A vehicle equipped with a system for treating the air inside the cabin.

Abstract

The system (10) for treating air in a vehicle cabin comprises a casing, an air conditioning device, a filter device (16), an RFID tag (28) containing identification information related to the filter device (16), an RFID reader (30) that cooperates with the RFID tag (28) to read the identification information, and a control unit (32) connected to the RFID reader (30) and configured to receive the identification information and to perform a predetermined action in response to the identification information.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a system for treating air inside a vehicle cabin, particularly for a vehicle used in agricultural machinery.

Background Art

[0002] In the technical field of vehicle cabins, it is necessary to filter the air taken in to control the climate inside the cabin. In agricultural machinery, this need is particularly felt in that their air conditioning systems include filters configured to remove contaminants such as pesticides, fertilizers, and plant protection products that can enter the cabin and pose a danger.

[0003] European Patent Application Publication No. 1985351 A1 discloses an apparatus for use in an automobile including a filter unit having a housing structure and a filter insert having a frame and a filter element. The filter element is equipped with a transponder, and a reader is arranged in the housing structure for reading the transponder.

[0004] As described in French Patent Application Publication No. 3031320 A1 and German Patent Application Publication No. 102008049862 A1, other apparatuses are also known.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Patent Document 3

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] One objective of the present invention is to provide a system for treating air inside a vehicle, particularly an agricultural machinery vehicle cabin, which is an improvement over systems of the prior art. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] According to the present invention, this and other objectives are achieved by a system having the technical features described in the appended independent claims.

[0008] In particular, the system according to the present invention enables effective monitoring and control of a filter device used to filter air entering an air conditioning system associated with the cabin of a vehicle, especially agricultural machinery.

[0009] It is understood that the attached claims are an integral part of the technical teachings provided in the following detailed description of the invention. In particular, the attached dependent claims define several preferred embodiments of the invention, including several optional technical features.

[0010] Further features and advantages of the present invention are provided as non-limiting examples and will become apparent in light of the following detailed description, particularly with reference to the accompanying drawings summarized below. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0011] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a partially exploded perspective view of a system for treating the air inside the cabin of a vehicle, particularly an agricultural machinery vehicle. Such a system is fabricated according to one exemplary embodiment of the present invention. In particular, this figure shows a filter device removed from the system casing. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a partial perspective view similar to Figure 1, but the filter device is omitted. [Figure 3a]Figures 3a to 3c show a series of longitudinal cross-sectional views of the system shown in Figure 2 (without the filter device), illustrating different operating states of such a system. [Figure 3b] Figures 3a to 3c show a series of longitudinal cross-sectional views of the system shown in Figure 2 (without the filter device), illustrating different operating states of such a system. [Figure 3c] Figures 3a to 3c show a series of longitudinal cross-sectional views of the system shown in Figure 2 (without the filter device), illustrating different operating states of such a system. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a block diagram that schematically shows the functional components of the system shown in the preceding diagram. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a block diagram that schematically and functionally illustrates the cooperation between the RFID tag held by the filter device and the RFID reader held by the system casing shown in the previous figure. [Figure 6] Figures 6 to 8 are a series of front views of the filter device of the system shown in the preceding figures. Specifically, Figure 6 is a front elevation view, Figure 7 is a rear elevation view, and Figure 8 is a side elevation view. [Figure 7] Figures 6 to 8 are a series of front views of the filter device of the system shown in the preceding figures. Specifically, Figure 6 is a front elevation view, Figure 7 is a rear elevation view, and Figure 8 is a side elevation view. [Figure 8] Figures 6 to 8 are a series of front views of the filter device of the system shown in the preceding figures. Specifically, Figure 6 is a front elevation view, Figure 7 is a rear elevation view, and Figure 8 is a side elevation view.

[0012] For completeness, the following is a list of alphanumeric reference codes used herein to identify the parts, elements, and components shown in the drawings summarized above. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0013] 10 Systems 12 Casing 14 Inlet opening 16 Filter device 18 Housing 20 Additional inlet opening 22 Additional filter device 24 Air conditioning device 25 Valve device 25a Electric motor or actuator 26 Internal space 27 Additional valve device 27a Additional electric motor or actuator 28 RFID tag 30 RFID reader 32 Control unit 33a Main blower 33b Additional blower 33c Airflow sensor 33d Pressure sensor 34 Signal unit 36 Memory means 38 Filter box 40 Filter body 42 Inlet grill 44 Outlet 46 Seal gasket

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0014] Particularly referring to FIGS. 1 to 4, reference numeral 10 indicates an entire system for treating air inside a cab of a vehicle, particularly a vehicle for agricultural machinery. The system 10 is fabricated according to one exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0015] For reasons of safety and compliance with regulations, the cab of an agricultural machine is typically isolated from the external environment and maintained in a pressurized state.

[0016] In the embodiment illustrated in detail in FIG. 1, the system 10 is intended to be installed on the roof of the vehicle, particularly on the uppermost part of the cab of the vehicle.

[0017] The system 10 comprises a casing 12 (shown in Figure 1 with the top cover partially removed) having at least one inlet opening 14 into which air is drawn in from the external environment. In particular, the inlet opening 14 is formed within the wall of the casing 12.

[0018] The system 10 further comprises a filter device 16 that is replaceably mounted within a housing 18 formed within the casing 12.

[0019] The filter device 16 is fluidically connected downstream of the inlet opening 14. Furthermore, the filter device 16 is configured to filter out any contaminants contained in the air coming from the external environment and entering through the inlet opening 14. In the illustrated embodiment, the filter device 16 can provide protection against contaminating dust, aerosols, and vapors, which in particular are classified as “Category 4” as defined by the UNI EN 15695-2:2018 standard. However, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art, in other modified embodiments, the filter device 16 may belong to any type that can filter out contaminants in the form of at least one substance selected from dust, aerosols, and vapors contained in the air entering through the inlet opening 14.

[0020] In the illustrated embodiment, the casing 12 preferably also includes an additional inlet opening 20 (better visible in Figures 3a-3c) for taking in air from the external environment. The system also includes an additional filter device 22 fluidly connected downstream of the additional inlet opening 20. In particular, the additional filter device 22 can provide protection against dust classified as “Category 2” as defined by the UNI EN 15695-2:2018 standard. As already described with reference to filter device 16, in other modified embodiments, the additional filter device 22 can belong to any type that can filter out contaminants in the form of at least one substance selected from the group including dust, aerosols, and vapors contained in the air entering through the additional inlet opening 20.

[0021] Referring particularly to Figures 3a to 3c, the system 10 further comprises an air conditioning unit 24 sealed and housed within an internal space 26 formed within the casing 12. The air conditioning unit 24 is fluidically connected downstream of the filter device 16 (and, if any, downstream of additional filter device 22) and is configured to be fluidly connected upstream of the cabin of the vehicle in which the system 10 is installed, for example, by a suitable outlet opening.

[0022] In the illustrated embodiment, the system includes a valve device identified, for example, by reference numeral 25. Such a valve device 25 is fluidly interposed between the inlet opening 14 and the air conditioning unit 24 and is configured to selectively activate (Figure 3b) and deactivate (Figures 3a and 3c) the fluid communication between the latter.

[0023] For example, the valve device 25 includes a solenoid valve equipped with a oscillating plate blocker configured to selectively perform operating (Figure 3b) and stopped (Figures 3a and 3c). The operating state occurs when the oscillating plate blocker is moved by an associated electric motor or actuator 25a to the position where air is transported from the inlet opening 14 toward the air conditioning unit 24, i.e., when the filter device 16 is operating. The stopped state occurs when the oscillating plate blocker is moved by an associated electric motor or actuator 25a to the position where air is not flowing from the inlet opening 14 toward the air conditioning unit 24, i.e., when the filter device 16 is not operating (for example, when purged as shown in Figure 3a, or when only the additional filter device 22 is used, as shown in Figure 3c).

[0024] Furthermore, such disruption of fluid communication is desirable, for example, if the associated filter device 16 is malfunctioning or has reached the end of its service life, as this would jeopardize the safety of the operator in the cabin of the vehicle in which the system is installed.

[0025] Since additional inlet openings 20 and additional filter devices 22 are also conceivable, an additional valve device 27 is also conceivable in the illustrated embodiment. As described above with reference to valve device 25, the additional valve device 27 is fluidly interposed between the additional inlet opening 20 and the air conditioning device 24 and is configured to selectively operate and deactivate the fluid communication between the latter in a controlled manner.

[0026] For example, the additional valve device 27 comprises a solenoid valve with a oscillating plate block configured to selectively assume an operating state (Figure 3c) and a stopped state (Figures 3a and 3b). The operating state occurs when the oscillating plate block is moved by an associated electric motor or actuator 27a to the position where air is transported from the additional inlet opening 20 toward the air conditioning unit 24, i.e., when the additional filter device 22 is operating. The stopped state occurs when the oscillating plate block is moved by an associated electric motor or actuator 27a to the position where air is not flowing from the additional inlet opening 20 toward the air conditioning unit 24, i.e., when the additional filter device 22 is not operating.

[0027] As previously mentioned, the filter device 16 is configured to be replaceably mounted within the housing 18. That is, it can be repeatedly inserted and removed, for example, from the casing 12 through the housing 18. For example, the filter device 16 may be fixed within the housing 18 in a manner known to itself by using reversibly detachable coupling means (not reference indicated).

[0028] The filter device 16 further comprises an RFID tag 28 of a known type that operates according to radio frequency identification technology. The RFID tag 28 contains identification information relating to the filter device 16 to which it is applied. In the illustrated embodiment, the identification information is initially stored in the RFID tag 28 during the initialization phase.

[0029] Furthermore, the system 10 includes an RFID reader 30 mounted within the housing 18. The RFID reader 30 is configured to be in close proximity to and work with the RFID tag 28 to read identification information when the filter device 16 is mounted within the housing 18. However, it is preferable that such identification information is modified by the RFID reader 30 while the filter device 16 is in use in the system 10.

[0030] The system 10 also includes a control unit 32 connected to the RFID reader 30, configured to receive identification information read from the RFID tag 28, and to perform predetermined actions according to the received identification information.

[0031] For example, such a predetermined operation may include the fact that the control unit 32 is configured to selectively put the valve device 25 into a stopped (or running) state and / or transmit a signal in response to the received identification information.

[0032] In the illustrated embodiment, the connection or communication channel between the RFID reader 30 and the control unit 32 can be implemented, for example, via communication over a CAN bus or a LIN bus.

[0033] In the illustrated embodiment, the control unit 32 is advantageously configured to cooperate with further components of the system 10, as shown in non-limiting examples: - Main blower 33a, - An additional blower 33b that creates an airflow from the inlet opening 14 toward the air conditioning unit 24. - Airflow sensor 33c, and - Air pressure sensor 33d.

[0034] As a non-limiting example, the control unit 32 can selectively enable or disable fluid communication between the inlet opening 14 and the air conditioning unit 24, particularly by controlling a valve device 25. Typically, the control unit 32 can supply current to an electric motor or actuator 25a, which then activates and deactivates the valve device 25 (e.g., using a oscillating plate blocker), respectively, in which state such a valve device 25 allows or prevents airflow from the inlet opening 14 toward the air conditioning unit 24.

[0035] As a more non-limiting example, the other control unit 32 may be configured to output one or more signals intended to enable communication of what is operationally progressing as far as the filter device 16 is concerned. In the illustrated embodiment, the system 10 further includes a signaling device 34 (Figure 4), in particular a visualization device having, for example, a dashboard and / or display. The signaling device 34 may be configured to receive signals output by the control unit 32 and emit corresponding perceptible signals (e.g., audible or visible signals) to the operator indicating the state of the filter device 16 detected by the control unit 32.

[0036] Now, consider the case where the RFID reader 30 cannot cooperate with the RFID tag 28. In this case, it can be addressed as the absence of the filter device 16, which may be removed without being replaced with another one. Alternatively, this can be addressed as improper installation of the filter device 16 in the system 10.

[0037] In the above case, according to the embodiments shown herein, the control unit 32 is configured to perform at least one of the following operations: - Selectively stopping the fluid communication between the inlet opening 14 and the air conditioning units 24 and 22 (for example, by appropriately controlling the valve device 25 to a stopped state), and - Output a fault signal (for example, to the signaling device 34) indicating the possibility of improper installation or absence of the filter device 16.

[0038] Therefore, in the above case, in addition to performing the function of obtaining identification information about the filter device 16 from the RFID tag 28, the RFID reader 30 also performs the function of indicating the proper installation and / or presence of the latter. This avoids the need to employ any switches, commutators, or check elements to, for example, verify the correct positioning of the filter device 16 and ensure the proper operation of the system 10.

[0039] Preferably, the identification information includes unique identifier data that is uniquely associated with a single filter device 16 holding an RFID tag 28. In particular, such identifier data is determined by the RFID tag 28 when it is first installed in the system 10 during the initial configuration phase of the filter device 16.

[0040] In the illustrated embodiment, the individual identifier data is essentially a serial number representing "identification" attributable to the filter device 16 to which the RFID tag 28 is applied. The individual identifier data is assigned, for example, by an encryption procedure performed by the control unit 32.

[0041] In the illustrated embodiment, the control unit 32 is configured to store individual identifier data in a list of used individual identifier data contained in the storage means 36.

[0042] Furthermore, the storage means 36 may be included in the system 10, for example, and may be integrated into the control unit 32.

[0043] In the illustrated embodiment, the identification information stored in the RFID tag 28 further includes total usage data representing the period during which the filter device 16 holding the RFID tag 28 was operationally used. The total usage time substantially corresponds to the cumulative time during which the filter device 16 remained within the associated housing 18 while the valve device 25 was operational and there was an air inflow through the inlet opening 20 toward the air conditioning unit 24 (Figures 3a and 3b).

[0044] In the illustrated embodiment, the control unit 32 is configured to compare the total usage data detected by the RFID reader 30 with a threshold value.

[0045] In particular, as will be explained further below, the threshold can be as follows: - A fixed predetermined value (e.g., 170 hours) for any filter device 16, or - A value that can be determined by the control unit 32 by selecting it from among a plurality of thresholds contained in the memory means 36, or - A value that can be calculated by the control unit 32 according to a predetermined standard.

[0046] Consider the case where the total usage data is higher than the threshold. In this case, for example, it may correspond to the filter device 16 exceeding its service life, which may mean a decrease in its performance.

[0047] In such a case, the control unit 32 is configured to perform at least one of the following operations: - Selectively stopping the fluid communication between the inlet opening 14 and the air conditioning unit 24 (for example, by appropriately controlling the valve device 25); and - Output an exhaustion signal (for example, to the signaling device 34) indicating the end of the service life of the filter device 16 that holds the RFID tag 28.

[0048] Now, consider the case where the total usage data is lower than the threshold. In this case, it can correspond to the normal operating state of the filter element 16, its performance is within the standard operating range, and its reliability is not compromised.

[0049] In the above case, the control unit 32 is configured to perform at least one of the following operations: - To selectively activate the fluid communication between the inlet opening 14 and the air conditioning unit 24; and - Output a remaining life signal representing the remaining service life of the filter device 16 holding the RFID tag 28, determined according to the threshold and total usage data.

[0050] For example, if the signaling device 34 includes a display, the remaining life signal emitted by the signaling device 34 can display a bar whose length is proportional to the remaining service life of the filter 16.

[0051] In particular, the threshold value may be included in the storage means 36. As described above, such storage means 36 is included in the system 10 and is integrated, for example, into the control unit 32.

[0052] Preferably, the identification information stored in the RFID tag 28 also includes type data representing the type and / or technical specifications of the filter device 16 holding the RFID tag 28. In particular, such type data is stored in the RFID tag 28 during the initial configuration phase of the filter device 16 of the system 10. In the illustrated embodiment, the type data may include the category of the filter device 16 holding the RFID tag 28 (e.g., "Category 3" or "Category 4" according to the UNI EN 15695-2:2018 standard). In particular, when the type data is stored in the RFID tag 28, it is conveniently "write-protected" to avoid future modification of such information.

[0053] Advantageously, though not necessarily, the control unit 32 may be configured to determine (calculate or select) the thresholds according to the type data stored in the RFID tag 28. In particular, the thresholds may be selected by the control unit 32 from a table stored in the storage means 36, such a table associating each threshold with each type data. For example, a threshold corresponding to 170 hours can be associated with the "Category 4" filter, while a lower threshold can be associated with the "Category 3" filter.

[0054] According to the embodiments described herein, the control unit 32 is configured to update the total usage data of the filter device 16 stored in the RFID tag 28 via the RFID reader 30.

[0055] In particular, the control unit 32 is configured to perform the following operations: The RFID reader 30 reads the total usage data previously stored in the RFID tag 28; - Calculate current usage data representing the active usage time of the filter device 16 during the current operation of system 10; - Calculate updated total usage data based on previously stored total usage data and the current usage data; - Operate the RFID reader 30 to store the updated total usage data on the RFID tag 28.

[0056] In particular, the above operations can be performed periodically at regular intervals, for example, every 180 seconds.

[0057] Preferably, the control unit 32 is also configured to store the updated total usage data in the storage means 36 and associate it with the individual identifier data of the filter element 16 holding the RFID tag 28, particularly at regular intervals during the use of the system 10. In other words, the storage means 36 associates each updated total usage data with the individual identifier data included in the list of used individual identifier data.

[0058] In the illustrated embodiment, the control unit 32 is configured to perform the following operations: - The RFID reader 30 reads the individual identifier data stored in the RFID tag 28; - The RFID reader 30 reads the last total usage data stored in the RFID tag 28; - Reading the last total usage data, which is stored in the storage means 36 and refers to the individual identifier data associated with the RFID tag 28 in the vicinity of the RFID reader 30; and - Compare the last total usage data read from the RFID tag 28 with the last total usage data read from the storage means 36.

[0059] Now, consider the case where there is a difference between the compared total usage data that exceeds a comparison threshold. In this case, for example, it may correspond to an attempt to tamper with the RFID tag 28 associated with the filter device 16.

[0060] In this case, the control unit 32 may be configured to perform at least one of the following operations: - Selectively stopping the fluid communication between the inlet opening 14 and the air conditioning unit 24 (for example, by appropriately controlling the valve device 25); and - Output a change signal (for example, to the signaling device 34) indicating the possibility of tampering with the RFID tag 28 held by the filter device 16.

[0061] Furthermore, in this case, the control unit 32 may be optionally configured to send such change signals to the customer or user diagnostic system of the system 10, thereby notifying them of any possible tampering.

[0062] In particular, the storage means 36 can also store the individual identifier data associated with the RFID tag 28 in a list of unauthorized individual identifier data of the filter device 16 that are "blacklisted". Therefore, during the operation of the system 10, the control unit 32 may be configured to compare the individual identifier data associated with the filter device 16 inserted in the housing 18 with the list of individual identifier data blacklisted and stored in the storage means 36, and if the individual identifier data is included in such a "blacklist", the control unit 32 may do the following: - Selectively stop the fluid communication between the inlet opening 14 and the air conditioning unit 24 (for example, by appropriately controlling the valve device 25); and / or - Output the change signal (for example, to signal device 34).

[0063] According to a further specific embodiment of the present invention, the control unit 32 is associated with another transmission module configured to transmit the identification information related to the filter device 16 (stored in the storage means 36 and / or RFID tag 28) to a main server via a communication network such as the Internet. In particular, the exchange of information between the transmission module and the main server may be advantageously performed by cloud computing. The transmission module may be structurally and / or functionally separated and independent from the control unit 32 and connected to it. Alternatively, the transmission module may be structurally and / or functionally integrated with the control unit 32.

[0064] Preferably, the identification information contained in the main server can be read by fixed or mobile external communication devices (such as mobile phones, smartphones, tablets, and laptop computers) via a telecommunications network. In particular, read-only access is permitted to external communication devices via the telecommunications network through an available account.

[0065] Preferably, the control unit 32 and / or external communication device may be configured to perform inspection and matching operations on the identification information contained in the RFID tag 28 and / or stored in the storage means 36, and compare it with the same data stored in the main server. In particular, if the individual identifier associated with the filter device 16 inserted in the housing 18 is included in the list of unauthorized individual identifier data stored in the main server, the control unit 32 may perform several operations, including, for example: - To prevent fluid communication between the inlet opening 14 and the air conditioning unit 24, and / or - Outputting a warning signal visible to the user, and / or - Send a warning signal to the main server (which may be the customer's or user's diagnostic system provider).

[0066] According to yet another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the RFID tag 28 also has near-field communication capabilities, particularly those compliant with the NFC standard, and can interface directly with a fixed or mobile external communication device (such as a mobile phone, smartphone, tablet, or laptop computer). In particular, the external communication device can be configured to read the identification information contained in the RFID tag 28, which can be displayed, for example, by an operator (typically on a screen operably associated with the external communication device). In particular, read-only access is granted to the external communication device via a valid account.

[0067] Referring particularly to Figures 6 to 8, some structural features of the filter device 22 according to the embodiment illustrated above will be described below.

[0068] In the illustrated embodiment, the filter device 16 includes a filter box 38 and a filter body 40 housed within the filter box 38.

[0069] Preferably, the filter device 16 includes an inlet grille 42 (Figure 6) mounted on a filter box 38 upstream of the filter body 40.

[0070] Furthermore, the filter box 38 has an outlet 44, particularly on the side opposite to the inlet grille 42. When mounted in the casing 12, the outlet 44 is fluidly connected to the air conditioning unit 24 via a valve device 25.

[0071] For example, the outlet portion 44 is a portion that protrudes rearward from the filter box 38. In particular, the outlet portion 44 can be inserted into a corresponding recess (not indicated by a reference numeral) of the housing 18 that communicates with the air conditioning unit 24 via a valve device 25.

[0072] Preferably, a sealing gasket 46 is also provided around the outlet portion 44. In the illustrated example, when the filter device 16 is inserted into the housing 18, the sealing gasket 46 is compressed between the bottom of the filter box 38 and the bottom of the housing 18.

[0073] In the illustrated embodiment, the RFID tag 28 is positioned at the bottom of the filter device 16, opposite the bottom of the housing 18 that holds the RFID reader 30. In particular, the RFID tag 28 is positioned at the bottom of the filter box 38, for example, near the exit section 44.

[0074] Of course, without impairing the principles of the present invention, the aspects and details of the embodiments can be broadly modified from those described and illustrated herein as non-limiting examples, without departing from the scope of the invention as set forth in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A vehicle having a cabin and a system (10) for treating the air inside the cabin: - A casing (12) having at least one inlet opening (14) into which air is taken in from the external environment; - A filter device (16) fluidly connected downstream of the inlet opening (14) and configured to filter contaminants in the form of at least one substance among dust, aerosols, and vapors contained in the air; - An air conditioning unit (24) that is sealed and housed within an internal space (22) formed within the casing (12); The air conditioning device (24) is configured to be fluidly connected downstream of the filter device (16) and to be fluidly connected upstream of the cabin of the vehicle on which the system (10) is installed; and here The filter device (16) is configured to be replaceably mounted within a housing (18) formed within the casing (12); The filter device (16) includes an RFID tag (28) containing identification information relating to the filter device (16); The system (10) includes an RFID reader (30) mounted in the housing (18) and configured to be in proximity to and cooperate with the RFID tag (28) in order to read the identification information when the filter device (16) is mounted in the housing (18); The system (10) comprises a control unit (32) connected to the RFID reader (30) and configured to receive the identification information read from the RFID tag (28) and to perform a predetermined operation according to the received identification information, and a storage means (36) incorporated into the control unit (32); and The identification information includes unique identifier data that is uniquely associated with a single filter device (16) holding the RFID tag (28); The system (10) further includes total usage data representing the period during which the filter device (16) holding the RFID tag (28) was used in an operational state; The control unit (32) is configured to update the total usage data of the filter device (16) stored in the RFID tag (28) by the RFID reader (30); The control unit (32) is further configured to store the updated total usage data in the storage means (36) and to associate it with the individual identifier data of the filter device (16) that holds the RFID tag (28); The control unit (32) performs the following operations: - Reading the individual identifier data stored in the RFID tag (28) by the RFID reader (30); - Reading the updated total usage data stored in the RFID tag (28) by the RFID reader (30); - Reading the updated total usage data stored in the storage means (36), and referring to the individual identifier data associated with the RFID tag (28) in the vicinity of the RFID reader (30); and - In order to detect discrepancies that indicate the possibility of tampering with the RFID tag (28), the updated total usage data read from the RFID tag (28) is compared with the updated total usage data read from the storage means (36), It is configured to perform; A vehicle characterized by the following features.

2. If the RFID reader (30) is unable to cooperate with the RFID tag (28), the control unit (32) performs the following actions: - To selectively stop the fluid communication between the inlet opening (14) and the air conditioning unit (24), and - Output a fault signal indicating the possible improper installation or non-installation of the filter device (16). The vehicle according to claim 1, also configured to perform at least one of the following.

3. The vehicle according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the control unit (32) is configured to determine the individual identifier data when the filter device (16) is first installed in the housing (18).

4. The vehicle according to claim 3, wherein the control unit (32) is configured to store the individual identifier data in a list of used individual identifier data included in the storage means (36).

5. The vehicle according to claim 1, further comprising type data indicating the type and / or technical specifications of the filter device (16) holding the RFID tag (28).

6. The vehicle according to claim 1, wherein the control unit (32) is configured to perform a comparison between the total usage data and a threshold.

7. The vehicle according to claim 5, wherein the control unit (32) is configured to calculate or select a threshold value according to the type data.

8. If the total usage data exceeds the threshold, the control unit (32) performs the following actions: - To selectively stop the fluid communication between the inlet opening (14) and the air conditioning unit (24); and - Outputting an exhaustion signal indicating the end of the service life of the filter device (28) that holds the RFID tag (24), The vehicle according to claim 6 or 7, configured to perform at least one of the following.

9. If the total usage data is lower than the threshold, the control unit (32) performs the following actions: - To selectively activate the fluid communication between the inlet opening (14) and the air conditioning unit (24); and - Output a remaining service life signal representing the remaining service life of the filter device (28) holding the RFID tag (24), which is determined according to the threshold and the total usage data. A vehicle according to any one of claims 6 to 8, configured to perform at least one of the following.

10. The control unit (32) performs the following operations: - The RFID reader (30) reads the total usage data previously stored in the RFID tag (28); - To calculate current usage data representing the time of active use of the filter device (16) during the current operation of the system (10); - Calculate updated total usage data based on previously stored total usage data and current usage data; and - To cause the RFID tag (28) to store the updated total usage data, the RFID reader (30) is operated, The vehicle according to claim 1, configured to perform the following.

11. If the compared total usage data has a difference exceeding a predetermined comparison threshold, the control unit (32) performs the following actions: - Selectively stopping the fluid communication between the inlet opening (14) and the air conditioning unit (24); and - Outputting a change signal that indicates possible tampering with the RFID tag (28) held by the filter device (16), A vehicle according to claim 1, configured to perform at least one of the following.

12. If the difference between the compared total usage data exceeds the comparison threshold, the storage means (36) stores the individual identifier data associated with the RFID tag (28) in a list of individual identifier data listed in a blacklist associated with a filter device (16) that may have been tampered with, according to claim 11.

13. The vehicle according to claim 1, wherein the control unit (32) is associated with a further transmission module configured to transmit the identification information relating to the filter device (16) to a main server via a telecommunications network.

14. The vehicle according to claim 1, wherein the RFID tag (28) is equipped with near-field communication or NFC means to directly interface with an external communication device that can access the identification information relating to the filter device (16).

15. The vehicle according to claim 14, wherein the external communication device is configured to display the identification information.

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