Air drying device for drying wet surfaces with variable additional functions and disinfection options

Abstract

Air drying device, comprising an air source for generating an air flow, a nozzle or lance for targeted application of the air flow and a control unit for regulating air flow strength, temperature and additional functions, thereby enabling efficient drying of damp surfaces.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to an air drying device specifically developed for the efficient drying of damp surfaces and also offering innovative additional functions for disinfection and refreshment. Unlike conventional air drying devices, which primarily serve to remove moisture, this device incorporates targeted disinfection options, making it suitable for a wide range of applications.

[0002] A key application is vehicle care in self-service car washes, where residual water can be removed from vehicles after cleaning to prevent windows, doors, and locks from freezing in winter. The device can also be used in vehicle interiors to reduce humidity by supplying air, distribute fragrances, and simultaneously provide a hygienic treatment for interior surfaces or ventilation systems.

[0003] Several innovative technologies are available for disinfection: • UV-C disinfection: An integrated or optionally retrofittable UV-C light source (wavelength range from 100 to 280 nm) can be used to specifically kill microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses and mold spores. • Disinfection with hypochlorous acid (HOCl): Optionally, a fine spray of hypochlorous acid can be added to the air stream, which has been proven to be highly effective against germs and is harmless to humans and the environment. • Thermal disinfection: The air source can provide hot air above 70°C to disinfect surfaces, especially in hard-to-reach areas such as ventilation systems or textile surfaces.

[0004] Additionally, the device can be combined with a fragrance dispenser to improve indoor air quality and create a pleasant indoor climate. This combines drying, refreshing, and hygiene in one innovative multifunctional solution. Technical features • Air source: A turbine, compressor, fan or similar device generates the air flow. • Adjustable temperature: The air can be emitted warm or cold, depending on the application. • Variable air supply: via a nozzle, a flexible lance or a stationary outlet opening. • Control: Adjustment of airflow, temperature and additional functions. • Additive supply: Integration of fragrances, drying accelerators or disinfectants. • Multi-stage disinfection options: UV-C disinfection, hypochlorous acid or thermal treatment. • Flexible use: Can be used stationary or mobile. • Payment system: Coin or card payment as an optional source of income for operators of self-service car washes. Summary

[0005] The invention represents an air drying device that, beyond the traditional drying function, offers innovative possibilities for the hygienic treatment of surfaces and ventilation systems. The combination of drying, disinfection, and fragrance distribution creates a versatile and marketable solution that can be used in self-service car washes as well as in other areas such as vehicle interiors, industrial hygiene, or building cleaning.

Claims

[1] Air drying device, comprising an air source for generating an air flow, a nozzle or lance for the targeted application of the air flow and a control unit for regulating air flow strength, temperature and additional functions, thereby enabling efficient drying of damp surfaces. [2] Air drying device according to claim 1, wherein the air source comprises a turbine, a compressor, a fan or a similar device for generating a constant or adjustable air flow. [3] Air drying device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the air flow can be selectively heated or cooled to ensure improved drying depending on the ambient conditions. [4] Air drying device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein an additive supply is provided to add fragrances, drying accelerators or hygienic additives to the air stream. [5] Air drying device according to one of the preceding claims, which is suitable both for outdoor use for drying vehicles or components and for indoor use for air purification, refreshment and hygienic treatment. [6] Air drying device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the air is discharged by a flexible lance, a stationary nozzle or an alternative air guide. [7] Air drying device according to one of the preceding claims, which can be equipped with various fragrance modules or disinfection functions, in particular for self-service car washes or vehicle interiors. [8] Air drying device according to one of the preceding claims, which is equipped with a UV-C disinfection source which enables hygienic treatment of surfaces and ventilation systems by killing microorganisms. [9] Air drying device according to one of the preceding claims, which is equipped with a supply of hypochlorous acid (HOCl) to carry out microbiological disinfection by means of a fine spray mist in combination with the air flow. [10] An air drying device according to any preceding claim, comprising a thermal disinfection function, wherein the air source generates hot air at a temperature above 70°C to keep surfaces or air streams germ-free. [11] Air drying device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the UV-C disinfection source, the hypochlorous acid supply or the thermal disinfection function can be used individually or in combination to ensure an optimal hygienic effect depending on the intended use. [12] Air drying device according to one of the preceding claims, which can be operated as a stand-alone unit or as an extension of existing washing and cleaning systems. [13] An air drying appliance according to any preceding claim, which can be operated by a payment mechanism, which can include either a coin or card payment option or the appliance can be offered as a free additional service, depending on the operator's decision.