AIR PURIFICATION DEVICE BY PHOTOCATALYSIS AND AIR TREATMENT DEVICE

Abstract

The present invention relates to an air purification device (1) comprising a wadding cushion (3) receiving at least one light guide (5), the wadding cushion (3) being formed of photocatalyst fibers, the light guide (5) being configured to be supplied with light by a light source, and the light guide (5) having lateral light diffusion means (8) for diffusing light laterally with respect to the direction of light movement in the light guide (5). The invention also relates to an air treatment apparatus comprising such an air purification device (1). Figure for the abstract: Fig. 1

Description

Title of the invention: AIR PURIFICATION DEVICE BY PHOTOCATALYSIS AND TREATMENT APPARATUS AIR FIELD OF INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of depollution and purification of indoor air in dwellings, and in particular to an air purification device as well as to an air treatment device equipped with such an air purification device.

[0002] It should be noted that, in this document, the terms "longitudinal", "transverse", "perpendicular", "parallel", "rotation", "horizontal", "vertical", "lower", "upper", "high", "lower", "secant", "coaxial", "convex", "concave", "plane" used to describe the apparatus according to the invention, refer to this device in use, when it is placed on a horizontal plane.

[0003] Pollutants are primarily composed of two categories. One category includes particulate pollutants such as dust, bacteria, and mold, which are large and have complex molecular structures, ranging in size from 0.01 micrometers to several hundred micrometers. The other category includes gaseous pollutants, for example, volatile emissions perceived by the olfactory organs, such as odors, or volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are chemical compounds generally with a simple chemical structure. Gaseous pollutants can be composed of a variety of chemical elements. Their size is small, ranging from a few angstroms to a few nanometers.

[0004] Advanced Oxidation Techniques (AOTs) allow the oxidation of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). The most effective are those that lead to the formation of hydroxyl radicals (OH), which have a greater oxidizing power than traditional oxidants. This is the case with photocatalysis. Photocatalysis consists of irradiating a semiconductor material (such as TiO2), which allows the oxidation or reduction of VOCs in contact with the photocatalytic material. The energy provided by the light activates the semiconductor. The semiconductor is considered a catalyst.The principle relies on the absorption of a photon by the semiconductor solid, leading to the promotion of an electron from the valence band to the conduction band by releasing a vacancy, and thus forming free radicals which will either react with compounds present in the surrounding environment or recombine via various mechanisms, thereby giving the solid oxidizing and reducing properties. Most volatile organo-compounds, as well as many pesticides, herbicides, surfactants, and dyes, are completely [affected by this process]. oxidized into less toxic products by this technique, until carbon dioxide CO2 and water H2O are obtained.

[0005] The main VOCs in ambient air are: formaldehyde, acetaldehyde, acetone, heptane, alcohols including isopropanol, decane, benzene, and toluene. PRIORITY OF THE ART

[0006] Filters for treating VOCs, such as activated carbon filters, are known. Such filters are, for example, integrated into air treatment devices. However, these filters have a limited lifespan and must be replaced regularly. Moreover, replacing these filters represents a cost, and they are generally not recyclable.

[0007] Air treatment devices that use photocatalysis are also known to produce VOCs. However, these devices often release VOCs, even though they are supposed to eliminate them and purify the air. It is difficult to understand why an air purifier or cleaner would release VOCs, even if the released VOCs are different in nature and / or quantity from those present in the air initially before purification. The major drawback of these devices is therefore the production of by-products, which can sometimes be more dangerous than the original molecules; for example, heptane, which can degrade into formaldehyde.

[0008] To reduce the formation of these toxic byproducts, known air treatment devices offer the option of lowering the operating mode (gas velocity or light intensity) until the VOC content in the air to be purified falls below a certain value. It is therefore unfortunate that the air treatment device cannot be operated precisely when it is most needed, i.e., in the presence of a high VOC concentration. Consequently, pollutants in the gaseous phase cannot be absorbed and eliminated effectively. Furthermore, the accumulation of pollutants in particulate form on the surface of the gaseous removal filter could lead to other problems, such as the formation of incubation zones for bacterial growth, or a loss of filter efficiency over time. Description of the invention

[0009] The invention proposes to solve these drawbacks by proposing an air purification device made in a simple way while being permanently effective in eliminating pollutants such as VOCs.

[0010] According to a first aspect, the invention proposes an air purification device, comprising a wadding cushion receiving at least one light guide, the wadding cushion being formed of photocatalyst fibers, the light guide being configured to be powered by a light source light, and the light guide having means for lateral diffusion of light in order to diffuse light laterally with respect to the direction of movement of the light in the light guide.

[0011] Thus, the air purification device is particularly simple in design while being highly effective at removing pollutants such as VOCs. Indeed, the arrangement, in the form of a wadding cushion made of photocatalyst fibers and incorporating at least one light guide, maximizes photocatalysis while remaining simple to manufacture. This is achieved by maximizing the probability that polluted air will encounter a light-activated photocatalytic site, thereby significantly increasing the contact time of pollutants with these sites. Therefore, a single assembly—namely, the wadding cushion and the light guide—is sufficient to perform the photocatalysis. Furthermore, such an air purification device has the advantage of being permanent and does not require regular replacement.Thus, a device, for example an air treatment device, equipped with such an air purification device, is easier to maintain, since it does not require regular replacement of the air purification device.

[0012] According to a second aspect, the invention also proposes an air treatment device comprising: - an air circulation duct between an air inlet and an air outlet, - a light source, and - an air purification device as previously described and disposed in the air circulation duct, in which the light guide is supplied with light by the light source.

[0013] The invention is advantageously and optionally complemented by the following features, taken alone or in any of their technically possible combinations:

[0014] - The photocatalyst consists of at least one photocatalyst material.

[0015] - The photocatalyst is formed solely of at least one catalyst material photocatalytic action.

[0016] - The photocatalyst is a catalyst with photocatalytic action, which is not me tallique.

[0017] - The photocatalyst fibers are not metallic.

[0018] - The photocatalyst fibers are formed solely from photocatalyst.

[0019] - The wadding cushion has a thickness less than its other dimensions, by for example its longitudinal and transverse dimensions, thickness in which at least one light guide is received.

[0020] - The wadding cushion is formed in its thickness by two half-wadding cushions, between which at least one light guide is received.

[0021] - The wadding cushion is obtained from a textile sheet comprising fibers formed of photocatalyst, preferably by ruffling.

[0022] - The textile tablecloth includes the light guide, the light guide comprising preferably at least one optical fiber.

[0023] - The light guide is formed from a material chosen from the group comprising polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), polycarbonate (PC) and cyclo-olefins (COP), preferably polycarbonate (PC).

[0024] - The means for lateral light diffusion are formed by alterations in surface of the light guide. Thus, the means of lateral light diffusion are achieved in a particularly simple way.

[0025] - One end of the light guide is configured to be arranged opposite a light source to transmit light and emit light laterally at the level of the lateral light diffusion means to activate the photocatalyst.

[0026] - Surface alterations of the light guide can be made in various ways methods, and in particular by processes such as sandblasting, chemical etching, or melting using high-intensity light radiation such as a laser. Of course, such alterations can also be achieved by many other mechanical or chemical processes.

[0027] - The surface alterations of the light guide can be distributed in a sy metric or asymmetric (e.g., progressive). Indeed, in order to achieve homogeneous illumination of the cotton wool cushion, and therefore homogeneous activation of the photocatalyst within the cotton wool cushion, the surface density or size of the alterations can vary from one zone to another along the light guide. For example, the surface density of the alterations is low on the side closest to the light source and increases with distance from the light source.

[0028] - The light guide passes through the wadding cushion. Thus, the structural integrity of the The wadding cushion is reinforced.

[0029] - The light guide includes at least one optical fiber.

[0030] - The light guide is a sheet, preferably formed from optical fibers.

[0031] - The wadding cushion receives several light guides. Thus, the presence of Using multiple light guides allows for a particularly simple improvement in photocatalysis efficiency. Such an arrangement is therefore especially effective at removing pollutants such as VOCs.

[0032] - The light guides received in the wadding cushion are coplanar. Thus, the re The light distribution within the wadding cushion is optimized.

[0033] - The light guides received in the wadding cushion are equidistant. Thus, the re light partitioning within the wadding cushion is optimized and ensures that the minimum effective dose of light is produced throughout the entire wadding cushion.

[0034] - The light guides are powered by a single light source. Thus, the fa Construction is simplified, due to the fact that only one light source is used.

[0035] - A first of the light guides passes through the wadding cushion, preferably a a second of the light guides is arranged against an external surface of the wadding cushion, and preferably a third of the light guides is arranged against another surface of the wadding cushion opposite the external surface.

[0036] - A guide assembly comprises a trunk from which several branches extend, each The branch acts as a light guide, with the light source powering the entire guide system through a single light input from the trunk. This simplifies photocatalysis optimization.

[0037] - The guide assembly has a fork shape. Thus, the distribution of light and the Photocatalysis is optimized while having a simple shape guide assembly, the manufacture of which is thus simplified.

[0038] - The guide assembly is formed from the same material, preferably entirely of a single piece. Thus, manufacturing is simplified.

[0039] - The air purification device further comprises means for maintaining in The position of the cotton cushion, with the means of holding it in position preferably including a cartridge. Thus, the air purification device has a modular design, which facilitates its assembly or integration into a device, such as an air treatment unit.

[0040] - The photocatalyst is activated by light, which may be ultraviolet, by via the light guide(s) configured to guide light inside the wadding cushion. A simple cut of the wadding cushion to the dimensions of the air purification device or the means of holding it in position allows for the creation of purification devices of any size.

[0041] - The wadding cushion has a transverse dimension less than or equal to 20 centimeters.

[0042] - The wadding cushion has a longitudinal dimension less than or equal to 1 meter.

[0043] - The photocatalyst fibers have a smaller dimension of at least 10 micrometers. Thus, the strength of the wire formed by the photocatalyst fibers is improved.

[0044] - The photocatalyst fibers are macroscopic. For the purposes of this For the purposes of this invention, a macroscopic fiber is defined as a strand in which the smallest dimension is at least 10 micrometers. Preferably, the strand has two average dimensions orthogonal to its longitudinal axis. The first average dimension (corresponding to its width) varies from 30 to 60 micrometers, preferably from 40 to 50 micrometers, and the second average dimension (corresponding to its thickness) varies from 10 to 40 micrometers, preferably from 10 to 20 micrometers.

[0045] - The photocatalyst is a semiconductor material. Thus, the photocatalyst is done in a simple way.

[0046] - The photocatalyst comprises at least one oxide selected from the group consisting of TiO2, ZnO, CeO2. Thus, the photocatalyst is made in a simple yet particularly effective way.

[0047] - The photocatalyst comprises at least partially crystalline TiO2, Preference is given to predominantly crystalline TiO2. Thus, the photocatalyst is particularly effective.

[0048] - The air purification device comprises several cotton wool cushions arranged stacked one above the other, with or without contact, each wadding cushion receives at least one light guide, each wadding cushion being made of photocatalyst fibers. Thus, the presence of several wadding cushions allows for a particularly simple improvement in the efficiency of photocatalysis. Such an arrangement is therefore particularly effective at removing pollutants such as VOCs.

[0049] - The wadding cushions are arranged in parallel layers, preferably flat or not planes.

[0050] - The wadding cushions are curved.

[0051] - The wadding cushions are spaced at least a predetermined value of such The air to be purified circulates between the cotton wool cushions, preferably with a predetermined spacing of 5 millimeters or more. This predetermined spacing between the cotton wool cushions increases the efficiency of the air purification device, allowing it to purify a significant volume of air while maintaining a compact design. The air to be purified flows between the cotton wool cushions to come into contact with the photocatalyst. Advantageously, the airflow is a low-flow, but swirling, medium-volume stream. These cotton wool cushions allow the air to flow along and / or between them in a direction parallel to the cushions. This maximizes the contact between the air to be purified and the photocatalyst.If the cotton wool cushions are too far apart, the air only flows laminarly, reducing the probability of air contact with the photocatalyst and decreasing purification efficiency. Advantageously, the cotton wool cushions are placed close enough together to maximize air contact with the photocatalytic surface and create vortices in the airflow.

[0052] - The wadding cushions are directly superimposed one on top of the other. Thus, the air The purified water necessarily passes through the cotton wool cushions, and the photocatalytic action is enhanced.

[0053] - Other arrangements of the wadding cushion(s) may be considered, for example in the form of rolls where each wadding cushion is rolled up on itself like a carpet roll.

[0054] - The light source may be composed of several identical light sources or different, which can be of different kinds, and in particular take the form of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) or extended sources such as incandescent lamps, fluorescent tubes or discharge tubes incorporating a gas such as neon.

[0055] - The light source supplies light to one end of the light guide.

[0056] - The air handling unit comprises several air inlets, identical or different different.

[0057] - The air treatment unit comprises several air outlets, identical or different different.

[0058] - The air treatment device is a domestic appliance comprising a casing forming the outer casing of the air handling unit.

[0059] - The air handling unit is configured to be movable during its operation Operation. Thus, handling and moving the unit are simplified. Indeed, the air treatment unit is movable and not fixed to a support. Therefore, the air treatment unit can be carried by a user for relocation, either by pushing it with their foot or by grasping it with their hands, whether the air treatment unit is operating or not.

[0060] - The air treatment device is an individual domestic appliance and not a centralized air conditioning system, for example in a hospital, airport, shopping center, subway or train station.

[0061] - The air treatment device is a portable, individual device suitable for the small spaces such as that of a detached house or a caravan.

[0062] - The light source is a UV light source. Thus, the photo-ca action The analysis is carried out in a simple yet highly effective manner.

[0063] - The light source may include a collector capable of focusing in a point or linear natural sunlight directed towards at least one end of at least one light guide.

[0064] - The light source comprises an LED. Thus, the light source is made of a simple yet particularly effective way.

[0065] - The light source can be a UVA, UVB, or UVC LED. Such The system makes it possible to combine minimal energy consumption with significant efficiency.

[0066] - The air treatment device further includes a gold compound analyzer volatile organic compounds and an automatic adjustment device, which is configured to automatically adjust, according to the volatile organic compound content analyzed by the analyzer, the speed of the air entering the air inlet and / or the light intensity of the light source.

[0067] - The wadding cushion is arranged parallel to the airflow in the duct of the air circulation. Thus, the airflow passes through and / or flows along the wadding cushion, in other words tangentially to it, and the photocatalytic action is improved.

[0068] - The wadding cushion is arranged transversely to the airflow in the duct of the air circulation. Thus, the airflow necessarily passes through the wadding cushion, and the photocatalytic action is improved.

[0069] - The air treatment unit further includes a particle filter. Such a filter particles separates particles from the air by mechanical action, retaining on the surface particles whose diameter is greater than the diameter of the filter pores and being able to retain particles whose diameter is less than that of the filter pores by the action of electrostatic forces.

[0070] - The particle filter is positioned according to the airflow between the air inlet and The air outlet is located upstream of the air purification device. This prevents the air purification device from becoming clogged with particles.

[0071] - The particle filter is a HEPA filter, an acronym for High Efficiency Par- HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) filter, meaning high-efficiency airborne particle filter. The HEPA filter is preferably capable of filtering, in a single pass, at least 99.97% of particles with a diameter greater than or equal to 0.3 micrometers.

[0072] - The air treatment unit further includes a carbon filter active. Thus, the air purification device more effectively removes pollutants that pass through the activated carbon filter. Activated carbon filters were developed in response to industrial emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). In an activated carbon adsorption system, contaminated air is directed onto a bed of carbon. The carbon extracts the VOCs from the air and adsorbs them, holding them on the surface.

[0073] - The activated carbon filter is positioned according to the airflow between the inlet air and the air outlet, downstream of the air purification device. Thus, the activated carbon filter eliminates "by-product" pollutants passing through the air purification device, which might be produced exceptionally (for example, in connection with an abnormal spike in pollutant concentrations). Activated carbon filters were developed in response to industrial emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). In an activated carbon adsorption system, the air The contaminated air is directed onto a bed of carbon. The carbon extracts the VOCs from the air and adsorbs them, keeping them on the surface. Since this activated carbon filter is only used in exceptional circumstances, it is a permanent component of the device, not a consumable.

[0074] - The air treatment unit further includes a formaldehyde filter. Thus, the formaldehyde that might exceptionally escape from the air purification device would be captured.

[0075] - The air treatment unit further includes a dehumidifier. Such A dehumidifier is used to reduce the moisture content of the air and increases the efficiency of the air treatment device.

[0076] - The air handling unit further comprises an air displacement device configured to move air from the air inlet to the air outlet. Thus, air movement is forced between the air inlet and the air outlet.

[0077] - The air displacement element is, for example, a radial flow turbine or a flow mixed, or a fan, arranged downstream of the air purification device. In this case, a motor-fan unit can be arranged on the air outlet side, above the air purification device.

[0078] - The air treatment unit further comprises one or more fans, agitators or turbulators. Thus, the presence of one or more fans, agitators or turbulators makes it possible to generate turbulence in the airflow passing through the air purification device, for example in order to generate vortices between the cotton cushions, which further increases its efficiency.

[0079] - The air handling unit has a volume of less than 1 m3, preferably less than 0.8 m3, more preferably less than 0.6 m3.

[0080] - The air treatment unit has a mass less than or equal to 30 kg, of preferably less than 20 kg, more preferably less than 6 kg.

[0081] - The air handling unit has an apparent surface of wadding cushion of at least 4000 cm2, preferably of at least 6000 cm2, more preferably of at least 8000 cm2. By apparent surface, we mean the surface of the wadding cushion in contact with the airflow.

[0082] - The airflow moving through the air purification device exhibits a speed less than 1 m / s, preferably less than 0.5 m / s, more preferably less than 0.2 m / s.

[0083] - The contact time of the pollutants with the cotton wool cushion is at least 0.5 s and can be as long as possible, for example by directing the airflow through the wadding cushion either parallel or perpendicular to the light guide, or by creating a swirling flow of the air being treated. Thus, the air being treated exhibits a rotational velocity throughout Point. Swirling flow increases the average contact time between the air to be treated and the air purification device. The longer the contact time, the lower the risk of producing polluting byproducts. DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES

[0084] Other features, objectives and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the detailed description below, which is purely illustrative and not limiting, and which should be read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, given by way of non-limiting examples and on which:

[0085] [Fig. 1] is a schematic perspective view of an example embodiment of the air purification device;

[0086] [Fig.2] is a top view of an example embodiment of a light source supplying light to the air purification device;

[0087] [Fig.3] is a schematic perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the air purification device;

[0088] [Fig.4] is a schematic perspective view of an example embodiment of a air treatment unit incorporating an air purification device;

[0089] [Fig.5] is a schematic diagram of the air circulation in the air handling unit;

[0090] [Fig.6] is a schematic diagram of the air circulation in the air purification device of the air treatment unit.

[0091] Throughout the figures, similar elements are designated by identical reference numerals. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0092] Fig. 1 represents an air purification device 1. The air purification device 1 comprises at least one wadding cushion 3 receiving at least one light guide 5.

[0093] For example, the wadding cushion 3 receives several light guides 5.

[0094] In the example illustrated in [Fig.1], the air purification device 1 includes a wadding cushion 3, which receives several light guides 5.

[0095] The wadding cushion 3 is formed of photocatalyst fibers. The wadding cushion 3 preferably has a thickness less than its other dimensions, for example its longitudinal and transverse dimensions, a thickness in which at least one light guide 5 is received. Advantageously, the wadding cushion 3 has a transverse dimension less than or equal to 20 centimeters and a longitudinal dimension less than or equal to 1 meter.

[0096] In the example illustrated in [Fig. 1], the light guides 5 received in the wadding cushion 3 are coplanar. Furthermore, the light guides 5 received in the cushion The 3 cotton wools are preferably equidistant.

[0097] Preferably, each light guide 5 passes through the wadding cushion 3.

[0098] Furthermore, each light guide 5 has lateral light diffusion means 8 in order to diffuse light laterally with respect to the direction of movement of the light in the light guide 5.

[0099] Each light guide 5 is configured to be supplied with light by a light source 9, as shown for example in [Fig. 2]. One end of each light guide 5 is, for example, configured to be positioned opposite the light source 9 to transmit light and emit light laterally at the level of the lateral light diffusion means 8 to activate the photocatalyst.

[0100] For example, each light guide 5 is formed from a material selected from the group comprising polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), polycarbonate (PC), and cycloolefins (COP), preferably polycarbonate (PC). Preferably, each light guide 5 is formed from polycarbonate (PC).

[0101] The light guide 5 may include a conduit, in particular in the form of a tube.

[0102] Preferably, the light guide 5 is full.

[0103] According to one embodiment, the light guide 5 comprises at least one optical fiber. Advantageously, the light guide 5 is formed by at least one optical fiber.

[0104] In the example illustrated in [Fig. 1], a guide assembly 10 comprises a stem 11 from which several branches extend in the form of tubing, each branch forming a light guide 5. Such a guide assembly 10 has a fork-like shape. Thus, the light source 9 supplies the guide assembly 10 with light from a single inlet of the stem 11.

[0105] Preferably, the guide assembly 10 is formed in the same material, for example entirely in one piece.

[0106] The light guide 5 can also have a flat shape, for example a sheet as described below with reference to [Fig.3].

[0107] The light guide 5 is, for example, formed from a material selected from the group comprising polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), polycarbonate (PC), and cyclo-olefins (COP), preferably polycarbonate (PC). In this example, the guide assembly 10 is formed from polycarbonate (PC).

[0108] As shown for example in [Fig.2], preferably the air purification device 1 also includes means for holding the cotton wool cushion 3 in position 13. The means for holding in position 13 are preferably formed by a cartridge.

[0109] The photocatalyst consists of at least one photocatalyst material. In this For example, a photocatalyst is composed solely of at least one catalytic material with photocatalytic action. Thus, photocatalyst fibers are composed solely of photocatalyst material.

[0110] Furthermore, the photocatalyst is a photocatalytic catalyst, which is non-metallic. Thus, the photocatalyst fibers are non-metallic.

[0111] Preferably, the photocatalyst fibers have a smaller dimension of at least 10 micrometers. Thus, photocatalyst fibers are macroscopic. In other words, a macroscopic fiber is defined as a strand in which the smallest dimension is at least 10 micrometers.

[0112] Preferably, the strand has two average dimensions orthogonal to its longitudinal axis, the first average dimension (corresponding to its width) varying from 30 to 60 micrometers, preferably from 40 to 50 micrometers, and the second average dimension (corresponding to its thickness) varying from 10 to 40 micrometers, preferably from 10 to 20 micrometers.

[0113] The photocatalyst is preferably a semiconductor material. In this example, the photocatalyst comprises at least one oxide selected from the group consisting of TiO2, ZnO, CeO2.

[0114] Advantageously, the photocatalyst comprises at least partially crystalline TiO2, preferably predominantly crystalline TiO2. Preferably, the photocatalyst is made of at least partially crystalline TiO2, preferably predominantly crystalline TiO2.

[0115] The photocatalyst is activated by light, which may be of the ultraviolet type, via the light guide(s) 5 configured to guide the light inside the wadding cushion 3.

[0116] A simple cut of the wadding cushion 3 to the dimensions of the air purification device 1 or the means of holding in position 13 makes it possible to produce purification devices of all dimensions.

[0117] For example, the lateral light-difference means 8 are formed by surface alterations of the light guide 5. The surface alterations of each light guide 5 can be produced in various ways, including sandblasting, chemical etching, or melting using high-intensity light radiation such as a laser. Obviously, such alterations can also be produced by many other mechanical or chemical processes.

[0118] The surface alterations of each light guide 5 can be distributed symmetrically or asymmetrically (for example, progressively). Indeed, in order to achieve homogeneous illumination of the cotton wool cushion 3, and therefore homogeneous activation of the photocatalyst in the cotton wool cushion 3, the surface density or the dimension of the alterations may vary from one area to another of the light guide 5.

[0119] For example, the surface density of alterations is low on the side of the light source 9 and increases away from the light source 9.

[0120] The light source 9 is preferably a single source. Alternatively, the light source 9 may be composed of several identical or different light sources, which may be of different natures, and in particular may be in the form of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) or extended sources such as incandescent lamps, fluorescent tubes or discharge tubes incorporating a gas such as neon.

[0121] In this example, the light source 9 supplies light to one end of each light guide 5. In this example, the light source 9 is a UV light source and includes an LED. For example, the light source 9 can be made with a UVA, UVB, or UVC LED.

[0122] Alternatively or in addition, the light source 9 may include a collector capable of focusing natural sunlight in a point or linear manner towards at least one end of at least one light guide 5.

[0123] Fig. 3 represents an alternative embodiment of the air purification device 1. In this alternative, the air purification device 1 is such that the wadding cushion 3 is formed in its thickness by two wadding half-cushions 14, between which at least one light guide 5 is received. Thus, according to the alternative shown in Fig. 3, a light guide 5 is received between two wadding half-cushions 14.

[0124] According to this embodiment, it may be particularly advantageous for the light guide 5 to take the form of a sheet. For example, the light guide 5 may comprise a sheet formed from optical fibers, in particular optical fibers woven together.

[0125] In addition to a light guide 5 passing through the wadding cushion 3, an additional light guide 5 may also be provided, for example in the form of a sheet, in particular formed of optical fibers, against the upper surface of the wadding cushion 3 and / or against the lower surface of the wadding cushion 3. Thus, for example, a first of the light guides 5 passes through the wadding cushion 3, a second of the light guides 5 is arranged against an external surface of the wadding cushion 3, and a third of the light guides 5 is arranged against another surface of the wadding cushion 3 opposite the external surface.

[0126] According to one embodiment, the wadding cushion 3 can be obtained from a textile web comprising photocatalyst-formed fibers, preferably by fluffing. Advantageously, the textile web comprises the light guide 5, the light guide 5 preferably comprising at least one optical fiber.

[0127] Fig. 4 represents a first example of an embodiment of an air handling device 15. Such an air handling device 15 comprises an air purification device 1 as previously described, a light source 9 as previously described, and an air circulation duct 17 between an air inlet 19 and an air outlet 21.

[0128] Alternatively, the air handling unit 15 includes several air outlets, identical or different, and the air handling unit 15 includes several air inlets, identical or different.

[0129] The air purification device 1 is disposed in the air circulation duct 17. Each light guide 5 is supplied with light by the light source 9.

[0130] In this example, the air handling unit 15 is a domestic appliance comprising a casing 23 forming the outer casing of the air handling unit 15.

[0131] Preferably, the air handling unit 15 is configured to be movable during operation. Thus, the air handling unit 15 is an individual domestic unit and not a centralized air conditioning system, for example in a hospital, airport, shopping center, subway or train station.

[0132] Furthermore, the air handling unit 15 is preferably a portable, individual unit suitable for small spaces such as those found in a single-family home or caravan. Thus, the air handling unit 15 has a volume of less than 1 m³, preferably less than 0.8 m³, and more preferably less than 0.6 m³.

[0133] Furthermore, the air treatment device has a mass less than or equal to 30 kg, preferably less than 20 kg, more preferably less than 6 kg.

[0134] The air handling unit 15 further includes an air displacement element 25. The air displacement element 25 is configured to move air from the air inlet 19 to the air outlet 21. The air displacement element 25 is, for example, a radial flow or mixed flow turbine, or a fan, arranged downstream of the air purification device 1. In this case, as shown in [Fig. 3], a motor-fan unit 26 can be arranged on the side of the air outlet 21, above the air purification device 1.

[0135] In the example shown in [Fig. 4] and [Fig. 5], the air purification device 1 comprises several wadding cushions 3 arranged one above the other, with or without contact. As previously described, each wadding cushion 3 receives at least one light guide 5, and each wadding cushion 3 is formed of photocatalyst fibers.

[0136] In this example, the cotton wool cushions 3 are spaced at least a predetermined distance apart such that air to be purified circulates between the cotton wool cushions 3. Preferably, the predetermined value is greater than or equal to 1 millimeter, more preferably greater than or equal to 5 millimeters. Alternatively, the 3 wadding cushions are directly superimposed on one another.

[0137] In this example, the wadding cushions 3 are arranged in parallel layers. The parallel layers may be flat or non-flat. Thus, the wadding cushions 3 are not necessarily flat and may be curved.

[0138] Alternatively, other arrangements of the wadding cushion(s) may be envisaged, for example in the form of rolls where each wadding cushion is rolled up on itself in the manner of a carpet roll.

[0139] Furthermore, in this example, each wadding cushion 3 is arranged parallel to the airflow in the air circulation duct 17. Alternatively, each wadding cushion is arranged transversely to the airflow in the air circulation duct.

[0140] In this example, the air handling unit 15 has an apparent surface area of ​​wadding cushion 3 of at least 4000 cm2, preferably of at least 6000 cm2, more preferably of at least 8000 cm2.

[0141] For example, the airflow moving in the air purification device 1 has a velocity of less than 1 m / s, preferably less than 0.5 m / s, more preferably less than 0.2 m / s. Thus, a contact time of the pollutants with the cotton wool cushion 3 is at least 0.5 s.

[0142] The air treatment device 15 further includes a volatile organic compound analyzer 27 and an automatic control element 29. The automatic control element 29 is configured to automatically adjust, according to the volatile organic compound content analyzed by the analyzer 27, the speed of the air entering the air inlet 19 and / or the light intensity of the light source 9.

[0143] Preferably, as shown in [Fig.5], the air treatment unit 15 further comprises at least one filter 31. The filter 31 is arranged, according to the movement of the air between the air inlet 19 and the air outlet 21, upstream or downstream of the air purification device 1.

[0144] For example, a filter 31 can be placed upstream of the air purification device 1. In this case, a particle filter, of the HEPA type, can be provided in particular.

[0145] Advantageously, at least one filter, such as an activated carbon filter or a formaldehyde filter, is disposed downstream of the air purification device 1.

[0146] Alternatively or in addition, the air treatment unit 15 further includes a dehumidifier.

[0147] For example, as shown in [Fig. 6], the air handling unit 15 further comprises one or more fans 31, agitators or turbulators. Thus, the air circulates in a low but swirling medium flow between the wadding cushions 3. Optionally, the air handling unit 15 also includes at least one deflector 33, configured to reduce air turbulence before the air outlet 21.

Claims

Demands

1. Air purification device (1), characterized in that it comprises a wadding cushion (3) receiving at least one light guide (5), the wadding cushion (3) being formed of photocatalyst fibers, the light guide (5) being configured to be supplied with light by a light source (9), and the light guide (5) having lateral light diffusion means (8) in order to diffuse light laterally with respect to the direction of movement of the light in the light guide (5).

2. Air purification device (1) according to claim 1, wherein the wadding cushion (3) receives several light guides (5).

3. Air purification device (1) according to claim 2, wherein a first of the light guides (5) passes through the wadding cushion (3), a second of the light guides (5) is arranged against an external surface of the wadding cushion (3), and preferably a third of the light guides (5) is arranged against another surface of the wadding cushion (3) opposite the external surface.

4. Air purification device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the light guide (5) comprises at least one optical fiber.

5. Air purification device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising means for holding in position (13) the wadding cushion (3), the means for holding in position (13) preferably being formed by a cartridge.

6. Air purification device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the photocatalyst fibers have a smaller dimension of at least 10 micrometers.

7. Air purification device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the photocatalyst is a semiconductor material.

8. Air purification device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the photocatalyst comprises at least one oxide selected from the group consisting of TiO2, ZnO, CeO2.

9. Air purification device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the photocatalyst comprises at least partially crystalline TiO2, preferably predominantly crystalline TiO2.

10. Air purification device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, which comprises several wadding cushions (3) arranged one above the other, each wadding cushion (3) receiving at least one light guide (5), each wadding cushion (3) being formed of photocatalyst fibers.

11. Air purification device (1) according to claim 10, wherein the cotton wool cushions (3) are spaced at least a predetermined value apart such that air to be purified circulates between the cotton wool cushions (3), preferably the predetermined value being greater than or equal to 1 millimeter, more preferably greater than or equal to 5 millimeters.

12. Air purification device (1) according to claim 10, wherein the cotton wool cushions (3) are directly superimposed on one another.

13. Air handling device (15) comprising: - an air circulation duct (17) between an air inlet (19) and an air outlet (21), - a light source (9), and - an air purification device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 12 disposed in the air duct (17), in which the light guide (5) is supplied with light by the light source (9).

14. Air handling unit (15) according to claim 13, which is a domestic appliance comprising a casing (23) forming the outer casing of the air handling unit (15).

15. Air handling device (15) according to any one of claims 13 to 14, wherein the light source (9) is a UV light source.

16. Air handling device (15) according to any one of claims 13 to 15, wherein the light source (9) comprises an LED.

17. An air treatment apparatus (15) according to any one of claims 13 to 16, further comprising: - a volatile organic compound analyzer (27) and - an automatic control element (29), which is configured to automatically adjust, according to the volatile organic compound content analyzed by the analyzer (27), the velocity of the air entering the air inlet (19) and / or the light intensity of the light source

18. (9). Air handling apparatus (15) according to any one of claims 13 to 17, wherein each wadding cushion (3) is arranged parallel to the airflow in the air circulation duct (17).

19. Air handling device (15) according to any one of claims 13 to 17, wherein each wadding cushion (3) is arranged transversely to the airflow in the air circulation duct (17).