Device for generating non-thermal atmospheric pressure plasma and action chamber comprising such device

Abstract

The invention relates to a device for generating a non-thermal atmospheric-pressure plasma, comprising: a first housing (11) in which a piezoelectric transformer (1) is arranged; and a second housing (15) in which a control circuit (14) is arranged, which is designed to apply an input voltage to the piezoelectric transformer (1). According to another aspect, the invention relates to an action chamber comprising the device and a sealed gas volume or an unsealed gas volume.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of Chinese patent application CN201880032084.3, filed on March 14, 2018, entitled "Device for generating non-thermal atmospheric pressure plasma and action chamber comprising such a device". Technical Field

[0002] The present invention relates to a device for generating a non-thermal atmospheric-pressure plasma and also to an action chamber having such a device. Background Art

[0003] A piezoelectric transformer can be used to generate non-thermal atmospheric pressure plasma. The transformer can be a Rosen-Typ transformer in particular. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The object of the present invention is to provide an improved device for generating non-thermal atmospheric pressure plasma, which device has a long service life, for example. The device should preferably be suitable for use in an operating room, such as a garbage can, a toilet bucket, a sports bag, a wardrobe or a clothing bag.

[0005] This object is achieved by a device for generating non-thermal atmospheric-pressure plasma. The device for generating non-thermal atmospheric-pressure plasma comprises a first housing in which a piezoelectric transformer is arranged, and a second housing in which a control circuit is arranged, the control circuit being designed to apply an input voltage to the piezoelectric transformer. A fan and a catalytic converter are arranged in the first housing, wherein the fan is designed to cause a recirculating air operation in which a process medium ionized by the piezoelectric transformer circulates in the first housing and is guided through the catalytic converter before being fed back to the piezoelectric transformer. Accordingly, the piezoelectric transformer and the control circuit can be spatially separated from each other by the first and second housings.

[0006] The control circuit has a timing circuit that applies an input voltage to the piezoelectric transformer during predefined time periods and does not apply the input voltage to the piezoelectric transformer during a predefined pause between the two time periods. Application of the input voltage is prevented for the duration of the pause. Consequently, no input voltage can be applied to the piezoelectric transformer during the pause. This limits the amount of ozone that can be generated using the device to a level that is not harmful to health. Plasma and ozone generation cannot occur during the pause.

[0007] The device can be operated in a pulsed operating mode, in which the transformer is activated based on a timing circuit, regardless of its other operating parameters, and is deactivated for the duration of a pause. If necessary, purely time-based control can limit the ozone generation rate to a level that poses no health risk.

[0008] This arrangement of arranging the piezoelectric transformer in the first housing and the control circuit in the second housing has many advantages. If a piezoelectric transformer is used to generate plasma, irritating gases, such as ozone, may be produced during plasma generation. Some of these irritating gases are corrosive and could damage the control circuit over time. However, since the control circuit is arranged in the second housing, damage to the control circuit by irritating gases can be prevented. This approach can increase the service life of the device. The first and second housings can preferably be constructed so as to minimize gas exchange between the two housings. Accordingly, irritating gases produced in the first housing cannot enter the second housing, or can only enter the second housing in negligible concentrations.

[0009] In the output region of the piezo transformer, electric fields with high field strengths can be generated during plasma generation. The spatial separation of the piezo transformer and the control circuit ensures that the control circuit is not undesirably influenced by the electric field.

[0010] Furthermore, by placing the transformer in the first housing and the control circuit in the second housing, users are better protected from irritating gases. Users typically operate the second housing to connect the control circuit or make operational changes. Because the piezoelectric transformer is separated from the first housing, irritating gases are generated only near the first housing and therefore not in the immediate vicinity of the user. This improves user safety. Consequently, the device can be used in end-user products for which high safety requirements apply.

[0011] The device can be easily handled due to being divided into separate housings. The device can be constructed in a small and compact manner.

[0012] The piezoelectric transformer used here can be, for example, a piezoelectric transformer manufactured by EPCOS (company name) in CeraPlas TM The name of the component being sold below.

[0013] The piezoelectric transformer can be designed to generate a piezoelectrically ignited microplasma on the output-side end face of the piezoelectric transformer. This can be a so-called piezoelectric direct discharge plasma (PDD). The plasma can thus be generated directly on the piezoelectric transformer. In this case, no additional dielectric barrier is provided in front of the output-side end face.

[0014] Alternatively, a dielectric barrier can be arranged directly in front of the output-side end face of the transformer, the barrier being formed, for example, by a cover. In this case, the plasma can be generated similarly to a dielectric barrier discharge (DBD). However, unlike a "conventional" dielectric barrier discharge, the barrier is not connected to the high-voltage source via a cable, but is located in the immediate vicinity of the piezoelectric transformer. This allows the high voltage generated by the transformer to be capacitively coupled into the ignition chamber, which is separated from the transformer by the barrier.

[0015] The first and second housings can be separated from each other. The housings cannot be integrally formed. The first housing is not arranged inside the second housing, and the second housing is not arranged inside the first housing. The housings can be spatially separated from each other. The housings can be arranged side by side, with the two housings either directly adjacent to each other or spaced apart from each other. The first and second housings can be designed to spatially separate the piezoelectric transformer and the control circuit. The first and second housings can be designed to ensure that gas exchange between the two housings occurs only to a negligible extent.

[0016] The control circuit and the piezoelectric transformer can be connected to each other via a cable. The cable can be used to apply the AC voltage output by the control circuit as an input voltage to the external electrodes of the piezoelectric transformer. The control circuit can be designed so that it is not affected by the impedance of the cable. Accordingly, the cable can have a length of up to 10 meters. The cable can have a length of at least 1 cm. The cable preferably has a length between 10 cm and 100 cm.

[0017] Operating elements that control plasma generation can be arranged in the first housing. Alternatively, they can be arranged in the second housing. These operating elements can be, for example, buttons, rotary knobs, microcontroller-controlled systems with or without a touchscreen, remote controls, or systems controlled via USB, WLAN, or Bluetooth. Furthermore, they can be controlled using software, such as an app. The operating elements enable the user of the device to manipulate the control circuitry and influence and read out various parameters during plasma generation, such as the input voltage, the amount of process gas supplied to the transformer, the concentrations of process gas components, the input power, and the operating duration.

[0018] If the operating element is arranged on the second housing, it is spatially separated from the piezo transformer located in the first housing. Accordingly, safety for the user operating the operating element can be increased, since the user does not have to be in the immediate vicinity of the transformer, which could generate irritating gases that are harmful to health.

[0019] The first housing can have a nozzle which is arranged in front of the end face of the piezo transformer and is designed to shape the plasma jet generated by the piezo transformer.

[0020] Furthermore, the first housing can have a dielectric barrier arranged immediately in front of the piezoelectric transformer. The dielectric barrier can separate the piezoelectric transformer from the ignition chamber, in which the process medium is arranged. The high voltage generated by the piezoelectric transformer can be capacitively coupled into the ignition chamber via the dielectric barrier and trigger plasma ignition there. Such an embodiment is particularly advantageous for liquid process media or biological tissue as process media. In this case, the piezoelectric transformer does not come into direct contact with the process medium. Due to such direct contact, the transformer would be mechanically damped and could no longer be used to generate plasma. Since the barrier prevents direct contact, mechanical damping can be prevented from the outset. Even for other very aggressive process media that could damage the piezoelectric transformer, the arrangement of the dielectric barrier in front of the transformer is meaningful.

[0021] The device can include a third housing that also includes a piezo transformer. The first housing can be exchanged and replaced by the third housing. In this case, after the first housing is replaced by the second housing, the control circuit can be designed to apply an input voltage to the piezo transformer arranged in the third housing.

[0022] Accordingly, the piezoelectric transformer can be replaced together with the first housing. The piezoelectric transformer is the component of the device that is most subject to wear and tear. Due to the replaceable first housing, only the transformer can be replaced while the control circuit and other components arranged in the second housing can continue to be used.

[0023] The piezoelectric transformer can be replaced together with the first housing as a module. The first and second housings can be connected to each other via a releasable connection, such as a plug connection, a USB connection, or a bayonet connection. This connection is easy for the user to release, making it simple to replace the module comprising the first housing and the piezoelectric transformer. However, replacing the piezoelectric transformer without also replacing the first housing is quite complex, as the transformer's fastening to the housing must be released.

[0024] The third housing can have a nozzle. The first housing can also have a nozzle. The nozzle can be designed to shape the plasma jet in various ways or to position a dielectric barrier in front of the transformer. Accordingly, the first and third housings can be interchanged to change the shape of the plasma jet in the desired manner. However, replacing only the nozzle without replacing the entire first housing is quite cumbersome, as the nozzle must be loosened from its attachment to the housing and a new nozzle must be attached to the housing.

[0025] In an alternative embodiment, the nozzles can be replaced individually. Here, the nozzles mounted on the first housing or the third housing can be replaced. The nozzles are preferably secured to the respective housings by easily releasable fasteners. For example, the nozzles can be secured to the respective housings by a bayonet connection. Alternatively, the nozzles can be secured to the respective housings by a latching connection or a screw connection.

[0026] The first housing can be configured to eliminate irritating gases produced when plasma is generated. For this purpose, the first housing can have a coating. The coating can, for example, include manganese dioxide, iron oxide, other metal oxides, a bare metal surface, or a surface or paint coated with a metal catalyst. As an alternative or supplementary solution, the housing can have a filter to eliminate irritating gases. The filter can, for example, be an activated carbon filter. As an alternative or supplementary solution, the housing can be configured to produce a closed gas guiding system, wherein irritating gases are prevented from escaping from the housing. As an alternative or supplementary solution, the housing can have a suction mechanism. The suction mechanism can be configured to suck out irritating gases immediately after they are generated. In addition, it can be provided that, if necessary, the gas is only partially guided back into the first housing, wherein the first housing can be coated accordingly to eliminate irritating gases.

[0027] The device can have a regulating mechanism that can regulate the amount of the process medium fed to the piezo transformer. Alternatively or additionally, the regulating mechanism can also regulate the composition of the process medium.

[0028] The device can have a cover that is fixed to the first housing and forms a dielectric barrier immediately in front of an output-side end face of the piezoelectric transformer, so that the device is designed to ignite the plasma on a side of the dielectric barrier facing away from the transformer by discharging through the dielectric barrier.

[0029] A plurality of piezoelectric transformers can be arranged in the first housing. A control circuit arranged in the second housing can be connected to each transformer and can be designed to apply an input voltage to each transformer.

[0030] The control circuit can include a timing circuit that applies an input voltage to the piezoelectric transformer during predefined time periods and that does not apply the input voltage to the piezoelectric transformer during a predefined pause between two time periods. For example, the input voltage can be applied to the transformer during a 15-second period and not applied during a 2-hour pause. This minimizes the energy consumption of the device and limits the concentration of irritating gases.

[0031] The first housing and the second housing can be formed by two chambers of a single injection-molded part. The first housing and the second housing can be separated from each other in a waterproof manner. The first housing and the second housing can be separated from each other in an airtight manner.

[0032] The second housing may contain means for supplying energy to the device. These means may be, for example, a battery, a rechargeable battery that can be charged by contactless inductive charging in one embodiment, or a transformer configured to convert a mains voltage into an operating voltage for the device. Because the energy supply means are located in the second housing, they can continue to be used even when the first housing is replaced.

[0033] The apparatus can be a portable handheld device.

[0034] The second housing can be equipped with a device for supplying process gas, wherein the device includes a hose configured to conduct process gas from the second housing to the piezoelectric transformer arranged in the first housing. The hose can be integrated into the cable connecting the first and second housings. If the first housing is replaced, the device for supplying process gas can continue to be used. The device for supplying process gas can, for example, be a ventilator, a compressor, or connectors for various compressed gas containers, and, if necessary, a gas mixer. Furthermore, the device for supplying process gas can include a pressure reducer, a mass flow controller, a gas humidifier, a gas dryer, an atomizer, and a sprayer. Alternatively, the device for guiding process gas can also be integrated into the first housing.

[0035] The process medium may be any medium in which the plasma is ignited. For example, the process medium may be the ambient air surrounding the piezoelectric transformer. Furthermore, the process medium may be any substance that exists in gaseous form at the operating temperature and operating pressure, any conceivable mixture of substances that exists in gaseous form at the operating temperature and operating pressure, an aerosol with liquid and / or solid particles suspended in the gas, a liquid, or biological tissue. The operating pressure and operating temperature indicate the pressure or temperature at which the device for generating non-thermal atmospheric-pressure plasma is typically used. The operating pressure may in particular be atmospheric pressure. The operating pressure may be between 0.2 bar and 1.5 bar, preferably between 0.8 bar and 1.2 bar. The operating temperature may in particular be room temperature. The operating temperature may be in the range of -50°C to +155°C, preferably between 0°C and 45°C.

[0036] If the process medium is a substance in gaseous form, it can be, for example, a pure gas, such as pure He, pure Ar, pure N2, pure O2, pure CO2, pure H2, or pure Cl2. Furthermore, the process medium H2O can be in the supercritical range. The process medium can contain supercritical pure substances, that is, substances that are non-condensable at the operating temperature and pressure.

[0037] The process medium can comprise a plurality of the above-mentioned pure gases or one or a mixture of the following gases: air, protective gas and forming gas. In this case, the process medium is selected so that the gaseous state is maintained at the operating temperature and operating pressure.

[0038] The process medium can include liquid aerosols in a gas or gas mixture. This can be, for example, air above the dew point, saturated steam, or a gasoline / diesel-air mixture. The process medium can also include solid aerosols in a gas or gas mixture. This can be, for example, soot in exhaust gas or particulate matter in the air. For medical and technical applications, using aerosols as the process medium achieves particularly good results. Aerosols can particularly be small water droplets in the air. They can also be droplets of H2O2 or formaldehyde. Treating the water droplets with plasma can generate OH radicals. Furthermore, the water droplets can be used to bind generated irritating gases, such as ozone or nitric oxide, thereby reducing the environmental impact of these gases and improving safety. This irritating gas binding can, for example, further enhance the irritant's effectiveness, particularly for disinfection, through the ozone dissolved in the water droplets. The device can also be used for particle separation in exhaust gas streams. It can also be used in steam circuits or toilets and their ventilation circuits, where aerosols can also constitute the process medium.

[0039] The device can have an intake elbow which is designed to draw in the irritant gas generated by the piezo transformer, wherein the irritant gas is eliminated in the intake elbow.

[0040] The device can have sensors for determining the fill level, temperature or humidity. The sensors measure the corresponding parameters in the interior or environment of the action chamber.

[0041] The device may include a circuit component of a remote control mechanism. The circuit component is used to control the control mechanism. The remote control mechanism can read the status of the device or control the device through a program or application for a computer, such as a PC or a mobile communication device.

[0042] The device can have circuit elements for recording parameters such as operating time, occurring faults, status information or other operating parameters. The values ​​in the log file can be obtained by means of the memory.

[0043] The device can include one or more displays for optically or acoustically signaling one or more operating parameters.

[0044] The device can be configured and adapted to effect, accelerate or catalyze a chemical reaction.

[0045] The device can be configured and adapted to activate or disinfect a surface.

[0046] The device can be configured and adapted for treating or cleaning living tissue and biological tissue. In particular, the device can be used to treat or clean open, closed, or poorly healing wounds, either internally or externally, on the living human or animal body. Particularly preferred is its use on skin wounds, particularly wounds that are poorly healing, oozing poorly, or infected with bacteria.

[0047] A fan and a catalytic converter can be arranged in the first housing, wherein the fan is designed to effect a recirculating air operation in which a process medium ionized by the piezo transformer circulates in the first housing and is guided through the catalytic converter before being fed back to the piezo transformer.

[0048] The first housing can have a heat exchanger which is arranged and designed to dissipate heat from the interior of the first housing to the surrounding area.

[0049] The input region of the piezoelectric transformer can be placed on the first supporting element, wherein the device has at least one projection that, when the transformer is in a stationary state, is spaced a certain distance from the piezoelectric transformer and forms a stop to prevent lateral movement of the piezoelectric transformer. The projection can be arranged over half the length of the transformer. When the transformer is in a stationary state, the projection can be spaced a certain distance from the piezoelectric transformer. The spacing of the projections is selected so that the piezoelectric transformer does not abut against the projection when in its stationary state, even with typical manufacturing tolerances and thermal expansion. The projection is arranged so that it limits movement of the transformer caused by deformation during operation and / or impacts against the device and forms a stop for the transformer during such movement.

[0050] The device can include a second projection that, when the transformer is in a stationary state, is at a certain distance from the piezo transformer and forms a stop against lateral movement of the piezo transformer, wherein the second projection is arranged at the input-side end of the transformer. The spacing of the second projections is selected so that, even with typical manufacturing tolerances and thermal expansion, the piezo transformer does not abut against the second projections when in its stationary state. The second projection is arranged so that it limits movement of the transformer caused by deformation during operation and / or by impacts against the device and forms a stop for the transformer during such movement.

[0051] According to another aspect, a device for generating a non-thermal atmospheric-pressure plasma is provided, comprising: a first housing in which a piezoelectric transformer is disposed; and a second housing in which a control circuit is disposed, the control circuit being configured to apply an input voltage to the piezoelectric transformer. The first housing has a coating for eliminating irritating gases. The coating can be manganese dioxide, iron oxide, another metal oxide, a bare metal surface, or a surface coated with a metal catalyst or a paint.

[0052] According to another aspect, a device for generating a non-thermal atmospheric-pressure plasma is proposed, comprising: a first housing in which a piezo transformer is arranged; and a second housing in which a control circuit is arranged, which is designed to apply an input voltage to the piezo transformer, and wherein at least one operating element is arranged in the first housing, which controls the plasma generation.

[0053] According to another aspect, the present invention relates to an action chamber having the above-described device and a gas volume. The gas volume may be sealed or unsealed. The device can be used to treat the gas in the gas volume with plasma and / or ozone, for example, to prevent or reduce odors.

[0054] The action chamber can also be referred to as an action volume. The action chamber can be a spatially delimited area, the contents of which are to be treated with the plasma generated by the device. The action chamber can be, for example, a container. An action chamber does not necessarily have a closed volume. Rather, an action chamber with an unsealed gas volume can undergo a permanent gas exchange, so that the gas in the action chamber is continuously renewed or replaced.

[0055] For example, toilet buckets, trash cans, and plastic bags can form a sealed gas chamber. Sports bags or cotton bags can also form a non-sealed gas chamber. Furthermore, cabinets, such as wardrobes, can be used as chambers. Clothes or shoe bags are also possible.

[0056] If the device is used in an action chamber with an unsealed gas volume, it is preferable to take precautions to limit the concentration of irritating gases and quickly degrade them. In particular, the first housing containing the transformer can be configured, as discussed above, to eliminate irritating gases generated during plasma generation. To this end, the first housing can have a coating, such as manganese dioxide or iron oxide. Alternatively or additionally, the housing can have a filter to eliminate irritating gases. Alternatively or additionally, the housing can be configured to create a closed gas-guiding system, preventing irritating gases from escaping the housing. Alternatively or additionally, the housing can have an extraction mechanism configured to extract irritating gases immediately after they are generated. Alternatively, the housing can have a partial irritating gas-guiding or (gas)-returning function, wherein the housing can be coated accordingly to eliminate irritating gases. Furthermore, the device can have acoustic and / or optical warning devices configured to warn the user if a concerning concentration of irritating gases is present. As an alternative or in addition, the device can be configured to automatically switch off when the irritant gas concentration exceeds a threshold value. In addition, the device can be configured to switch back on when the irritant gas concentration drops below a threshold value.

[0057] The device can be compactly integrated into the operating chamber and has perforations for the escape of ozone. The device can be removed from the operating chamber. Alternatively, only the first housing can be positioned inside the operating chamber. The second housing can be positioned outside the operating chamber.

[0058] The action chamber can, for example, have a cover, wherein the device or at least the first housing is arranged on the cover. The plasma outlet of the device can be directed away from the cover. The plasma outlet points in the direction of the action chamber or the action volume. Alternatively, the device can be mounted elsewhere within the action chamber, for example, in a side wall.

[0059] The device can have an outlet through which the plasma generated by the transformer can escape. The device can be arranged such that the outlet is located inside the operating chamber. Furthermore, the device can have an inlet through which gaseous process medium can enter the first housing. The device can be arranged such that the inlet is located outside the operating chamber. Furthermore, the device can have a carbon filter disposed between the inlet and the outlet, separating the interior of the operating chamber from the environment of the operating chamber. The carbon filter can, in particular, prevent irritating gases generated inside the operating chamber from entering the environment of the operating chamber.

[0060] As an alternative or in addition to the carbon filter, the device can be provided with a coating that degrades irritant gases, in particular in order to prevent irritant gases generated within the activity chamber from escaping into the environment of the activity chamber.

[0061] The action chamber can have a sensor designed to detect the opening or closing of the lid, wherein the device is designed to generate the plasma after the lid is closed. The sensor can be, for example, a tilt sensor, an acceleration sensor, or a light sensor.

[0062] Advantageous aspects are described below. For ease of reference, the aspects are numbered consecutively. The features of the aspects are significant not only in combination with the specific aspects to which they relate, but also individually.

[0063] 1. A device for generating a non-thermal atmospheric-pressure plasma, the device comprising: a first housing in which a piezoelectric transformer is arranged; and a second housing in which a control circuit is arranged, the control circuit being designed to apply an input voltage to the piezoelectric transformer.

[0064] 2. The device according to the preceding aspect,

[0065] The piezo transformer is designed in this case to generate a piezoelectrically ignited microplasma on an output-side end face of the piezo transformer.

[0066] 3. The device according to any one of the preceding aspects,

[0067] The first shell and the second shell are separated from each other.

[0068] 4. The device according to any one of the preceding aspects,

[0069] The control circuit and the piezoelectric transformer are connected to each other via a cable.

[0070] 5. The device according to the preceding aspect,

[0071] The cable has a length of at least 1 cm.

[0072] 6. The device according to any one of the preceding aspects,

[0073] wherein at least one operating element is arranged in the first housing, the operating element enabling control of plasma generation,

[0074] or

[0075] In this case, at least one operating element is arranged in the second housing, which operating element enables the plasma generation to be controlled.

[0076] 7. The device according to any one of the preceding aspects,

[0077] The first housing has a nozzle which is arranged in front of an end face of the piezo transformer and is designed to shape a plasma jet generated by the piezo transformer.

[0078] 8. The device according to any one of the preceding aspects,

[0079] The device comprises a third housing, which comprises a piezoelectric transformer.

[0080] The first shell is replaceable and can be replaced by a third shell.

[0081] 9. The device according to any one of the preceding aspects,

[0082] The first housing is configured to eliminate irritating gases generated when plasma is generated.

[0083] 10. The device according to the preceding aspect,

[0084] In this case, the first housing has a coating and / or a filter and / or a closed gas-conducting system and / or an extraction device for eliminating irritating gases.

[0085] 11. The device according to any one of the preceding aspects,

[0086] The device described therein has a regulating device which is capable of regulating the quantity and / or the composition of the process medium supplied to the piezo transformer.

[0087] 12. The device according to any one of the preceding aspects,

[0088] The device comprises a cover which is fixed to a first housing and forms a dielectric barrier immediately in front of an output-side end face of the piezoelectric transformer, so that the device is designed to ignite a plasma on a side of the dielectric barrier facing away from the transformer by a discharge through the dielectric barrier.

[0089] 13. The device according to any one of the preceding aspects,

[0090] A plurality of piezoelectric transformers are arranged in the first housing.

[0091] 14. The device according to any one of the preceding aspects,

[0092] The control circuit has a timing circuit which applies an input voltage to the piezo transformer within a predefined time period and which does not apply an input voltage to the piezo transformer during a predefined pause interval between two time periods.

[0093] 15. The device according to any one of the preceding aspects,

[0094] The first shell and the second shell are composed of two cavities of an injection molded part.

[0095] 16. The device according to any one of the preceding aspects,

[0096] The first housing and the second housing are separated from each other in a waterproof manner.

[0097] 17. The device according to any one of the preceding aspects,

[0098] The first housing and the second housing are separated from each other in an airtight manner.

[0099] 18. The device according to any one of the preceding aspects,

[0100] The energy supply of the device is arranged in the second housing.

[0101] 19. The device according to any one of the preceding aspects,

[0102] The device is a portable handheld device.

[0103] 20. The device according to any one of the preceding aspects,

[0104] wherein means for supplying process gas are arranged in the second housing,

[0105] The device comprises a hose which is designed to conduct process gas from the means for supplying process gas from the second housing to the piezo transformer arranged in the first housing.

[0106] 21. The device according to any one of the preceding aspects,

[0107] The device comprises a suction elbow which is designed to suck out irritating gases generated by the piezo transformer, wherein the irritating gases are eliminated in the suction elbow.

[0108] 22. The device according to any one of the preceding aspects,

[0109] The device further comprises a sensor for determining the fill level, the temperature or the humidity in the interior or the environment of the action chamber.

[0110] 23. The device according to any one of the preceding aspects,

[0111] The device further comprises a circuit component of a remote control for actuating the actuating device.

[0112] 24. The device according to any one of the preceding aspects,

[0113] The device further comprises circuit elements for recording operating times, faults, status information and operating parameters.

[0114] 25. The device according to any one of the preceding aspects,

[0115] The device further comprises one or more displays for optically or acoustically signaling one or more operating parameters.

[0116] 26. A device according to any one of the preceding aspects for effecting, accelerating or catalysing a chemical reaction.

[0117] 27. A device according to any of the preceding aspects, configured to activate or disinfect a surface.

[0118] 28. A device according to any one of the preceding aspects, arranged for cleaning or treating a wound on the human or animal body.

[0119] 29. A function chamber comprising a device according to any one of the preceding aspects and a sealed gas volume or an unsealed gas volume.

[0120] 30. The action chamber according to the preceding aspect,

[0121] The action chamber has a cover, and the device is arranged on the cover, wherein the plasma outlet of the device is directed away from the cover.

[0122] 31. The action chamber according to the preceding aspect,

[0123] The action chamber has a sensor which is designed to detect the opening and closing of the lid, and the device is designed to generate a plasma after the lid is closed. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0124] The invention is explained in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0125] Figure 1 A piezoelectric transformer is shown in perspective view,

[0126] Figure 2shows a device for generating plasma according to a first embodiment,

[0127] Figure 3 shows a piezoelectric transformer arranged in a holder,

[0128] Figure 4 shows a device for generating plasma according to a second embodiment,

[0129] Figures 5 to 7 shows a device for generating plasma according to a third embodiment,

[0130] Figure 8 shows a first part of a device for generating plasma according to a variant of the third embodiment,

[0131] Figure 9 shows a first housing according to another embodiment,

[0132] Figure 10 shows a first housing according to another embodiment,

[0133] Figure 11 、 12 and 13 show a holder for a piezoelectric transformer. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0134] Figure 1 The piezoelectric transformer 1 is shown in a perspective view. The piezoelectric transformer 1 can be used in particular in an apparatus for generating a non-thermal atmospheric-pressure plasma.

[0135] The piezoelectric transformer 1 is a structural form of a resonant transformer that is based on piezoelectricity and forms an electromechanical system in contrast to a conventional magnetic transformer. The piezoelectric transformer 1 is, for example, a Rosen-type transformer.

[0136] Piezoelectric transformer 1 has an input region 2 and an output region 3, wherein output region 3 adjoins input region 2 along longitudinal direction z. In input region 2, piezoelectric transformer 1 has electrodes 4 to which an AC voltage can be applied. Electrodes 4 extend along longitudinal direction z of piezoelectric transformer 1. Electrodes 4 are stacked alternately with piezoelectric material 5 along a stacking direction x perpendicular to longitudinal direction z. The piezoelectric material 5 is polarized along stacking direction x.

[0137] Electrode 4 is arranged inside piezoelectric transformer 1 and is also referred to as an inner electrode. Piezoelectric transformer 1 has a first side surface 6 and a second side surface 7 opposite first side surface 6. A first outer electrode 8 is arranged on first side surface 6. A second outer electrode (not shown) is arranged on second side surface 7. The inner electrode 4 is in electrical contact with either the first outer electrode 8 or the second outer electrode alternately along stacking direction x.

[0138] The input region 2 can be controlled by applying a low AC voltage between the electrodes 4. Due to the piezoelectric effect, the AC voltage applied on the input side is first converted into a mechanical oscillation. The frequency of the mechanical oscillation depends primarily on the geometry, mechanical structure, and material of the piezoelectric transformer 1.

[0139] Output region 3 includes piezoelectric material 9 and has no internal electrodes. Piezoelectric material 9 in output region 3 is polarized along the longitudinal direction x. Piezoelectric material 9 in output region 3 can be the same material as piezoelectric material 5 in input region 2, although piezoelectric materials 5 and 9 can differ in their polarization directions. In output region 3, piezoelectric material 9 is formed as a single monolithic layer that is polarized entirely along the longitudinal direction z. Thus, piezoelectric material 9 in output region 3 has only a single polarization direction.

[0140] If an AC voltage is applied to the electrodes 4 in the input region 2, mechanical waves are generated within the piezoelectric materials 5 and 9. These waves generate an output voltage in the output region 3 through the piezoelectric effect. The output region 3 has an output-side end face 10. Consequently, a voltage is generated in the output region 3 between the end face 10 and the end of the electrode 4 in the input region 2. This generates a high voltage at the output-side end face 10. This also creates a high potential difference between the output-side end face and the surroundings of the piezoelectric transformer. This high potential difference is sufficient to generate a strong electric field that ionizes the process medium. Furthermore, free radicals, excited molecules, or atoms may be generated in the plasma.

[0141] In this way, the piezoelectric transformer 1 generates a high electric field that can ionize a gas or liquid through electrical excitation. In this process, atoms or molecules of the corresponding gas or liquid are ionized, forming a plasma. Ionization always occurs if the electric field strength at the surface of the piezoelectric transformer 1 exceeds the plasma ignition field strength. The field strength required to ionize atoms or molecules or to generate free radicals, excited molecules, or atoms is referred to as the plasma ignition field strength.

[0142] Figure 2 Shown with Figure 1The device for generating plasma is provided with a piezoelectric transformer 1 shown in FIG. The device has a first housing 11 in which the piezoelectric transformer 1 is arranged. In addition, a holder 12 is arranged in the housing 11 to fix the piezoelectric transformer 1. Figure 3 The holder 12 will be described in detail.

[0143] Furthermore, the first housing 1 has a plasma escape channel 13. The plasma escape channel 13 is arranged upstream of the output-side end face 10 of the piezoelectric transformer 1. If the process medium is ionized by the piezoelectric transformer 1 or if free radicals, excited molecules, or atoms are generated by the piezoelectric transformer 1, the plasma generated in this way is guided through the plasma escape channel 13 to the desired location of use.

[0144] The plasma escape channel 13 is an optional design of the device. Alternatively, the first housing 11 can have a simple opening through which the plasma generated by the piezoelectric transformer 1 can escape. Alternatively, the housing 11 can have a nozzle that is designed to focus or fan the plasma jet or that has a dielectric barrier.

[0145] Furthermore, the first housing 11 can include switches for power and / or gas flow regulation, which can adjust the amount of process medium supplied to the piezo transformer 1. The first housing 11 can have a feedback mechanism that can transmit information about the currently generated plasma to the control circuit 14, wherein the control circuit 14 can also be designed to adjust the control of the piezo transformer 1 based on this information.

[0146] The device also has a second housing 15 . Other components of the device are arranged in the second housing 15 . In particular, a control circuit 14 for the piezo transformer 1 is arranged in the second housing 15 . Furthermore, an energy supply 16 of the device is arranged in the second housing 15 .

[0147] The control circuit 14 is configured to apply an input voltage to the piezo transformer 1 . It is connected to the piezo transformer 1 via a cable 17 . Due to the design of the control circuit 14 , there are generally no significant limitations on cable length. Furthermore, the control circuit 14 does not need to be cooled by a separate cooling device or fan. Alternatively, however, a cooling device can be provided to achieve higher output power, if necessary.

[0148] The cable 17 connecting the control circuit 14 to the piezo transformer 1 can be connected to the first housing 11 either fixedly or with a releasable connection, such as a plug connection. If the cable 17 is connected to the first housing 11 with a releasable connection, the first housing 11 can be completely removed from the second housing 15 when the connection is disconnected and, for example, replaced with another housing. Alternatively, the cable 17 can be connected to the second housing 15 either fixedly or with a releasable connection, such as a plug connection.

[0149] Furthermore, additional lines can be integrated into the cable 17, via which information for the feedback mechanism is transmitted from the first housing 11 to the second housing 15. This embodiment will be explained in more detail later.

[0150] Alternatively or in addition, an operating element, for example a switch, can be arranged on the cable 17 , which switch can regulate the gas flow and thereby the amount of gaseous process medium supplied to the piezo transformer 1 .

[0151] As an alternative or in addition, a hose can be integrated in the cable 17 , via which hose the process medium is conveyed from the second housing 15 into the first housing 11 and in this way supplied to the piezo transformer 1 .

[0152] According to Figure 2 In the exemplary embodiment shown, the energy supply 16 is a battery. The energy supply 16 can also be a rechargeable battery. These batteries can optionally be charged using an inductive charging method. Alternatively, the energy supply 16 can also be a transformer designed to connect to an electrical grid and convert the grid voltage of the grid into the operating voltage of the device.

[0153] The first and second housings 11, 15 are spatially separated from each other. This spatial separation of the first and second housings 11, 15 minimizes gas exchange between the two housings 11, 15. Consequently, gases generated in the first housing 11 do not enter the second housing 15, or at least only in negligibly low concentrations. This protects the control circuit 14, located in the second housing 15, from the irritating gases generated in the first housing 11 during plasma generation. Because the control circuit 14 is not in direct contact with potentially corrosive irritating gases, these gases have no negative impact on the lifespan of the device. Consequently, the spatial separation of the two housings 11, 15 ensures a long service life for the device.

[0154] Furthermore, the spatial separation of the piezoelectric transformer 1 and the control circuit 14, and the associated minimization of gas exchange between the two housings, also enables the device to be integrated into consumer products. A consumer product is a product intended for, for example, personal use by an end user. In this case, special safety requirements must be met, according to which the user of the device must be protected from potentially harmful irritating gases. For example, it is possible to arrange the second housing 15, including the control circuit 14 and operating elements, in an area accessible to the end user, and to arrange the first housing 11, containing the piezoelectric transformer 1 and in which potentially harmful irritating gases may be generated, in an area not directly accessible to the end user. Accordingly, the spatial separation of the piezoelectric transformer 1 and the control circuit 14 protects the end user from irritating gases.

[0155] Since the control circuit 14 makes it possible to dispense with separate cooling, a small and lightweight design of the handheld device in which the device is integrated can be achieved overall.

[0156] In the output region 3 of the piezo transformer 1 , an electric field with high field strength is generated during plasma generation. The spatial separation of the piezo transformer 1 and the control circuit 14 in two separate housings 11 , 15 ensures that the control circuit 14 is not disturbed by the electric field.

[0157] Furthermore, other elements of the device can also be integrated into the second housing 15. For example, operating elements can be accommodated in the second housing 15. These operating elements can provide commands to the control circuit 14 and thereby control the plasma generation by the piezo transformer 1. These operating elements can be buttons, rotary knobs, systems with a touchscreen controlled by a microcontroller, systems without a touchscreen controlled by a microcontroller, remote controls, or systems that can connect to the control circuit via USB, WLAN, or Bluetooth and transmit control commands to it. Alternatively or additionally, the control circuit can be operated using an app or other software. The operating elements can also be located on the cable 17 that connects the first and second housings 11 and 15.

[0158] Furthermore, a gas supply mechanism can be integrated into the second housing 15, which is designed to conduct a gaseous process medium to the piezo transformer 1. Furthermore, a hose can be integrated into the cable 17 connecting the first housing 11 and the second housing 15, through which the gaseous process medium is introduced into the first housing 11.

[0159] For example, the gas supply mechanism can have a ventilator. The gas supply mechanism can have a compressor. The gas supply mechanism can have a connector to which various compressed gas containers can be connected. In order to mix different gases, the gas supply mechanism can also have a gas mixer. The gas supply mechanism can have a pressure reducer and / or a mass flow controller (English: Mass flow controller = MFC), which can regulate the amount of process medium. In addition, the gas supply mechanism can have a gas humidifier or a gas dryer or a sprayer or an atomizer. In addition, it is conceivable to connect the gas regulating mechanism to a stationary gas supply mechanism via a corresponding connector and thereby enable supply. The stationary gas supply mechanism can be, for example, a compressed air source or a gas pressure line, which provides, for example, N2, O2 or Ar.

[0160] The control circuit 14 can be configured to regulate power and / or gas flow concentration. The control circuit 14 can vary the input voltage applied to the piezoelectric transformer 1 and / or the process medium supplied to the piezoelectric transformer 1. The process medium can be varied in both quantity and composition. For example, the device can include multiple gas cylinders containing different gases. The process medium can be generated from a mixture of these gases. By varying the gas mixture ratio, the properties of the generated plasma can be altered.

[0161] The device can include a sensor that detects, for example, the amount of ozone generated by the piezo transformer 1. The control circuit 14 can be designed to change and / or read out at least one of the following parameters, taking into account the values ​​measured by the sensor: input voltage, amount of process medium supplied to the transformer 1, composition of the process medium, input power, and operating time.

[0162] Alternatively or additionally, the device can be designed to detect whether a load is situated in the immediate vicinity of the transformer 1. The control circuit 14 can be designed to change at least one of the following parameters when a load is detected: input voltage, amount of process medium supplied to the transformer, composition of the process medium, input power, and operating time.

[0163] Furthermore, the second housing 15 can include a status display. For example, the status display can include a light-emitting diode (LED). Different colors or different blinking patterns of the LED can convey information about the operating status or battery status of the device. The status display enables status and / or performance monitoring of the device.

[0164] Furthermore, the device can have a visual and / or acoustic irritant gas warning system, which warns the user if a predefined limit value for the irritant gas concentration is exceeded in the immediate vicinity of the device.

[0165] In an exemplary embodiment (not shown), a plurality of piezoelectric transformers 1 can be arranged in the first housing 11. The control circuit 14 can be designed to apply an input voltage to each transformer 1. The piezoelectric transformers 1 can be operated in parallel with one another. In this way, the amount of plasma generated can be increased.

[0166] Figure 3 The piezoelectric transformer 1 is shown fixed in a holder 12. The holder 12 has support elements 18, which are arranged along the longitudinal direction z at one-quarter and three-quarters of the total length of the piezoelectric transformer 1 and rest linearly against the piezoelectric transformer. The holder 12 also has two contact elements 19, which are electrically connected to the external electrodes of the piezoelectric transformer 1. The contact elements 19 are, for example, wires or sheets made of copper, Invar, Copper-Invar-Copper (CIC), or stainless steel. The contact elements 19 can be fixed to the piezoelectric transformer 1 and form a positive connection with the holder 12. This prevents the transformer 1 from moving relative to the holder 12 along the longitudinal direction z.

[0167] As an alternative to the fastening shown here in the holder 12 , the piezo transformer 1 can also be arranged together with the blower and / or the process gas supply in a module. Such a module can be arranged in the first housing 11 .

[0168] Figure 4 A second embodiment of the device is shown, in which a first housing 11 and a second housing 15 are arranged adjacent to each other. The two housings are separated from each other by a common partition wall 20. The partition wall 20 serves to spatially separate the transformer 1 arranged in the first housing 11 from the components arranged in the second housing 15, in particular the control circuit 14 and the energy supply 16.

[0169] The first housing 11 also has a first opening 21 through which ambient air, serving as a process medium, can be supplied to the piezoelectric transformer 1. The first opening 21 is a slit-shaped grid. Furthermore, the first housing 11 has a second opening 22 through which the plasma generated by the piezoelectric transformer 1 can escape from the first housing 11. The second opening 22 is also a slit-shaped grid. The first opening 21 and the second opening 22 can be arranged on either the upper side or the lower side of the first housing 11, respectively. The second opening 22 is arranged at the end of the plasma escape channel 13.

[0170] In other respects, Figure 4 The arrangement shown in FIG. 1 is essentially equivalent to that in FIG. Figure 2 The device shown in .

[0171] Furthermore, an activated carbon filter (not shown) can be arranged between the first opening 21 of the first housing 11 and the piezoelectric transformer 1. The activated carbon filter absorbs ozone and degrades it quickly and effectively. The first opening 21 forms an inlet opening through which the gaseous process medium flows to the piezoelectric transformer 1. However, if the airflow reverses within the first housing 11, the activated carbon filter prevents ozone from escaping through the first opening 21. Consequently, the activated carbon filter increases user safety in the event of a possible malfunction of the device.

[0172] In addition, the device can be configured to prevent potentially harmful irritating gases from escaping from the second opening 22. To this end, the device can be provided with a coating, for example, made of manganese dioxide or iron oxide, that degrades ozone. The coating can be applied, for example, to the inner side of the plasma escape channel 13. Alternatively, ozone escape can be prevented by a filter system arranged on the end face 10 on the output side of the piezoelectric transformer 1. Alternatively, the process medium can be guided in a closed loop to prevent ozone escape. Alternatively, the device can be configured so that the flow of the process medium can be reversed to remove irritating gases during suction operation.

[0173] Figure 5 、 6 7 show a device according to another embodiment. The device has two parts. In particular, the device has a first part 23 and a second part 24, wherein the first part 23 includes the first housing 11 and the second housing 15, and the second part 24 includes the energy supply mechanism 16.

[0174] Figure 5 The first part 23 of the device is shown. The first housing 1 contains the piezoelectric transformer 1. The second housing 15 contains the control circuit 14. The first housing 11 and the second housing 15 are non-releasably connected to each other. A non-releasable connection here means a connection that cannot be detached without damaging the first and / or second housings 11, 15. The first and second housings 11, 15 are spatially separated from each other. Accordingly, the piezoelectric transformer 1 and the control circuit 14 are spatially separated from each other.

[0175] The second housing 15 has a USB plug 25 that can connect the first part 23 to the second part 24 . In particular, the control circuit 14 can be connected to the energy supply 16 via the USB plug 25 .

[0176] Figure 6 A first and a second part 23 , 24 of the device are shown, wherein the two parts 23 , 24 are not connected to each other. Figure 7 A first and a second part 23 , 24 of the device are shown, wherein the two parts 23 , 24 are not connected to each other.

[0177] The second part 24 includes the energy supply 16. The energy supply has a USB plug receptacle 29, which is designed to be connected to the USB plug 25 of the first part 23. The second part 24 can be connected to the first part 23 via a USB plug connection. When the two parts 23, 24 are connected to each other, the control circuit 14 is supplied with voltage via the energy supply 16. In an alternative embodiment, the first and second parts 23, 24 can be connected to each other via another plug connection, such as a bayonet connection.

[0178] The second housing 15 has no built-in battery, no charging electronics, and no DC / DC converter. Accordingly, the first part 23 of the device can be small and compact. The first part 23 of the device can be insensitive to shock loads.

[0179] The first part 23 of the device can be configured to connect to any USB accessory via a USB plug 25. For example, a USB extension cable, USB holder, USB power bank, or USB power supply can be connected to the first part 23. Furthermore, the control circuit 14 can be connected to a USB port on a computer via the USB plug 25. In this case, the device can be configured via the computer. As an alternative or supplement to the USB connection described here, other standardized low-voltage components or systems are also conceivable for connecting the first part 23 to other accessories, such as a micro USB.

[0180] exist Figures 5 to 7 The device shown in the embodiment has the advantage that the first part 23 of the device can be easily replaced. The energy supply 16 can be separated from the first part 23 of the device and connected to another part which also has the piezo transformer 1 and the control circuit 14 in separate housings 11, 15.

[0181] First part 23, which includes piezoelectric transformer 1 and control circuit 14, can be replaced as a module. In this case, first part 23 can be replaced by another housing that also includes piezoelectric transformer 1 and control circuit 14. Piezoelectric transformer 1 is the component of the device that is subject to the greatest wear. By replacing first part 23 as a module, piezoelectric transformer 1 can be replaced with a new one without having to replace the entire device. In particular, energy supply 16 can continue to be used. By replacing first part 23 as a module, replacement can be performed simply and can be carried out, for example, by the end user.

[0182] The first part 23 can be replaced by a part of identical construction. Alternatively, the first part can be replaced by a part in which a nozzle is arranged, which is designed to shape the plasma jet generated by the device or to form a dielectric barrier.

[0183] Figure 8 An alternative design of the first part 23 of the device is shown. Here, the first part 23 comprises a first housing 11 and a second housing 15, wherein the piezo transformer 1 is arranged in the first housing 11 and the control circuit 14 is arranged in the second housing 15. The second housing 15 has a USB plug 25. The USB plug 25 allows the second housing 15 to be connected to the energy supply 16. The first housing 11 and the second housing 15 are connected to each other via a cable 17.

[0184] Figure 9 Another embodiment of the device 1 is shown. Figure 9 1 shows only the first housing 11 with the piezo transformer 1. The first housing 11 is designed as a portable handheld device.

[0185] In addition, the first housing 11 has a ventilator 26, which serves as a process medium conveying mechanism. The handheld device also has an intake elbow 27, into which air is drawn. The intake elbow 27 is positioned near the plasma outlet of the first housing 11. The inner side of the intake elbow 27 is coated with an ozone-degrading coating 28, such as manganese dioxide or iron oxide. Irritating gases, which are inevitably generated during plasma generation, are drawn in through the intake elbow 27, enabling rapid and effective ozone degradation.

[0186] Furthermore, the first housing 11 has a nozzle or a nozzle attachment which shapes the plasma jet generated by the piezo transformer 1. The nozzle can be designed, for example, to fan out the plasma jet or to focus the plasma jet.

[0187] The first housing 11 can be connected to a second housing 15 having a control circuit 14. This connection of the two housings 11, 14 can be detached.

[0188] The first housing 11, which contains the piezoelectric transformer 1 and the nozzle, can be removed from the device and replaced as a module. In this case, the first housing can be replaced by a third housing, which also contains the piezoelectric transformer 1 and the nozzle. The piezoelectric transformer 1 is the component of the device that is subject to the greatest wear. By replacing the first housing as a module, the piezoelectric transformer 1 can be replaced with a new one without having to replace other components arranged in the second housing. For example, the control circuit 14 can continue to be used. By replacing the first housing as a module, replacement work can be performed simply and can be carried out, for example, by the end user.

[0189] Figure 10 A first housing 11 according to another embodiment is shown. A piezoelectric transformer 1 is arranged in the first housing 11 .

[0190] The first housing 11 has an opening which is closed by a coupling plate. The coupling plate comprises a non-conductive material and forms a dielectric barrier, wherein plasma can be ignited on the outer side of the coupling plate.

[0191] A metallization is arranged on the side of the coupling plate facing away from the piezoelectric transformer 1. The metallization influences the electric field generated by the piezoelectric transformer 1. This allows the shape of the plasma ignited on the outer side of the coupling plate to be influenced. By appropriately shaping the metallization, the plasma can be focused or fanned out.

[0192] The device can include a set of coupling plates, each of which can be connected to the first housing 11. The coupling plates can differ from one another in the shape of their metallization. For example, the device can include a first coupling plate having a metallization that causes a convergence of the plasma jet on the outer side of the first coupling plate. Furthermore, the device can include a second coupling plate having a differently shaped metallization that causes a fan-shaped dispersion of the plasma jet on the outer side of the first coupling plate. Depending on the application of the device, the first housing 11 can be connected to either the first coupling plate or the second coupling plate. The coupling plates are interchangeable.

[0193] Furthermore, a fan, a catalytic converter, and a heat exchanger 33 are arranged in the first housing. Furthermore, the first housing 11 has a tubular housing element in which the piezoelectric transformer 1 is arranged. Furthermore, the fan and the catalytic converter are arranged in the tubular housing element.

[0194] The ventilator is designed to realize a circulating air operation inside the first housing 11. In this case, air or other process medium is guided along the piezoelectric transformer 1, then escapes from the tubular housing element and is sucked back into the housing element at the rear side of the tubular housing element. Figure 10 Indicated by arrows in FIG. During recirculating air operation, the catalytic converter, the fan, and the piezo transformer 1 are arranged in this order in the tubular housing element along the flow direction of the process medium. The catalytic converter is arranged so that the process medium is first guided through it before it reaches the piezo transformer 1 again.

[0195] The catalyst is designed to degrade irritating gases, in particular ozone. The catalyst can be, for example, an activated carbon filter. As an alternative or in addition to the activated carbon filter, the catalyst can include a manganese dioxide-based filter or an MnO2-based filter. The manganese dioxide can be present in the form of a coating.

[0196] The process medium is ionized in the piezo transformer 1. This generates ozone and plasma. Outside the first housing 11, plasma is also generated by discharge through the dielectric barrier and through the coupling plate. Ozone and other irritating gases remain inside the first housing 11 and, due to the recirculated air operation, are transported to the catalyst, where they are degraded.

[0197] During operation, piezoelectric transformer 1 is heated, so a considerable amount of heat is not dissipated from transformer 1 into the interior of housing 11. Additional heat is also generated within first housing 11 during ionization of the process medium. To prevent overheating within first housing 11, first housing 11 includes a heat exchanger. The heat exchanger is arranged at the end of first housing 11 opposite the coupling plate. The heat exchanger is designed to dissipate the heat stored in first housing 11 to the surrounding environment.

[0198] Figures 11 to 13 Shown in Figure 3 An alternative embodiment of a holder 12 is shown in FIG, to which the piezo transformer 1 can be fastened. The holder 12 consists of two identical half shells that can be connected to one another.

[0199] Figure 11 A first half-shell of the holder 12 is shown. Figure 12 The first half-shell of the holder 12 is also shown, wherein the piezo transformer 1 and two contact elements 19 for contacting it are also shown. Figure 13 The two half-shells of the holder 12 are shown, as well as the piezo transformer 1 fixed in the holder 12 and the contact elements 19 for contacting it.

[0200] With Figure 3Compared with the retaining member 12 shown in Figures 11 to 13 The holder 12 shown in FIG. 1 has only one support element 18, on which the piezoelectric transformer 1 rests in its resting state. The resting state is defined as a state in which no voltage is applied to the transformer 1 and in which no external forces, such as those caused by impacts, act on the device. Support element 18 is arranged longitudinally over a length that is one-quarter of the total length of the transformer 1. Support element 18 tapers into a wedge shape, so that the transformer 1 rests linearly on support element 18. Contact element 19 is arranged and fixed to the first support element 18.

[0201] The arrangement is free of a supporting element 18 in the output region of the piezo transformer 1 .

[0202] The device also has two projections that are a few micrometers away from the piezoelectric transformer 1 when the transformer 1 is in its resting state. If the transformer 1 moves due to lateral movement, for example, caused by an impact, or deformation caused by an applied voltage, it strikes one or both of the projections, which thus limit the lateral load on the transformer 1 and form a mechanical stop against lateral movement of the transformer 1. The first projection is arranged in the middle of the transformer 1. The second projection is arranged at the input-side end of the transformer 1.

[0203] Reference Signs List

[0204] 1Piezoelectric transformer

[0205] 2 Input area

[0206] 3 Output area

[0207] 4 electrodes

[0208] 5 Piezoelectric materials

[0209] 6 First side

[0210] 7 Second side

[0211] 8First external electrode

[0212] 9 Piezoelectric materials

[0213] 10 Output side end face

[0214] 11 first shell

[0215] 12 retaining parts

[0216] 13 Plasma escape channel

[0217] 14 control circuit

[0218] 15 Second shell

[0219] 16 Energy supply mechanism

[0220] 17 cables

[0221] 18 support elements

[0222] 19 contact elements

[0223] 20 partition wall

[0224] 21 First Opening

[0225] 22 Second opening

[0226] 23 Part 1

[0227] 24 Part 2

[0228] 25 USB plug

[0229] 26 ventilators

[0230] 27 Suction elbow

[0231] 28 coatings

[0232] 29 USB plug housing

[0233] 33 heat exchanger

[0234] x stacking direction

[0235] z longitudinal direction.

Claims

1. An apparatus for generating a non-thermal atmospheric pressure plasma, the apparatus comprising: a first housing (11) in which a piezoelectric transformer (1) is arranged, and a second housing (15), in which a control circuit (14) is arranged, the control circuit being configured to apply an input voltage to the piezoelectric transformer (1), and A fan and a catalytic converter are arranged in the first housing (11). The ventilator is designed to bring about a circulating air operation in which a process medium ionized by the piezo transformer (1) circulates in the first housing (11) and is guided through the catalytic converter before being fed back to the piezo transformer (1), thereby creating a closed gas-guiding system in which irritating gases are prevented from escaping from the first housing.

2. The device according to claim 1, The first housing (11) has a coating (28) for eliminating irritating gases.

3. The device according to claim 2, The coating (28) is manganese dioxide, iron oxide, a bare metal surface, or a surface or paint coated with a metal catalyst.

4. The device according to claim 1 or 2, At least one operating element is arranged in the first housing (11), which controls the generation of plasma. or At least one operating element is arranged in the second housing (15), which controls the plasma generation.

5. The device according to claim 1 or 2, The control circuit (14) has a timing circuit which applies an input voltage to the piezoelectric transformer (1) within a predefined time period and does not apply an input voltage to the piezoelectric transformer (1) during a predefined pause interval between two time periods, wherein the application of the input voltage is prevented for the duration of the pause interval.

6. An apparatus for generating a non-thermal atmospheric pressure plasma, the apparatus comprising: a first housing (11) in which a piezoelectric transformer (1) is arranged, and a second housing (15), in which a control circuit (14) is arranged, the control circuit being designed to apply an input voltage to the piezoelectric transformer (1), The control circuit (14) has a timing circuit which applies an input voltage to the piezoelectric transformer (1) during predefined time periods and which does not apply an input voltage to the piezoelectric transformer (1) during a predefined pause interval between two time periods, wherein the application of the input voltage is prevented for the duration of the pause interval, wherein the transformer is activated purely on a time basis based on the timing circuit without taking into account other operating parameters of the transformer and is deactivated for the duration of the pause interval, and the ozone generation rate is limited to a level which does not pose a health risk.

7. The device according to claim 6, At least one operating element is arranged in the first housing (11), which controls the generation of plasma. or At least one operating element is arranged in the second housing (15), which controls the plasma generation.

8. The device according to claim 6 or 7, The first housing (11) has a coating (28) for eliminating irritating gases.

9. The device according to claim 8, The coating (28) is manganese dioxide, iron oxide, a bare metal surface or a surface coated with a metal catalyst or paint.

10. The device according to claim 1 or 6, The piezoelectric transformer (1) is designed to generate a piezoelectrically ignited microplasma on an output-side end face (10) of the piezoelectric transformer.

11. The device according to claim 1 or 6, The first shell (11) and the second shell (15) are separated from each other.

12. The device according to claim 1 or 6, The control circuit (14) and the piezoelectric transformer (1) are connected to each other via a cable (17).

13. The device according to claim 12, The length of the cable (17) is at least 1 cm.

14. The device according to claim 1 or 6, The first housing (11) has a nozzle which is arranged in front of an end face (10) of the piezoelectric transformer (1) and is designed to shape a plasma jet generated by the piezoelectric transformer (1).

15. The device according to claim 1 or 6, The device has a third housing, and the third housing has a piezoelectric transformer (1). The first shell (11) is replaceable and can be replaced by the third shell.

16. The device according to claim 1 or 6, The first housing (11) is configured to eliminate irritating gases generated when plasma is generated.

17. The device according to claim 16, The first housing (11) has a filter and / or a closed gas guiding system and / or a suction mechanism for eliminating irritating gases.

18. The device according to claim 1 or 6, The device comprises a regulating device which is capable of regulating the amount and / or the composition of the process medium supplied to the piezo transformer (1).

19. The device according to claim 1 or 6, The device comprises a cover which is fixed to the first housing (11) and forms a dielectric barrier immediately in front of an output-side end face (10) of the piezoelectric transformer (1), so that the device is designed to ignite a plasma on a side of the dielectric barrier facing away from the transformer (1) through a dielectric barrier discharge.

20. The device according to claim 1 or 6, A plurality of piezoelectric transformers (1) are arranged in the first housing (11).

21. The device according to claim 1 or 6, The first shell (11) and the second shell (15) are composed of two cavities of an injection molded part.

22. The device according to claim 1 or 6, The first housing (11) and the second housing (15) are separated from each other in a waterproof manner.

23. The device according to claim 1 or 6, The first housing (11) and the second housing (15) are separated from each other in an airtight manner.

24. The device according to claim 1 or 6, An energy supply (16) of the device is arranged in the second housing (15).

25. The device according to claim 1 or 6, The device is a portable handheld device.

26. The device according to claim 1 or 6, wherein means for supplying process gas are arranged in the second housing (15), The device comprises a hose which is designed to guide process gas from the device for supplying process gas from the second housing (15) to a piezoelectric transformer (1) arranged in the first housing (11).

27. The device according to claim 1 or 6, The device comprises a suction elbow (27) which is designed to suck out irritating gases generated by the piezoelectric transformer (1), wherein the irritating gases are eliminated in the suction elbow (27).

28. The device according to claim 1 or 6, The device further comprises sensors for determining the fill level, temperature or humidity in the interior or in the environment of the action chamber.

29. The device according to claim 1 or 6, The device further comprises a circuit component of a remote control for actuating the actuating device.

30. The device according to claim 1 or 6, The device also includes circuit elements for recording operating times, faults, status information, and operating parameters.

31. The device according to claim 1 or 6, The device further comprises one or more displays for optically or acoustically signaling one or more operating parameters.

32. The device according to claim 1 or 6, The device is used to achieve, accelerate or catalyze chemical reactions.

33. The device of claim 1 or 6, configured to activate or disinfect a surface.

34. The device of claim 1 or 6, configured for use in cleaning or treating wounds on the human or animal body.

35. The device according to claim 6, A fan and a catalytic converter are arranged in the first housing (11). The ventilator is designed to bring about a recirculating air operation in which a process medium ionized by the piezo transformer (1) circulates in the first housing (11) and is guided through the catalytic converter before being fed back to the piezo transformer (1).

36. The device according to claim 1 or 6, The first housing (11) has a heat exchanger, which is arranged and configured to dissipate heat from the interior of the first housing (11) to the environment.

37. The device according to claim 1 or 6, wherein the input region (2) of the piezoelectric transformer is placed on a first supporting element (18), The device comprises at least one projection which is at a certain distance from the piezoelectric transformer (1) when the transformer (1) is in a rest state and forms a stop for preventing a lateral movement of the piezoelectric transformer (1).

38. The device according to claim 37, The protrusion is arranged on half the length of the piezoelectric transformer (1).

39. The device according to claim 37, The device comprises a second protrusion which is spaced apart from the piezoelectric transformer (1) when the piezoelectric transformer (1) is in a stationary state and forms a stop for preventing lateral movement of the piezoelectric transformer (1), wherein the second protrusion is arranged at the input-side end of the transformer (1).

40. The device according to claim 1 or 6, wherein the first housing (11) is enclosed by a coupling plate having a dielectric material, and A metallization structure is arranged on the outer side of the coupling plate pointing away from the piezoelectric transformer (1).

41. The device according to claim 1 or 6, The first housing (11) can be connected to a first coupling plate, the first coupling plate comprises a dielectric material and has a first metallization structure on an outer side facing away from the piezoelectric transformer (1), or the first housing (11) can be connected to a second coupling plate, the second coupling plate comprises a dielectric material and has a second metallization structure on an outer side facing away from the piezoelectric transformer (1), The first metallization structure has a shape different from that of the second metallization structure.

42. An action chamber comprising a device according to claim 1 or 6 and a sealed gas volume or an unsealed gas volume.

43. The action chamber according to claim 42, The action chamber has a cover, and the device is arranged on the cover, wherein the plasma outlet of the device is directed away from the cover.

44. The action chamber according to claim 43, The action chamber has a sensor designed to detect opening and closing of the lid, and the device is designed to generate plasma after closing the lid.

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