Purification device and refrigerator

Abstract

The utility model discloses a purification device and a refrigerator. Wherein the purification device comprises: two discharge electrodes (20); the porous insulating medium (10) is arranged between the two discharge electrodes (20); one of the two discharge electrodes (20) is attached to the porous insulating medium (10), and a gap is formed between the other discharge electrode (20) and the porous insulating medium (10). The discharge relation between the discharge electrode (20) and the porous insulating medium (10) can be optimized, the phenomenon of discharge enhancement caused by condensed water or sundries gathered on the discharge electrode (20) can be avoided, ozone generation is reduced, and ignition is avoided.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the field of electrical technology, and in particular to a purification device and a refrigerator. Background Technology

[0002] During use, the refrigerator compartment can accumulate a lot of odors due to prolonged sealing. When these odors mix, they can create an unpleasant smell that is difficult for users to accept. Therefore, more and more odor-eliminating technologies are being used in refrigerators.

[0003] Among existing technologies, the electric field discharge low-temperature plasma synergistic catalytic technology is the superior solution in terms of odor removal effect, service life, and reliability. However, due to the high humidity inside the refrigerator, condensation is easy to occur, and the entry of foreign objects can lead to problems such as enhanced discharge, thereby causing risks such as ozone generation and fire. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This disclosure provides a purification device and a refrigerator, which aims to at least partially solve the technical problem that the low-temperature plasma co-catalytic technology of isoelectric field discharge can lead to enhanced discharge, resulting in increased ozone and the risk of fire.

[0005] In one aspect of this disclosure, a purification device is provided, which may include: two discharge electrodes; a porous insulating medium disposed between the two discharge electrodes; wherein one of the two discharge electrodes is in contact with the porous insulating medium, and the other has a gap with the porous insulating medium.

[0006] In some embodiments, the porous insulating medium includes honeycomb ceramic.

[0007] In some embodiments, the porous insulating medium is coated with a catalytic medium.

[0008] In some embodiments, one of the two discharge electrodes is a wire electrode and the other is a plate electrode.

[0009] In some embodiments, the wire electrode is bonded to the porous insulating medium, and there is a gap between the plate electrode and the porous insulating medium.

[0010] In some embodiments, the gap between the plate electrode and the porous insulating medium is greater than or equal to 3 mm.

[0011] In some embodiments, the wire electrode comprises a plurality of strip electrodes arranged in parallel.

[0012] In some implementations, the plate electrode has mesh openings.

[0013] In some embodiments, the edge of the wire electrode is embedded in a first housing, and the edge of the plate electrode is embedded in a second housing; the first housing is detachably connected to the second housing.

[0014] In some embodiments, the wire electrode is integrally formed with the first housing; the plate electrode is integrally formed with the second housing.

[0015] In some embodiments, the second housing is provided with a limiting member that abuts against the porous insulating medium.

[0016] In some embodiments, a flexible element is provided between the periphery of the porous insulating medium and the second housing.

[0017] In some implementations, the first housing is connected to the second housing via multiple locking elements.

[0018] In some embodiments, the purification device further includes a high-voltage power supply and a mounting box for housing the high-voltage power supply, the high-voltage power supply being connected to the two discharge electrodes.

[0019] In some implementations, the two discharge electrodes pass through the mounting box and are connected to the high-voltage power supply.

[0020] In another aspect of this disclosure, a refrigerator is provided that includes the aforementioned purification device.

[0021] In some embodiments, the refrigerator further includes a cooling duct, and the purification device is fixedly installed at the air outlet of the cooling duct.

[0022] In some embodiments, the porous insulating medium and the two discharge electrodes are arranged in the same direction as the airflow within the cooling duct.

[0023] In some implementations, a cooling fan is installed inside the cooling duct.

[0024] When using the purification device and refrigerator according to this disclosure, since the porous insulating medium is disposed between the two discharge electrodes, an ion field is formed between the two discharge electrodes. When air enters the ion field, the porous insulating medium and the two discharge electrodes undergo dielectric barrier discharge, generating plasma that degrades odor molecules in the air and removes odors. Because one of the two discharge electrodes is in contact with the porous insulating medium, while the other has a gap with it, no difference in dielectric constant occurs, ensuring the uniformity and stability of the voltage difference in the porous insulating medium. This optimizes the discharge relationship between the discharge electrodes and the porous insulating medium, preventing localized strong discharge phenomena, reducing ozone production, and preventing fires. Because the gap between the porous insulating medium and one of the two discharge electrodes is increased, when condensate accumulates on the discharge electrode or the porous insulating medium, the condensate on the discharge electrode will not stick to the condensate on the porous insulating medium, thus avoiding differences in dielectric constant, preventing local strong discharge, reducing ozone production, and preventing fire. Moreover, even if dust easily adheres to the discharge electrode, it reduces the impact on the dielectric constant, ensuring the uniformity and stability of the dielectric constant. Attached Figure Description

[0025] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this disclosure, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the accompanying drawings described below are only some embodiments of this disclosure. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0026] Figure 1 An exploded view of a purification apparatus according to some embodiments of this disclosure;

[0027] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a purification device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0028] Figure 3 Based on this disclosure Figure 2 Sectional view along axis AA;

[0029] Figure 4 Based on this disclosure Figure 3 Enlarged view of point B;

[0030] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of a refrigerator according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0031] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a cooling air duct according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0032] In the attached diagram:

[0033] 10: Porous insulating medium; 20: Two discharge electrodes; 201: Wire electrode; 202: Plate electrode; 203: First housing; 204: Second housing; 2011: Strip electrode; 2021: Mesh; 205: Locking element; 2051: First fastener; 2052: First fastening groove; 2053: First protrusion; 2054: First groove; 40: Limiting element; 50: Flexible element; 501: First ring; 50 2: Second ring; 60: High-voltage power supply; 70: Mounting box; 701: First box body; 702: Second box body; 703: Top cover; 704: First connector; 7041: Second groove; 7042: Second protrusion; 705: Second connector; 7051: Third fastener; 7052: Third groove; 7053: Third protrusion; 7054: Third recess; 80: Cooling duct; 90: Cooling fan. Detailed Implementation

[0034] The technical solutions according to the embodiments of this disclosure will now be clearly and completely described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of this disclosure, and not all of them. Based on these embodiments, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this disclosure.

[0035] It should be noted that all directional indications in this embodiment are only used to explain the relative positional relationship and movement of the components in a specific posture. If the specific posture changes, the directional indications will also change accordingly.

[0036] In this disclosure, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "connection," "fixed," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, "fixed" can mean a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; it can mean a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; it can mean a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; it can mean the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components, unless otherwise expressly limited. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this disclosure according to the specific circumstances.

[0037] Furthermore, the use of terms such as "first" and "second" in this disclosure is for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying their relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Therefore, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of that feature. Additionally, the technical solutions of the various embodiments can be combined with each other, but only on the basis of being achievable by those skilled in the art. If the combination of technical solutions is contradictory or impossible to implement, it should be considered that such a combination of technical solutions does not exist and is not within the scope of protection claimed by this disclosure.

[0038] This disclosure is described below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments.

[0039] In one aspect of this disclosure, a purification device is provided, which aims to at least partially address the technical problem that electric field discharge low-temperature plasma synergistic catalysis technology can lead to enhanced discharge, resulting in increased ozone levels and the risk of fire.

[0040] Figure 1 This is an exploded view of a purification apparatus according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. (In conjunction with...) Figure 1 The purification device according to some embodiments of this disclosure may include: a porous insulating medium 10 and two discharge electrodes 20. The porous insulating medium 10 is disposed between the two discharge electrodes 20. One of the two discharge electrodes 20 is in contact with the porous insulating medium 10, and the other has a gap between it and the porous insulating medium 10.

[0041] In some embodiments, the porous insulating medium 10 is disposed between the two discharge electrodes 20, thus forming an ion field between them. When air enters the ion field, the porous insulating medium 10 and the two discharge electrodes 20 perform dielectric barrier discharge, generating plasma to degrade odor molecules in the air and remove odors. Since one of the two discharge electrodes 20 is in contact with the porous insulating medium 10, while the other has a gap with it, no difference in dielectric constant occurs, ensuring the uniformity and stability of the voltage difference between the porous insulating medium 10. This optimizes the discharge relationship between the discharge electrodes 20 and the porous insulating medium 10, avoiding localized strong discharge phenomena, reducing ozone generation, and preventing fires. Because the gap between the porous insulating medium 10 and one of the two discharge electrodes 20 is increased, when condensate accumulates on the discharge electrode 20 or the porous insulating medium 10, the condensate on the discharge electrode 10 will not stick to the condensate on the porous insulating medium 20, thus avoiding differences in dielectric constant, preventing local strong discharge, reducing ozone production, and preventing fire. Moreover, even if dust easily adheres to the discharge electrode, it will not affect the dielectric constant, ensuring the uniformity and stability of the dielectric constant.

[0042] Combination Figure 1In some embodiments, one of the two discharge electrodes 20 is a wire electrode 201 and the other is a plate electrode 202 to form an asymmetric discharge, ensuring the discharge effect and generating plasma to degrade odor molecules in the air and remove odors. Of course, in other embodiments, the two discharge electrodes 20 can also be one or more of wire electrodes, plate electrodes, and needle electrodes. For the sake of ensuring the discharge effect, the two discharge electrodes 20 should be different electrodes to achieve asymmetric discharge. Furthermore, to reduce costs and facilitate installation, preferably, one of the two discharge electrodes 20 is a wire electrode 201 and the other is a plate electrode 202.

[0043] Combination Figure 1 In some embodiments, the wire electrode 201 is bonded to the porous insulating medium 10, while the plate electrode 202 has a gap with the porous insulating medium 10. That is, the wire electrode 201 and the plate electrode 202 are respectively located on opposite sides of the porous insulating medium 10, preventing differences in dielectric constant and ensuring the uniformity and stability of the voltage difference in the porous insulating medium 10. This optimizes the discharge relationship between the discharge electrode 20 and the porous insulating medium 10, avoiding localized strong discharge phenomena, reducing ozone generation, and preventing fire. Of course, in other embodiments, the wire electrode 201 can have a gap with the porous insulating medium 10, while the plate electrode 202 is bonded to the porous insulating medium 10. However, from the perspective of processing difficulty, it is preferable that the wire electrode 201 is bonded to the porous insulating medium 10, while the plate electrode 202 has a gap with the porous insulating medium 10.

[0044] In some embodiments, to ensure the discharge effect between the two discharge electrodes 20, the distance between the wire electrode 201 and the plate electrode 202 can be set to 10 mm, and the thickness of the porous insulating medium 10 is 5 mm. In the prior art, the gap between the wire electrode 201 and the plate electrode 202 and the porous insulating medium 10 is 2.5 mm. Water vapor, impurities, or condensate in the refrigerator can enter the 2.5 mm gap and adhere to the wire electrode 201 and the plate electrode 202, turning the 2.5 mm gap into a 2 mm gap, or even a 0.5 mm gap. This results in a difference in dielectric constant between the gap between the wire electrode 201 and the porous insulating medium 10 and between the plate electrode 202 and the porous insulating medium 10. The difference in dielectric constant leads to poor voltage difference uniformity and stability of the porous insulating medium 10, which can cause discharge enhancement, ozone generation, odor, and even fire. In this disclosure, the wire electrode 201 is bonded to the porous insulating medium 10, meaning the gap between the wire electrode 201 and the porous insulating medium 10 is 0 mm, and the gap between the plate electrode 202 and the porous insulating medium 10 is 5 mm. This large distance between the plate electrode 202 and the porous insulating medium 10 allows water or debris to be blown away by the wind, preventing water or debris from accumulating on the plate electrode 202 and avoiding enhanced discharge. Even if water condenses or foreign matter adheres to the plate electrode 202, reducing the gap between the plate electrode 202 and the porous insulating medium 10, the 0 mm gap between the wire electrode 201 and the porous insulating medium 10 prevents differences in dielectric constant, ensuring the uniformity and stability of the voltage difference in the porous insulating medium 10. This optimizes the discharge relationship between the discharge electrode 20 and the porous insulating medium 10, avoiding enhanced discharge caused by condensation or debris accumulating on the plate electrode 202, reducing ozone production, and preventing fire.

[0045] In some embodiments, the distance between the wire electrode 201 and the plate electrode 202 is set to 10 mm. When condensate accumulates on the plate electrode 202 or the porous insulating medium 10, since the wire electrode 201 is attached to the porous insulating medium 10, the gap between the plate electrode 202 and the porous insulating medium 10 is 5 mm. The distance between the plate electrode 202 and the porous insulating medium 10 is large enough to prevent the condensate on the plate electrode 202 from sticking to the condensate on the porous insulating medium 10, avoid the existence of dielectric constant differences, avoid the occurrence of local strong discharge, reduce the generation of ozone, and prevent fire.

[0046] In some embodiments, since the gap between the plate electrode 202 and the porous insulating medium 10 is 5 mm, even if dust easily adheres to the plate electrode 202 or the porous insulating medium 10, the gap between the plate electrode 202 and the porous insulating medium 10 can be 4.5 mm. Compared with the prior art, the gap between the plate electrode 202 and the porous insulating medium 10 is changed from 2.5 mm to 2 mm, which reduces the impact on the dielectric constant, ensures the uniformity and stability of the dielectric constant, avoids the occurrence of local strong discharge phenomenon, reduces ozone generation, and avoids fire.

[0047] In some embodiments, if the distance between the plate electrode 202 and the porous insulating medium 10 is too close, the discharge will be too strong, resulting in a large amount of ozone. The ozone concentration is too high to be used in the refrigerator. Therefore, the distance between the plate electrode 202 and the porous insulating medium 10 is greater than or equal to 3 mm, preferably 5 mm, so that the discharge of the plate electrode 202 is not strong and a large amount of ozone is not generated. At the same time, a large amount of low-temperature plasma is generated to ensure the deodorizing effect.

[0048] Combination Figure 1 In some embodiments, the wire electrode 201 includes a plurality of strip electrodes 2011 arranged in parallel, with a gap between each pair of adjacent strip electrodes 2011 to form the wire electrode 201, so that the wire electrode 201 and the plate electrode 202 form an asymmetric discharge to ensure the discharge effect, so as to generate plasma to degrade odor molecules in the air and remove odors.

[0049] In some embodiments, the strip electrode 2011 can be made of stainless steel, a common material that is inexpensive, heat-resistant, has good processing performance, high toughness, does not rust, and has a long service life. Of course, in other embodiments, the strip electrode 2011 can also be made of one or more metals such as copper alloys and aluminum alloys.

[0050] Combination Figure 1 In some embodiments, in order to ensure that air enters the ion field, the plate electrode 202 is provided with a mesh 2021 to facilitate air passage.

[0051] In some embodiments, the aperture of the mesh 2021 is less than or equal to 20 mm, preferably 10 mm, to ensure that air can smoothly enter the ion field formed between the wire electrode 201 and the plate electrode 202. The shape of the mesh 2021 can be hexagonal, but it can also be rectangular, circular, or other shapes.

[0052] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of a purification device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. (In conjunction with...) Figure 1 and Figure 2In some embodiments, because the edges of the wire electrode 201 and the plate electrode 202 are sharp and have large surface curvature, ions tend to accumulate at the edges of the wire electrode 201 and the plate electrode 202, leading to tip discharge, which can easily cause sparking and fire accidents. At the same time, it can also cause ozone levels to exceed the standard. In this disclosure, the edge of the wire electrode 201 is embedded in the first housing 203, and the edge of the wire electrode 201 is wrapped by the first housing 201 to achieve edge protection and prevent the edge of the wire electrode 201 from being exposed. The edge of the plate electrode 202 is embedded in the second housing 204, and the edge of the plate electrode 202 is wrapped by the second housing 204 to achieve edge protection and prevent the edge of the plate electrode 202 from being exposed. This can prevent ions from accumulating at the edges of the wire electrode 201 and the plate electrode 202, prevent tip discharge, prevent fire accidents, and at the same time ensure that ozone levels meet the standards.

[0053] In some embodiments, the edge of the wire electrode 201 is embedded in the first housing 203 to a depth of 0.7 mm or more, ensuring that the first housing 203 can completely enclose the edge of the wire electrode 201, achieving edge wrapping and preventing the edge of the wire electrode 201 from being exposed. The edge of the plate electrode 202 is embedded in the second housing 204 to a depth of 0.7 mm or more, ensuring that the second housing 204 can completely enclose the edge of the plate electrode 202, achieving edge wrapping and preventing the edge of the plate electrode 202 from being exposed.

[0054] In some embodiments, both the first housing 203 and the second housing 204 can be made of plastic, reducing costs. The plastic can be ABS material, which is a terpolymer of acrylonitrile (A), butadiene (B), and styrene (S). It combines the properties of all three components: acrylonitrile has high hardness and strength, heat resistance, and corrosion resistance; butadiene has impact resistance and toughness; and styrene has high surface gloss, easy coloring, and easy processing. These characteristics make ABS plastic a thermoplastic with excellent overall performance, characterized by its strength, toughness, and rigidity. Alternatively, the plastic can be PP (polypropylene), a polymer formed by the addition polymerization of propylene. It is a white, waxy material, transparent and lightweight. Its chemical formula is (C3H6). n Its density is 0.89–0.91 g / cm³. 3 It has a melting point of 189℃, softens at around 155℃, and has an operating temperature range of -30 to 140℃. It is resistant to corrosion from acids, alkalis, salt solutions, and various organic solvents below 80℃.

[0055] In some embodiments, both the first housing 203 and the second housing 204 are made of flame-retardant materials with a flame-retardant rating of V0 to prevent fire accidents and ensure safe use.

[0056] In some embodiments, to optimize size and reduce cost, the wire electrode 201 is integrally formed with the first housing 203, and the plate electrode 202 is integrally formed with the second housing 204. Specifically, the wire electrode 201 and the first housing 203 can be integrally formed using an insert injection molding process, reducing processing difficulty and production costs. Similarly, the plate electrode 202 and the second housing 204 can be integrally formed using an insert injection molding process, further reducing processing difficulty and production costs.

[0057] Combination Figure 1 and Figure 2 In some embodiments, to facilitate the installation of the porous insulating medium 10, the first housing 203 is detachably connected to the second housing 204. When the porous insulating medium 10 is to be installed, the first housing 203 and the second housing 204 are separated, and the porous insulating medium 10 is installed inside the first housing 203 and the second housing 204, so that the porous insulating medium 10 is disposed between the wire electrode 201 and the plate electrode 202, realizing dielectric barrier discharge, generating plasma, degrading odor molecules in the air, and removing odors.

[0058] Combination Figure 1 and Figure 2 In some embodiments, the first housing 203 is connected to the second housing 204 by a plurality of locking members 205. The locking members 205 connect the first housing 203 and the second housing 204 into one unit to form a receiving cavity, so that the porous insulating medium 10 is fastened in the receiving cavity, ensuring that the wire electrode 201 is in contact with the porous insulating medium 10.

[0059] Combination Figure 1 and Figure 2 In some embodiments, the locking member 205 consists of a first fastener 2051 and a first fastening groove 2052. The first fastener 2051 can be fastened into the first fastening groove 2051 to achieve a fixed connection between the first housing 203 and the second housing 204.

[0060] Combination Figure 1 and Figure 2 In some embodiments, one of the first housing 203 and the second housing 204 is provided with a first fastener 2051 and the other is provided with a first fastening groove 2052. After aligning the first housing 203 and the second housing 204, the first fastener 2051 is fastened into the first fastening groove 2052 to achieve a fixed connection between the first housing 203 and the second housing 204.

[0061] Combination Figure 1 and Figure 2In some embodiments, the end of the first housing 203 facing the second housing 204 is provided with a plurality of first protrusions 2053, and a first fastening groove 2052 is formed on the first protrusions 2053. The second housing 204 has a plurality of first grooves 2054 on its periphery facing the first housing 203. A first fastener 2051 is disposed in a first groove, and the shape of the first groove 2054 matches the shape of the first protrusion 2053, and the size of the first groove 2054 matches the size of the first protrusion 2053. When the first protrusion 2053 is embedded in the corresponding first groove 2054, the first fastener 2051 is fastened in the first groove 2052 to achieve a fixed connection between the first housing 203 and the second housing 204. Of course, in other embodiments, the end of the first housing 203 facing the second housing 204 may have a plurality of first grooves, and the periphery of the second housing 204 facing the first housing 203 may have a plurality of first protrusions.

[0062] Figure 3 Based on this disclosure Figure 2 Sectional view along line AA, Figure 4 Based on this disclosure Figure 3 A magnified diagram of point B. Combined with... Figure 1 , Figure 3 and Figure 4 In some embodiments, to ensure the gap between the porous insulating medium 10 and the plate electrode 202, a limiting member 40 is provided inside the second housing 204. The limiting member 40 abuts against the porous insulating medium 10. When the first housing 203 is connected to the second housing 204, the porous insulating medium 10 abuts against the limiting member 40, preventing the porous insulating medium 10 from sticking to the plate electrode 202 and maintaining the gap between the porous insulating medium 10 and the plate electrode 202. Specifically, the limiting member 40 can be multiple limiting blocks to ensure a gap between the porous insulating medium 10 and the plate electrode 202. Of course, the limiting block 40 can also be multiple limiting posts.

[0063] Combination Figure 1 , Figure 3 and Figure 4 In some embodiments, the limiting member 40 abuts against the edge of the porous insulating medium 10 to avoid affecting air passage and ensure smooth airflow.

[0064] In some embodiments, when the porous insulating medium 10 is prepared, tolerances exist in the porous insulating medium 10, resulting in a loose fit between the porous insulating medium 10 and the wire electrode 201, creating gaps that allow water or dust to accumulate on the wire electrode 201. To ensure a tight fit between the porous insulating medium 10 and the wire electrode 201, a flexible element 50 is provided between the periphery of the porous insulating medium 10 and the second housing 205. The flexible element 50 compensates for the tolerances of the porous insulating medium 10, ensuring that the porous insulating medium 10 adheres tightly to the wire electrode 201 and preventing water or dust accumulation on the wire electrode 201.

[0065] In some embodiments, since the silicone pad has high compressibility, is soft and elastic, it can effectively compensate for the tolerances of the porous insulating medium 10. Therefore, the flexible element 50 can be a silicone pad.

[0066] Combination Figure 1 , Figure 3 and Figure 4 In some embodiments, the flexible member 50 includes a first ring 501 and a second ring 502. The inner diameter of the first ring 501 is larger than the inner diameter of the second ring 502. The first ring 501 is sleeved on the circumferential surface of the end of the porous insulating medium 10 facing the second housing 204, and the second ring 502 is sleeved on the end face of the porous insulating medium 10 facing the second housing 204. When the first housing 203 is connected to the second housing 204, the second ring 502 can compensate for the tolerance of the porous insulating medium 10, ensuring that the porous insulating medium 10 and the wire electrode 201 are tightly fitted. At the same time, since the second ring 502 has a certain thickness, it can ensure the gap between the porous insulating medium 10 and the plate electrode 202.

[0067] In some embodiments, the porous insulating medium 10 includes honeycomb ceramics. Honeycomb ceramics exhibit good chemical stability, resistance to acids, alkalis, and organic solvents, excellent resistance to rapid heating and cooling, and a working temperature up to 1000°C. They also possess good antibacterial properties, are not easily degraded by bacteria, are not easily clogged, and are easily regenerated. Furthermore, they have strong structural stability, a narrow pore size distribution, high permeability, and are non-toxic, making them particularly suitable for food and pharmaceutical processing. Honeycomb ceramics consist of a honeycomb structure composed of through-holes of equal pore size, facilitating air passage. The shape of the honeycomb ceramic can be circular, rectangular, hexagonal, or other shapes.

[0068] Under high pressure, long-chain odor molecules break down into short-chain molecules. However, when they leave the plasma electric field, these short-chain molecules recombine to form large, difficult-to-decompose molecules, thus reducing the deodorizing effect. Therefore, in some embodiments, honeycomb ceramics are used. When air reaches the honeycomb ceramics, it passes through the pores, increasing the residence time and area of ​​odor molecules within the ion field formed between the two discharge electrodes 20. This allows odor molecules and harmful bacteria to fully contact and react with the active material within the ion electric field, ultimately decomposing them into harmless and odorless CO2 and H2O, thereby achieving rapid and efficient sterilization and deodorization.

[0069] In some embodiments, a catalytic medium is coated onto the porous insulating medium 10. By coating the porous insulating medium 10 with a catalytic medium, it can serve as a reaction site for the adsorption and catalytic decomposition of odor molecules, further prolonging the residence time of odor molecules at the porous insulating medium 10 and accelerating the removal of odors. In some embodiments, the catalytic medium is a catalyst mainly composed of titanium dioxide and supplemented by noble metals (mainly one or more components selected from platinum, palladium, silver, iridium, etc.).

[0070] In some embodiments, a composite calcination process involving metal oxides, pore-forming agents, and clay can be used to integrate the catalytic medium with the honeycomb ceramic. By loading the catalytic medium onto the honeycomb ceramic, the high porosity of both the surface and interior of the honeycomb ceramic serves as reaction sites for the adsorption and catalytic decomposition of odor gases, thus prolonging the residence time of odor molecules within the honeycomb ceramic. Alternatively, the catalytic medium can be incorporated internally into the honeycomb ceramic. When the catalytic medium on the outer surface of the honeycomb ceramic is damaged, the catalytic medium within the honeycomb ceramic can continue to prolong the residence time of odor molecules. In other embodiments, a honeycomb ceramic substrate can be prepared first, immersed in a catalytic medium solution, and then calcined. This improves the bonding strength of the catalytic medium on the surface of the honeycomb ceramic, ensuring a secure adhesion of the catalytic medium to the surface of the honeycomb ceramic. The catalytic medium can then prolong the residence time of odor molecules within the honeycomb ceramic.

[0071] In some embodiments, when air reaches the porous insulating medium 10, the air contains a large number of high-energy electrons, positive and negative ions, excited-state particles and free radicals with strong oxidizing properties. These highly active species are adsorbed onto the active centers of the catalytic medium, and the two produce a synergistic catalytic effect, which rapidly catalytically oxidizes odor molecules into CO2 and water.

[0072] Combination Figure 1 In some embodiments, the purification device further includes a high-voltage power supply 60 and a mounting box 70 for housing the high-voltage power supply 60. The high-voltage power supply 60 is connected to two discharge electrodes 20 and supplies power to the two discharge electrodes 20, thereby forming an ion field between the two discharge electrodes 20.

[0073] In some embodiments, the high-voltage power supply 60 can be a high-frequency single-pulse power supply with a duty cycle of <50% and a pulse peak voltage of 2KV-10KV. The high-voltage input is 12V, ensuring safety when used inside a refrigerator. When the high-voltage is activated, the voltage difference is at its peak, resulting in rapid ionization of the air in the reaction zone; when the pulse is at its flat peak, the voltage is inactive. By selecting the frequency of the pulse voltage, the operating time of the voltage is reduced while ionizing air particles passing through the plasma electric field region, thus extending the service life of the high-voltage power supply 60. This also further reduces ozone production and accumulation, while the pulse voltage consumes less energy and has lower power consumption.

[0074] In some embodiments, to prevent moisture from seeping into the mounting box 70 and affecting the high-voltage power supply 60, two discharge electrodes 20 are inserted through the mounting box 70 and connected to the high-voltage power supply 60. Specifically, the ends of the two discharge electrodes 20 pass through the mounting box 70 and enter the mounting box 70, allowing them to be directly inserted into the mounting box 70. Inside the mounting box 70, the two discharge electrodes 20 are connected to the high-voltage power supply 60. Then, potting compound is applied to seal the circuitry, ensuring that moisture does not seep into the circuitry and guaranteeing safe operation of the equipment.

[0075] In some embodiments, in order to ensure the sealing effect, the adhesive poured into the mounting box 70 can be epoxy resin, polyurethane, etc., which can withstand high temperature, ensure safe operation of the equipment, and is not easily deformed, thus ensuring the sealing effect and preventing moisture from seeping into the circuit.

[0076] Combination Figure 1 and Figure 2 In some embodiments, the mounting box 70 includes a first box body 701, a second box body 702, and a top cover 703. The first box body 701 is detachably connected to the second box body 702, and the top cover 703 is detachably connected to both the first box body 701 and the second box body 702. The high-voltage power supply 60 is installed inside the first box body 701 and the second box body 702. Then, the top cover 703 is installed on top of the first box body 701 and the second box body 702 to seal them and ensure the safety of the high-voltage power supply 60.

[0077] Combination Figure 1 and Figure 2 In some embodiments, the first housing 701 is connected to the second housing 702 by a plurality of first connectors 704, and the first housing 701 and the second housing 702 are connected as one unit by the first connectors 704 to form a mounting cavity, so that the high voltage power supply 60 is fastened in the mounting cavity.

[0078] Combination Figure 1 and Figure 2In some embodiments, the first connector 704 is composed of a second fastener and a second fastening groove 7041. The second fastener can be fastened into the second fastening groove 7041 to achieve a fixed connection between the first box 701 and the second box 702.

[0079] Combination Figure 1 and Figure 2 In some embodiments, one of the first box body 701 and the second box body 702 is provided with a second fastener 7041 and the other is provided with a second fastening groove 7042. After aligning the first box body 701 and the second box body 702, the second fastener 7041 is fastened into the second fastening groove 7042 to achieve a fixed connection between the first box body 701 and the second box body 702.

[0080] In some embodiments, combined with Figure 1 and Figure 2 In some embodiments, the end of the first box 701 facing the second box 702 is provided with a plurality of second protrusions 7043, and a second fastening groove 7041 is formed on the second protrusions 7043. The second box 702 has a plurality of second grooves on its periphery facing the first box 701, and a second fastener is disposed in the second groove. The shape of the second groove matches the shape of the second protrusion 7043, and the size of the second groove matches the size of the second protrusion 7043. When the second protrusion 7043 is embedded in the corresponding second groove, the second fastener is fastened in the second groove 7041 to achieve a fixed connection between the first box 701 and the second box 702. Of course, in other embodiments, the end of the first box 701 facing the second box 702 may have a plurality of second grooves, and the periphery of the second box 702 facing the first box 701 may have a plurality of second protrusions.

[0081] Combination Figure 1 and Figure 2 In some embodiments, the top cover 703 can be connected to the first box 701 and the second box 702 via the second connector 705, and the top cover 703 can seal the first box 701 and the second box 702 to ensure the safety of the high-voltage power supply 60.

[0082] Combination Figure 1 and Figure 2 In some embodiments, the second connector 705 is composed of a third fastener 7051 and a third fastening groove 7052. The third fastener 7051 can be fastened into the third fastening groove 7052 to achieve a fixed connection between the top cover 703 and the first box 701 and the second box 702.

[0083] Combination Figure 1 and Figure 2In some embodiments, the top cover 703 is provided with a third fastener 7051 on one of the first box body 701 and the second box body 702, and a third fastening groove 7052 on the other. After aligning the top cover 70 with the first box body 701 and the second box body 702, the third fastener 7051 is fastened into the third fastening groove 7052 to achieve a fixed connection between the top cover 70 and the first box body 701 and the second box body 7022.

[0084] Combination Figure 1 and Figure 2 In some embodiments, the upper cover 703 has a plurality of third protrusions 7053 at the ends facing the first box 701 and the second box 702, and a third fastening groove 7052 is formed on the third protrusion 7053. A plurality of third grooves 7054 are formed on the periphery of the second box 702 and the first box 701 facing the upper cover 703. A third fastener 7051 is provided in the third groove 7054, and the shape of the third groove 7054 matches the shape of the third protrusion 7053. The size of the third groove 7054 matches the size of the third protrusion 7053. When the third protrusion 7053 is embedded in the corresponding third groove 7054, the third fastener 7051 is fastened in the third fastening groove 7052 to achieve a fixed connection between the upper cover 703 and the first box 701 and the second box 702. Of course, in other embodiments, the upper cover 703 may be provided with a plurality of third grooves at the ends facing the first box 701 and the second box 702, and the first box 701 and the second box 702 may be provided with a plurality of third protrusions on the periphery facing the upper cover 703.

[0085] Combination Figure 1 and Figure 2 In some embodiments, the first box 701 is connected to the first housing 203, and the second box 702 is connected to the second housing 204, facilitating assembly. Specifically, the first box 701 and the first housing 203 are integrally formed, and the second box 702 and the second housing 204 are integrally formed, which can optimize size and reduce cost.

[0086] Combination Figure 1 and Figure 2 In some embodiments, when the first housing 701 is connected to the second housing 702, the first shell 203 is connected to the second shell 204 to form a T-shaped structure for easy installation. That is, the length of the first housing 701 is greater than the width of the first shell 203, and the length of the second housing 702 is greater than the width of the second shell 204 to form a T-shaped structure for easy installation into the cooling duct 80.

[0087] In some embodiments, when the first housing 203 and the second housing 204 are to be installed into the cooling duct 80, the first housing 701 and the second housing 702 are installed into the foam space inside the duct 80 by screws, so as to avoid drilling holes in the first housing 203 and the second housing 204, which would affect the discharge effect of the two discharge electrodes 20 and ensure the purification effect.

[0088] In another aspect of this disclosure, a refrigerator is provided that employs the purification device. The specific structure of the purification device is as described in the above embodiments. Since the purification device employs all the technical solutions of all the above embodiments, it has at least all the beneficial effects brought about by the technical solutions of the above embodiments, which will not be elaborated here.

[0089] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of a refrigerator according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of a cooling air duct structure according to some embodiments of this disclosure. (In conjunction with...) Figure 5 and Figure 6 In some embodiments, the refrigerator further includes a cooling duct 80, and a purification device is fixedly installed at the air outlet of the cooling duct 80. Specifically: a wire electrode 201 is installed inside the first housing 203, a plate electrode 202 is installed inside the second housing 204, a porous insulating medium 10 is disposed within the receiving cavity formed by the first housing 203 and the second housing 204, and a high-voltage power supply 60 is disposed within the mounting cavity formed by the first housing 701 and the second housing 702. The top cover 703 seals the first housing 701 and the second housing 702. Then, the first housing 701 and the second housing 702 are installed into the foam space inside the cooling duct 80. The refrigeration duct 80 delivers air from inside the refrigerator to the purification device. The high-voltage power supply 60 supplies power to the wire electrode 201 and the plate electrode 202. An ion field is formed between the wire electrode 201 and the plate electrode 202. When air enters the ion field, the porous insulating medium 10 and the two discharge electrodes 20 perform dielectric barrier discharge to generate plasma, which degrades odor molecules in the air, removes odors, and ensures that there are no odors inside the refrigerator.

[0090] Combination Figure 6 In some embodiments, the first housing 701 and the second housing 702 can be installed at the air outlet of the cooling duct 80, allowing air to enter the ion field. The porous insulating medium 10 and the two discharge electrodes 20 perform dielectric barrier discharge, generating plasma to degrade odor molecules in the air, removing odors and ensuring an odor-free refrigerator. Of course, in other embodiments, the first housing 701 and the second housing 702 can also be installed at the air return outlet of the cooling duct 80.

[0091] Combination Figure 6In some embodiments, to maximize the air intake area, reduce wind resistance, and ensure purification effect, the porous insulating medium 10 and the two discharge electrodes 20 are arranged in the same direction as the airflow direction within the refrigeration duct. That is, the porous insulating medium 10 and the two discharge electrodes 20 are perpendicular to the airflow direction within the refrigeration duct 80. Specifically, the wire electrode 201, the porous insulating medium 10, and the plate electrode 202 are all perpendicular to the airflow direction within the refrigeration duct 80, allowing air to pass sequentially through the wire electrode 201, the porous insulating medium 10, and the plate electrode 202. An ion field is formed between the wire electrode 201 and the plate electrode 202. When air enters the ion field, the porous insulating medium 10 and the two discharge electrodes 20 perform dielectric barrier discharge, generating plasma that degrades odor molecules in the air, removing odors and ensuring an odor-free refrigerator. Meanwhile, since the wire electrode 201, the porous insulating medium 10, and the plate electrode 202 are perpendicular to the airflow direction, even if water or debris accumulates on the wire electrode 201 and the plate electrode 202, the water or debris will fall off under the action of gravity, preventing water or debris from accumulating on the discharge electrode 20. This will not change the gap between the wire electrode 201 and the plate electrode 202 and the porous insulating medium 10, and will not produce a difference in dielectric constant. This ensures the uniformity and stability of the voltage difference of the porous insulating medium 10, optimizes the discharge relationship between the discharge electrode 20 and the porous insulating medium 10, avoids the discharge enhancement phenomenon caused by the accumulation of condensate or debris on the discharge electrode 20, reduces ozone production, and prevents fire.

[0092] Combination Figure 6 In some embodiments, in order to allow the air inside the refrigerator to enter the refrigeration duct 80 and be purified by the purification device, a refrigeration fan 90 is installed inside the refrigeration duct 80. When the refrigeration fan 90 is started, the air inside the refrigerator is drawn out, allowing the air inside the refrigerator to circulate. The air inside the refrigerator can enter the refrigeration duct 80 and be purified by the purification device. This cyclical purification achieves uninterrupted purification of the large space, removes odors from the air, and ensures that there are no odors inside the refrigerator.

[0093] In the description of this application, it should be understood that the terms "center", "longitudinal", "lateral", "length", "width", "thickness", "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", "clockwise", "counterclockwise", etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are used only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this application.

[0094] Furthermore, the use of terms such as "first" and "second" in this disclosure is for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying their relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Therefore, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of that feature. Additionally, the technical solutions of the various embodiments can be combined with each other, but this must be based on the ability of a person skilled in the art to implement them. If the combination of technical solutions is contradictory or impossible to implement, such a combination of technical solutions should be considered non-existent and not within the scope of protection claimed in this application.

[0095] In the description of this disclosure, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can include direct contact between the first and second features, or contact between the first and second features through another feature between them. Furthermore, "above," "over," and "on top" of the second feature includes the first feature being directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature includes the first feature being directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0096] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., indicate that a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of this application. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples. In addition, those skilled in the art can combine and integrate the different embodiments or examples described in this specification.

[0097] Although preferred embodiments of the present disclosure have been described, those skilled in the art, upon learning the basic inventive concept, can make other changes and modifications to these embodiments. Therefore, the appended claims are intended to be interpreted as including the preferred embodiments as well as all changes and modifications falling within the scope of this disclosure.

[0098] Obviously, those skilled in the art can make various modifications and variations to this disclosure without departing from its spirit and scope. Therefore, if such modifications and variations fall within the scope of the claims of this disclosure and their equivalents, this disclosure is also intended to include such modifications and variations.

Claims

1. A purification device, comprising: Two discharge electrodes; A porous insulating medium is disposed between the two discharge electrodes; Among them, one of the two discharge electrodes is in contact with the porous insulating medium, and the other has a gap between it and the porous insulating medium; The purification device further includes: a high-voltage power supply and a mounting box for housing the high-voltage power supply, the high-voltage power supply being connected to the two discharge electrodes; The two discharge electrodes are inserted through the mounting box and connected to the high-voltage power supply; One of the two discharge electrodes is a wire electrode, and the other is a plate electrode; The edge of the wire electrode is embedded in the first housing, and the edge of the plate electrode is embedded in the second housing; the first housing is detachably connected to the second housing.

2. The purification device according to claim 1, wherein, The porous insulating medium includes honeycomb ceramics.

3. The purification device according to claim 1, wherein, The porous insulating medium is coated with a catalytic medium.

4. The purification device according to claim 1, wherein the wire electrode is bonded to the porous insulating medium, and there is a gap between the plate electrode and the porous insulating medium.

5. The purification device according to claim 1, wherein, The gap between the plate electrode and the porous insulating medium is greater than or equal to 3 mm.

6. The purification device according to claim 1, wherein, The wire electrode includes multiple strip electrodes arranged in parallel.

7. The purification device according to claim 1, wherein, The plate electrode has mesh openings.

8. The purification device according to claim 1, wherein, The wire electrode is integrally formed with the first housing; the plate electrode is integrally formed with the second housing.

9. The purification device according to claim 1, wherein, The second housing is provided with a limiting member, which abuts against the porous insulating medium.

10. The purification device according to claim 1, wherein, A flexible element is provided between the periphery of the porous insulating medium and the second housing.

11. The purification device according to claim 1, wherein, The first housing is connected to the second housing by a plurality of locking elements.

12. A refrigerator comprising the purification device as described in any one of claims 1-11.

13. The refrigerator according to claim 12, wherein the refrigerator further includes a refrigeration duct, and the purification device is fixedly disposed at the air outlet of the refrigeration duct.

14. The refrigerator according to claim 13, wherein the arrangement direction of the porous insulating medium and the two discharge electrodes is consistent with the flow direction of the air in the refrigeration duct.

15. The refrigerator according to claim 13, wherein a refrigeration fan is provided in the refrigeration duct.

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