Electronic deodorization device using plasma

Abstract

An electronic deodorization device is disclosed. The electronic deodorization device comprises: a housing; a nozzle head provided in the housing and having a first flow path and a second flow path; a gas circulation line that circulates the gas flowing in through the first flow path inside the housing and supplies the gas to the second flow path; an air pump which is mounted on the gas circulation line and into which external gas flows through the first flow path; and a plasma generation unit that is attached to the gas circulation line in a section between the air pump and the second flow path and performs plasma discharge processing on the gas.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an electronic deodorizing device using plasma, and more particularly to an electronic deodorizing device using plasma capable of killing bacteria that cause malodors such as bromhidrosis on human or animal skin. Background Art

[0002] Bromhidrosis (body odor) is a foul odor caused by fatty acids, organic matter, and bacteria secreted in the form of sweat. Currently, chemical compound deodorants are used for cosmetic and ceremonial purposes to remove the odor.

[0003] However, controversy is growing over the harmful effects of deodorants used to combat bromhidrosis. In particular, the chemicals used to seal pores and suppress sweat secretion have been criticized for their harmful effects. These chemicals, in addition to simple dermatitis, can also cause breast cancer, thyroid dysfunction (triclosan), and sweat gland blockage (aluminum salts), leading to abnormal sweat hormone secretion, skin damage, and hyperpigmentation. Therefore, there is a need for a deodorant technology that can combat bromhidrosis without the harmful effects of these chemicals. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Technical issues

[0005] The present invention provides an electronic deodorizing device utilizing plasma, which can kill bacteria causing underarm odor by supplying plasma.

[0006] Furthermore, the present invention provides an electronic deodorizing device using plasma, which can stably maintain an activated state of plasma and can supply plasma at a high concentration.

[0007] Technical Solution

[0008] An electronic deodorizing device according to an embodiment of the present invention includes: a housing; a nozzle head, which is equipped with the housing and has a first flow path and a second flow path; a gas circulation pipeline, which allows the gas flowing in through the first flow path to circulate inside the housing and be supplied to the second flow path; an air pump, which is installed on the gas circulation pipeline, which allows external gas to flow in through the first flow path; and a plasma generating unit, which is installed on the gas circulation pipeline in the section between the air pump and the second flow path, and performs plasma discharge treatment on the gas.

[0009] Furthermore, the housing has a cylindrical shape in which a portion of an outer peripheral surface is bent inwardly in a concave manner, and the nozzle head may be located in the portion.

[0010] Moreover, the nozzle head includes: a main body, forming an internal space with an open front; and a cover body, combined with the front of the main body, forming an inlet and an outlet; the first flow path is connected to the internal space of the main body, and the second flow path can be connected to the outlet.

[0011] Furthermore, the invention may further include a silicone seal provided along the periphery of the partial area.

[0012] Moreover, the nozzle head includes: a main body, forming an internal space open on the front; and a separation plate, dividing the internal space of the main body into a first space and a second space, forming an intake port connected to the first flow path and an exhaust port connected to the second flow path; the first flow path connects one end of the gas circulation pipeline and the first space, and the second flow path connects the other end of the gas circulation pipeline and the exhaust port.

[0013] Furthermore, the discharge port may be formed at the center of the separation plate, and a plurality of the suction ports may be formed around the discharge port.

[0014] Furthermore, the diameter of the second space increases as it moves from the separation plate to the open front side of the body.

[0015] Furthermore, the plasma generating unit may include: a first electrode made of a conductive material and having a tubular shape; a dielectric tube inserted into the inner side of the first electrode tube, made of a dielectric material and having a tubular shape; a second electrode made of a conductive material and having a tubular shape, a portion of which is inserted into the inner side of the dielectric tube; and a power supply for applying a voltage to the first electrode and the second electrode.

[0016] Furthermore, the first electrode, the dielectric tube, and a portion of the second electrode may overlap.

[0017] Furthermore, the plasma generating unit further includes a plasma generating body, which provides a space within which the first electrode, the dielectric tube, and the second electrode are located, and is made of a dielectric material. The space formed in the plasma generating body may include: a flow path reduction section, where one end of the dielectric tube is located, and where the flow path width decreases with distance from the end of the dielectric tube; and a flow path expansion section connected to the flow path reduction section, where the flow path width increases with distance from the end of the dielectric tube.

[0018] Furthermore, a plurality of protrusions protruding forward with a predetermined length are formed on the front surface of the nozzle head.

[0019] Technical Effects

[0020] The electronic deodorizing device of the present invention supplies plasma to the skin of a human body or an animal and can kill bacteria that cause underarm odor.

[0021] Furthermore, the electronic deodorizing device of the present invention activates the gas into a plasma state, recirculates and reactivates the activated gas, and can supply plasma at a high concentration. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0022] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing an electronic deodorizing device according to one embodiment of the present invention;

[0023] Figure 2 Shown Figure 1 the interior of the housing shown;

[0024] Figure 3 It shows Figure 1 a cross-sectional view of the nozzle tip shown;

[0025] Figure 4 It shows Figure 1 a cross-sectional view of the plasma generating unit shown;

[0026] Figure 5 The figure shows the usage of the electronic deodorizing device according to the embodiment of the present invention;

[0027] Figure 6 The electronic deodorizing device is shown in close contact with the user's skin;

[0028] Figure 7 is a perspective view showing an electronic deodorizing device according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0029] Figure 8 It shows Figure 7 a perspective view of the interior of the housing shown;

[0030] Figure 9 It shows Figure 7 a cross-sectional view of the nozzle tip shown;

[0031] Figure 10 Shown Figure 7 The electronic deodorizing device of the embodiment shown is in use;

[0032] Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view showing a nozzle head according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0033] Figure 12 FIG. 1 shows the usage state of an electronic deodorizing device according to another embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0034] Best Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0035] An electronic deodorizing device according to an embodiment of the present invention includes: a housing; a nozzle head, which is equipped with the housing and has a first flow path and a second flow path; a gas circulation pipeline, which allows the gas flowing in through the first flow path to circulate inside the housing and be supplied to the second flow path; an air pump, which is installed on the gas circulation pipeline, which allows external gas to flow in through the first flow path; and a plasma generating unit, which is installed on the gas circulation pipeline in the section between the air pump and the second flow path, and performs plasma discharge treatment on the gas.

[0036] Embodiments of the invention

[0037] The following describes in detail preferred embodiments of the present invention with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the technical spirit of the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described herein and can be embodied in other forms. The embodiments described here are intended to make the disclosure more thorough and complete and to fully convey the spirit of the present invention to those skilled in the art.

[0038] In this specification, when a certain element is referred to as being located on another element, it can mean that it is directly formed on the other element or that a third element is disposed between them. In addition, in order to effectively illustrate the technical content, the thickness of the film and the field is exaggerated in the drawings.

[0039] Furthermore, while the various embodiments of this specification use terms such as first, second, and third to describe various elements, these terms should not be construed to limit the elements described. These terms are used solely to distinguish an element from other elements. Therefore, what is described as a first element in one embodiment may also be described as a second element in another embodiment. Each embodiment described and illustrated herein also includes its complementary embodiments. Furthermore, the term "and / or" in this specification is used to include at least one of the elements listed above.

[0040] In this specification, unless the distinction is obvious in the context of the sentence, the singular also includes the plural. Furthermore, the terms "including" or "having" merely specify the presence of a feature, number, step, element, or combination thereof described in the specification and shall not be construed as excluding the possibility of the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, elements, or combinations thereof. Furthermore, in this specification, the term "connected" is used to include both indirect and direct connections of multiple elements.

[0041] Furthermore, when describing the present invention below, if it is considered that a detailed description of a well-known structure or function may unnecessarily obscure the gist of the present invention, the detailed description will be omitted.

[0042] Figure 1is a perspective view showing an electronic deodorizing device according to an embodiment of the present invention, Figure 2 Shown Figure 1 The interior of the housing shown, Figure 3 It shows Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the nozzle tip shown, Figure 4 It shows Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a plasma generating unit is shown.

[0043] Please refer to Figures 1 to 4 The electronic deodorizing device 10 generates plasma and supplies the generated plasma to kill bacteria. In one example, the electronic deodorizing device 10 can supply plasma to eliminate bacteria that cause bromhidrosis, a condition that causes malodor on human or animal skin. For example, the electronic deodorizing device 10 can supply plasma to eliminate malodor caused by fatty acids secreted in sweat and skin bacteria.

[0044] The electronic deodorizing device 10 includes a housing 100 , a nozzle head 200 , a gas circulation line 300 , an air pump 400 , and a plasma generating unit 500 .

[0045] The housing 100 is cylindrical and has a space formed inside. A portion 110 of the outer circumference of the housing 100 is curved inward. A seal 120 is provided along the periphery of this portion 110. The seal 120 is provided in a ring shape and improves contact with the skin. The seal 120 can be made of a body-friendly material. In some embodiments, the seal 120 can be made of silicone.

[0046] The nozzle head 200 is disposed in the portion 110 of the housing 100 . The nozzle head 200 draws in external air and discharges plasma to the outside. The nozzle head 200 includes a first flow path 202 , a second flow path 204 , a body 210 , and a cover 220 .

[0047] The body 210 may be in the shape of a funnel with a predetermined diameter. Specifically, the body 210 has an open front space formed inside, and the diameter gradually decreases toward the back.

[0048] The cover 220 is coupled to the open front portion of the main body 210 and is formed with an exhaust port 201 and an inlet 203. The exhaust port 201 is formed in the center of the cover 220, and a plurality of inlets 203 are formed around the exhaust port 201. The inlet 203 is formed at even intervals along the periphery of the exhaust port 201. Depending on the embodiment, the inlet 203 can have the same diameter as the exhaust port 201. Alternatively, the inlet 203 can have a smaller diameter than the exhaust port 201.

[0049] The first flow path 202 is provided inside the body 210 , and the upper end thereof is located inside the body 210 . The first flow path 202 communicates with the suction port 203 through the internal space of the body 210 .

[0050] The second flow path 204 is provided inside the main body 210 , and an upper end thereof is connected to the discharge port 201 .

[0051] The gas circulation line 300 is located within the housing 100. The gas circulation line 300 is provided with a predetermined length, providing a flow path for gas circulation. One end of the gas circulation line 300 is connected to the first flow path 202, and the other end is connected to the second flow path 204. Gas flowing in through the intake port 203 and the first flow path 202 circulates along the gas circulation line 300 and is discharged toward the front of the nozzle head 200 through the second flow path 204 and the discharge port 201.

[0052] The air pump 400 is installed on the gas circulation pipeline 300 to provide power to allow the gas to circulate along the gas circulation pipeline 300 .

[0053] The plasma generation unit 500 is installed in the gas circulation line 300 between the air pump 400 and the second flow path 204. The plasma generation unit 500 generates plasma by performing a plasma discharge process on the gas circulating through the gas circulation line 300. The gas subjected to the discharge process may include ozone, nitrogen oxides, alkaline hydroxides, carbon dioxide, and carbon monoxide. Ozone, nitrogen oxides, alkaline hydroxides, and the like may be in a free radical state.

[0054] The plasma generating unit 500 includes a plasma generating body 510 , a first electrode 520 , a dielectric tube 530 , a second electrode 540 , and a power source (not shown).

[0055] Plasma generating body 510 is located inside housing 100 and has a predetermined shape. According to an embodiment, plasma generating body 510 has a cylindrical shape and defines a space 511 therein. A first electrode 520, a dielectric tube 530, and a second electrode 540 are located within space 511. Plasma generating body 510 is made of an insulator material.

[0056] The first electrode 520 is made of a conductive material and has a cylindrical shape with a predetermined length. The first electrode 520 is provided with a first connection terminal 521 and is connected to a power source through the first connection terminal 521 .

[0057] The dielectric tube 530 is made of dielectric material and has a cylindrical shape with a predetermined length. At least a portion of the dielectric tube 530 is inserted into the inner side of the first electrode 520 and the front end thereof protrudes in front of the first electrode 520 .

[0058] The second electrode 540 is made of a conductive material and has a cylindrical shape of a predetermined length. A portion of the second electrode 540 has a smaller diameter than the dielectric tube 530 and is inserted into the inner side of the dielectric tube 530. The tip of the second electrode 540 is positioned inside the first electrode 520. As a result, the first electrode 520, the dielectric tube 530, and the second electrode 540 overlap in at least a portion of the electrode. A second connection terminal 541 is provided on the second electrode 540 and is connected to the battery 600 via the second connection terminal 541.

[0059] The space within the plasma body 510, located in front of the first electrode 520, includes a flow path reduction section 512 and a flow path expansion section 513. The front end of the dielectric tube 530 is located in the flow path reduction section 512, and the flow path width gradually decreases as the distance from the front end of the dielectric tube 530 increases. The flow path expansion section 513 is connected to the flow path reduction section 512, and the flow path width increases as the distance from the front end of the dielectric tube 530 increases.

[0060] The gas circulating through the gas circulation line 300 flows into the plasma generating body 510 through the connector 550 located at the rear end of the plasma generating body 510. It then flows through the internal flow path of the second electrode 540 and the internal flow path of the dielectric tube 530 before flowing into the flow path reduction section 512. During this process, the voltage difference applied between the first electrode 520 and the second electrode 540 creates an electric field within the dielectric tube 530, thereby activating the gas. The activated gas sequentially passes through the flow path reduction section 512 and the flow path expansion section 513, causing its pressure to decrease and its flow rate to increase. The activated gas, with its increased flow rate, rapidly flows along the gas circulation line 300 into the second flow path 204 and is supplied to the front of the nozzle head 200 through the outlet 201.

[0061] Figure 5 The figure shows the usage of the electronic deodorizing device according to the embodiment of the present invention. Figure 6 The electronic deodorizing device is shown in close contact with the user's skin.

[0062] Please refer to Figure 5 and Figure 6 To eliminate malodors in the armpits, the user 50 can apply plasma. The user 50 places the electronic deodorizing device 10 between the armpits, with the portion 110 facing the skin 51. At this point, because the seal 120 is in close contact with the user's skin, the portion 110 of the housing 100 and the user's skin 51 form a sealed space 60.

[0063] When the deodorizing device 10 is in operation and the air pump 400 is driven, the gas remaining in the sealed space 60 between the partial area 110 and the skin 30 flows into the first flow path 202 through the inlet 203. This gas is air. It circulates along the gas circulation line 300 and flows into the interior of the plasma generating body 510. The gas flows through the internal flow path of the second electrode 540 and the internal flow path of the dielectric tube 530 and flows into the flow path reduction section 512. During this process, the gas is excited by the electric field formed inside the dielectric tube 530. The excited gas passes through the flow path reduction section 512 and the flow path expansion section 513, increasing its flow rate. The excited gas flows along the gas circulation line 300 into the second flow path 204 and is supplied to the sealed space 60 through the outlet 201. The activated gas is supplied to the skin 51, where it kills bacteria. The activated gas remains in the sealed space 60 and then flows into the gas circulation line 300 through the inlet 203. The activated gas can be reactivated by the plasma treatment unit 500 and then resupplied to the skin 51 through the nozzle head 200. As previously described, the activated gas is recirculated and reactivated within the sealed space 60. This reactivation increases the energy of the activated gas, allowing it to maintain a stable free radical state. This enhances the effectiveness of killing bacteria.

[0064] Figure 7 is a perspective view showing an electronic deodorizing device according to another embodiment of the present invention, Figure 8 It shows Figure 7 A perspective view of the interior of the housing is shown, Figure 9 It shows Figure 7 Cross-sectional view of the nozzle tip shown.

[0065] Please refer to Figures 7 to 9 The electronic deodorizing device 10 includes a housing 100 , a nozzle head 200 , a gas circulation pipeline 300 , an air pump 400 and a plasma generating unit 500 .

[0066] The housing 100 is configured in a predetermined shape and size and defines a space therein. According to an embodiment, the housing 100 may be configured in a hexahedron shape having a predetermined length.

[0067] The nozzle head 200 is mounted on the front end of the housing 100 and can be assembled and disassembled from the housing 100. The nozzle head 200 has a first flow path 202 and a second flow path 204. According to an embodiment, the first flow path 202 and the second flow path 204 are located in the center of the nozzle head 200.

[0068] The nozzle head 200 includes a body 210 and a separation plate 220 .

[0069] The body 210 may have a funnel shape. Specifically, the body 210 has an open space at the front and a diameter that gradually decreases toward the back. The front of the body 210 has a larger diameter than the cross section of the housing 100.

[0070] If the separator 220 is located inside the body 210, the interior space of the body 210 is divided into a first space 230 and a second space 240. With the separator 220 as a reference, the first space 230 is adjacent to the housing 100 and the second space 240 is located on the other side of the first space 230.

[0071] Separator plate 220 has an outlet 201 formed in the center, and a plurality of suction ports 203 formed around outlet 201. Suction ports 203 are formed at even intervals around the periphery of outlet 201. In some embodiments, suction ports 203 have a smaller diameter than outlet 201. Exit 201 communicates with second flow path 204, while suction ports 203 communicate with first flow path 202 via first space 230.

[0072] Gas circulation pipeline 300, air pump 400 and plasma generation unit 500 and Figures 1 to 4 The elements described are the same, so their detailed description is omitted.

[0073] Figure 10 Shown Figure 7 The electronic deodorizing device is shown in use.

[0074] Please refer to Figure 10The user operates the electronic deodorizing device 10 while holding the nozzle head 200 against the skin 30. The air pump 400 operates, causing the gas trapped in the second space 240 between the nozzle head 200 and the skin 30 to flow into the first flow path 202 through the inlet 203. The gas is air. It circulates along the gas circulation line 300 and flows into the interior of the plasma generating body 510. The gas flows through the internal flow paths of the second electrode 540 and the dielectric tube 530 and into the flow path reduction section 512. During this process, the gas is activated by the electric field formed inside the dielectric tube 530. The activated gas passes through the flow path reduction section 512 and the flow path expansion section 513, increasing its flow rate. The activated gas flows along the gas circulation line 300 into the second flow path 204 and is supplied to the front of the nozzle head 200 through the outlet 201. Once supplied to the skin, the activated gas kills bacteria. The activated gas is retained in the sealed space 240 between the nozzle head 200 and the skin 30, then flows into the gas circulation line 300 through the suction port 203. After being reactivated by the plasma treatment unit 500, the activated gas can be resupplied to the skin 30 through the nozzle head 200. As previously mentioned, since the space 240 receiving the activated gas is sealed between the nozzle head 200 and the skin 30, the activated gas is recirculated and reactivated. This reactivation increases the energy of the activated gas, allowing it to maintain a stable free radical state, thereby enhancing the bacterial killing effect.

[0075] Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view showing a nozzle head according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0076] Please refer to Figure 11 The front of the nozzle head 200 is formed with a plurality of protrusions 250. The protrusions 250 protrude from the front of the nozzle head 200 with a predetermined length, and the diameter gradually decreases toward the end thereof. The discharge port 201 can be formed at the end of the protrusion 250.

[0077] In the nozzle head 200 having the aforementioned structure, the protrusions 250 function as a brush, and the discharge port 203 supplies activated gas as close to the skin as possible. This allows the protrusions 250 to comb a person's hair and supply plasma directly to the scalp. Furthermore, for hairy animals such as dogs and cats, the nozzle head 200 can comb their fur while supplying plasma directly to the skin.

[0078] Figure 12 FIG. 1 shows the usage state of an electronic deodorizing device according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0079] Please refer to Figure 12The electronic deodorizing device 10 may further include a protective cover 600. The protective cover 600 has a space formed inside to allow the body of the animal 50 to enter, and an opening 610 formed in a portion of the area to allow the head of the animal 50 to protrude outside. The protective cover 600 can be made of a material that blocks air flow. In one example, the protective cover 600 can be made of a thin synthetic resin film.

[0080] The protective cover 600 is combined with the nozzle head 200. The air inside the protective cover 600 flows into the gas circulation line 300 through the inlet 203 and is then supplied to the interior of the protective cover 600 through the outlet 201 after the plasma treatment unit 500 is activated. The air inside the protective cover 600 is reactivated by repeatedly circulating along the gas circulation line 300 through the described process and is then resupplied to the interior of the protective cover 600. This repetition of the process gradually increases the concentration of activated gas inside the protective cover 600. The activated gas replaces the interior of the protective cover 600, thereby killing bacteria attached to the skin or fur of the animal 50. The high concentration of activated gas supplied to the skin surface of the animal 50 effectively kills bacteria attached to the skin of the animal 50.

[0081] While the present invention has been described in detail using preferred embodiments, the scope of the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments and should be interpreted in accordance with the claims. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will appreciate that various modifications and variations can be made without departing from the scope of the present invention.

[0082] Industrial applications

[0083] The electronic deodorizing device according to the embodiment of the present invention can be used to kill bacteria on human or animal skin that cause malodors such as bromhidrosis.

Claims

1. An electronic deodorizing device, comprising: shell; a nozzle head, equipped with the housing, having a first flow path and a second flow path; a gas circulation pipeline for circulating the gas flowing in through the first flow path within the housing and supplying the gas to the second flow path; an air pump, installed on the gas circulation pipeline, allowing external air to flow in through the first flow path; as well as A plasma generating unit is installed on the gas circulation pipeline in a section between the air pump and the second flow path, and performs plasma discharge treatment on the gas.

2. The electronic deodorizing device according to claim 1, wherein: The housing has a cylindrical shape with a portion of its outer peripheral surface bent inwardly. The nozzle head is located in the partial area.

3. The electronic deodorizing device according to claim 2, wherein: The nozzle head comprises: a main body, forming an interior space with an open front; and The cover is combined with the front of the main body to form a suction port and a discharge port. The first flow path is in communication with the inner space of the body, The second flow path is connected to the discharge port.

4. The electronic deodorizing device according to claim 2, wherein: Also includes: A silicone seal is provided along the periphery of the portion of the area.

5. The electronic deodorizing device according to claim 1, wherein: The nozzle head comprises: a main body, forming an interior space with an open front; and The separation plate divides the internal space of the body into a first space and a second space, and forms a suction port communicating with the first flow path and a discharge port communicating with the second flow path. The first flow path connects one end of the gas circulation pipeline and the first space. The second flow path connects the other end of the gas circulation pipeline and the exhaust port.

6. The electronic deodorizing device according to claim 5, wherein: The discharge port is formed at the center of the separation plate, A plurality of the suction ports are formed around the discharge port.

7. The electronic deodorizing device according to claim 5, wherein: The diameter of the second space increases as it moves from the separation plate to the open front side of the body.

8. The electronic deodorizing device according to claim 1, wherein: The plasma generating unit comprises: The first electrode is made of a conductive material and has a tube shape; a dielectric tube, inserted into the inner side of the first electrode tube, made of dielectric material and having a tube shape; A second electrode made of a conductive material and having a tube shape, a portion of which is inserted into the inner side of the dielectric tube; and A power supply applies a voltage to the first electrode and the second electrode.

9. The electronic deodorizing device according to claim 8, wherein: The first electrode, the dielectric tube, and the second electrode overlap in a partial region.

10. The electronic deodorizing device according to claim 8, wherein: The plasma generating unit further includes a plasma generating body, which provides a space for the first electrode, the dielectric tube, and the second electrode therein and is made of a dielectric material. The space formed in the plasma generating body is formed with: a flow path reduction section, where one end of the dielectric tube is located and where the flow path width decreases as the distance from the one end of the dielectric tube increases; and The flow path expansion section is connected to the flow path reduction section, and the flow path width increases as it is farther away from one end of the dielectric tube.

11. The electronic deodorizing device according to claim 1, wherein: A plurality of protrusions protruding forward with a preset length are formed on the front surface of the nozzle head.

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