Automotive Cabin Filter with Detachable Functional Module

Abstract

A functional module detachable automotive cabin filter is disclosed. The disclosed functional module detachable automotive cabin filter is an automotive cabin filter mounted in a cabin filter slot of an automotive air conditioning system, comprising: a filter body including an outer frame and a corrugated filter material installed on the inner side of the outer frame; a module mounting frame fixedly coupled to the filter body and on which a functional module is detachably mounted; and a functional module detachably coupled to the module mounting frame and containing a functional material for air improvement inside. The module mounting frame is positioned in a module seating area formed in a part area or at least one side area of ​​the corrugated filter material, and the module seating area is formed by at least one of adjusting the height of a part of the corrugated filter material, adjusting the corrugation spacing, compression, bending, indentation, cutting, or shape deformation. Accordingly, filtration is configured to be performed by the corrugated filter material even on the lower side of the area where the functional module is mounted, thereby minimizing loss of filtration area while providing fragrance, deodorization, antibacterial, adsorption, humidity control, or other air improvement functions.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a cabin filter installed in an air conditioning system of an automobile, and more specifically, to a functional module detachable automobile cabin filter that can perform fragrance, deodorization, antibacterial, adsorption, or functional air improvement functions while maintaining the basic filtration performance of the filter, by integrally providing a module mounting frame to a filter body that filters air entering the vehicle interior when the air conditioner or heater of the automobile is operated, and detachably coupling a functional module that performs fragrance, deodorization, antibacterial, adsorption, humidity control, or other air improvement functions to the module mounting frame. Background Technology

[0003] An automobile's interior climate control system is structured to draw in outside air or circulating indoor air, cool, heat, or dehumidify it, and then supply it into the vehicle's cabin. During this process, if dust, pollen, soot particles, fine dust, particulate matter, mold spores, and odor components contained in the outside air are introduced directly into the cabin, it can adversely affect the respiratory health of passengers and significantly reduce the comfort level inside the vehicle.

[0004] Accordingly, most vehicles are equipped with cabin filters in the intake or blower paths of the air conditioning ducts. Cabin filters are typically formed by securing corrugated filter media to a square or specifically shaped frame, and are inserted to fit the specifications of the air conditioning ducts or filter slots for each vehicle model.

[0005] Conventional cabin filters have primarily focused on the filtration function itself. In other words, dust removal performance, odor reduction performance, and air resistance are determined by factors such as the fiber density, pleat spacing, filter surface area, electrostatic treatment, and the presence of an activated carbon layer. While general non-woven filters are relatively inexpensive, lightweight, and effective for removing fine dust and pollen, they have limitations in reducing odor components or volatile organic compounds. To address this, activated carbon filters, antibacterial filters, and deodorizing filters are used; however, since these filters often involve impregnating the filter material with functional materials or forming composite layers, there is a problem in that the lifespan of the functional materials is dependent on the filter replacement cycle.

[0006] In addition, dedicated car air fresheners are widely used to enhance the comfort of the vehicle interior. These air fresheners are typically secured to air vents with clips or placed on the dashboard, cup holders, under the seats, or in the rearview mirror. However, air vent-mounted air fresheners are visually exposed inside the vehicle, can interfere with airflow control, and may not match the interior design. Air fresheners mounted on the dashboard or cup holders are susceptible to shaking or tipping over while driving, and there is a risk of the contents leaking or deforming in high-temperature environments. Furthermore, because passengers are directly exposed to the fragrance concentration of exposed interior air fresheners, the scent may become excessively strong or localized; conversely, fragrance diffusion may be insufficient if the airflow is low.

[0007] Accordingly, attempts have been made to combine cabin filters with fragrance functions. For example, methods have been proposed to provide a separate panel structure within the filter to house air fresheners or deodorizers, or to combine the filter and the air freshener housing into a multi-layered structure. While these methods have the advantage of diffusing fragrance components into the vehicle interior using air conditioning airflow, they often require the addition of separate front, rear, middle, and storage sections to the existing filter structure. In such cases, the number of parts increases, the assembly structure becomes complex, and it becomes difficult to satisfy the thickness and shape limitations of filter slots specific to each vehicle.

[0008] Automotive cabin filters have limited mounting spaces depending on the vehicle manufacturer and model. Most filters are inserted into narrow slots within the air conditioning housing, and the slot's width, height, thickness, insertion direction, degree of curvature, and potential for compression during installation vary by vehicle. In particular, some vehicles have structures that require the filter to be slightly bent or curved for insertion, and unlike standard rectangular filters, imported cars or filters with specially shaped slots are sensitive to corner shape, side thickness, and frame rigidity. Therefore, if the overall thickness of the filter increases or the outer frame structure is modified to accommodate an air freshener, it may become difficult to install the filter directly into existing standard cabin filter slots.

[0009] Furthermore, conventional air freshener structures with built-in filters may employ methods such as removing a portion of the area where filter material is to be placed to accommodate the air freshener, or blocking that area with a simple cover or panel. In such structures, the actual filtration area is reduced by the amount of space occupied by the air freshener or storage unit. Since cabin filters utilize corrugated filter material to maximize the filtration area within a limited cross-sectional area, replacing a portion of the space with an air freshener reduces the filter's dust collection surface area and may cause airflow to be concentrated in specific sections. Consequently, there is a possibility that the filter's lifespan, filtration efficiency, and pressure loss characteristics may be negatively affected.

[0010] Meanwhile, another method to impart fragrance functionality to filters involves directly applying or impregnating the filter material with fragrance. However, with fragrance-coated filters, it is difficult to distribute the fragrance uniformly during the manufacturing process, the scent may dissipate prematurely during storage or distribution, and it is difficult to adjust the fragrance intensity or replace only the functional material during use. Furthermore, users may be required to replace the entire filter simply because the fragrance has been depleted, even if the filtration performance is still sufficient; conversely, this can lead to a mismatch between the filter replacement time and the fragrance depletion time. Prior art literature

[0012] Published Patent No. 10-2024-0143305 Registered Patent No. 10-1964691 The problem to be solved

[0013] The present invention aims to solve the problems of the prior art described above by providing a functional module detachable automotive cabin filter that allows a functional module, comprising a fragrance, deodorizer, antibacterial agent, adsorbent, humidity regulator, or a combination thereof, to be stably attached to the filter body while maintaining standard slot compatibility of existing automotive cabin filters.

[0014] In addition, another objective of the present invention is to provide a functional module detachable automotive cabin filter that reduces the degradation of filtration performance while efficiently utilizing the limited filter mounting space within the vehicle by ensuring that the filter material placement area is not unnecessarily reduced even when a functional module is installed.

[0015] In addition, another objective of the present invention is to provide a functional module detachable automotive cabin filter that can minimize the loss of filtration area of ​​the filter while providing a directional function by providing a module mounting frame integrally coupled to the filter body, configuring the functional module to be detachably mounted only on one side of the module mounting frame, and maintaining the arrangement of the filter material on the opposite side.

[0016] In addition, another objective of the present invention is to provide a functional module detachable automotive cabin filter that can simultaneously ensure user replacement convenience and prevention of detachment during driving by reinforcing the structural rigidity of the filter through a module mounting frame that is directly coupled or integrated with the filter body, and by coupling a functional module to the module mounting frame using a clip fixing method and an auxiliary fixing method.

[0017] In addition, the present invention has another objective of providing a functional modular detachable automotive cabin filter that can flexibly respond to the shape and mounting space of cabin filters that differ by vehicle manufacturer or vehicle type by allowing the installation location of the module mounting frame to be placed not in the central part of the filter body, but in a part of the corrugated filter material, at least one side area, or any mountable area of ​​the filter body.

[0018] In addition, another objective of the present invention is to provide a functional module detachable automotive cabin filter that allows for the stable mounting of a functional module while reducing the degradation of the filter's filtration performance, by encompassing not only a structure in which a portion of the corrugated filter material is formed at a low height, but also various structures in which a portion of the corrugated filter material is compressed, folded, sunken, cut, spaced, height adjusted, or shape-deformed to secure a mounting space for the functional module.

[0019] In addition, another objective of the present invention is to provide a functional module detachable automotive cabin filter that integrates a module mounting frame with a filter body using a portion of a corrugated filter material, regardless of whether the external shape of the filter body is square, pentagonal, round, folded, curved, or irregular, and allows a functional module to be detachably coupled to the module mounting frame.

[0021] However, the purpose of the present invention is not limited thereto, and it goes without saying that any purpose or effect that can be understood from the means of solving the problem or the embodiments, even if not explicitly mentioned, is also included. means of solving the problem

[0023] A functional module detachable automobile cabin filter according to the present invention for achieving the above-mentioned purpose comprises: an automobile cabin filter mounted in a cabin filter slot of an automobile air conditioning system, wherein the filter body includes an outer frame and a corrugated filter material installed on the inner side of the outer frame; a module mounting frame fixedly coupled to the filter body and having a functional module detachably mounted thereon; and a functional module detachably coupled to the module mounting frame and containing a functional material for air improvement inside; wherein the module mounting frame is positioned in a module seating area formed in a part area or at least one side area of ​​the corrugated filter material, and the corrugated filter material is configured such that air filtration is maintained even in the area where the module mounting frame is mounted.

[0024] The above corrugated filter material is formed such that a portion of the area has a lower height compared to the surrounding area, and the module mounting frame is positioned in the space formed between the upper part of the portion of the area and the surrounding area, so that filtration can be performed by the portion of the area even on the lower side of the area where the functional module is mounted.

[0025] For example, the corrugated filter material may include a middle section and peripheral sections formed on both sides of the middle section, wherein the middle section is formed to have a lower height than the peripheral sections, and the module mounting frame may be positioned in the space formed between the upper part of the middle section and the peripheral sections on both sides so that filtration by the middle section can be performed even on the lower side of the area where the functional module is mounted.

[0026] The filter body is formed with any one of a square, rectangular, pentagonal, round, curved, folded, or irregular outer shape, and the module mounting frame can be configured to be integrated into a part of the corrugated filter material regardless of the overall outer shape of the filter body.

[0027] The module mounting frame may be configured to function as a reinforcing frame that prevents bending or twisting of the filter body by being fixedly coupled to at least one of the outer frame and the corrugated filter material.

[0028] A module coupling groove is formed in the module mounting frame in which the functional module is inserted and seated, and a plurality of air passage openings may be formed through the bottom surface of the module coupling groove.

[0029] The module mounting frame may be configured to include: a fitting coupling hole formed on one side in the longitudinal direction of the module coupling groove; a clip fastening groove formed on the other side in the longitudinal direction of the module coupling groove; and an auxiliary coupling part formed on the outer side of the clip fastening groove and provided with a screw coupling hole.

[0030] The above functional module may be configured to include: a module housing seated in the module coupling groove; a fitting coupling projection formed on one side in the longitudinal direction of the module housing and inserted into the fitting coupling hole; an elastic clip part formed on the other side in the longitudinal direction of the module housing and elastically fastened to the clip fastening groove; and an auxiliary coupling wing extending from the outer end of the elastic clip part and provided with a screw insertion hole communicating with the screw coupling hole of the auxiliary coupling part.

[0031] The elastic clip portion is formed with an elastically deformable U-shaped structure, and a locking projection that engages with the clip fastening groove may be formed on the elastic clip portion.

[0032] The above functional module may be configured to be primarily fixed to the module mounting frame by the above fitting coupling projection and the above elastic clip part, and secondarily fixed to the module mounting frame by a fastening member that is fastened through the screw insertion hole of the above auxiliary coupling wing and the screw coupling hole of the above auxiliary coupling part.

[0033] The above module housing includes a lower housing in the form of a casing with an open top; and an upper housing covering the open top of the lower housing; wherein a plurality of ventilation holes are formed on the bottom surface of the lower housing and the top surface of the upper housing, respectively, and the plurality of ventilation holes may be configured to form an air flow path centered on the functional material.

[0034] A spacing projection is formed on the inner bottom surface or inner side surface of the lower housing to separate the functional material from the inner surface of the lower housing, and a spacing projection is formed on the lower surface of the upper housing to separate the functional material from the lower surface of the upper housing, and the spacing projections can be configured to form an air flow gap between at least one of the upper surface, lower surface, and side surface of the functional material and the inner surface of the module housing to prevent the functional material from blocking the ventilation hole.

[0035] The above functional material includes any one of a fragrance material, a deodorizing material, activated carbon, zeolite, an antibacterial material, an anion emitting material, a humidity control material, an adsorption material, or a combination thereof, and the above functional module may be configured to be independently replaceable from the module mounting frame when the filter body is separated from the cabin filter slot. Effects of the invention

[0037] As described above, the present invention has a structure in which a functional module detachable automotive cabin filter is integrally coupled to the inner side of a filter body and a functional module is detachably mounted on the module mounting frame, thereby having the effect of providing fragrance, deodorization, antibacterial, adsorption, humidity control, or other air improvement functions while maintaining the basic filtration function of a vehicle cabin filter.

[0038] In particular, the present invention is configured such that the middle portion of the corrugated filter material is formed to have a lower height compared to the surrounding portions on both sides, and a module mounting frame and a functional module are positioned on the upper part of the middle portion. Accordingly, since the middle portion of the corrugated filter material is maintained even below the area where the functional module is installed, there is no need to completely remove a portion of the filter material or replace it with a simple panel to mount the functional module. Therefore, even within a limited cabin filter mounting space, the loss of filtration area can be minimized, and substantial filtration can be performed across the entire area of ​​the filter body.

[0039] Meanwhile, the installation area of ​​the module mounting frame in the present invention is not limited to the central part of the corrugated filter material but can be extended to a part of the corrugated filter material, at least one side area, or any mountable area of ​​the filter body. Accordingly, even if the mounting space, outer shape, insertion direction, and air conditioning duct structure of the cabin filter differ from vehicle manufacturer or vehicle model to vehicle model, the mounting structure of the functional module can be flexibly applied.

[0040] Furthermore, the present invention is not limited to a method of simply forming a lower middle portion of the corrugated filter material, but can also be formed by compressing, bending, indenting, cutting, adjusting the corrugation spacing, adjusting the height, or deforming the shape of a portion of the corrugated filter material. Accordingly, the functional module can be stably mounted without unnecessarily changing the overall thickness or outer shape of the filter.

[0041] In addition, even when the filter body is formed in a square, pentagonal, round, folded, or irregular structure, the present invention allows for the integration of a module mounting frame using a portion of the corrugated filter material, so it can be applied to various vehicle cabin filters without being limited to specific vehicle models or cabin filters of specific external shapes.

[0042] Furthermore, since the present invention has a structure in which the module mounting frame is fixedly coupled to the opposing side walls of the outer frame and integrated with the filter body, it can perform the function of supporting the functional module as well as reinforcing the structural rigidity of the filter body. Accordingly, bending or twisting of the filter body during the process of inserting it into the cabin filter slot is suppressed, and deformation of the filter caused by vibration or impact during vehicle operation can be reduced, thereby improving the durability and mounting stability of the filter.

[0043] In addition, since the present invention has a structure in which a functional module is seated in a module coupling groove of a module mounting frame, it is possible to suppress the functional module from protruding excessively to the outside of the filter body. Accordingly, even when a functional module is mounted, the increase in the overall thickness of the filter body is minimized, and compatibility is ensured so that it can be mounted in the standard cabin filter slot of existing vehicles without any structural modifications.

[0044] In addition, the present invention allows the functional module to be clip-fixed to the module mounting frame by means of a fitting coupling projection and an elastic clip part, and, if necessary, to be secondarily fixed with a fastening member such as a screw through the screw insertion hole of the auxiliary coupling wing and the screw coupling hole of the module mounting frame. Accordingly, the user can easily attach and detach the functional module and replace it, while effectively preventing the functional module from being accidentally detached due to vibrations, shocks, friction when inserting a filter, or wind pressure from the air conditioning system that occur while driving the vehicle.

[0045] In addition, the present invention comprises a functional module including a module housing composed of a lower housing and an upper housing, wherein ventilation holes are formed on the bottom surface of the lower housing and the top surface of the upper housing, respectively, so that air passing through the filter material can come into contact with the functional material by passing through the air passage opening of the module mounting frame and the ventilation holes of the functional module. Accordingly, the fragrance components, deodorizing components, or other air improvement components of the functional material can be effectively incorporated into the air conditioning air and supplied to the vehicle interior, thereby contributing to the reduction of odors and the improvement of comfort in the vehicle interior.

[0046] In addition, the present invention maintains the functional material at a certain distance from the inner surface of the module housing without direct contact, due to the spacing protrusions formed on the inner bottom and inner sides of the lower housing and the spacing protrusions formed on the lower surface of the upper housing. Accordingly, the phenomenon of the functional material blocking the ventilation holes can be prevented, and air flow space can be secured around the upper, lower, and side surfaces of the functional material. As a result, the contact area and contact efficiency between the air and the functional material are improved, thereby enhancing the fragrance performance, deodorization performance, and uniformity of use of the functional module.

[0047] In addition, since the functional material is supported in a spaced-apart state from the inner surface of the housing in this invention, the phenomenon of air concentrating contact only on specific parts of the functional material is reduced, and fragrance or deodorizing components can be released relatively uniformly from the entire functional material. Accordingly, problems such as the fragrance being emitted excessively strongly at a specific time or some materials being consumed prematurely are mitigated, and the service life of the functional material can be secured more stably.

[0048] Furthermore, since the present invention has a structure in which the functional module is replaceable independently of the filter body, they can be independently replaced or reused even if the filtration life of the filter body and the fragrance or deodorization life of the functional module are different. Therefore, there is no need to unnecessarily replace the entire filter body, and users can select and replace the desired fragrance or functional material, thereby reducing maintenance costs and improving user convenience.

[0049] Furthermore, the various and beneficial advantages and effects of the present invention are not limited to those described above and may be more easily understood in the process of explaining specific embodiments of the present invention. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0051] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing the overall configuration of a functional module detachable automobile cabin filter according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view showing the state in which a functional module is separated from a module mounting frame in a functional module detachable automobile cabin filter according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a plan view showing the overall configuration of a functional module detachable automobile cabin filter according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 is a plan view showing the state in which a functional module is separated from a module mounting frame in a functional module detachable automobile cabin filter according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of a functional module according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of a functional module according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of a functional module detachable automobile cabin filter according to one embodiment of the present invention, showing the height difference between the middle and peripheral parts of the corrugated filter material and the arrangement state of the module mounting frame and the functional module. FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a functional module detachable automobile cabin filter according to one embodiment of the present invention, and is a drawing for explaining the coupling structure of the functional module. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0052] The above objects, other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will be easily understood through the following preferred embodiments associated with the accompanying drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described herein and may be embodied in other forms. Rather, the embodiments introduced herein are provided to ensure that the disclosed content is thorough and complete, and to ensure that the spirit of the present invention is sufficiently conveyed to those skilled in the art.

[0053] In this specification, when a component is described as being on another component, it means that it may be formed directly on the other component or that a third component may be interposed between them. Additionally, in the drawings, the thicknesses of the components are exaggerated for the effective description of the technical content.

[0054] The embodiments described herein will be explained with reference to cross-sectional and / or plan views, which are exemplary illustrations of the invention. In the drawings, the thicknesses of films and regions are exaggerated for effective explanation of the technical content. Accordingly, the shapes of the exemplary drawings may be modified by manufacturing techniques and / or tolerances, etc. Accordingly, the embodiments of the invention are not limited to the specific shapes depicted but include variations in shape produced according to the manufacturing process. For example, an etching region depicted as a right angle may be rounded or have a certain curvature. Accordingly, the regions illustrated in the drawings have properties, and the shapes of the regions illustrated in the drawings are intended to illustrate specific forms of regions of the device and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. Although terms such as first, second, etc., have been used to describe various components in the various embodiments of this specification, these components should not be limited by such terms. These terms are used merely to distinguish one component from another. The embodiments described and illustrated herein also include their complementary embodiments.

[0055] The terms used herein are for describing embodiments and are not intended to limit the invention. In this specification, the singular form includes the plural form unless specifically stated otherwise in the text. As used herein, 'comprises' and / or 'comprising' do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other components to the mentioned components.

[0056] In describing the specific embodiments below, various specific details have been included to explain the invention more concretely and to aid understanding. However, a reader with sufficient knowledge in the art to understand the invention will recognize that it can be used without these various specific details. In some cases, it is noted in advance that commonly known aspects that are not significantly related to the invention have been omitted to prevent unnecessary confusion in describing the invention.

[0057] Hereinafter, with reference to FIGS. 1 to 8, a functional module detachable automobile cabin filter (100) according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0058] The functional module detachable automobile cabin filter (100) of the present invention includes a filter body (110), a module mounting frame (120), and a functional module (130).

[0059] The filter body (110) is a consumable filter component inserted into the cabin filter slot of the vehicle air conditioning system, and filters dust, dust, pollen, soot particles, or other foreign substances in the air supplied to the vehicle interior.

[0060] The filter body (110) is formed to have a size and thickness that is inserted into a filter slot in the air conditioning duct of a vehicle.

[0061] The filter body (110) may have a rectangular, rectangular, pentagonal, round, curved, folded, or irregular outer shape that fits the specifications of each vehicle. Accordingly, the filter body (110) of the present invention is not limited to a specific rectangular frame shape and may include various external structures corresponding to the shape of the cabin filter slot of the automobile manufacturer or vehicle model.

[0062] The filter body (110) is configured to include an outer frame (112) and a corrugated filter material (114) fixedly installed on the inner side of the outer frame (112). The outer frame (112) is not necessarily limited to a rectangular frame shape and can be formed into a polygonal, curved, round, or irregular frame structure corresponding to the shape of the filter slot.

[0063] The outer frame (112) of the filter body (110) secures the outer edge of the filter material and ensures close contact with the filter slot.

[0064] The outer frame (112) can be formed from a non-woven fabric border, a synthetic resin frame, a foamed resin, a rubber adhesive, or a paper frame.

[0065] The corrugated filter material (114) is folded into a corrugated structure in which multiple peaks and valleys are repeated, providing a large filtration area compared to the cross-sectional area of ​​the filter body (110).

[0066] The corrugated filter material (114) may be composed of a nonwoven fabric, an electrostatic filter paper, an activated carbon composite filter paper, an antibacterial filter paper, or a laminate thereof.

[0067] In the present invention, the corrugated filter material (114) is configured such that a portion of the filter material is maintained, or at least an air-passable path is maintained, even in the area where the module mounting frame (120) is placed. Accordingly, the area where the functional module (130) is mounted does not become a simple clogged area, and the airflow of the entire filter can be maintained.

[0068] That is, the corrugated filter material (114) is configured such that the middle portion (114a) is lower in height than the peripheral portions (114b) on both sides in the longitudinal direction, so that a space, i.e., a module mounting area, can be formed between the peripheral portions (114b) on both sides and the middle portion (114a) of the corrugated filter material (114) to allow the module mounting frame (120) and the functional module (130) to be inserted.

[0069] The module mounting frame (120) is configured such that the functional module (130) is detachably mounted thereon and is fixed to the outer frame (112) of the filter body (110) to support the functional module (130) while simultaneously reinforcing the structural rigidity of the filter body (110).

[0070] The module mounting frame (120) is formed as a square frame having a predetermined length and is configured to be placed in a space (module mounting area) formed between the upper part of the middle portion (114a) of the corrugated filter material (114) and the peripheral portions (114b) on both sides of the corrugated filter material (114).

[0071] Although it has been described above that the module mounting frame (120) is positioned in a module mounting area formed in the middle of the length of the corrugated filter material (114), it is not limited thereto. The module mounting area of ​​the corrugated filter material (114) on which the module mounting frame (120) is positioned is not limited to the middle of the length of the corrugated filter material (114), but may be formed in a part of the corrugated filter material (114), at least one side area, an edge adjacent area, an eccentric area, or any mountingable area of ​​the filter body (110).

[0072] In addition, to securely position the module mounting frame (120), the corrugated filter material (114) may be formed not only by lowering the height of a portion of the corrugated filter material (114), but also by compressing, bending, sinking, cutting, adjusting the corrugation spacing, adjusting the corrugation height, or deforming the shape of a portion of the corrugated filter material (114). Accordingly, the space for mounting the functional module (130) may be secured, while maintaining air passage and filtration in the lower, peripheral, or adjacent areas of the region where the functional module (130) is mounted.

[0073] That is, the corrugated filter material (114) may be formed to have a different height, shape, corrugation spacing, or arrangement structure from other areas in some areas where the module mounting frame (120) is placed, and a space may be provided in said some area where the module mounting frame (120) and the functional module (130) can be placed.

[0074] The module mounting frame (120) can be configured so that both ends are fixedly connected to the opposing side walls of the outer frame (112).

[0075] At this time, both ends of the module mounting frame (120) may be configured to be attached to the opposite side walls of the outer frame (112) with an adhesive, but are not limited thereto and may be configured to be joined by other joining methods such as thermal welding, ultrasonic welding, injection molding, etc.

[0076] In addition, the module mounting frame (120) can be integrated into a portion of the corrugated filter material (114) regardless of the outer shape of the filter body (110). Therefore, even if the filter body (110) is formed in a square, pentagonal, round, curved, or irregular shape depending on the automobile manufacturer or vehicle model, the detachable coupling structure of the functional module (130) can be applied with the same technical concept.

[0077] The module mounting frame (120) can be formed from injection-molded synthetic resin, elastic resin, lightweight metal, or composite material.

[0078] In this way, the module mounting frame (120) has both ends connected to the opposing side walls of the outer frame (112) of the filter body (110), and is fixedly connected to the middle portion of the length of the side walls of the outer frame (112) so as to connect the middle portion of the length of the side walls of the outer frame (112) as shown in the drawing. Since the module mounting frame (120) is integrated with the filter body (110) in this manner, the structural rigidity of the filter body (110) can be reinforced, thereby improving the durability of the filter.

[0079] That is, the module mounting frame (120) is installed to connect the middle portions of the lengths of the side walls of the outer frame (112) to each other, thereby preventing bending and twisting of the filter body (110), and especially when inserting the filter into the filter slot, the module mounting frame (120) acts as a reinforcing rib that maintains the basic shape of the filter even when the user pushes the filter with their hand or bends it slightly.

[0080] A module mounting frame (120) has a module coupling groove (121) formed on its front side, into which a functional module (130) is inserted and coupled, and a plurality of air passage openings (122) are formed through the bottom surface of the module coupling groove (121) at predetermined intervals in the longitudinal direction.

[0081] In addition, the module mounting frame (120) has a fitting hole (124) formed on one side in the longitudinal direction of the module coupling groove (121) and a clip fastening groove (125) formed on the other side in the longitudinal direction of the module coupling groove (121), and an auxiliary coupling part (126) is formed on the outside of the clip fastening groove (125), and a screw coupling hole (126a) for coupling a fastening member such as a screw may be formed in the auxiliary coupling part (126).

[0082] The functional module (130) is a functional module that is detachably coupled to the module mounting frame (120). The functional module (130) is not limited to a fragrance module and may be composed of a fragrance module, a deodorizing module, an antibacterial module, an adsorption module, a humidity control module, a negative ion emission module, or a combination of these modules.

[0083] The functional module (130) has a rod-shaped or cartridge-shaped housing extended in the longitudinal direction, and a plurality of ventilation holes (132a, 133a) are formed on the surface of the module housing (131). The ventilation holes (132a, 133a) may be formed in a circular, elongated, slot-shaped, grid-shaped, or polygonal shape, and allow conditioned air to be discharged to the outside after coming into contact with the functional material (134) inside the module.

[0084] The functional module (130) may be configured to include a module housing (131), a functional material (134), a fitting coupling projection (135), an elastic clip part (136), and an auxiliary coupling wing (137).

[0085] The module housing (131) may be formed as a rectangular cartridge structure extending in the longitudinal direction, and the lower housing (132) and the upper housing (133) are combined to form a receiving space that accommodates a functional material (134) inside.

[0086] The lower housing (132) can be formed in the shape of a rectangular housing with an open top, and the upper housing (133) can be formed in the shape of a rectangular cover that covers the open top of the lower housing (132).

[0087] A plurality of ventilation holes (132a, 133a) may be formed on the bottom surface of the lower housing (132) and the top surface of the upper housing (133), respectively. Accordingly, air that has passed through the filter material (114), particularly air filtered through the middle portion (114a) of the filter material (114), can be introduced into the interior of the module housing (131) through the ventilation holes (132a) of the lower housing (132) after passing through the air passage opening (122) of the module mounting frame (120), and can be discharged to the outside through the ventilation holes (133a) of the upper housing (133) after contacting the functional material (134).

[0088] That is, the ventilation holes (132a, 133a) formed on the bottom surface of the sub-housing (132) and the top surface of the upper housing (133), respectively, form an air flow path centered on the functional material (134), so that the fragrance component or deodorizing component is effectively included in the air conditioning air.

[0089] A housing coupling projection (132b) may be formed on the lower housing (132), and a housing coupling hole (133b) corresponding to the housing coupling projection (132b) may be formed on the upper housing (133). Accordingly, when the upper housing (133) is covered and coupled to the lower housing (132), the housing coupling projection (132b) is inserted and coupled into the housing coupling hole (133b), thereby fixing the lower housing (132) and the upper housing (133) so that they do not separate from each other.

[0090] At this time, the method of joining the lower housing (132) and the upper housing (133) is not limited to a snap-fit ​​connection by the housing joining projection (132b) and the housing joining hole (133b), and can also be implemented by a snap connection, hook connection, ultrasonic welding, bonding, heat welding, or screw fastening method. However, considering the possibility of replacing the functional material (134), it is preferable that the lower housing (132) and the upper housing (133) be configured by a detachable snap-fit ​​connection or snap connection method.

[0091] The functional material (134) is configured to be contained in the internal receiving space of the module housing (131) and to impart a fragrance component, a deodorizing component, an antibacterial component, an adsorption component, a humidity control component, or other air improvement component to the air supplied to the vehicle interior. The functional material (134) may be a solid or semi-solid fragrance material containing a fragrance component, a deodorizing material, activated carbon, zeolite, an antibacterial material, an anion-emitting material, a humidity control material, or a combination thereof.

[0092] In one embodiment of the present invention, the functional material (134) may be composed of a solid fragrance material and is configured to be received at a certain distance from the inner surface of the lower housing (132) and the upper housing (133) without being in direct contact. To this end, a spacing projection (138a, 138b, 138c) may be formed on the inner bottom surface and inner side surface of the lower housing (132), and a spacing projection (138d) may be formed on the lower surface of the upper housing (133).

[0093] Specifically, a bottom spacing projection (138c) that partially supports the lower surface of the functional material (134) may be formed on the inner bottom of the lower housing (132). The bottom spacing projection (138c) forms a lower flow gap between the lower surface of the functional material (134) and the bottom surface of the lower housing (132). Accordingly, air flowing in through the ventilation hole (132a) of the lower housing (132) is dispersed along the entire lower surface of the functional material (134) or at least a wide area, and the phenomenon of air concentrating only on a specific part of the functional material (134) is suppressed.

[0094] Additionally, side separation protrusions (138a, 138b) may be formed on the inner side of the lower housing (132) to separate the side of the functional material (134) from the inner side of the lower housing (132). The side separation protrusions (138a, 138b) form a side flow gap between the side of the functional material (134) and the inner side of the lower housing (132). Accordingly, air can flow along the side as well as the upper or lower surface of the functional material (134), and the fragrant or deodorizing components of the functional material (134) can be diffused more uniformly into the air conditioning air.

[0095] Additionally, an upper spacing projection (138d) may be formed on the lower surface of the upper housing (133). The upper spacing projection (138d) forms an upper flow gap between the upper surface of the functional material (134) and the lower surface of the upper housing (133). Accordingly, the upper surface of the functional material (134) is prevented from adhering to the inner surface of the upper housing (133) and blocking the ventilation hole (133a) of the upper housing (133), and the directional component emitted from the functional material (134) can be smoothly discharged through the ventilation hole (133a) of the upper housing (133).

[0096] In this way, the spacing protrusions (138a, 138b, 138c) formed on the inner bottom and inner side of the lower housing (132) and the spacing protrusion (138d) formed on the lower side of the upper housing (133) keep the functional material (134) spaced apart from the inner surface of the module housing (131). Therefore, it is possible to prevent the functional material (134) from directly adhering to the ventilation holes (132a, 133a) and blocking air flow, and to secure an air flow space around the upper, lower, and side surfaces of the functional material (134).

[0097] Accordingly, the fragrance components, deodorizing components, or other air-improving components of the functional material (134) can be more effectively discharged to the outside through the ventilation holes (132a, 133a), and the contact efficiency between the air-conditioned air and the functional material (134) is improved. As a result, the fragrance performance of the functional module (130) is improved, the phenomenon of the fragrance being concentrated only at a specific point or only a part of the functional material (134) being consumed is reduced, and the lifespan and uniformity of function expression of the functional material (134) can be improved.

[0098] The functional module (130) may have a fitting coupling projection (135) formed on one side in the longitudinal direction of the module housing (131). Specifically, the fitting coupling projection (135) may be integrally formed on one side in the longitudinal direction of the upper housing (133).

[0099] The fitting coupling projection (135) is formed in a shape corresponding to the fitting coupling hole (124) of the module mounting frame (120), and is first inserted into the fitting coupling hole (124) when mounting the functional module (130) to the module coupling groove (121) of the module mounting frame (120).

[0100] In the functional module (130), an elastic clip portion (136) may be formed on the other side in the longitudinal direction of the module housing (131). Specifically, the elastic clip portion (136) may be integrally formed on the other side in the longitudinal direction of the upper housing (133).

[0101] The elastic clip portion (136) may be formed as an elastically deformable U-shaped structure extending from the end of the module housing of the functional module (130), and a locking projection (136a) may be formed on one side of the upper portion. When the functional module (130) is inserted into the module coupling groove (121), the elastic clip portion (136) is elastically deformed and inserted into the clip fastening groove (125) of the module mounting frame (120), and the locking projection (136a) is engaged with the inner locking portion (125a) of the clip fastening groove (125), thereby preventing the functional module (130) from coming off.

[0102] According to this structure, the user can easily mount the functional module (130) by first inserting one side of the fitting coupling projection (135) of the functional module (130) into the fitting coupling hole (124) of the module mounting frame (120), and then pressing the other side elastic clip part (136) to fasten it to the clip fastening groove (125) (clip fixing method). Conversely, when separating the functional module (130), the user can release the locking projection (136a) by pressing the elastic clip part (136) to narrow the gap between the two ends of the elastic clip part (136), and then lift the functional module (130) out of the module coupling groove (121).

[0103] Additionally, the functional module (130) may further be configured with an auxiliary coupling wing (137) that is integrally extended laterally from the outer end of the elastic clip portion (136), that is, the outer upper end of the elastic clip portion (136). The auxiliary coupling wing (137) may be formed in a plate shape that is positioned to overlap the upper portion of the auxiliary coupling portion (126) of the module mounting frame (120), and a screw insertion hole (137a) may be formed through the auxiliary coupling wing (137). When the functional module (130) is mounted on the module mounting frame (120), the screw insertion hole (137a) of the auxiliary coupling wing (137) is positioned to communicate with the screw coupling hole (126a) of the module mounting frame (120).

[0104] Accordingly, the user can secondarily fix the functional module (130) to the module mounting frame (120) by inserting a fastening member, such as a screw, through the screw insertion hole (137a) and fastening it to the screw coupling hole (126a). This auxiliary coupling structure effectively prevents the functional module (130) from detaching from the module mounting frame (120) due to vibrations, shocks, friction during the filter insertion process, or wind pressure from the air conditioning system that occur while driving the vehicle.

[0105] In particular, in the present invention, the functional module (130) may have a double fixing method applied through a clip fixing method consisting of fixing one side by a fitting coupling projection (135) and fixing the other side by an elastic clip part (136), as well as an auxiliary fixing method by screw fixing of an auxiliary coupling wing (137). Therefore, the functional module (130) can maintain a stable mounting state unless the user intentionally separates it, and when necessary, it can be easily replaced by releasing the screw and operating the elastic clip part (136).

[0106] Meanwhile, the module coupling groove (121) of the module mounting frame (120) may be formed to have a width and depth corresponding to the outer shape of the functional module (130). Accordingly, the functional module (130) may be coupled in such a way that at least a portion is embedded or the entire portion is seated within the module coupling groove (121). This structure prevents the functional module (130) from excessively increasing the overall thickness of the filter body (110) and is advantageous for maintaining mounting compatibility with the standard cabin filter slot of the vehicle.

[0107] Additionally, since the module mounting frame (120) is positioned in the space formed between the upper part of the middle section (114a) of the corrugated filter material (114) and the peripheral sections (114b) on both sides, the outer height or overall thickness of the filter body (110) is not unnecessarily increased even when the functional module (130) is mounted. Accordingly, it can be inserted into the air conditioning filter slot of an existing vehicle without any structural modification.

[0108] In one embodiment of the present invention, the middle portion (114a) of the corrugated filter material (114) is formed to have a lower height than the peripheral portion (114b), and the module mounting frame (120) is positioned on the upper part of the middle portion (114a). Accordingly, filtration through the middle portion (114a) can be maintained even in the section where the module mounting frame (120) and the functional module (130) are located. That is, the entire area where the functional module (130) is mounted is not converted into a non-filtration area, but the filter material can continue to capture foreign substances in the air from the lower or peripheral portions.

[0109] In other words, in the present invention, the middle portion (114a) of the corrugated filter material (114) is formed to have a lower height than the peripheral portion (114b), and the module mounting frame (120) is positioned above the middle portion (114a) of the corrugated filter material (114) and configured to be positioned between the peripheral portions (114b) on both sides. In this case, the functional module (130) is mounted on the upper side of the module mounting frame (120), and the middle portion (114a) of the corrugated filter material (114) is positioned below the module mounting frame (120), so that filtration, or filtering, can be performed over the entire area of ​​the filter body (110) without loss of filtration area.

[0110] As such, the present invention can minimize the reduction of the effective filtration area while combining the functional module (130) with the filter body (110), and in particular, since the middle part (114a) of the filter material is maintained below the space where the functional module (130) is installed, the deterioration of filtration performance can be suppressed compared to a structure in which the filter material is completely removed or replaced with a simple panel in the space for installing the air freshener as in the prior art.

[0111] Meanwhile, although it has been described above that the middle portion (114a) of the corrugated filter material (114) is formed to have a lower height than the surrounding portion (114b) and the module mounting frame (120) is positioned on the upper part of the middle portion (114a), this is merely one embodiment for securing a mounting space for the functional module (130), and the present invention includes all structures that form a module mounting area on the corrugated filter material (114) by compressing, bending, sinking, cutting, adjusting the corrugation spacing, or deforming the shape of a part of the corrugated filter material (114). Accordingly, the entire area where the functional module (130) is mounted is not converted into a non-filtration area, but rather a filtration path by the corrugated filter material (114) can be maintained in the lower side, surrounding area, or adjacent area of ​​the functional module (130). Accordingly, the reduction of the effective filtration area can be minimized while mounting the functional module (130).

[0112] In addition, since the air passage opening (122) of the module mounting frame (120) and the ventilation holes (132a, 133a) of the functional module (130) are connected to each other, the air is filtered as it passes through the corrugated filter material (114), and at the same time, it passes through the interior of the functional module (130) and contains the fragrance or deodorizing components of the functional material (134). Therefore, the cabin filter of the present invention can simultaneously perform the function of removing fine dust and foreign substances and the function of improving the air inside the vehicle.

[0113] Meanwhile, in the present invention, when the fragrance component of the functional material (134) is depleted or the user wishes to use a material with a different fragrance or deodorizing function, the user can detach the filter body (110) from the cabin filter slot of the vehicle, release the screw fastened to the auxiliary coupling wing (137), and release the locking of the elastic clip part (136) to detach the functional module (130) from the module mounting frame (120). Afterward, a new functional module (130) can be mounted on the module mounting frame (120) in the same manner.

[0114] Accordingly, the present invention allows the functional module (130) to be replaced independently without replacing the entire filter body (110), and conversely, it is also possible to replace only the filter body (110) while reusing the functional module (130). Accordingly, user convenience is improved and the cost of replacing consumables can be reduced.

[0115] In addition, since the module mounting frame (120) is integrated with the filter body (110) in the present invention, the functional module (130) can be stably coupled to the filter body (110) without a complex structure for mounting it on a separate front panel, rear panel, or intermediate panel. Accordingly, the number of parts is reduced and the manufacturing process is simplified, and a directional function can be added while maintaining the appearance and mounting capabilities of the existing standard cabin filter.

[0117] Although the present invention has been illustrated and described above in relation to preferred embodiments to illustrate the principles of the invention, the invention is not limited to the configuration and operation as illustrated and described. Rather, those skilled in the art will understand that numerous changes and modifications to the invention are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the appended claims. Accordingly, all such appropriate changes, modifications, and equivalents should be considered to be within the scope of the invention. Explanation of the symbols

[0119] 100: Functional Modular Detachable Automotive Cabin Filter 110: Filter body 112 : Outer frame 114 : Pleated filter media 114a : Middle part 114b : Peripheral part 120: Module mounting frame 121 : Module coupling groove 122: Air passage opening 124 : Insertion joint hole 125 : Clip fastening groove 126 : Auxiliary joint 126a: Screw connection hole 130 : Functional Module 131 : Module Housing 132 : Lower housing 132a : Ventilation hole 132b : Housing connecting protrusion 133 : Upper housing 133a : Ventilation hole 133b : Housing coupling hole 134 : Functional materials 135 : Insertion joint projection 136 : Elastic clip part 136a : Stopper 137 : Auxiliary connecting wing 137a : Screw insertion hole 138a : Lateral spacing projection 138b : Lateral separation projection 138c : Bottom spacing 138d : Upper spacing projection

Claims

Claim 1 A car cabin filter mounted in a cabin filter slot of a car air conditioning system, comprising: a filter body including an outer frame and a corrugated filter material installed on the inner side of the outer frame; and a module mounting frame fixedly coupled to the filter body and having a functional module detachably mounted thereon. A functional module detachable type automotive cabin filter comprising: a module mounting frame detachably coupled thereto and a functional module containing a functional material for air improvement inside; wherein the module mounting frame is disposed in a module seating area formed in a part area or at least one side area of ​​the corrugated filter material, and the corrugated filter material is configured to maintain air filtration even in the area where the module mounting frame is mounted; wherein the module mounting frame is fixedly coupled to at least one of the outer frame and the corrugated filter material and functions as a reinforcing frame to prevent bending or twisting of the filter body; wherein the module mounting frame has a module coupling groove formed therein for inserting and seating the functional module, and a plurality of air passage openings are formed through the bottom surface of the module coupling groove; and wherein the module mounting frame comprises: a fitting coupling hole formed on one side in the longitudinal direction of the module coupling groove; a clip fastening groove formed on the other side in the longitudinal direction of the module coupling groove; and an auxiliary coupling part formed on the outer side of the clip fastening groove and provided with a screw coupling hole. Claim 2 A functional module detachable automobile cabin filter according to claim 1, characterized in that the corrugated filter material is formed such that a portion of the area has a lower height than the surrounding area, and the module mounting frame is positioned in the space formed between the upper part of the portion of the area and the surrounding area, so that filtration is performed by the portion of the area even on the lower side of the area where the functional module is mounted. Claim 3 A functional modular detachable automobile cabin filter according to claim 1, wherein the filter body is formed in any one of a square, rectangular, pentagonal, round, curved, folded, or irregular outer shape, and the module mounting frame is integrated into a part of the corrugated filter material regardless of the overall outer shape of the filter body. Claim 4 delete Claim 5 delete Claim 6 In claim 1, the functional module comprises: a module housing seated in the module coupling groove; a fitting coupling projection formed on one side in the longitudinal direction of the module housing and inserted into the fitting coupling hole; an elastic clip portion formed on the other side in the longitudinal direction of the module housing and elastically fastened to the clip fastening groove; and an auxiliary coupling wing extending from the outer end of the elastic clip portion and provided with a screw insertion hole communicating with the screw coupling hole of the auxiliary coupling portion; wherein the elastic clip portion is formed in an elastically deformable U-shaped structure, and a locking projection formed on the elastic clip portion that engages with the clip fastening groove. Claim 7 A functional module detachable automobile cabin filter according to claim 6, characterized in that the functional module is primarily fixed to the module mounting frame by the fitting coupling projection and the elastic clip part, and secondarily fixed to the module mounting frame by a fastening member that is fastened through the screw insertion hole of the auxiliary coupling wing and the screw coupling hole of the auxiliary coupling part. Claim 8 In claim 6, the module housing comprises: a lower housing in the form of an enclosure with an open top; and an upper housing covering the open top of the lower housing; wherein a plurality of ventilation holes are formed on the bottom surface of the lower housing and the top surface of the upper housing, respectively, and the plurality of ventilation holes form an air flow path centered on the functional material, characterized in that it is a functional module detachable automobile cabin filter. Claim 9 A functional module detachable automobile cabin filter according to claim 8, wherein a spacing projection is formed on the inner bottom surface or inner side surface of the lower housing to separate the functional material from the inner surface of the lower housing, and a spacing projection is formed on the lower surface of the upper housing to separate the functional material from the lower surface of the upper housing, and the spacing projections form an air flow gap between at least one of the upper surface, lower surface, and side surface of the functional material and the inner surface of the module housing to prevent the functional material from blocking the plurality of ventilation holes. Claim 10 A functional module detachable automobile cabin filter according to claim 1, wherein the functional material comprises any one of a fragrance, a deodorizing agent, activated carbon, zeolite, an antibacterial material, an anion emitting material, a humidity control material, an adsorption material, or a combination thereof, and the functional module is configured to be independently replaceable from the module mounting frame while the filter body is separated from the cabin filter slot.

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