Solar-Powered Smart Sun Hat with Motorized Cooling Fan and Angle Adjustment

The problem

During outdoor activities in warm weather, standard sun hats block direct sunlight but do little to lower the temperature around the head. Heat builds up under the brim, causing discomfort and sweating. Handheld fans require one free hand, and battery-operated clip-on fans typically blow in a single fixed direction, missing different parts of the face and neck as the wearer moves. Managing battery life is also a constant concern when spending hours away from power outlets.

The solution

This design integrates a complete cooling and control system into the visor of a sun hat.

1. A hat band (1) forms the base, with a visor (2) arranged in its middle.
2. A central control mechanism (3) sits on the visor, housing a panel (15) with a solar cell panel (16), a display interface (17), a control key (18), and status indicator lamps (19). Inside the panel, a PLC central control module (20) coordinates the system.
3. A cooling mechanism is mounted on the visor and electrically connected to the central control mechanism. It uses a horizontal moving assembly (5) to shift the fan laterally.
4. An angle adjusting assembly features a horizontally arranged fixing plate (6), a second motor (7) below it, a second driving shaft (8), and a connecting rod (9). One end of the rod hinges to the shaft, the other to the fan motor.
5. A cooling assembly contains a third motor (10) with blades (11) arranged uniformly around its driving shaft. The second motor extends or retracts the connecting rod, tilting the third motor to change the airflow angle.
6. A working power supply module (27) uses an NE555 integrated circuit to collect and feed back output voltage, controlling a field effect transistor to keep the power stable.

Who it is for

• Outdoor apparel brands looking to add functional, tech-enabled headwear to their summer catalogs without relying on simple mesh vents.
• Promotional product suppliers serving corporate events, golf tournaments, or agricultural companies that need branded gear for workers in the sun.
• Amazon sellers and wholesalers targeting the growing market for personal cooling devices and wearable electronics for hikers, gardeners, and sports fans.
• Workwear manufacturers supplying uniforms for farming, construction, or landscaping crews who spend long hours outdoors and need hands-free cooling.

How it works

The main parts

Operating steps

1. Power collection: The solar cell panel (16) absorbs sunlight, sending energy through the electric energy acquisition module (23) to the working power supply module (27).
2. Voltage regulation: The NE555 integrated circuit monitors the output voltage and feeds it back to control the field effect transistor, stabilizing the power delivered to the components.
3. User input: The wearer presses the control key (18) on the panel. The PLC central control module (20) processes this via the key control module (25).
4. Cooling activation: The motor control module (21) activates the third motor (10), spinning the blades (11) to blow air.
5. Angle and position adjustment: The second motor (7) drives the second driving shaft (8), pushing or pulling the connecting rod (9). Because the rod is hinged to the lower half of the third motor (10), the fan tilts. Simultaneously, the horizontal moving assembly (5) shifts the unit side to side.
6. Feedback: Status indicator lamps (19) and the display interface (17) update the user on the current mode.

Applications

Hiking and trail walking

Hikers carry heavy packs and cannot hold a handheld fan. This hat provides continuous airflow powered by the sun, keeping the face and neck cool on exposed trails without draining carried battery banks.

Farming and landscaping

Agricultural workers spend hours in direct sunlight. The motorized fan directs air across the face, reducing sweat buildup under the brim. The solar panel removes the need to swap batteries during a long shift.

Golf and spectator sports

Golfers and spectators standing on open courses experience intense midday heat. The adjustable angle allows the wearer to direct the breeze precisely while keeping both hands free for clubs or binoculars.

Outdoor maintenance and construction

Workers repairing roofs or clearing lots need reliable shade and cooling. The PLC-controlled system operates automatically once set, and the status indicators confirm the fan is running properly without requiring the worker to stop and check.

Where it is less suitable

• Indoor or night use - the primary power source described is a solar cell panel; indoor lighting may not generate sufficient energy without a large backup battery, which is not detailed in the patent.
• Heavy rain environments - the patent describes electronic modules, motors, and a display interface on the visor, but does not specify waterproof sealing ratings.
• High-impact sports - the added weight of motors, panels, and the PLC on the visor makes it impractical for contact sports or fast-paced running where minimal gear is required.