Adsorption filter element and adsorption filter device

Abstract

An adsorption filtration element (16) for an adsorption filtration apparatus (5) comprises a heater (11) and a frame (37) enclosing an intermediate space (58) and comprising a partition wall (40) extending through the intermediate space (58), the partition wall (40) being configured to receive the heater (11). The heater (11) is configured to heat the regeneration air (R1) within the intermediate space (58) and includes a heater grille (78) through which the regeneration air (R1) flows. The adsorption filter element (16) further comprises one or more adsorption filters (52, 53, 54, 55) comprising at least one adsorbent (8, 9), the one or more adsorption filters (52, 53, 54, 55) being configured to remove carbon dioxide (CO2) and / or water (H2O) from the untreated air (RO) to convert the untreated air (RO) into clean air (RL).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an adsorption filter element for an adsorption filter device, and an adsorption filter device comprising the adsorption filter element. Background Art

[0002] In the case of vehicles that are at least partially powered by electricity, it is advisable to save energy as much as possible in order to achieve the longest possible driving range. For comfort reasons, the passenger compartment of such vehicles can usually be air-conditioned with the help of an air conditioning system. With regard to the desired energy savings, it is advantageous if the air conditioning system for air-conditioning the passenger compartment draws in as little fresh air as possible from the vehicle's surroundings and heats or cools it, but instead recirculates and air-conditions the air in the passenger compartment.

[0003] However, in the above-mentioned recirculation mode for air conditioning the passenger compartment, water contained in the exhaled air of the occupant or passenger can accumulate in the passenger compartment, which can lead to fogging of the windows of the motor vehicle, such as the windshield or side windows. The reason for this is that the dehumidification effect of the air conditioning system, which is caused by an insufficient dew point in the evaporator heat exchanger, cannot be used during the recirculation mode. This situation must be avoided or at least reduced for safety reasons.

[0004] Furthermore, the carbon dioxide contained in the exhaled air can also accumulate in the passenger compartment. This can lead to problems with concentration or even health problems for the occupants. This must also be prevented or at least reduced from both a safety and health perspective, since in a worst-case scenario, excessive concentrations of carbon dioxide in the passenger compartment air could reduce the driver's ability to concentrate to such an extent that an accident is imminent. Summary of the invention

[0005] It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide an improved adsorption filter element for an adsorption filter device.

[0006] Therefore, an adsorption filter element for an adsorption filter device is provided. The adsorption filter element comprises a heater and a frame, the frame enclosing an intermediate space and comprising a partition wall extending through the intermediate space, the partition wall being configured to receive a heater. The heater is configured to heat the regeneration air in the intermediate space and comprises a heater grid through which the regeneration air flows. The adsorption filter element also comprises one or more adsorption filter bodies comprising at least one adsorbent, the one or more adsorption filter bodies being configured to remove carbon dioxide and / or water from untreated air to convert the untreated air into clean air, and each of the one or more adsorption filter bodies comprises an adsorption body grid through which the clean air flows into the intermediate space and through which the heated regeneration air flows out of the intermediate space.

[0007] Adsorption filter elements or adsorption filter bodies are suitable for sorption and / or absorption of carbon dioxide and water. However, substances like nitrogen oxides (NOX) and / or volatile organic compounds (VOCs) can also be sorbed and / or absorbed by the adsorption filter element or adsorption filter body. Examples of volatile organic compounds are higher hydrocarbons. Adsorption filter elements or adsorption filter bodies can also be suitable for sorption and / or absorption of sulfur dioxide (SO2).

[0008] As used herein, "adsorption" refers to a process that results in the enrichment of a substance (e.g., carbon dioxide or water) within a phase or at an interface between two phases. Accumulation within a phase is called absorption, while accumulation at an interface is called sorption. As used herein, "desorption" refers to the process by which atoms or molecules (particularly carbon dioxide or water) leave a solid surface. Thus, desorption generally represents the reverse process of adsorption. The adsorbed and / or absorbed substance can be released from the adsorbent by applying heat to the adsorbent.

[0009] In adsorption mode, the adsorption filter element or the adsorption filter body adsorbs and / or absorbs different substances, such as carbon dioxide and / or water. In desorption mode, the enriched substances can be released from the adsorption filter element or the adsorption filter body. Thus, the adsorption filter element or the adsorption filter body can be regenerated. In desorption mode, heat is applied to the adsorption filter element or the adsorption filter body, in particular the adsorbent. The adsorption filter element can be a pure adsorption sorption element, or can be designated as such. The adsorption filter body can be a pure adsorption filter body, or can be designated as such. Preferably, the adsorption filter element or the adsorption filter body can be easily and quickly replaced. The adsorption mode can also be or be designated as a pure adsorption mode. The desorption mode can also be called a regeneration mode.

[0010] The adsorption filter element or adsorption filter body preferably contains several adsorbents. In particular, an adsorbent suitable for adsorption, in particular adsorption of carbon dioxide can be provided. This adsorbent can be called a carbon dioxide adsorbent or a CO2 adsorbent. Another adsorbent can be provided, which is suitable for adsorption, in particular adsorption of water. This adsorbent can be called a water adsorbent or a H2O adsorbent. The adsorbent can be in the form of particles or fibers, in particular in the form of blocks. In particular, the adsorbent is fixed by means of a carrier material. The adsorbent can also be a pure adsorbent or be designated as such. Untreated air can be guided through the adsorbent in parallel or in series.

[0011] In desorption mode, regeneration air is taken from the intermediate space. Clean air can be used as regeneration air. Initially, the regeneration air is unloaded. In desorption mode, the unloaded regeneration air is loaded with carbon dioxide and water and is supplied to the environment of the adsorption filter device as loaded regeneration air. Due to the fact that the regeneration air is "unloaded" with carbon dioxide and water, it is particularly understood that the regeneration air can absorb carbon dioxide and water stored in the adsorption filter element or adsorption filter body in desorption mode. However, this does not exclude that the unloaded regeneration air also contains a certain amount of carbon dioxide and water. However, the unloaded regeneration air is not saturated with carbon dioxide and water.

[0012] The sorption filter device may be part of a heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system of a vehicle. Preferably, the sorption filter device comprises a housing surrounding an sorption filter element. The sorption filter element is replaceable and can be moved out of the housing and back into the housing. However, preferably, the sorption filter element itself is not replaced, but only the sorption filter body is replaced. When the sorption filter element is removed from the housing, the sorption filter body can be replaced.

[0013] The frame is received in the housing and supports the adsorption filter. The frame may be made of a plastic material. The frame is preferably hollow and encloses or surrounds the intermediate space. In adsorption mode, untreated air flows from the outside of the intermediate space through at least some of the adsorption filter bodies into the intermediate space and is transformed into clean air because carbon dioxide and / or water are removed from the untreated air with the aid of one or more adsorbents. In desorption mode, unloaded regeneration air flows out of the intermediate space from the inside of the intermediate space through at least some of the adsorption filter bodies and is transformed into loaded regeneration air because carbon dioxide and / or water are removed from the one or more adsorbents with the aid of heated and unloaded regeneration air.

[0014] In this context, a partition wall "extending through" the intermediate space means that the partition wall divides or divides the intermediate space into a plurality of sections or segments, namely a first intermediate space segment and a second intermediate space segment. The partition wall is arranged between the first intermediate space segment and the second intermediate space segment. The partition wall is arranged at least partially within the intermediate space. However, the partition wall may be arranged at least partially outside the intermediate space.

[0015] Preferably, the partition wall comprises a receiving section for receiving the heater. Thus, the partition wall or the receiving section carries or supports the heater. In particular, the heater is part of the adsorption filter element. The adsorption filter element preferably comprises exactly one heater. The heater may be replaceable. The heater may be a PTC heater (positive temperature coefficient). Preferably, the heater comprises a frame carrying the heater grid. The frame is received in the receiving section of the partition wall. The frame may be made of plastic or ceramic material. The heater may comprise one or more thermocouples. Preferably, a thermocouple is provided on each side of the partition wall.

[0016] The heater grid may be referred to as a first grid. Therefore, the terms "heater grid" and "first grid" are interchangeable herein. The heater grid may be made of a metal wire. The heater grid is energized by a power source (e.g., a battery) to supply heat to the adsorbent via unloaded regeneration air heated by the heater in regeneration mode. The heater grid may have a zigzag shape. The heater or heater grid is fluid permeable. In this context, the heater or heater grid is "fluid permeable" meaning that a fluid, in particular regeneration air, can be guided through the heater or heater grid so that the air contacts the heater grid. In this way, heat is supplied to the regeneration air thus heated. The heated regeneration air supplies heat to the adsorbent. In particular, when the regeneration air passes through the heater grid, the heater heats the regeneration air in the intermediate space. In particular, when the regeneration air flows from the first intermediate space section into the second intermediate space section, the heater heats the regeneration air in the intermediate space, or vice versa.

[0017] "Converting" untreated air into clean air means removing carbon dioxide and / or water from the untreated air with the aid of an adsorbent. The removal can be carried out with the aid of a sorption and / or absorption process. As mentioned above, the clean air can be used as unloaded regeneration air in regeneration mode. The unloaded regeneration air is heated with the aid of a heater and directed through the adsorption filter to be regenerated.

[0018] The adsorption filter grid is fluid-permeable so that clean air and regeneration air can pass through the adsorption filter grid. The adsorption filter grid can be a metal or plastic mesh or the like. The heated regeneration air preferably leaves the intermediate space via the adsorption filter grid, passes through one or more adsorbents, and leaves the adsorption filter element as loaded regeneration air. The loaded regeneration air is discharged into the environment. The adsorption filter grid can be referred to as a second grid. Therefore, the terms "adsorption filter grid" and "second grid" are interchangeable in this article.

[0019] Since the heater can be received in the partition wall, a single heater can be used to supply heat to a plurality of adsorption filter bodies. This reduces costs and allows a compact design of the adsorption filter element. Easy replacement of the adsorption filter body is possible. Preferably, the adsorption filter body is the only non-lifelong part of the adsorption filter element.

[0020] In an embodiment, the one or more adsorption filter bodies are arranged on respective opposite sides of the frame. The adsorption filter bodies being arranged on respective opposite sides of the frame may mean that the adsorption filter bodies face each other. In this case, two adsorption filter bodies may be assigned to each of the intermediate space segments. In particular, the frame comprises a first bracket and a second bracket, wherein each bracket carries or supports at least one of the adsorption filter bodies. The bracket preferably encloses the intermediate space. However, "opposite sides" may also mean that each bracket has two sides, wherein each side encloses a portion of one of the intermediate space segments. Therefore, at least one of the brackets carries one or more adsorption filter bodies.

[0021] In an embodiment, the partition wall is configured to be guided along the guide rail of the adsorption filter device housing when the adsorption filter element is moved out of the housing and into the housing, and the adsorption filter element also includes an end cap configured to close the housing, and the end cap is attached to the frame. This realizes easy replacement of the adsorption filter body. The guide rail is a part of the housing. The guide rail can be arranged at the top and bottom of the housing. Therefore, by pulling the end cap away from the housing, the frame can be pulled out of the housing. Since the partition wall carries the heater, it is not necessary to remove the heater and the end cap from the frame when replacing the adsorption filter body.

[0022] In an embodiment, the heated regeneration air flows out of the intermediate space into the environment via the outlet. The heated regeneration air passes through the adsorption filter and flows into the interior space of the housing. The heated regeneration air is loaded with carbon dioxide and / or water and flows into the interior space of the housing. The loaded regeneration air leaves the housing via the outlet. The outlet may be part of the inlet / outlet arrangement.

[0023] In an embodiment, the partition wall is arranged along a central portion of the intermediate space. In other words, the partition wall extends through the intermediate space in a central manner. In particular, the partition wall divides the intermediate space into two identical intermediate space sections.

[0024] In an embodiment, the partition wall divides the intermediate space into a first intermediate space section and a second intermediate space section, and the regeneration air flows from the first intermediate space section through the heater grid into the second intermediate space section, or vice versa. The intermediate space sections preferably have the same size and geometry.

[0025] In an embodiment, the frame comprises a first bracket and a second bracket configured to carry one or more adsorption filter bodies, the first bracket and the second bracket enclosing the intermediate space. Preferably, the partition wall supports or carries the brackets. In particular, each bracket supports or carries two adsorption filter bodies.

[0026] In an embodiment, the frame comprises a protrusion, which is configured to press against the adsorption filter grid. This presses the adsorption grid against the adsorbent. In this way, movement of the adsorbent is prevented. This results in a reduction in noise. The protrusion may be dome-shaped.

[0027] In an embodiment, the adsorption filter element further comprises two pairs of one or more adsorption filter bodies, the two pairs respectively forming adsorption filter devices configured to interchangeably enter the desorption mode from the adsorption mode and vice versa. Preferably, the adsorption filter element has two adsorption filter devices. Each adsorption filter device is assigned to one of the intermediate space segments.

[0028] In an embodiment, each of the two pairs of one or more adsorption filter bodies is arranged in a V-shaped configuration or a parallel configuration. In other words, the adsorption filter bodies of each adsorption filter device are arranged obliquely to each other.

[0029] Furthermore, the adsorption filter device comprises an adsorption filter element as explained above and a housing configured to receive the adsorption filter element. As mentioned above, the adsorption filter element can be pulled out of the housing and moved into the housing to replace the adsorption filter body.

[0030] In an embodiment, the adsorption filter device further comprises an inlet / outlet device attached to the housing and configured to supply untreated air to the adsorption filter element and direct clean air away from the adsorption filter element. The inlet / outlet device allows untreated air to enter the housing and discharges clean air from the housing.

[0031] In an embodiment, the inlet / outlet device includes an outlet configured to discharge the heated regeneration air into the environment. The outlet may be tubular. As mentioned above, the heated regeneration air is loaded with carbon dioxide and / or water. Therefore, the heated regeneration air may be referred to as loaded regeneration air.

[0032] In an embodiment, the inlet / outlet device comprises a first inlet / outlet and a second inlet / outlet, each of the first inlet / outlet and the second inlet / outlet branches into two fluid channels, and the two fluid channels of the second inlet / outlet are fluidly connected to the intermediate space. The first inlet / outlet can be used as an inlet for allowing untreated air to enter the housing. Therefore, the first inlet / outlet can be referred to as an untreated air inlet. The second inlet / outlet can be used as an outlet for allowing clean air to leave the housing. Therefore, the second inlet / outlet can be referred to as a clean air outlet. Clean air is preferably discharged into one of the fluid channels of the second inlet / outlet.

[0033] In an embodiment, the inlet / outlet device further comprises a movable flap, which is configured to alternately open and close one of the two fluid channels of the first inlet / outlet and one of the two fluid channels of the second inlet / outlet. Preferably, the first inlet / outlet has a first flap, and the second inlet / outlet has a second flap. The first flap can be referred to as an upper flap or a top flap. The second flap can be referred to as a lower flap or a bottom flap. The flaps are connected to each other by means of a rotating shaft, which can be driven by means of a drive member. By means of the flap, one of the fluid channels of the two inlets / outlets can be closed, with the other fluid channel opened. By means of the flap, alternating operation of adsorption mode and desorption mode is possible. The second flap can also open and close a window in each of the two fluid channels of the second inlet / outlet. The window fluid is connected to the outlet, and the outlet discharges the regeneration air of the load into the environment. In the desorption mode, the corresponding window is opened so that the regeneration air of the load can leave the housing or the inlet / outlet device. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0034] The diagram shows:

[0035] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of one embodiment of a motor vehicle;

[0036] Figure 2 is used according to Figure 1 A schematic diagram of an embodiment of an adsorption filter device for a motor vehicle;

[0037] Figure 3 is based on Figure 2 A schematic perspective view of an adsorption filtration device;

[0038] Figure 4 is based on Figure 2 Another schematic perspective view of an adsorption filtration device;

[0039] Figure 5 is based on Figure 2 A schematic perspective exploded view of an adsorption filtration device;

[0040] Figure 6 is based on Figure 2 A schematic front view of an adsorption filtration device;

[0041] Figure 7 is based on Figure 2 A schematic side view of an adsorption filtration device;

[0042] Figure 8 is based on Figure 7 A cross-sectional view of the adsorption filtration device along the section line IIX-IIX;

[0043] Fig. 9 is based on Figure 7 Another cross-sectional view of the adsorption filtration device along the section line IX-IX;

[0044] Fig.10 is based on Figure 7 A cross-sectional view of the adsorption filtration device along the section line XX; and

[0045] Fig.11 is used according to Figure 2 A schematic diagram of an embodiment of a heater of an adsorption filtration device.

[0046] In the figures, identical or functionally identical elements have been given the same reference numerals, unless indicated otherwise. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0047] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of an embodiment of a motor vehicle 1 is shown. The motor vehicle 1 is preferably an electric vehicle or a hybrid vehicle. However, the motor vehicle 1 can also be driven by means of an internal combustion engine. The motor vehicle 1 comprises a body 2 which encloses an enclosed air volume 3. "Enclosed" in the present context means that the body 2 defines the boundaries or the geometric extension of the enclosed air volume 3. However, this does not necessarily mean that the enclosed air volume 3 cannot exchange air with the environment U of the motor vehicle 1.

[0048] The enclosed air volume 3 is the interior or passenger compartment of a motor vehicle 1. However, the enclosed air volume 3 can also be associated with a vessel, a construction machine or a construction vehicle, a rail vehicle, an agricultural machine or an agricultural vehicle or an aircraft. However, the enclosed air volume 3 can also be part of a building or a stationary machine.

[0049] However, in the following it is assumed that the enclosed air volume 3 is the passenger compartment of the motor vehicle 1. Therefore, the enclosed air volume 3 is referred to as the passenger compartment in the following. The passenger compartment 3 can be air-conditioned by means of a heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system 4. In order to extend the driving range of such an electrically driven motor vehicle 1, it is desirable to save energy as much as possible. With regard to the HVAC system 4, this means that it should draw in as little fresh air as possible from the environment U of the motor vehicle 1 to air-condition the passenger compartment 3.

[0050] However, when the recirculated air taken from the passenger compartment 3 is used to air condition the passenger compartment 3, water (H2O) contained in the exhaled air of the occupants or passengers may accumulate in the passenger compartment 3, which may lead to fogging of the windows (e.g. windshield or side windows) of the motor vehicle 1. This situation must be avoided or at least reduced in view of safety aspects. In addition, carbon dioxide (CO2) contained in the exhaled air can also accumulate in the passenger compartment 3. This can lead to problems with concentration or even health damage for the occupants. This situation must also be prevented or at least reduced in terms of both safety and health.

[0051] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of an embodiment of an adsorption filter device 5 is shown for the combined reduction of CO2 and H2O, in particular water vapor, in the passenger compartment 3. The adsorption filter device 5 is part of the HVAC system 4. With the aid of the adsorption filter device 5, the aforementioned disadvantages can be prevented or their effects can at least be reduced. In addition, the adsorption filter device 5 can also be used to prevent impurities from the environment U from entering the passenger compartment 3, since the preparation of the circulating air means that the intake of ambient air can be largely omitted.

[0052] The adsorption filtration device 5 comprises a first adsorption filtration device 6 and a second adsorption filtration device 7. "Adsorption" is a general term for processes that cause substances to accumulate within one phase or at the interface between two phases. Enrichment within a phase is more precisely called absorption, and enrichment at the interface is called sorption. This means that the adsorption filtration devices 6, 7 are suitable for sorption and / or absorption of substances such as CO2 and H2O, as well as nitrogen oxides (NOX) and / or volatile organic compounds (VOC). An example of a volatile organic compound is a higher hydrocarbon. The adsorption filtration devices 6, 7 can also be suitable for sorption and / or absorption of sulfur dioxide (SO2). However, preferably, the adsorption filtration devices 6, 7 are pure sorption units, or can be specified as such.

[0053] The adsorption filter devices 6, 7 are preferably exchangeable and, as will be further explained below, can be operated alternately in an adsorption mode M1 and a desorption mode M2. The adsorption mode M1 may also be referred to as a sorption mode. The desorption mode M2 ​​may also be referred to as a regeneration mode. That is, when the second adsorption filter device 7 is in the desorption mode M2, the first adsorption filter device 6 is in the adsorption mode M1, and vice versa. Therefore, the two adsorption filter devices 6, 7 are never in the same mode M1, M2 at the same time. Preferably, each of the adsorption filter devices 6, 7 has a cylindrical shape so that they can be easily replaced.

[0054] Each adsorption filter device 6, 7 comprises a first adsorbent 8 and a second adsorbent 9. Preferably, the adsorbents 8, 9 are sorbents or can be designated as such. For example, the first adsorbent 8 is suitable for sorbing CO2. Therefore, the second adsorbent 9 may be suitable for sorbing H2O. Therefore, the two adsorbents 8, 9 can remove H2O and CO2 from the passenger compartment 3. The first adsorbent 8 is illustrated with a small circle. The second adsorbent 9 is illustrated with a large circle. Other adsorbents may also be provided, for example adsorbents suitable for sorbing NOX or VOC. Therefore, any number of different adsorbents 8, 9 may be provided to treat the circulating air in the passenger compartment 3.

[0055] For example, in addition to the adsorbents 8, 9, at least one further adsorbent or several further adsorbents (not shown) are provided, which are suitable for removing fine particles, NOx and / or VOC from the untreated air RO. The further adsorbent can be introduced between two carrier layers, in particular carrier layers made of non-woven fabric. Alternatively, the adsorbents 8, 9 and the further adsorbent can be mixed together. The further adsorbent can include activated carbon, in particular in the form of blocks, which is preferably introduced between the two carrier layers. One or more further adsorbents can be mixed with the first adsorbent 8 and / or the second adsorbent 9 to establish one or more mixed block layers.

[0056] Furthermore, the adsorption filter devices 6, 7 can also be suitable for removing allergens, bacteria and / or viruses from the untreated air RO in addition to CO2 and H2O. This can be achieved by a functional coating of the carrier material (e.g. nonwoven fabric) or by a functional coating of the adsorbent 8, 9. Furthermore, from a comfort aspect, the adsorption filter devices 6, 7 can have at least one fragrance component.

[0057] The adsorbents 8, 9 can each be in the form of spherical particles. Preferably, the adsorbents 8, 9 are fixed to or by means of a carrier material. The adsorption filter devices 6, 7 can each have a cylindrical, in particular hollow cylindrical, pie-shaped or rectangular geometry. A "pie-shaped" geometry particularly means a flat cylindrical geometry.

[0058] exist Figure 2 In the embodiment of the present invention, the first adsorption filter device 6 is in the aforementioned adsorption mode M1. The second adsorption filter device 7 is in the desorption mode M2. In the adsorption mode M1, untreated air RO loaded with CO2 and H2O from the passenger compartment 3 is supplied to the first adsorption filter device 6. For this purpose, a first blower 10 may be provided. The untreated air RO at least partially passes through the first adsorption filter device 6, wherein the adsorbents 8, 9 purify the CO2 and H2O in the untreated air RO. The purified untreated air RO is supplied back to the passenger compartment 3 as clean air RL.

[0059] The mechanism includes a heater 11. The heater 11 is designed to supply heat Q to the first adsorption filter device 6 or to the second adsorption filter device 7. In other words, the heater 11 can be switched between the first adsorption filter device 6 and the second adsorption filter device 7. With the help of the heater 11, heat Q can be supplied to the adsorbent 8, 9. In the adsorption mode M1, the heater 11 does not supply heat Q to the corresponding adsorption filter device 6, 7, and in the desorption mode M2, the heater 11 supplies heat Q to the corresponding adsorption filter device 6, 7. Figure 2 In the embodiment, the heater 11 supplies heat Q only to the second adsorption filter device 7 in the desorption mode M2 ​​and does not supply heat Q to the first adsorption filter device 6 in the adsorption mode M1.

[0060] The heater 11 may be a PTC heater (positive temperature coefficient). However, the heat Q may also be introduced in any other way. For example, the heat Q may be waste heat from an electric motor used to drive the motor vehicle 1. The heat Q may also be waste heat from a conventional internal combustion engine, a battery cooling system or a fuel cell cooling circuit. The heater 11 may also be a heat exchanger or include a heat exchanger. Thermocouples 12 and 13 may be assigned to the heater 11. A first thermocouple 12 assigned to the first adsorption filter device 6 and a second thermocouple 13 assigned to the second adsorption filter device 7 may be provided.

[0061] In the desorption mode M2, the unloaded regeneration air R1 is supplied to the second adsorption filter device 7 loaded with CO2 and H2O. The second blower 14 can be used for this purpose. Due to the fact that the unloaded regeneration air R1 is "unloaded" with CO2 and H2O, it is understood that the unloaded regeneration air R1 can absorb CO2 and H2O stored in the second adsorption filter device 7. That is, the unloaded regeneration air R1 may also have some content of CO2 and H2O. However, the unloaded regeneration air R1 is not saturated with CO2 and H2O. For example, the unloaded regeneration air R1 can be taken from the passenger compartment 3 or the environment U.

[0062] When the adsorbents 8, 9 are heated in the desorption mode M2 ​​of the second adsorption filter device 7, they release CO2 and H2O to the unloaded regeneration air R1. In other words, CO2 and H2O are desorbed. Desorption preferably requires a temperature of more than 55°C. The unloaded regeneration air R1 passes through the second adsorption filter device 7, where CO2 and H2O are absorbed, and is discharged from the second adsorption filter device 7 as loaded regeneration air R2. In particular, the loaded regeneration air R2 is supplied to the environment U.

[0063] Figure 3 A schematic perspective view of an adsorption filter device 5 as explained before is shown. Figure 4 A further schematic perspective view of an adsorption filter device 5 is shown. Figure 5 A schematic perspective exploded view of an adsorption filter device 5 is shown. Figure 6 A schematic front view of an adsorption filter device 5 is shown.

[0064] Figure 7 A schematic side view of an adsorption filter device 5 is shown. Figure 8 Shown according to Figure 7 A cross-sectional view of the adsorption filtration device 5 along the section line IIX-IIX. Fig. 9 Shown according to Figure 7 Another cross-sectional view of the adsorption filter device 5 along the section line IX-IX. Fig.10 Shown according to Figure 7 XX is a cross-sectional view of the adsorption filtration device 5. In the following, reference will be made to Figures 3 to 10 .

[0065] The adsorption filter device 5 comprises a housing 15 for receiving a removable adsorption filter element 16. The housing 15 may have a rectangular cross section. The housing 15 encloses an inner space or an interior space 17. The adsorption filter element 16 is arranged in the interior space 17. The adsorption filter element 16 comprises an adsorption filter device 6, 7, a heater 11 and thermocouples 12, 13. The adsorption filter element 16 is replaceable. The adsorption filter devices 6, 7 are also replaceable. The adsorption filter element 16 will be explained in detail later.

[0066] The inlet / outlet device 18 is attached to the housing 15. The inlet / outlet device 18 can be fixed to the housing 15 with bolts. A sealing element 19 is positioned between the housing 15 and the inlet / outlet device 18. The sealing element 19 can be made of rubber or polyurethane, for example. The sealing element 19 seals the inlet / outlet device 18 relative to the housing 15 in a fluid-tight manner.

[0067] The inlet / outlet device 18 includes a first inlet / outlet 20 and a second inlet / outlet 21. The first inlet / outlet 20 can be referred to as an upper inlet / outlet or a top inlet / outlet. The second inlet / outlet 21 can be referred to as a lower inlet / outlet or a bottom inlet / outlet. The inlet / outlets 20, 21 are fluidly disconnected from each other. Untreated air RO can be supplied to the adsorption filter element 16 via the first inlet / outlet 20, and clean air RL can be supplied to the passenger compartment 3 via the second inlet / outlet 21.

[0068] The first inlet / outlet 20 branches into two fluid channels 22, 23 leading to the interior space 17. The second inlet / outlet 21 branches into two fluid channels 24, 25 also leading to the interior space 17. The fluid channels 22, 23, 24, 25 are all fluidly disconnected from each other. Via the fluid channels 22, 23, untreated air RO can be supplied to the adsorption filter element 16. Via the fluid channels 24, 25, clean air RL can be guided away from the adsorption filter element 16 into the passenger compartment 3.

[0069] The inlet / outlet device 18 has a first flap 26 assigned to the first inlet / outlet 20 and a second flap 27 assigned to the second inlet / outlet 21. The first flap 26 is arranged in the first inlet / outlet 20. The second flap 27 is arranged in the second inlet / outlet 21. The flaps 26, 27 are connected to each other by means of a rotation shaft 28. The rotation shaft 28 is rotatably supported in the inlet / outlet device 18. The rotation shaft 28 can be driven by means of a drive member 29. The drive member 29 can be an electric motor. The first flap 26 includes two plate-shaped arm sections 30, 31. Similarly, the second flap 27 includes two plate-shaped arm sections 32, 33. The first flap 26 can be called an upper flap or a top flap. The second flap 27 can be called a lower flap or a bottom flap.

[0070] Both the first flap 26 and the second flap 27 are attached to the rotating shaft 28 so that the driving member 29 can move the two flaps 26, 27 simultaneously. The first flap 26 can close either the fluid channel 22 or the fluid channel 23. The second flap 27 can close either the fluid channel 24 or the fluid channel 25. In other words, the flaps 26, 27 can close either the fluid channel 22, 24 or the fluid channel 23, 25. When the fluid channel 22 is open, the fluid channel 23 is closed. When the fluid channel 23 is open, the fluid channel 22 is closed. When the fluid channel 24 is open, the fluid channel 25 is closed. When the fluid channel 25 is open, the fluid channel 24 is closed.

[0071] The inlet / outlet device 18 further comprises an outlet 34 for discharging the loaded regeneration air R2 into the environment U. The outlet 34 is fluidly connected to a window 35 ( Fig. 9) and a window 36 leading to the fluid channel 25. When the second flap 27 closes the fluid channel 25, the second flap 27 also closes the window 35. When the second flap 27 closes the fluid channel 24, the second flap 27 also closes the window 36. In other words, when the fluid channel 24 is open, the window 36 is open. When the fluid channel 25 is open, the window 35 is open.

[0072] Returning now to the adsorption filter element 16, the adsorption filter element 16 comprises a frame 37 and an end cap 38. The frame 37 is connected to the end cap 38. The frame 37 and the end cap 38 can be designed as an integral part. The end cap 38 is suitable for closing the housing 15 away from the inlet / outlet device 18. The adsorption filter element 16 or the end cap 38 can be connected to the housing 15 by means of attachment elements 39, only one of which is provided as a reference numeral.

[0073] The frame 37 comprises a partition wall 40 which divides the interior space 17 into two interior space sections 41, 42. The partition wall 40 is guided in the housing 15 by means of two guide rails 43, 44. The guide rails 43, 44 can be arranged on the top 45 and the bottom 46 of the housing. The top 45 and the bottom 46 are connected to each other by side walls 47, 48.

[0074] The partition wall 40 carries or supports the heater 11. The heater 11 can be attached to the partition wall 40. The heater 11 is electrically connected to a plug 49 extending from the end cover 38. By means of the plug 49, the heater 11 can be powered. The heater 11 is fluid permeable. This means that air, in particular unloaded regeneration air R1, can flow through the heater 11. For this purpose, the heater 11 can be at least partially grid-shaped.

[0075] The frame 37 further comprises a first bracket 50 and a second bracket 51. The first bracket 50 and the second bracket 51 can be connected to each other. The first bracket 50 carries two adsorption filter bodies 52, 53. The second bracket 51 carries two adsorption filter bodies 54, 55. The adsorption filter bodies 52, 54 together form a first adsorption filter device 6. The adsorption filter bodies 53, 55 together form a second adsorption filter device 7.

[0076] The first bracket 50 and the second bracket 51 surround a first intermediate space section 56 and a second intermediate space section 57. The intermediate space sections 56, 57 are separated from each other by means of a partition wall 40. The intermediate space sections 56, 57 together form an intermediate space 58, which is enclosed or surrounded by the frame 37, in particular by the brackets 50, 51. The second thermocouple 13 is arranged in the second intermediate space section 57. Fig.10 The first thermocouple 12 , not shown in FIG. 5 , may be arranged in the first intermediate space section 56 .

[0077] Each adsorption filter body 52, 53, 54, 55 includes a sealing element 59 that seals the first bracket 50 or the second bracket 51. The sealing element 59 can be made of rubber, polyurethane, etc. Each adsorption filter body 52, 53, 54, 55 also includes a shell 60 that carries the sealing element 59. The sealing element 59 can be glued to the shell 60. The shell 60 is square. The shell 60 is at least partially fluid-permeable. The shell 60 surrounds a plurality of different adsorption filter body sections 61, 62, 63, 64, which are arranged in the shell 60. The adsorption filter body sections 61, 62, 63, 64 can include different adsorbents 8, 9. The adsorption filter body sections 61, 62, 63, 64 are covered by a fluid-permeable adsorption filter body grid 65. The adsorption filter body grid 65 can be referred to as a first grid.

[0078] The adsorption filters 52, 53, 54, 55 are connected by means of snap hooks 66 ( Figure 5 ) are connected to the brackets 50, 51, only one of the snap hooks being provided with a reference numeral. The brackets 50, 51 comprise projections 67, 68, 69, 70 which press against the adsorption filter grille 65 of the adsorption filter 52, 53, 54, 55 when the adsorption filter 52, 53, 54, 55 is mounted to the brackets 50 or the frame 37.

[0079] To replace the adsorption filter body 52, 53, 54, 55, the attachment element 39 is opened and the adsorption filter element 16 is pulled out of the housing 15. The adsorption filter body 52, 53, 54, 55 is then removed from the bracket 50, 51 and can be replaced with a new adsorption filter body 52, 53, 54, 55.

[0080] The function of the adsorption filter device 5 is explained below. In the adsorption mode M1 of the first adsorption filter device 6, the flaps 26, 27 close the fluid channels 23, 25 and open the fluid channels 22, 24. The window 35 is closed by means of the second flap 27. The window 36 is open. Untreated air RO is supplied to the interior space 17 via the first inlet / outlet 20. In particular, the untreated air RO is supplied to the first interior space section 41.

[0081] The untreated air RO passes through the first adsorption filter device 6 and the adsorption filter bodies 52, 54 of the first adsorption filter device 6 accordingly. Fig.10As shown by arrows 71, 72. The untreated air RO is filtered by means of the adsorption filter body sections 61, 62, 63, 64 and enters the intermediate space 58 as clean air RL via the adsorption filter body grilles 65 of the adsorption filter bodies 52, 54. In particular, the clean air RL enters the first intermediate space section 56. From the first intermediate space section 56, the purified untreated air RO is supplied back to the passenger compartment 3 as clean air RL via the second inlet / outlet 21 and the fluid channel 24.

[0082] When the first adsorption filter device 6 is in the adsorption mode M1, the second adsorption filter device 7 including the adsorption filter bodies 53, 55 is in the desorption mode M2. Since the fluid channels 23, 25 are closed, the untreated air RO cannot enter the second intermediate space section 57 of the frame 37. However, since the heater 11 is fluid-permeable, the clean air RL passes through the heater 11 as shown by the arrow 73.

[0083] The clean air RL is used as unloaded regeneration air R1 for regenerating the second adsorption filter device 7. Fig.10 As shown by arrows 74 and 75 in FIG. 1 , the clean air RL passes through the adsorption filters 53 and 55 as unloaded regeneration air R1. Since the unloaded regeneration air RL passes through the heater 11, heat Q is applied to the unloaded regeneration air R1. The unloaded regeneration air R1 passes through the adsorption filter grilles 65 of the adsorption filter 53 and 55, and leaves the adsorption filter device 5 through the window 36 and the outlet 34 into the environment U. The unloaded regeneration air R1 supplies heat Q to the adsorbents 8 and 9 when passing through the adsorption filters 53 and 55.

[0084] To place the first sorption filter device 6 in the desorption mode M2 ​​and the second sorption filter device 7 in the sorption mode M1, the drive 29 is energized to close the fluid channels 22, 24 and open the fluid channels 23, 25 by means of the flaps 26, 27. The aforementioned functions are the same.

[0085] Fig.11 An embodiment of a heater 11 as mentioned above is shown. The heater 11 may be a PTC heater (positive temperature coefficient). The heater 11 may include a frame 76 which may be made of plastic. The frame 76 may also be made of a ceramic material. The partition wall 40 carries the frame 76. For this purpose, a receiving section 77 ( Fig.10 ).

[0086] The heater 11 includes a fluid-permeable heater grid 78. The heater grid 78 may be referred to as a second grid. The frame 76 carries the heater grid 78. The heater grid 78 may be made of a metal-containing material. The heater grid 78 may be energized to supply heat Q to the unloaded regeneration air R1 passing through the heater grid 78. As mentioned above, the clean air RL may be used as the unloaded regeneration air R1.

[0087] The frame 76 has a window 79 covered by a heater grid 78. There may be more than one window 79. Therefore, there may also be more than one heater grid 78. The number of windows 79 is arbitrary. The heater grid 78 may have a sawtooth shape, such as Fig.11 However, the heater grid 78 may also be mesh-shaped or lattice-shaped. The heater 11 , and in particular the heater grid 78 , is fluid-permeable so that unloaded regeneration air R1 can pass through the heater 11 .

[0088] Reference numerals list

[0089] 1 Motor Vehicles

[0090] 2 Body

[0091] 3 Volume / passenger compartment

[0092] 4HVAC system

[0093] 5 Adsorption filtration equipment

[0094] 6 Adsorption filtration device

[0095] 7 Adsorption filtration device

[0096] 8 Adsorbent

[0097] 9 Adsorbent

[0098] 10 Blower

[0099] 11. Heater

[0100] 12 Thermocouple

[0101] 13 Thermocouple

[0102] 14 Blower

[0103] 15. Housing

[0104] 16 Adsorption filter element

[0105] 17 Internal Space

[0106] 18 Inlet / Outlet Devices

[0107] 19 Sealing element

[0108] 20Entrance / Exit

[0109] 21Entrance / Exit

[0110] 22 Fluid Channel

[0111] 23 Fluid Channel

[0112] 24 Fluid Channels

[0113] 25 Fluid Channel

[0114] 26 Flip

[0115] 27 Flip

[0116] 28 Rotation axis

[0117] 29 Drive element

[0118] 30 Arm segment

[0119] 31 Arm segment

[0120] 32 Arm segment

[0121] 33 Arm segment

[0122] 34 Exit

[0123] 35 Window

[0124] 36 Window

[0125] 37 Framework

[0126] 38 End cap

[0127] 39 Attachment elements

[0128] 40 Divider Wall

[0129] 41 Internal space section

[0130] 42 Internal space section

[0131] 43 Guide Rail

[0132] 44 Guide Rail

[0133] 45 tops

[0134] 46 bottom

[0135] 47 Sidewall

[0136] 48 Sidewall

[0137] 49 Plug

[0138] 50 Bracket

[0139] 51 Bracket

[0140] 52 Adsorption filter

[0141] 53 Adsorption filter

[0142] 54 Adsorption filter

[0143] 55 Adsorption filter

[0144] 56 Intermediate space section

[0145] 57 Intermediate space section

[0146] 58 In-between Space

[0147] 59 Sealing element

[0148] 60 Shell

[0149] 61 Adsorption filter body section

[0150] 62 Adsorption filter body section

[0151] 63 Adsorption filter body section

[0152] 64 Adsorption filter body section

[0153] 65 Adsorption filter grid

[0154] 66 snap hook

[0155] 67 protrusion

[0156] 68 protrusion

[0157] 69 protrusion

[0158] 70 protrusion

[0159] 71 Arrow

[0160] 72 Arrow

[0161] 73 Arrow

[0162] 74 Arrow

[0163] 75 Arrow

[0164] 76 Frame

[0165] 77 Receiving section

[0166] 78 Heater grille

[0167] 79 Window

[0168] M1 Adsorption Mode

[0169] M2 Desorption Mode

[0170] Q Heat

[0171] R1 Regeneration air

[0172] R2 Regeneration air

[0173] RL Clean Air

[0174] RO Untreated Air

[0175] U Environment

Claims

1. An adsorption filter element (16) for an adsorption filter device (5), the adsorption filter element (16) comprising: Heater (11); a frame (37) enclosing an intermediate space (58) and comprising a partition wall (40) extending through the intermediate space (58), the partition wall (40) being configured to receive the heater (11); and An adsorption filter body (52, 53) comprising at least one adsorbent (8, 9), wherein a first adsorption filter body (52) of the adsorption filter bodies (52, 53) is arranged on the outer side of the frame (37) and adjacent to the first side of the partition wall (40), and is configured to remove carbon dioxide (CO2) and / or water (H2O) from input untreated air (RO) to convert the input untreated air (RO) into clean air (RL), and the first adsorption filter body (52) of the adsorption filter bodies (52, 53) further comprises an adsorption filter body grille (65), through which the clean air (RL) flows into the intermediate space (58), wherein the heater (11) is configured to heat the clean air (RL) in the intermediate space (58) to convert the clean air (RL) into regeneration air (R1), and comprises a heater grid (78) through which the regeneration air (R1) flows, and The second adsorption filter body (53) of the adsorption filter bodies (52, 53) is arranged on the outer side of the frame (37) and is adjacent to the second side of the partition wall (40), the second side being opposite to the first side of the partition wall (40), and further includes an adsorption filter body grille (65), through which the regeneration air (R1) flows out from the intermediate space (58) to the second adsorption filter body (53) of the adsorption filter bodies (52, 53), and the second adsorption filter body (53) of the adsorption filter bodies (52, 53) is configured to be heated by the regeneration air (R1) and release CO2 and / or H2O to the regeneration air (R1) to convert the regeneration air (R1) into loaded regeneration air (R2).

2. The adsorption filter element (16) according to claim 1, wherein: The partition wall (40) is configured to be guided along guide rails (43, 44) of the housing (15) of the adsorption filter device (5) when the adsorption filter element (16) is moved out of the housing (15) and into the housing (15), and The adsorption filter element (16) further comprises an end cap (38) configured to close the housing (15), the end cap (38) being attached to the frame (37).

3. The adsorption filter element (16) according to claim 1, wherein: The loaded regeneration air (R2) flows out of the second adsorption filter body (53) of the adsorption filter bodies (52, 53) and enters the environment (U) through the outlet (34).

4. The adsorption filter element (16) according to claim 1, wherein: The partition wall (40) is arranged along a central portion of the intermediate space (58).

5. The adsorption filter element (16) according to claim 1, wherein: The partition wall (40) divides the intermediate space (58) into a first intermediate space section (56) and a second intermediate space section (57), and The regeneration air (R1) flows through the heater grid (78) from the first intermediate space section (56) into the second intermediate space section (57), or vice versa.

6. The adsorption filter element (16) according to claim 1, wherein: The frame (37) further comprises a first bracket (50) and a second bracket (51), wherein the first bracket and the second bracket are configured to carry the adsorption filter bodies (52, 53) on the outer side of the frame (37), and the first bracket (50) and the second bracket (51) enclose the intermediate space (58).

7. The adsorption filter element (16) according to claim 1, wherein: The frame (37) comprises protrusions (67, 68) which are configured to press against a sorption filter body grid (65) of a corresponding one of the sorption filter bodies (52, 53).

8. The adsorption filter element (16) according to claim 1, wherein: The adsorption filter bodies (52, 53, 54, 55) include two pairs of adsorption filter bodies respectively forming adsorption filter devices (6, 7), which are configured to be able to switch from an adsorption mode (M1) to a desorption mode (M2) and vice versa.

9. The adsorption filter element (16) according to claim 8, wherein: Each of the two pairs of adsorption filter bodies (52, 53, 54, 55) is arranged in a V-shaped configuration.

10. An adsorption filtration device (5), comprising: The adsorption filter element (16) according to claim 1; and A housing (15) is configured to receive the adsorption filter element (16).

11. The adsorptive filtration device (5) according to claim 10, further comprising an inlet / outlet device (18) attached to the housing (15) and configured to: supplying untreated air (RO) to the adsorption filter element (16); and The clean air (RL) is directed away from the adsorption filter element (16).

12. The adsorption filtration device (5) according to claim 11, wherein: The inlet / outlet arrangement (18) comprises an outlet (34) configured to discharge the loaded regeneration air (R2) into the environment (U).

13. The adsorption filtration device (5) according to claim 11, wherein: The inlet / outlet device (18) comprises a first inlet / outlet (20) and a second inlet / outlet (21), each of which branches into two fluid channels (22, 23, 24, 25) fluidically connected to the intermediate space (58).

14. The adsorption filtration device (5) according to claim 13, wherein: The inlet / outlet device (18) further comprises movable flaps (26, 27) configured to alternately open and close one of the two fluid passages (22, 23) of the first inlet / outlet (20) and one of the two fluid passages (24, 25) of the second inlet / outlet (21).

Images