp arranged and configured; and discharging a scented liquid into a workspace through a scent diffuser, wherein the at least one actuator assembly is further used to displace and position a suction head of the vacuum generator, the vacuum generator and the scent diffuser thereby being in signal communication with the controller for control.

16. The helmet processing method of claim 15, wherein at least one of the suction head, the vaporizer outlet, and the plasma outlet is an end effector for detachably connecting to at least one effector assembly.

17. The method for treating a helmet according to claim 11, further comprising: include: The cylindrical brush of the brush module is rotated about a brush axis defined by the brush module, and the brush module can be used to position and replace the rotating cylindrical brush near and across at least a portion of the outer surface of the helmet, the outer surface of the helmet facing substantially outwardly toward the inner surface of the helmet.

18. The method for treating a helmet according to claim 17, further comprising: include: The brush module is displaced and positioned by at least one actuator assembly along the outer surface of the helmet, wherein the at least one actuator assembly is at least one of a robotic arm, a linear brake, a piston brake, an actuated scissor lift mechanism, an actuated cam mechanism, a servo motor, and an electric translation stage, thereby communicating signals with the controller for control.

19. The method for treating a helmet according to claim 11, further comprising: include: The UV radiation generated by the UV module is directed onto the inner surface of the helmet.

20. The method for treating a helmet according to claim 11, further comprising: include: providing a housing structure for defining the work area and an opening for accessing the work area; and providing a cover rotatably coupled to the shell structure for positioning between an open position allowing passage through the opening of the shell structure and a closed position obstructing passage through the opening of the shell structure, the helmet being substantially enclosed by the shell structure when the helmet is disposed in the workspace with the cover in the closed position.

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