System for measuring contamination in air conditioners

Abstract

The present invention describes a system for analyzing an air conditioner (150). The system comprises: a detection unit (101) configured to detect a detection signal indicating a contamination condition of an evaporator (151) and / or an air filter of the air conditioner (150) related to bacteria; an analysis unit (102) configured to analyze the level of contamination condition of the evaporator (151) and / or the air filter based on the detection signal; and an output unit (103) configured to output the analyzed contamination level of the evaporator (151) and / or the air filter to a user.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a system and a method for analyzing an air conditioner, in particular an air conditioner in a vehicle, and the use of the system in the air conditioner. Background Art

[0002] In an air conditioner, a compressed cooling fluid such as R134a or R1234yf evaporates from a liquid to a gas within the system while absorbing heat from a closed cooling area such as the interior of a vehicle, such as a car. The evaporator of the air conditioner is subjected to an air flow from the surrounding environment into the interior of the cooled area. When passing through the evaporator, the air flow cools down, wherein condensation is generated at the outer surface of the evaporator. Condensation and the resulting high humidity of the evaporator can lead to the growth of bacteria and fungi.

[0003] Bacteria and fungi can affect the interior of the cooling area and can cause bad odors in the cooling area. In addition, the air quality in the cooling area, such as the air quality in the interior of the car, can affect the concentration and judgment, reaction time and physical performance of the vehicle driver.

[0004] Therefore, the air conditioner, in particular the evaporator of the air conditioner, must be cleaned, especially the air conditioner in the vehicle is cleaned to reduce bad smells and improve air quality. In most cases, the air conditioner, in particular the air conditioner of the car, can be cleaned during maintenance work on the car in the garage.

[0005] It is known to measure the contamination of the evaporator by analyzing the condensate of the air conditioner. In particular, the concentration of bacteria and fungi can be measured. Depending on the test equipment used, this can take from one hour to three days. In addition, it is difficult to obtain the condensate without any external influences and it is necessary to partially dismantle the air conditioner to obtain the condensate. In addition, gas sensors are known that can measure the concentration of volatile organic compounds (VOC) in the air. Summary of the invention

[0006] The object of the present invention is to provide a system for analyzing the contamination of an air conditioner, in particular before unpleasant odors appear in the cooling air of the air conditioner.

[0007] This object is achieved by a system for analyzing an air conditioner, a use of a corresponding system, and a method for analyzing an air conditioner according to embodiments of the application.

[0008] According to a first aspect of the present invention, a system for analyzing an air conditioner is provided. The system comprises: a detection unit configured to detect a detection signal indicating a contamination condition of an evaporator and / or an air filter of the air conditioner related to pollutants (e.g., related to bacteria); an analysis unit configured to analyze the level of contamination condition of the evaporator based on the detection signal; and an output unit configured to output the analyzed level of contamination condition of the evaporator and / or the air filter related to pollutants to a user.

[0009] According to another aspect, the use of the above-described system for detecting, analyzing and outputting the level of contamination of an evaporator and / or an air filter of an air conditioner, in particular an air conditioner of a vehicle, with respect to pollutants is proposed.

[0010] According to another exemplary embodiment, a method for analyzing an air conditioner is provided. According to the method, the following steps are performed: detecting a detection signal indicating a contamination condition of an evaporator and / or an air filter of the air conditioner related to a pollutant (e.g., related to bacteria); analyzing the level of the contamination condition of the evaporator and / or the air filter related to the pollutant based on the detection signal; and outputting the analyzed level of the contamination condition of the evaporator and / or the air filter related to the pollutant to a user.

[0011] The air conditioner comprises, among other things, an evaporator, whereby a cooling fluid is evaporated from a liquid into a gas within the air conditioner system, while absorbing heat from a closed cooling area. Ambient air is blown toward the evaporator, whereby heat is absorbed from the ambient air. Subsequently, the cooled ambient air is blown toward the interior of the cooling area, such as the interior of a room or the interior of a vehicle such as a car. When passing through the evaporator, the ambient air is cooled down, wherein condensation is generated at the outer surface of the evaporator. Condensation and the resulting high humidity of the evaporator can lead to the growth of contaminants such as bacteria and fungi.

[0012] Furthermore, the air conditioner system may include an air filter, which may be a cabin air filter, in particular an air filter of a vehicle. The air filter filters particles such as pollen or other dust particles from the ambient air, which is then blown through the air conditioner and into the cabin of the vehicle. Due to moisture and contamination of the air filter, growth of pollutants such as bacteria and fungi may occur.

[0013] Specifically, the system may be a part of the air conditioner, or the system may be partially integrated in the air conditioner, or the system may be an external system that can be removably connected to the air conditioner to be detected.

[0014] Thus, the corresponding system can be portable and can be connected to different air conditioners. In addition, some units of the system or all units of the system can be installed in the air conditioner. For example, the detection unit can be an external component and can be attached to the air conditioner system in a detachable manner, in particular to the exhaust pipe of the air conditioner, wherein the analysis unit or the decontamination unit (described below) can be integrated in the air conditioner system.

[0015] In a common air conditioner system, in addition to the ambient air, a large amount of cabin air is sucked into the air conditioner system and temperature-treated (heated or cooled) therein, because it is more energy-efficient to cool only part of the ambient air and to additionally mix the ambient air with the cabin air. Therefore, since the cabin air is also blown toward the evaporator and the air filter, pollutants generated in the cabin can also be detected by the detection device.

[0016] The pollutant may be a pollutant or contamination condition related to bacteria. In addition, the pollutant may be an odor-former such as carbonic acid, esters, keto acids, organic amines, ammonia, thiols, which originate from humans, animals or food. Carbonic acid may also be an emission or vapor of plastic materials. In other words, the pollutant may indicate carbonic acid, which is an emission or vapor of plastic materials. For example, components in the cabin of a vehicle such as linings or covers are made of plastic materials, which generate emissions or vapors of carbonic acid. Carbonic acid is a pollutant that needs to be measured because it may cause unpleasant odors.

[0017] The detection unit is configured to detect a detection signal indicating a pollutant, such as a contamination condition related to bacteria or a carbonic acid contamination condition of the evaporator and / or the air filter. Specifically, the detection unit detects the quality of the exhaust gas of the air conditioner and the amount of a chemical substance indicating a pollutant level (concentration), such as a contamination condition related to bacteria and / or a concentration of carbonic acid. For example, the detection unit detects corresponding physical parameters and / or chemical parameters and converts the measured values ​​of these parameters into a detection signal. The physical parameters and / or chemical parameters indicate the level of pollutants of the evaporator and / or the air filter.

[0018] In addition, the detection unit can detect specific operating conditions of the air conditioner, such as operating time, temperature of the injected ambient air, cooling rate of the ambient air and / or humidity of the ambient air. Based on the detected operating conditions, the analysis unit can compare the detected operating conditions with predetermined operating data stored in, for example, a database to determine the level of contaminants of the evaporator, such as bacteria-related contaminants. For example, based on the measurement of the operating time and the cooling rate of the ambient air, the level of bacteria-related contamination can be estimated.

[0019] The analysis unit is connected to the detection unit for receiving the detection signal and analyzing the pollutant level of the evaporator and / or the air filter based on the detection signal. For example, the analysis unit includes a CPU and a memory for storing corresponding data. The analysis unit can be connected to the detection unit in a wired or wireless manner.

[0020] The output unit outputs the analyzed pollutant levels of the evaporator and / or the air filter to the user. The output unit can be configured to generate an audio signal or a visual signal to output the corresponding analyzed levels to the user. For example, the output unit includes a speaker and / or a visual screen to generate the corresponding signal.

[0021] The respective unit of the system may be connected to an energy source, such as the energy source of an air conditioner. Furthermore, the respective unit of the system may comprise a battery, in particular a rechargeable battery.

[0022] According to the method of the present invention, a system for analyzing the pollution of the evaporator and / or air filter of an air conditioner makes it possible to reduce the pollution of the air to be cooled. Using the system according to the present invention allows the air conditioner and in particular the evaporator or the air filter to be cleaned and decontaminated before the pollution of the air exceeds a predetermined threshold. In addition, the service interval for maintaining the air conditioner can become flexible, because the necessary air conditioner service and pollution are carried out taking into account the current pollution and the actual pollution (for example, caused by bacteria or carbonic acid). In conventional methods, the air conditioner must be maintained within flexible and fixed service intervals. Therefore, although the level of the pollution may still be low and does not exceed the predetermined threshold, the air conditioner is still maintained and decontaminated. According to the present invention, if the analysis unit analyzes that the level of the pollution exceeds the corresponding predetermined threshold, an indication of maintaining the air conditioner can be obtained from the output unit. Therefore, unnecessary air conditioner maintenance costs can be avoided.

[0023] According to another exemplary embodiment, the analysis unit is configured to generate a decontamination signal when the analyzed level of the contaminant, such as a contamination situation related to bacteria, exceeds a predetermined level (i.e., a predetermined threshold) of the contaminant. The output unit is particularly configured to output a decontamination signal. For example, the predetermined threshold of the contamination situation related to bacteria describes the corresponding contaminant level, such as a contamination situation related to bacteria or a carbonic acid contamination situation, in which case, unpleasant odors may not be caused and the area to be cooled may not be negatively affected. The analysis unit is configured to compare the measured level of the contamination situation related to bacteria from the detection signal with a predetermined level of the contaminant, such as a contamination situation related to bacteria, the predetermined level of the contaminant indicating that the air conditioner needs to be decontaminated to reduce the level of the contaminant, such as the level of the contamination situation related to bacteria, in particular to reduce the level of the contamination situation related to bacteria of the evaporator. The output unit is configured to output a decontamination signal. The output of the output unit may be a sound signal, and the output of the output unit may also be a graphic symbol illustrating that the air conditioner may need to be maintained.

[0024] According to another exemplary embodiment, the system includes a decontamination unit, wherein the decontamination unit can be connected to the evaporator for decontaminating the evaporator and / or the air filter according to the decontamination signal. For example, alternatively or in addition to visualizing the need to decontaminate the air conditioner, an active component such as a decontamination unit can be provided to perform a decontamination procedure to reduce the level of pollutants in the evaporator and / or the air filter. For example, an analysis unit can be connected to the decontamination unit for transmitting a decontamination signal to the decontamination unit. After receiving the decontamination signal, the decontamination unit can start the corresponding decontamination task. The decontamination unit can decontaminate the evaporator and / or the air filter by injecting a chemical decontamination fluid into the evaporator.

[0025] Furthermore, the decontamination unit can heat the evaporator and / or the air filter until the corresponding bacteria and fungi are eliminated or until the carbonic acid is neutralized. Furthermore, the decontamination unit can include an ultraviolet light source (UV source) for eliminating bacteria and fungi. Thus, there is no need to maintain the air conditioner in the garage.

[0026] For example, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the decontamination unit includes a chemical discharge nozzle for spraying a chemical decontamination fluid to the evaporator and / or the air filter. For example, the decontamination fluid may include: a fungicide; an antibacterial fluid, such as a compound including chlorine, ozone or alcohols; or a catalyst that reacts with pollutants such as carbonic acid.

[0027] According to a further exemplary embodiment, the decontamination unit comprises a heating element that can be coupled to the evaporator and / or the air filter for heating the evaporator and / or the air filter to reduce contamination. The heating element can be a resistance heater that is suitable for heating the evaporator to 70°C, in particular to more than 90°C or more than 100°C.

[0028] According to another exemplary embodiment, the detection unit can be coupled to an exhaust passage of the air conditioner for measuring the pollution. For example, the detection unit includes a sensor element extending into the air passage. The detection unit can include a fixing device for fixing the detection unit to the exhaust passage in a detachable manner. For example, the fixing device includes a hook-shaped element that can be hooked in a ventilation grille of the exhaust passage. In addition, for example, the fixing device can include a clamping element that clamps the detection unit in the exhaust passage. For example, the clamping device can be an elastically deformable extension element.

[0029] According to a further exemplary embodiment, the detection unit comprises a pollution sensor for measuring the concentration of volatile organic compounds in the exhaust air of the air conditioner, wherein the concentration of volatile organic compounds, in particular the concentration of pollutants such as isopropanol and / or carbonic acid, indicates the level of pollutants, such as bacteria-related contamination of the evaporator and / or the air filter and carbonic acid-related contamination. In particular, it has been found that the concentration of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), for example the concentration of alcohols such as isopropanol, indicates the level of bacteria-related contamination, since bacteria and fungi generate small amounts of the corresponding chemical substances. Furthermore, odor formers that are also volatile organic compounds, such as carbonic acid, can be generated by plastic parts, for example by plastic parts in the cabin of a vehicle.

[0030] The pollution sensor may include a plurality of different sensitive layers (e.g., MOX layers), for example, three different sensitive layers, one sensitive layer for reducing gas, one sensitive layer for easily oxidizable gas, and one sensitive layer for heavily oxidizing gas. The corresponding gas composition affects the resistance of each layer. Therefore, based on the resistance change of each of these sensitive layers, accurate results about the concentration of volatile organic compounds can be obtained, thereby obtaining accurate results about the concentration of pollutants. Specifically, the pollution sensor is configured to measure volatile organic compounds that can react with oxygen, that is, VOCs that can be oxidized or deoxygenated.

[0031] According to a further exemplary embodiment, the pollution sensor is configured to measure a concentration of at least 8 ppb (parts per billion) of volatile organic compounds in the exhaust air, in particular to measure a concentration of at least 6 ppb of volatile organic compounds in the exhaust air. Thus, a small amount of corresponding volatile organic compounds can be measured, so that the level of contamination with bacteria-related substances can be accurately predicted.

[0032] According to a further exemplary embodiment, the detection unit comprises an air flow sensor for detecting the exhaust air flow of the air conditioner. Thus, by providing an air flow sensor, the operation of the air conditioner can be measured. For example, if the air flow in the exhaust duct is measured, the detection of contaminants in the evaporator and / or the air filter can be started. Thus, a self-action and automatic operation of the system of the invention can be provided without providing a manual initialization of the detection procedure.

[0033] Furthermore, the detection unit may include a temperature sensor and / or a humidity sensor for measuring the temperature and humidity of the exhaust air over time. Thus, the operation of the air conditioner over time may be measured, which may also indicate the growth of bacteria and fungi at the evaporator and / or air filter. Furthermore, the operation of the air conditioner over time may be measured, which may also indicate the evaporation of carbonic acid in plastic parts in the cabin.

[0034] According to another exemplary embodiment, the detection unit, the analysis unit, the output unit and / or the decontamination unit are connected in a wired or wireless manner for transmitting data. For example, the respective units may include standardized and / or detachable cable connections, such as USB (Universal Serial Bus) connections. In addition, all or some of the units may be connected to transmit data via wireless standards such as Bluetooth, WLAN, WiFi or NFC (Near Field Communication).

[0035] According to another exemplary embodiment, the output unit is a handheld device, in particular a smartphone or a tablet computer. Thus, the analysis unit, the detection unit and / or the decontamination unit may comprise a unique or separate housing, which can be coupled to the air conditioner, and the user of the system may use, for example, his smartphone or tablet computer to connect to the analysis unit, the detection unit and / or the decontamination unit in a wired or wireless manner.

[0036] According to another exemplary embodiment, the air conditioner is an air conditioner of a vehicle, in particular an air conditioner of a car, wherein the analysis unit is a control unit of the vehicle. In other words, the analysis unit and the optional detection unit, decontamination unit and / or output unit can be integrated in the air conditioner or the vehicle, respectively. The analysis unit can be part of the control unit of the vehicle. In addition, the output unit can be a corresponding screen of the vehicle cockpit.

[0037] Furthermore, according to one aspect of the method, if the level of the analyzed contamination exceeds a predetermined level of contamination associated with bacteria, a decontamination signal is generated. Next, the evaporator and / or the air filter is decontaminated according to the decontamination signal. In particular, after decontamination, the level of contaminants is analyzed to analyze whether the level of the analyzed contamination has dropped below the predetermined level of contamination. Thus, the decontamination result of the evaporator and / or the air filter can be verified. If it is determined to be insufficient, further decontamination steps can be initiated for the evaporator and / or the air filter until the desired level of contamination is reached.

[0038] It must be noted that embodiments of the present invention have been described with reference to different subject matters. In particular, some embodiments have been described with reference to device type claims, while other embodiments have been described with reference to method type claims. However, those skilled in the art will understand from the above and following descriptions that, unless otherwise notified, any combination of features relating to different subject matters, in addition to any combination of features belonging to one type of subject matter, in particular a combination of features of a device type claim and features of a method type claim, is also considered to be disclosed with the present application. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0039] The aspects defined above and further aspects of the invention are apparent from the examples of embodiment to be described hereinafter and are explained with reference to the examples of embodiment.The invention will be described in more detail hereinafter with reference to examples of embodiment but to which the invention is not limited.

[0040] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a system for analyzing an air conditioner according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0041] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of a system for analyzing an air conditioner of a vehicle according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0042] Figure 3 A schematic diagram showing a detection unit mounted to a center console of a vehicle according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0043] Figure 4 A graph showing sensor measurement results before a decontamination step according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0044] Figure 5 A graph showing sensor measurement results before a decontamination step according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0045] The illustrations in the accompanying drawings are schematic. It should be noted that in different drawings, similar or identical elements are provided with the same reference numerals.

[0046] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a system for analyzing an air conditioner 150 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown. The system includes: a detection unit 101 configured to detect a detection signal indicating a bacteria-related contamination condition or a carbonic acid contamination condition of an evaporator 151 and / or an air filter of the air conditioner 150; an analysis unit 102 configured to analyze the level of contamination condition of the evaporator 151 based on the detection signal; and an output unit 103 configured to output the analyzed level of contamination condition of the evaporator 151 and / or carbonic acid contamination condition to a user.

[0047] The air conditioner 150 includes an evaporator 151, etc., so that the cooling fluid is evaporated from a liquid to a gas within the air conditioner system while absorbing heat from the enclosed cooling area. Ambient air is blown toward the evaporator 151, thereby absorbing heat from the ambient air. Subsequently, the cooled ambient air is blown toward the interior of the cooling area, such as the interior of a room or the interior of a vehicle such as a car. When passing through the evaporator 151, the ambient air is cooled down, wherein condensation is generated on the outer surface of the evaporator 151. The condensation and the resulting high humidity of the evaporator 151 may lead to the growth of bacteria and fungi.

[0048] In addition, the air conditioner 150 may include an air filter, which may be a cabin air filter, in particular an air filter of a vehicle. The air filter may filter out particles such as pollen or other dust particles in the ambient air, which is then blown through the air conditioner 150 and into the cabin of the vehicle.

[0049] The detection unit 101 is configured to detect a detection signal indicating contamination of the evaporator 151 or the air filter. Specifically, the detection unit 101 detects the quality of the exhaust air of the air conditioner. For example, the detection unit 101 detects corresponding physical parameters and converts the measured values ​​of these parameters into a detection signal. The physical parameters indicate the bacteria-related contamination of the evaporator 151 and / or the air filter. The detection unit 101 includes a pollution sensor for measuring the concentration of volatile organic compounds in the exhaust air of the air conditioner 150, wherein the concentration of volatile organic compounds, in particular the concentration of isopropyl alcohol and / or carbonic acid, indicates the level of bacteria-related contamination of the evaporator 151. In particular, it has been found that the concentration of volatile organic compounds, in particular the concentration of isopropyl alcohol and / or carbonic acid, indicates the level of bacteria-related contamination, because bacteria and fungi produce small amounts of the corresponding chemicals.

[0050] In addition, the detection unit 101 may include an air flow sensor for detecting the exhaust air flow of the air conditioner. Therefore, by providing an air flow sensor, the operation of the air conditioner 150 can be measured. The detection unit 101 may also include a temperature sensor and / or a humidity sensor for measuring the temperature and humidity of the exhaust air over time. Therefore, the operation of the air conditioner 150 over time can be measured, and the operation can also indicate the growth of bacteria and fungi at the evaporator 151. In addition, the contaminant can be carbonic acid or an indicator of carbonic acid, which is an emission or vapor of plastic material. In addition, the detection unit 101 can detect the specific operation of the air conditioner, such as the operation time, the temperature of the injected ambient air, the cooling rate of the ambient air and / or the humidity of the ambient air. Based on the detected operation, the analysis unit 102 can compare the detected operation with the predetermined operation data stored in, for example, a database to determine the level of bacteria-related contamination of the evaporator and / or the air filter or the vapor of the plastic material. For example, based on measurements of the operating time and the cooling rate of the ambient air, the level of bacteria-related contamination or the amount of vaporized carbonic acid in the plastic material can be estimated.

[0051] The detection unit 101 , the analysis unit 102 and / or the output unit 103 are coupled in a wired manner for transmitting data.

[0052] The analysis unit 102 is connected to the detection unit 101 to receive the detected signal and analyze the pollutant level of the evaporator 151 and / or the air filter based on the detected signal. The analysis unit 102 includes, for example, a CPU and a memory for storing corresponding data. Figure 1In the exemplary embodiment, the analysis unit 102 is connected to the detection unit 101 in a wired manner.

[0053] The analysis unit 102 is configured to generate a decontamination signal if the level of the analyzed pollutants, for example, indicating a bacteria-related contamination situation and / or a carbonic acid concentration exceeds a predetermined level (i.e., a predetermined threshold value). The output unit 103 is configured to output a decontamination signal. For example, the predetermined threshold value of the bacteria-related contamination situation or carbonic acid describes a bacteria-related and / or carbonic acid contamination situation, wherein there is no bad smell and no negative impact on the area to be cooled. The analysis unit 102 is configured to compare the level of the measured contamination situation from the detection signal with a predetermined level of the bacteria-related contamination situation, and the predetermined level of the bacteria-related contamination situation indicates the need to decontaminate the air conditioner 150 to reduce the level of the contamination situation, in particular to reduce the level of the contamination situation of the evaporator 151.

[0054] The output unit 103 outputs the analyzed level of the contamination of the evaporator 151 and / or the air filter to the user. The output unit 103 may be configured to generate a sound signal or a visual signal to output the corresponding analyzed level to the user. Figure 1 As shown, the output unit may display symbols indicating low pollution, medium pollution, and high pollution.

[0055] The system includes a decontamination unit 104, wherein the decontamination unit can be coupled to the evaporator 151 for decontaminating the evaporator 151 based on the decontamination signal. For example, in addition to visualizing the need to decontaminate the air conditioner, an active component such as the decontamination unit 104 is provided to perform a decontamination procedure so that the level of contamination of the evaporator 151 is reduced.

[0056] The analysis unit 102 is connected to the decontamination unit 104 to transmit the decontamination signal to the decontamination unit 104. After receiving the decontamination signal, the decontamination unit 104 can start the corresponding decontamination task. The decontamination unit 104 can decontaminate the evaporator 151 and / or the air filter by injecting a chemical decontamination fluid into the evaporator 151.

[0057] Furthermore, the decontamination unit 104 may heat the evaporator 151 until the corresponding bacteria and fungi are eliminated and / or until the level of carbonic acid is reduced. The decontamination unit 104 includes a chemical discharge nozzle 105 for spraying a chemical decontamination fluid to the evaporator 151 and / or the air filter.

[0058] The detection unit 101 is coupled to the exhaust duct 107 of the air conditioner 150 for measuring the pollution. For example, the detection unit 101 comprises a sensor layer along which the air from the exhaust duct 107 flows. The detection unit 101 comprises a fixing device for fixing the detection unit 101 to the exhaust duct 107 in a detachable manner. For example, the fixing device comprises a hook-shaped element that can be hooked in a ventilation grid of the exhaust duct 107. The analysis unit 102 and the output unit 103 are functionally coupled to the detection unit 101 for transmitting corresponding signals.

[0059] In addition, during operation of the system, if the level of the analyzed contamination conditions related to bacteria exceeds the predetermined level of contaminants, a decontamination signal is generated. Next, the evaporator 151 and / or the air filter are decontaminated according to the decontamination signal. In particular, after decontamination, the level of contaminants is analyzed to analyze whether the level of the analyzed contaminants is reduced below the predetermined level of contaminants. Thus, the decontamination results of the evaporator 151 and / or the air filter can be verified. If it is determined to be insufficient, further decontamination steps can be initiated for the evaporator 151 and / or the air filter until the desired level of contamination conditions related to bacteria is reached.

[0060] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of a system for analyzing a vehicle air conditioner according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention is shown. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the air conditioner 150 and in particular the evaporator 151 and / or the air filter are integrated in a center console 201 of the vehicle, in particular in a center console of a car.

[0061] The ambient air is blown toward the evaporator 151, thereby absorbing heat from the ambient air. Subsequently, the cooled ambient air is blown toward the interior of the cooling area, such as the interior of a car. When passing through the evaporator 151, the ambient air is cooled down, wherein condensation is generated at the outer surface of the evaporator 151. The condensation and the resulting high humidity of the evaporator 151 may lead to the growth of bacteria and fungi.

[0062] The detection unit 101, the analysis unit 102 and the decontamination unit 104 are integrated in a center console 201 of the car. Specifically, the detection unit 101 is functionally coupled to and arranged in an exhaust passage 107 formed in the center console 201. Figure 2 The system shown may include Figure 1 The same functional units as those shown in the implementation scheme in FIG.

[0063] For example, the analysis unit 102 is integrated in or formed by the control unit 203 of the vehicle. For example, the control unit 203 also controls the operation of the air conditioner and thus the temperature of the cooling area in the vehicle. Thus, the functional interaction between the air conditioner 150 and the system according to the invention is given and the two are combined in a unique control unit 203.

[0064] If the level of the analyzed contamination exceeds a predetermined level (i.e., a predetermined threshold) of the contamination, the analysis unit 102 may generate a decontamination signal. The decontamination unit 104 may be connected to the evaporator 151 for decontaminating the evaporator 151 based on the decontamination signal. After receiving the decontamination signal, the decontamination unit 104 may initiate a corresponding decontamination task. The decontamination unit 104 may decontaminate the evaporator 151 and / or the air filter by injecting a chemical decontamination fluid into the evaporator 151 and / or the air filter. In addition, the decontamination unit 104 may heat the evaporator until the corresponding bacteria and fungi are eliminated and / or until the concentration of carbonic acid is reduced. The decontamination unit 104 includes a chemical discharge nozzle 105 for spraying a chemical decontamination fluid into the evaporator 151.

[0065] For example, the analysis unit 102, the detection unit 101 and the decontamination unit 104 are connected in a wired manner in the example shown. The analysis unit 102 and the output unit 103 can be connected in a wireless manner, for example, via Bluetooth or NFC, so as to transmit data between the two units, namely the analysis unit 102 and the output unit 103. For example, the analysis unit 102 can transmit a decontamination signal to the output unit 103. Based on the decontamination signal, a corresponding symbol is shown on the display of the output unit 103, which indicates the level of bacteria-related contamination of the evaporator 151. On the other hand, automatically based on the received detection signal or after a control input by the user, the output unit 103 can transmit a control signal to the analysis unit 102 to start the decontamination cycle of the decontamination unit 104.

[0066] The output unit 103 may be a display of a central console 201 of a car. Alternatively, the output unit 103 may be a handheld device 202, such as a mobile phone or a tablet computer.

[0067] The corresponding units of the system, namely, the detection unit 101, the analysis unit 102, the output unit 103, and the decontamination unit 104 can be connected to energy sources, such as the energy source of the air conditioner 150 and the energy source of the vehicle, respectively.

[0068] Figure 3A schematic diagram of a detection unit 101 mounted to a center console 201 of a vehicle according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown. The detection unit 101 can be handheld and clipped or hooked on an exhaust grille (vent) of an exhaust channel 107, which is formed in the center console 201. From the detection unit 101, the exhausted air can approach the sensor layer. Therefore, the air from the exhaust channel 107 flows along the sensor layer. Multiple different sensitive layers (e.g., MOX layers) can be provided, such as three different sensitive layers, one sensitive layer for reducing gases, one sensitive layer for easily oxidized gases, and one sensitive layer for heavily oxidized gases. The corresponding gas composition affects the resistance of each layer. Therefore, based on the resistance change of each of these sensitive layers, accurate results about the concentration of volatile organic compounds can be obtained, thereby obtaining accurate results about the concentration of pollutants.

[0069] In addition, the output unit 103 may be integrated in the detection unit 101. For example, the output unit 103 includes a display showing the level of contamination of the evaporator 151 of the air conditioner 150 and / or the air filter.

[0070] The detection unit 101 can be connected to the external analysis unit 102 via the USB cable 301. In addition, the USB cables 3 and 1 can be used to operate the detection unit 101 and / or charge the detection unit 101.

[0071] Additionally, the detection unit 101 may include a control button 302 for modifying a large portion of the display of the output unit 103. For example, the analysis unit 102 may also be integrated into the detection unit 101.

[0072] Thus, by means of the control buttons 302 shown, control of the decontamination unit 104 may be given. For example, a decontamination cycle may be started by pressing the corresponding control button 302.

[0073] Figure 4 A diagram of sensor measurement results before a decontamination step according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown. The transmitter of the detection unit 101 includes sensor layers, and the exhaust air of the air conditioner 150 can approach these sensor layers. The air from the exhaust channel 107 flows along the sensor layers. The transmitter includes multiple different sensitive layers (e.g., MOX layers), for example, three different sensitive layers, and a sensitive layer can be set for reducing gases, a sensitive layer for easily oxidized gases, and a sensitive layer for heavily oxidized gases. The corresponding gas components affect the resistance of each layer. Therefore, based on the resistance change of each of these sensitive layers, accurate results about the concentration of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) can be obtained, thereby obtaining accurate results about the concentration of pollutants.

[0074] exist Figure 4 , the polluted exhaust air of the air conditioner 150 of the uncleaned air conditioner 150 is illustrated. For example, the air filter and the evaporator 151 are polluted. Therefore, the corresponding resistances of the three sensitive layers RS1, RS2, RS3 are shown in the figure. It can be seen from the figure that the ohmic resistance of the three sensitive layers RS1, RS2, RS3 is between 1.000.000 ohms and 5.800.000 ohms. The temperature t and the flow rate dt remain unchanged.

[0075] Figure 5 A graph showing sensor measurement results before a decontamination step according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0076] exist Figure 5 , the polluted exhaust air of the air conditioner 150 of the decontaminated air conditioner 150 is illustrated. For example, the air filter including the filter element and the holder is decontaminated by replacing the filter element and cleaning the filter housing. The evaporator 151 can be cleaned by chemical reagents. As can be seen from the figure, the ohmic resistance of the three sensitive layers RS1, RS2, RS3 decreases sharply between 40.000 ohms and 380.000 ohms. The temperature t and the flow rate dt remain unchanged.

[0077] Thus, a decrease in ohmic resistance indicates a reduction in contamination, for example a decrease in bacteria-related contamination and / or carbonic acid-related contamination.

[0078] It should be noted that the term "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, and the singular form does not exclude the plural form. Elements described in connection with different embodiments may also be combined. It should also be noted that the reference numerals in the claims should not be interpreted as limiting the scope of the claims.

[0079] List of reference numerals:

[0080] 101 Detection Unit

[0081] 102 Analysis Unit

[0082] 103 Output unit

[0083] 104 Decontamination Unit

[0084] 105 Chemical Exhaust Nozzle

[0085] 106 Heating element

[0086] 107 Exhaust channel

[0087] 150 Air Conditioner

[0088] 151 Evaporator

[0089] 201 Central console

[0090] 202 Handheld

[0091] 203 Control Unit

[0092] 301 USB cable

[0093] 302 control buttons.

Claims

1. A system for analyzing an air conditioner (150), the system comprising: a detection unit (101), the detection unit being configured to detect a detection signal, the detection signal indicating a contamination condition of an evaporator (151) and / or an air filter of the air conditioner (150) related to pollutants; The detection unit comprises a pollution sensor for measuring the concentration of volatile organic compounds in the exhaust air of the air conditioner, wherein the concentration of the volatile organic compounds indicates the level of pollutants in the evaporator and / or the air filter, The detection unit is further configured to detect the operating conditions of the air conditioner, wherein the operating conditions include operating time, temperature of injected ambient air, cooling rate of ambient air, humidity of ambient air and / or exhaust air flow of the air conditioner, an analyzing unit (102) configured to analyze the level of contamination of the evaporator (151) and / or the air filter based on the detection signal and by comparing the detected operating condition with predetermined operating data of the air conditioner, and An output unit (103) is configured to output the analyzed pollution level of the evaporator (151) and / or the air filter related to pollutants to a user.

2. The system according to claim 1, in, The analysis unit (102) is configured to generate a decontamination signal if the analyzed level of contaminants exceeds a predetermined level of contaminants.

3. The system according to claim 2, in, The output unit (103) is configured to output the decontamination signal.

4. The system according to claim 2, further comprising: a decontamination unit (104), The decontamination unit (104) can be connected to the evaporator (151) to decontaminate the evaporator (151) and / or the air filter based on the decontamination signal.

5. The system according to claim 4, in, The decontamination unit (104) comprises a chemical discharge nozzle (105) for spraying a chemical decontamination fluid onto the evaporator (151) and / or the air filter.

6. The system according to claim 4 or 5, in, The decontamination unit (104) comprises a heating element (106) which can be coupled to the evaporator (151) and / or the air filter for heating the evaporator (151) and / or the air filter, thereby reducing the level of contaminants.

7. System according to one of claims 1 to 5, in, The detection unit (101) can be coupled to the exhaust passage (107) of the air conditioner (150) to measure the level of pollutants.

8. The system according to claim 1, in, The pollution sensor is configured to measure a concentration of at least 8 ppb of volatile organic compounds in the exhaust air.

9. The system according to claim 1, in, The pollution sensor is configured to measure a concentration of at least 6 ppb of volatile organic compounds in the exhaust air.

10. The system according to one of claims 1 to 5, in, The detection unit (101) includes an air flow sensor for detecting the exhaust air flow of the air conditioner (150).

11. The system according to one of claims 1 to 5, in, The detection unit (101), the analysis unit (102) and / or the output unit (103) are connected in a wired or wireless manner for data transmission.

12. System according to one of claims 1 to 5, in, The output unit (103) is a handheld (202) device.

13. The system according to claim 12, wherein: The output unit (103) is a smart phone or a tablet computer.

14. System according to one of claims 1 to 5, in, The air conditioner (150) is an air conditioner (150) of a vehicle, wherein the analysis unit (102) is a control unit (203) of the vehicle.

15. The system of claim 14, wherein: The air conditioner (150) is an air conditioner for a car.

16. Use of the system according to one of claims 1 to 15 for detecting, analyzing and outputting the level of contaminants in an evaporator (151) and / or an air filter of an air conditioner (150).

17. The use according to claim 16, wherein The air conditioner (150) is an air conditioner (150) for a vehicle.

18. A method for analyzing an air conditioner (150), the method comprising: A detection signal is detected by a detection unit, wherein the detection signal indicates a contamination condition of an evaporator (151) and / or an air filter of the air conditioner (150) related to pollutants; wherein the detection unit comprises a pollution sensor, wherein the pollution sensor is used to measure a concentration of volatile organic compounds in exhaust air of the air conditioner, wherein the concentration of the volatile organic compounds indicates a level of pollutants in the evaporator and / or the air filter, The detection unit is further configured to detect the operating conditions of the air conditioner, wherein the operating conditions include operating time, temperature of injected ambient air, cooling rate of ambient air, humidity of ambient air and / or exhaust air flow of the air conditioner, Analyzing the level of contamination of the evaporator (151) and / or the air filter with respect to pollutants based on the detection signal and comparing the detected operating condition with predetermined operating data of the air conditioner; and The analyzed pollution level of the evaporator (151) and / or the air filter related to pollutants is output to a user.

19. The method according to claim 18, generating a decontamination signal if the level of the analyzed contaminant exceeds a predetermined level of contamination; Based on the decontamination signal, decontaminating the evaporator (151) and / or the air filter; After the evaporator (151) and / or the air filter are decontaminated, the pollution level associated with the pollutant is analyzed to analyze whether the analyzed pollution level associated with the pollutant is below a predetermined level of the pollution level associated with the pollutant.

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