Plasma device

Abstract

The present invention relates to a plasma device for applying a cold atmospheric plasma to a surface to be treated, in particular to textiles, leather and / or plastic fibres, having a housing, a plasma source arranged therein and a voltage source for applying a voltage to the plasma source and having an actuator that is designed to activate the plasma source provided that a distance between the plasma source and the surface to be treated is less than a predetermined distance, wherein the actuator has an adjustable and pre-loaded actuator element having at least one activation element and has a recording apparatus that records the position of the actuator element at least provided that the distance between the plasma source and the surface to be treated is less then the predetermined distance. The plasma device according to the invention makes it possible in particular to avoid risks owing to incorrect operation by the client and to avoid emissions, since the plasma source is activated only when the distance from the item of clothing to be cleaned is less than the predetermined distance.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a plasma device for applying cold atmospheric plasma to a surface to be treated, in particular textiles, leather and / or fibers.

[0002] It is known that plasmas can be used for disinfection, especially of surfaces contaminated with bacteria. Typical applications of such plasma devices are found in the areas of disinfection or sterilization, surface functionalization, and in the medical field, such as wound disinfection, wound treatment, healing and treatment of skin irritations, and treatment of bacterial, viral, and fungal skin diseases. Known plasma devices are no longer limited to surface applications; they can also be used to disinfect air.

[0003] Bacteria are often responsible for the formation of unpleasant odors on surfaces or in air. They metabolize existing nutrients, producing substances with unpleasant smells. Killing or deactivating these bacteria can, at least temporarily, prevent the formation of additional substances with unpleasant odors or other irritating molecules—that is, molecules that are not directly related to smell but cause discomfort, illness, weakness, or similar conditions, such as allergens, protein molecules, or prions. However, the substances already present are not eliminated, so their odor can usually only be masked by additional volatile substances, such as fragrances. It is therefore desirable to deactivate the odor-causing substances.

[0004] Another area of ​​application is the refreshing of textiles and / or clothing instead of or in addition to washing.

[0005] It is known that textiles and / or clothing can be freshened using various methods. One possibility is to mask the odor with a suitable, more pleasant scent or fragrance; however, this does not remove the odor molecules or the source of the odor. Another possibility is to remove the source of the unpleasant odor (e.g., bacteria). This, however, does not remove the existing odor molecules but only stops the formation of new odors, provided all bacteria are permanently inactivated. Since bacteria typically double their numbers in preferred areas, such as an armpit, every 5 minutes, a 3-log reduction to one-thousandth (1 / 1000) will be replenished after only 1 hour, meaning that such an antibacterial method must be repeated frequently. A further possibility is the destruction of malodorous molecules through chemical processes.Ozone can be used for this purpose, but due to its toxicity, it must be filtered out of the air again after the chemical oxidation of malodorous molecules. Furthermore, the reaction is slow and requires long interaction times, as ozone molecules only move thermally at about 200 meters per second. It is also possible to remove malodorous molecules by washing the textiles and / or clothing. This is a standard process, partly mechanical, partly chemical. It usually works well, but it is time-consuming, expensive, has a high CO2 footprint, and requires access to a washing machine, which is not always possible (e.g., when traveling). Another problem is that not all textiles or garments can be washed, as they may be damaged or even destroyed during the washing process. Moreover, washing below 40°C does not remove odor sources (e.g.,Bacteria) and can even promote their growth. The unpleasant odor can also be eliminated through dry cleaning. The basic principle is the same as with washing, although chemical cleaning agents can damage some textiles and / or clothing.

[0006] In addition to the aforementioned methods, cold atmospheric plasma devices can also be used to eliminate unpleasant odors. Conventional plasma devices can only be operated efficiently at relatively high voltage amplitudes, and for electrical safety reasons, there are restrictions on operating such devices near human skin. Furthermore, conventional devices are comparatively large and rigid.

[0007] Furthermore, plasma devices can generate a range of chemical compounds. These can include, for example, electrons, ions, reactive compounds, particularly reactive oxygen species such as O₃ and nitrogen species such as NO, NO₂, etc., neutral systems, and UV light, some of which can cause harm to humans if certain thresholds are exceeded. The local temperature increase at the interface between a plasma device and the surface being treated can also damage the material being treated.

[0008] Accordingly, the application of cold plasma for clothing refreshment must be both comfortable and safe. Both the treated fabric and the user should be protected from foreseeable problems, including misuse, and trouble-free operation should be ensured.

[0009] A plasma device according to the preamble of claim 1 is known from patent publication WO2018 / 167159 A1.

[0010] Patent publication WO2012150041 A1 discloses a plasma device for applying a cold atmospheric plasma to a surface to be treated, in particular to textiles.

[0011] The present invention therefore deals with the problem of providing an improved or at least an alternative embodiment for a plasma device, which in particular overcomes the disadvantages known from the prior art.

[0012] The present invention is based on the general idea of ​​equipping a plasma device for applying a cold atmospheric plasma to a surface to be treated, in particular textiles, leather and / or plastic fibers, with a technically simple and reliable actuator that allows activation of a plasma source exclusively under predetermined boundary conditions.The plasma device according to the invention comprises a housing, a plasma source arranged therein, and a voltage source for applying a voltage to the plasma source, as well as an actuator configured to activate the plasma source when the distance between the plasma source and the surface to be treated is within a predetermined range. The actuator has an adjustable and pre-tensioned actuator element with at least one actuating element and a sensing device that detects the position of the actuator element at least when the distance between the plasma source and the surface to be treated is within the predetermined range. The plasma device is thus configured to allow activation of the plasma source (e.g., activation by a user, e.g.,(via user input) only if the distance between the plasma source and the surface to be treated is within the specified range. This means the plasma can only be ignited when the plasma device is near or in contact with the surface to be treated.

[0013] The plasma device according to the invention particularly helps to avoid hazards caused by incorrect operation by the customer, since the plasma source is only activated when the distance to the clothing being cleaned is within the predetermined range. A further advantage of the invention lies in its very compact and cost-effective design. This also helps to prevent emissions if the plasma device is not used as intended.

[0014] In the following description, the term actuator shall also be understood to mean any design suitable for enabling the activation of the plasma source only when the distance between the plasma source and the surface to be treated is within the specified distance, wherein, according to the invention, the actuator comprises an adjustable and pre-tensioned actuator element with at least one actuating element and a detection device.

[0015] The detection device can, for example, include a distance sensor or a light barrier. According to the invention, the detection device detects the position of the actuator element, provided that the distance between the plasma source and the surface to be treated is within the predetermined distance, and can activate the plasma source directly or indirectly if the distance between the plasma source and the surface to be treated is within the predetermined distance.

[0016] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, a spring, an elastic plastic element such as a sealing lip, a foam element, or a rubber element, or a pneumatic or hydraulic return mechanism is provided for pre-tensioning and resetting the actuator element. This non-exhaustive list alone allows for a wide selection of reliable and cost-effective return mechanisms that repeatedly return the actuator element to its initial position and thereby deactivate the plasma source.

[0017] The detection device advantageously includes a proximity sensor, a contact sensor, a microswitch, a strain gauge, a magnetic sensor, and / or a light barrier. The actuator element is equipped with one or more actuating elements in the direction of the device to signal to the electronics, in this case the detection device, that the plasma device is in contact with the surface to be treated. These actuating elements can then be queried by any proximity or contact sensors, e.g., actuating microswitches, or, if equipped with metal parts / magnets, triggering other sensors. Strain gauges attached to a deformable material are also conceivable. This allows the detection device to be manufactured cost-effectively and with extreme flexibility.

[0018] In a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the detection device comprises a light barrier and the actuating element has a chamfered flank, wherein the detection device is designed such that it determines the degree of coverage of the light barrier and thus a distance between the plasma source and the surface to be treated. This makes it possible to indicate not only an "ON" or "OFF" position by means of the detection device comprising the light barrier, but also intermediate positions that depend on the distance between the plasma source and the surface to be treated.

[0019] Advantageously, the detection device includes a light barrier and is arranged on a circuit board with an opening. The opening is crossed or covered by the light barrier, and the actuating element engages in this opening, provided the distance between the plasma source and the surface to be treated is within the predetermined distance. In this embodiment, the actuating element of the actuator thus engages through the opening, resulting in a very space-saving design.

[0020] Preferably, the specified distance lies in a range of 0 to 4 mm, more preferably 0 to 1 mm. This has the particular advantage that, depending on the predefined parameter (e.g., distance), the plasma source or an individual plasma source segment can be activated and / or deactivated. It is assumed that this enables a further reduction in emissions and an increase in the overall efficiency of the plasma device.

[0021] Advantageously, the plasma device may preferably include an indicator or control light configured to instruct a user to ventilate an area around the plasma device after the plasma source has been switched on for a predetermined period. This helps ensure reliable long-term operation.

[0022] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, a speed sensor is provided for measuring the speed at which the plasma device is moved across the surface to be treated. The plasma device is preferably configured to automatically switch off the plasma source when the detected speed is below a first predetermined value or above a second predetermined value. This ensures that the plasma device operates within an appropriate speed range, i.e., not too slowly (to keep the temperature at the contact point between the plasma device and the surface to be treated below the operating threshold, i.e., below the temperature that could damage the material being treated) and not too quickly (to achieve the purpose of the treatment, e.g., to deactivate the malodorous molecules).

[0023] Advantageously, a surface property detection device, in particular a temperature sensor or a humidity sensor, is provided for detecting at least one property of the surface to be treated. This at least one property can be, for example, moisture content or temperature. That is, the surface property detection device preferably includes a humidity sensor for detecting the moisture level of the surface to be treated, wherein the plasma device is preferably designed such that the plasma source is automatically switched off when the moisture content of the surface to be treated is higher than a predetermined moisture value, thereby preventing the plasma device from being operated at excessive power. The moisture content of the surface to be treated can be determined by measuring the power consumed by the plasma source.Preferably, the power consumed by the plasma source is recorded at a frequency of at least 10 s⁻¹, preferably 50 s⁻¹, and preferably 100 s⁻¹. This measurement can be performed, for example, in the control circuit of the plasma device. Thus, the plasma source and the control circuit can function as the humidity sensor. However, a separate sensor can also be used. Alternatively or additionally, the surface property detection device includes a temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of the surface to be treated, wherein the plasma device is configured to automatically switch off the plasma source when the temperature of the surface to be treated exceeds a predetermined temperature value, thereby preventing damage to the treated material.

[0024] The plasma device is conveniently portable, and the power source consists of a battery or accumulator. This allows for relatively simple mobile use. Furthermore, the plasma source can be interchangeable. For example, the plasma device can be designed so that the plasma source is housed in a plasma source unit, and the power source is housed in a main housing, with the plasma source unit being detachably connected to the main housing. In this way, a plasma device can, for instance, include the main housing and a number of plasma source units, each particularly suitable for a specific material to be treated.

[0025] As described herein, the term "cold atmospheric plasma" (CAP) refers to plasmas that operate under normal atmospheric conditions (e.g., temperature and pressure) and enable, for example, painless in vivo applications without tissue damage. Cold atmospheric plasmas can be generated, for instance, by limiting the number of high-energy electrons and / or by cooling uncharged molecules / atoms within the plasma. An important characteristic of cold atmospheric plasma is that it retains its bactericidal and fungicidal properties.

[0026] As further described herein, the plasma source can be configured in any form capable of generating cold atmospheric plasma and applying it to a surface to be treated. Preferably, an SMD (Surface Micro Discharge) device is used. Further optional structural features are explained below.

[0027] Preferably, the plasma device is further configured to allow the reactivation of the plasma source (e.g., activation by a user, e.g., via user input) after the plasma source has been switched off for a predetermined waiting period, thereby causing the concentration of the toxic substances to fall significantly below the threshold.

[0028] Preferably, the plasma device includes a control circuit configured to adjust the plasma depending on the detected surface condition, in particular depending on the detected humidity and / or temperature, so that the rejuvenation treatment is carried out without damaging the treated material.

[0029] Preferably, the plasma source comprises a first electrode, a second electrode, and a dielectric layer separating the first and second electrodes, the first electrode being configured to ignite the cold atmospheric plasma for treatment of the surface to be treated. That is, the first electrode is positioned closer to the surface to be treated than the second electrode. The first electrode is preferably configured to be in contact with the surface to be treated. The first electrode may further be covered with a dielectric material. Preferably, the first electrode, or the dielectric material covering the first electrode, is exposed to the surrounding atmosphere through an opening in the housing, while the second electrode is located inside the housing.It should be noted that such an electrode structure also constitutes an independent aspect of the present invention and can be provided independently of the first aspect mentioned above. However, it can also be combined with any of the sensors mentioned above.

[0030] To further enhance the safety of the plasma device, particularly against misuse, the first electrode is grounded and / or the plasma device includes an on / off switch electrically connected to the first electrode. The plasma device is configured to allow activation of the plasma source only and / or to selectively switch on the plasma source only when the on / off switch is pressed. Accordingly, when using the plasma device, there is no potential difference between the user and the first electrode, and therefore no discharge from the first electrode—i.e., the electrode where the plasma is ignited—to the user.

[0031] In other words, a conductive connection between the first electrode and the user's skin can be established, for example, by a conductive switch and / or another conductive part of the device's housing. Preferably, the device is designed such that the conductive switch and / or the conductive housing section must be held and / or pressed by the user for the plasma device to function (e.g., continuously held and / or pressed during operation). In other words, if the conductive switch and / or the conductive housing section is not held and / or pressed by the user, the device's control circuitry can disable activation of the plasma source. The switch can be the device's on / off switch. However, an additional safety switch can also be used, which must be pressed in addition to the on / off switch.

[0032] This switch (e.g. the on / off switch) can be implemented as a mechanical switch, but also as any other type of touch sensor (e.g. a resistive or capacitive touch sensor).

[0033] Even in cases where the first electrode is the one that comes into contact with the surface being treated, the plasma device can still include a temperature sensor configured to detect the temperature of the first electrode. Preferably, the plasma device is configured to selectively and automatically switch off the plasma source when the temperature of the first electrode exceeds a predefined temperature value. This reduces the risk of damage to the treated material and / or tissue from an overheated electrode.

[0034] To treat larger areas, the plasma device preferably includes segmented plasma sources, each segment being equipped with one of the aforementioned safety architectures, e.g., the distance sensor, the light sensor, the speed sensor, the display or indicator light, the surface property detection device, etc.

[0035] Preferably, the plasma source comprises at least one first plasma source segment and at least one second plasma source segment, wherein the plasma device is configured to selectively switch on the first plasma source segment only when the distance between the first plasma source segment and the surface to be treated is within the predetermined distance, and to selectively switch on the second plasma source segment only when the distance between the second plasma source segment and the surface to be treated is within the predetermined distance. The predetermined distance is preferably in the range of 0 to 4 mm and more preferably 0 to 1 mm. This has the particular advantage that, depending on the predefined parameter (e.g., distance), an individual plasma source segment can be activated and / or deactivated.

[0036] Preferably, at least one of the first electrode or the second electrode comprises a first electrode segment in a region of the first plasma source segment and a second electrode segment in a region of the second plasma source segment. That is, at least one of the electrodes can be a segmented electrode. Preferably, the other electrode is a common electrode assigned to both the first and second electrode segments. However, a segmented second electrode can also be used.

[0037] Preferably, the first plasma source segment and the second plasma source segment are connected electrically in parallel.

[0038] The invention is described in more detail below with reference to the preferred embodiments illustrated in the drawings. However, the scope of the invention for which protection is sought should not be limited to the details shown or described below, but rather defined by the accompanying claims. In the drawings, Fig. 1 shows a schematic representation of a plasma device according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 2 shows a schematic representation of a plasma device according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention; Abb. 3A shows various wet / damp textiles that showed no damage during cold atmospheric plasma treatment, with dry fabrics also shown after the same treatment for comparison; Abb. 3B The image shows various wet / damp textiles that exhibited certain damage during cold atmospheric plasma treatment, with dry fabrics also shown after the same treatment for comparison; Fig. 4A Figures 4B and 4B show the plasma power consumed by a plasma source of a plasma device according to the present invention when the plasma device has been swept over sample fabric under the conditions described in detail below; Fig. 5 Figure 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the structure of a plasma source of a plasma device according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention; Abb. 6A und 6B Each shows a schematic top view of two examples of a plasma source with two plasma source segments; Abb. 7A und 7B show exemplary circuit diagrams of the ones in the Abb. 6A und 6B depicted plasma sources; and Fig. 8 shows a schematic diagram of a plasma device according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, which includes an interchangeable plasma source unit, Fig. 9 shows a cross-sectional view through a plasma device according to the invention in the area of ​​an actuator.

[0039] With reference to Fig. 1 A plasma device 100 for applying a cold atmospheric plasma to a surface to be treated (not shown) comprises, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, a housing 102, a plasma source 104 in the housing 102, and a voltage source (not shown) in the housing 102 for applying a voltage to the plasma source 104. The plasma source 104 can be held by a plasma source holder 106, which forms a front part of the housing 102, as shown in Fig. 1 The plasma device 100 is configured to allow activation of the plasma source 104 only when the distance between the plasma source 104 and the surface to be treated is within a predetermined range. In embodiments not covered by the claim, this selective activation can be achieved, for example, by a distance sensor 110, as shown in Abb. 1 represented or, as in the present invention, by an actuator 913 according to the Fig. 9 .

[0040] In particular, in an embodiment not covered by the scope of the claim, the actuator configured as a distance sensor 110 is a mechanical distance sensor with a voltage source connection 114, which is electrically connected to the voltage source, and a plasma source connection 112, which is electrically connected to the plasma source 104. The voltage source connection 114 and the plasma source connection 112 are configured such that they are spaced apart from each other when the plasma device 100 is not in contact with the surface to be treated. Meanwhile, the voltage source connection 114 and the plasma source connection 112 are configured such that they are movable relative to each other.Accordingly, when the plasma device 100 is brought into contact with the surface to be treated, the housing 102 (the plasma source holder 106) and / or the plasma source 104 are pressed against the surface by pushing the plasma source connection 112 inwards towards the voltage source connection 114, and finally electrically coupling the voltage source connection 114 to the plasma source connection 112, thereby allowing the voltage source to apply a voltage, i.e., selectively switch on the plasma source 104. The connections 112 and 114 do not necessarily have to be directly connected to the plasma source or the voltage source, respectively. For example, they can also be coupled to a controller (not shown) that indicates whether a connection exists.

[0041] The switching mechanism can, of course, be implemented in different ways. Referring to Fig. 2 For example, a plasma device 200 according to another preferred embodiment of the present description, which is also not within the scope of the claim, includes a housing 202, a plasma source 204, a plasma source holder 206 and a voltage source (see below), which correspond to the respective elements in the Fig. 1 The embodiment shown is similar. However, instead of the distance sensor 110, the plasma device 200 includes a light sensor 210, particularly as an actuator or detection device. When the plasma device 200 is brought near an object to be treated, the light is gradually blocked by this object, and the amount of light received by the light sensor 210 decreases. The plasma device 200 is configured to selectively switch on the plasma source 204 when the amount of light received by the light sensor 210 falls below a predetermined value, or to allow switching on (e.g., by the user) only in this case. Here, the predetermined value can be determined by the amount of light received by the light sensor 210 when the plasma device 200 is held at a predetermined distance (e.g., 4 mm, 3 mm, 2 mm, or 1 mm) from the surface to be treated.

[0042] It should be noted that the position of the light sensor 210 is not particularly limited. While the light sensor 210 in Abb. 2 Since the plasma source 204 is located at both ends, additional or alternative light sensors can be located, for example, in the middle of the plasma source 204, as shown by the light sensor 220.

[0043] To investigate further aspects of the safe use of the plasma device on textiles / garments to be refreshed, particularly with regard to the safety of the treated materials, the inventors carried out a series of cold atmospheric plasma treatments on various fabrics under wet and dry conditions, the results of which are described in the Abb. 3A and 3B summarized.

[0044] From the Abb. 3A and 3BIt is evident that treatment with the plasma device was applicable to all tested tissues – dry or moist. The plasma device could be moved smoothly over all examined tissues – no sticking or snagging was observed. No color changes or other damage were observed on any of the dry materials examined in this study. This result is independent of the number of wipe samples. However, when treating wet / moist tissues, some tissue samples showed damage, as shown in Abb. 3B marked in the respective sections of the photos.

[0045] Optical studies suggest that the burning of moist tissues occurs in slightly dry areas of the tissue, where the plasma discharge is concentrated and the local temperature is increased.

[0046] The Fig. 4A und 4B These figures show measurements of the plasma power consumed by a plasma source of a plasma device applying cold atmospheric plasma to cotton fabric with varying moisture conditions. Specifically, the sample designated as "50% moist fabric" is a cotton fabric consisting of equal parts wet and dry areas, with the plasma device being moved back and forth between these two areas. The sample designated as "25% moist fabric" has a similar configuration with a reduced (i.e., half) amount of liquid applied to the wet area. Abb. 4A shows the process with 30 pulls per minute, while Abb. 4B The results show significant differences in plasma performance depending on the moisture content of the tissue, as explained in more detail below.

[0047] The transfer from the dry area of ​​the tissue to the 50% or 25% wet area of ​​the tissue can be clearly observed. For the dry area of ​​the tissue, a plasma power consumption of approximately 2 watts was determined for all samples examined in this study. This value increases to 3 to 9 watts when the plasma source is moved into the wet area of ​​the tissue (50% and 25%). Based on these results, it is assumed that the Abb. 3B The damage shown on the wet tissue is attributed to an increased local temperature of the plasma source operating at higher power. While not bound by theory, it is assumed that the wet surface increases the resistance to plasma ignition. It is therefore assumed that the plasma ignites only locally at dry / dry spots and / or dry / dry pores of the surface being treated, where the resulting power concentration is then high and can thus lead to small, localized burns.

[0048] The results also show that the measured power consumption for the 25% moist fabric section is lower than the power consumption for the 50% moist section. Nevertheless, all measured power consumptions for both 50% and 25% moist fabric are significantly higher than the measured power consumption for the dry section of the fabric.

[0049] As opposed to Abb. 4A , which shows large differences in power consumption for dry and wet fabrics, shows Abb. 4B It was found that for the 25% moist tissue and with a high take-up rate (60 swabs per minute), it was difficult to detect this difference. This means that it is crucial to record the plasma power consumption quickly enough to identify the moisture range using the plasma power measurement method. An example of recording that is too slow is shown in Abb. 4B The area marked with an ellipse represents the 25% moist tissue. It is therefore assumed that the power consumption of the plasma source should be recorded at a frequency of at least 10 s⁻¹, preferably 50 s⁻¹, and preferably 100 s⁻¹.

[0050] Since the power consumed by the plasma source is influenced by the humidity of the tissue being treated, in consideration of the factors described in the Abb. 4A und 4B Based on the results presented, it was considered that a plasma device capable of measuring the plasma source's power consumption (e.g., by additionally incorporating a plasma power consumption measurement system, which can be implemented by any known electrical circuit—a "power monitor"), could itself function as a humidity sensor. With the plasma power consumption measurement system, the plasma device could also perform an automatic shutdown if the power exceeds a certain threshold. If the power exceeds a certain threshold and / or if a pattern is identified in the power measurements indicating that the surface being treated exceeds a certain moisture level, the device could be automatically shut down and / or the power delivered to the plasma source could be automatically limited.Measurements like these can be used to define the parameters required to control cold atmospheric plasma devices for clothing refreshment, to define operating conditions, to identify dry and damp areas of clothing and adjust the plasma power accordingly, to provide different plasma settings for various fabrics, and to control the plasma power based on the speed at which the refresher is moved across the fabric. In short, a nearly autonomous control system can be built to ensure the safe operation of the cold atmospheric plasma device under specific operating conditions. This helps guarantee the safe treatment of different fabrics under varying conditions.

[0051] In Fig. 5 An exemplary structure of a plasma source of a plasma device according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0052] The plasma source 500 includes a first electrode 502, a second electrode 504, and a dielectric layer 506 that separates the first electrode 502 and the second electrode 504. The first electrode 502 is configured to ignite the cold atmospheric plasma for the treatment of the surface to be treated. That is, the first electrode 502 is positioned closer to the surface to be treated than the second electrode. Fig. 5 The first electrode 502 is further covered with a dielectric material 508, which preferably consists of a plasma-resistant insulating material, for example a glass fiber reinforced hydrocarbon ceramic.

[0053] Viewed in the stacking direction, the second electrode 504 preferably has a thickness of at least 10 µm, wherein the first electrode 502, also viewed in the stacking direction, preferably has a thickness of at least 10 to at most 50 µm. Viewed in the stacking direction, the dielectric layer 506 preferably has a thickness of at least 100 µm to a maximum of 300 µm. The dielectric material 508 preferably has a thickness of at least 0.1 µm in the stacking direction. The dielectric material 508 preferably has a thickness of at most 30 µm in the stacking direction, more preferably at most 10 µm. Thus, the thickness can be between 0.1 µm and 30 µm or between 0.1 µm and 10 µm in the stacking direction.

[0054] Preferably, the first electrode 502 and / or the second electrode 504 each comprise a coating 503 and a coating 505, respectively, comprising one of the following materials: electroless nickel immersion gold (ENIG), electroless nickel, electroless nickel immersion gold (ENEPIG), electroless nickel immersion gold (ENIPIG), electroless palladium (EP), electroless palladium immersion gold (EPIG), or hard gold. The coating 503 and / or the coating 505 may have a thickness of at least 0.5 µm, preferably at least 0.8 µm. The coating 503 and / or the coating 505 may have a thickness of 1.5 µm or less, preferably 1.25 µm or less. Thus, the coating 503 and / or the coating 505 can have a thickness of 0.5 µm to 1.5 µm, preferably 0.8 µm to 1.25 µm, especially when it is made of hard gold or one of the other materials mentioned above.

[0055] The aforementioned stacking structure is preferably built on a base element 510, on which the dielectric layer 506 may also be arranged and / or in which the second electrode 504 may be housed.

[0056] As explained above, a plasma device according to the present invention can include segmented plasma sources in which the Fig. 5 The basic structure shown can still be preserved.

[0057] With reference to Fig. 6A The plasma source 600A comprises a first plasma source segment PQ1 and a second plasma source segment PQ2. The plasma device 600A is configured to selectively switch on the first plasma source segment PQ1 only when the distance between the first plasma source segment and the surface to be treated is within the specified distance, and to selectively switch on the second plasma source segment PQ2 only when the distance between the second plasma source segment and the surface to be treated is within the specified distance. The selective switching on of each of the plasma source segments PQ1, PQ2 can be controlled, as described above, by a distance sensor and / or a light sensor and / or, as in the present invention, by an actuator 913. Fig. 9 This can be implemented. Furthermore, each of the plasma source segments PQ1, PQ2 can be independently equipped with the aforementioned safety measures such as the velocity sensor, the surface property detection device, etc.

[0058] Similar to the ones in Fig. 5 The depicted structure of the plasma source 500 includes the plasma source 600A, also comprising a first electrode 602A, a second electrode 604A, and a dielectric layer separating the first electrode 602A and the second electrode 604A (which is not shown to better illustrate the electrode arrangement). The plasma source segments PQ1 and PQ2 are formed because the first electrode 602A includes a first electrode segment 602A-1 in the region of the first plasma source segment PQ1 and a second electrode segment 602A-2 in the region of the second plasma source segment PQ1. The second electrode 604A can be a common electrode associated with both the first and second electrode segments 602A-1 and 602A-2.

[0059] As from Abb. 7A As can be seen in the corresponding circuit diagram of the 600A plasma source, the plasma source segments PQ1 and PQ2 are electrically connected in parallel and can be activated or deactivated independently of each other.

[0060] Fig. 6B or Fig. 7B Shown is a schematic diagram of a 600B plasma source and its corresponding circuit diagram. Similar to the 600A plasma source in Fig. 6A The plasma source 600B includes a first electrode 602B, a second electrode 604B, and a dielectric layer (not shown) that separates the first electrode 602B and the second electrode 604B. Fig. 6B The second electrode 604B comprises a first electrode segment 604B-1 and a second electrode segment 604B-2. Accordingly, the plasma source 600B also consists of the plasma source segments PQ1 and PQ2, which are electrically connected in parallel and can be activated and deactivated independently of each other, as shown in Fig. 7B As already mentioned, a plasma device with a segmented plasma source is considered particularly suitable for treating larger areas.

[0061] Fig. 8 shows a schematic diagram of a plasma device with an interchangeable plasma source unit.

[0062] With reference to Fig. 8 The plasma device 800 comprises a plasma source unit 801, which is detachably coupled to a main housing 810. The plasma source unit 801 includes, among other things, the plasma source 802. The main housing 810 contains a battery module 803, which serves as a voltage source. The main housing 810 also contains the charging electronics 807 for charging the battery module 803 and a control module 805, which is responsible for coordinating the respective functionalities of the plasma device 800. The main housing 810 is further equipped with a main switch 806 and a power supply interface 808.

[0063] The coupling between the plasma source unit 801 and the main housing 810 can be achieved, for example, by mechanical coupling means 804 and an electrical connection 809, which structurally and electrically connect the plasma source unit 801 and the main housing 810. The coupling means 804 can be a pair of magnets. Of course, other coupling methods are also possible, such as mechanical coupling means (e.g., snap-fit ​​or screw connections). The electrical connection 809 can, for example, be in the form of a socket, as shown in Fig. 8 The plasma source unit 801 can be represented or implemented in another suitable structure. In this way, the plasma source unit 801 can be replaced by another plasma source unit, which, for example, may have a different shape / electrode structure on the side facing the material to be treated. This expands the application range for the plasma device 800.

[0064] The main housing 810 is preferably configured such that no electrical energy is generated at the contacts of the electrical connection 809 provided on the main housing 810 when the plasma source unit 801 is disconnected and / or not properly coupled via the mechanical coupling means 804. For this purpose, the main housing 810 and the plasma source unit 801 can be configured such that the electrical circuit supplying voltage to the contacts of the main housing 810 is not closed when the plasma source unit 801 is disconnected. Alternatively or additionally, a sensor can be provided on the main housing 810 to check whether sufficient coupling is present. For example, a mechanical sensor can be provided such that the sensor is only pressed when the plasma source unit 801 is sufficiently coupled to the main housing 810. The sensor can be electrically connected to the control module 805.

[0065] Accordingly Fig. 9 The plasma device 900 shown therein and according to the invention for applying a cold atmospheric plasma to a surface to be treated, in particular to textiles, leather and / or plastic fibers, has an actuator 913 which is used to activate a Fig. 9 unspecified, but for example in Fig. 1 The plasma source 102 is configured as shown, provided that the distance between the plasma source and the surface to be treated is within a predetermined range, wherein the actuator 913 has an adjustable and pre-tensioned actuator element 914 with at least one actuating element 915 and a sensing device 916 that detects the position of the actuator element 914 at least as long as the distance between the plasma source and the surface to be treated is within the predetermined range. This also means that in this case, the distance between the actuator element 914 and the actuator 913 is within a predefined range. The actuator element 914 is adjustable in the direction of the actuator 913, for example, when the plasma device 900 is placed on a surface to be treated.The plasma device 900 according to the invention thus avoids, in particular, hazards caused by incorrect operation by the customer, since the plasma source is only activated when the distance to the clothing to be cleaned is within the predetermined range. This predetermined distance is in the range of 0 to 4 mm, preferably 0 to 1 mm. This has the particular advantage that, depending on the predefined parameter (e.g., distance), the plasma source or an individual plasma source segment can be activated and / or deactivated. This allows for a further reduction in emissions and an increase in the overall efficiency of the plasma device 900.

[0066] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, a spring 917, an elastic plastic element such as a sealing lip, a foam element, or a rubber element, or a pneumatic or hydraulic return mechanism is provided for pre-tensioning and resetting the actuator element 914. This represents a wide selection of reliable and cost-effective return mechanisms that repeatedly return the actuator element 914 to its initial position and thereby deactivate the plasma source.

[0067] The detection device 916 expediently includes a proximity sensor, a contact sensor, a microswitch, a strain gauge, a magnetic sensor, and / or a photoelectric sensor 918. The actuator element 914 is provided with one or more actuating elements 915 in the device direction 919 to indicate to the electronics, in this case the detection device 916, that the plasma device 900 is in contact with the surface to be treated. These actuating elements 915 can then be queried by any proximity or contact sensors, e.g., actuating microswitches, or, if equipped with metal parts / magnets, triggering other sensors. Strain gauges attached to a deformable material are also conceivable. This allows the detection device 916 to be manufactured cost-effectively and with extreme flexibility.

[0068] Advantageously, the detection device 916, the aforementioned light barrier 918, and the actuating element 915 have a chamfered flank, the detection device 916 being designed such that it determines the degree of coverage of the light barrier 918 and thus a distance between the plasma source and the surface to be treated. This makes it possible to indicate not only an "ON" or "OFF" position by means of the detection device 916, which includes the light barrier 918, but also intermediate positions that depend on the distance between the plasma source and the surface to be treated.

[0069] According to Fig. 9The detection device 916 has a light barrier 918 and is arranged on a circuit board 920, the circuit board 920 having an opening 921 which is crossed or covered by the light barrier 918 and into which the actuating element 915 engages, provided the distance between the plasma source and the surface to be treated is within the predetermined distance. In this embodiment, the actuating element 915 thus engages through the opening 921, thereby achieving a very space-saving design.

[0070] The plasma device 900 may also have an indicator or control light that instructs the user to ventilate an area surrounding the plasma device 900 after the plasma source has been switched on for a predetermined period. The plasma device 900 may also have a speed sensor for measuring the speed at which it is moved across the surface to be treated. The plasma device 900 preferably switches off the plasma source automatically when the detected speed is below a first predetermined value or above a second predetermined value. This ensures that the plasma device 900 operates within an optimal speed range, i.e., not too slowly (to keep the temperature at the interface between the plasma device 900 and the surface to be treated below the operating threshold).(below the temperature that could damage the material being treated) and not too quickly (in order to fulfill the purpose of the treatment, e.g. to allow the deactivation of the malodorous molecules).

[0071] Advantageously, a surface property detection device, in particular a temperature sensor or a humidity sensor, is provided for detecting at least one property of the surface to be treated. This at least one property can be, for example, moisture content, temperature, etc. That is, the surface property detection device preferably includes a humidity sensor for detecting the moisture level of the surface to be treated, wherein the plasma device 900 preferably switches off the plasma source automatically when the moisture content of the surface to be treated is higher than a predetermined moisture value, thereby preventing the plasma device 900 from operating at excessive power. The moisture content of the surface to be treated can be determined by measuring the power consumed by the plasma source.Alternatively or additionally, the surface property detection device includes a temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of the surface to be treated, wherein the plasma device 900 preferably switches off the plasma source automatically when the temperature of the surface to be treated exceeds a predetermined temperature value, thereby preventing damage to the treated material.

[0072] Furthermore, the plasma device 900 is preferably portable, and the power source includes a battery or accumulator. This makes mobile use relatively easy. In addition, the plasma source can be interchangeable. For example, the plasma device 900 can be designed such that the plasma source is housed in a plasma source unit of the device 900, and the power source is housed in a main housing of the device 900, with the plasma source unit being detachably coupled to the main housing. In this way, a plasma device 900 can, for example, include the main housing and a series of plasma source units, each particularly suitable for a specific material to be treated.

Claims

1. Plasma device (100, 800, 900) for applying a cold atmospheric plasma to a surface to be treated, in particular to textiles, leather and / or plastic fibres, having a housing (102), a plasma source (104, 802) arranged therein and a voltage source for applying a voltage to the plasma source (104, 802) and having an actuator (913) that is designed to activate the plasma source (104, 802), provided that a distance between the plasma source (104, 802) and the surface to be treated lies within a predetermined distance, wherein the actuator (913) has an adjustable actuator element (914) having at least one activation element (915) and a recording facility (916), characterised in that the actuator element (914) is preloaded, and the recording facility (916) records the position of the actuator element (914) at least provided that the distance between the plasma source (104, 802) and the surface to be treated lies within the predetermined distance.

2. Plasma device (100, 800, 900) according to claim 1, wherein the actuator (913) has a resetting facility for preloading and resetting the actuator element (914).

3. Plasma device (100, 800, 900) according to claim 2, wherein a spring (917), an elastic plastic element, such as a sealing lip, a foam element or a rubber element, or a pneumatic or hydraulic resetting facility is provided for preloading and resetting the actuator element (914).

4. Plasma device (100, 800, 900) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the recording facility (916) has a proximity sensor, a contact sensor, a microswitch, a strain gauge, a magnetic sensor and / or a light barrier (918).

5. Plasma device (100, 800, 900) according to claim 4, wherein the recording facility (916) has a light barrier (918), and the activation element (915) has a chamfered flank, wherein the recording facility (916) is designed such that it determines a degree of coverage of the light barrier (918) and thus a distance between the plasma source (104, 802) and the surface to be treated.

6. Plasma device (100, 800, 900) according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the recording facility (916) has the light barrier (918), wherein the light barrier (918) is arranged on a circuit board (920) and the circuit board has an opening (921) which is crossed by the light barrier (918) and into which the activation element (915) engages, provided that the distance between the plasma source (104, 802) and the surface to be treated lies within the predetermined distance.

7. Plasma device (100, 800, 900) according to claim 1, wherein the predefined distance lies in a range between 0 and 4 mm and preferably between 0 and 1 mm.

8. Plasma device (100, 800, 900) according to claim 7, wherein the plasma device (100, 800, 900) is configured such that the activation of the plasma source (104, 802) is only enabled when the plasma device (100, 800, 900) comes in contact with the surface to be treated.

9. Plasma device (100, 800, 900) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a display light or control light is provided, which is configured to instruct a user to ventilate a region around the plasma device (100, 800, 900), after the plasma source (104, 802) has been switched on for a predetermined period of time.

10. Plasma device (100, 800, 900) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a speed sensor is provided for measuring a speed with which the plasma device (100, 800, 900) is moved over the surface to be treated, wherein the plasma device (100, 800, 900) is preferably configured to switch off the plasma source (104, 802) automatically when the recorded speed is less than a first predetermined value or more than a second predetermined value.

11. Plasma device (100, 800, 900) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a surface property recording apparatus, in particular a temperature sensor or a moisture sensor, is provided for recording at least one property of the surface to be treated.

12. Plasma device (100, 800, 900) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the plasma device (100, 800, 900) is portable and the voltage source has a battery or a rechargeable battery.

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