Air Treatment Module

Abstract

The inventive concept relates to a module for treating air. The module comprises a rotating filter assembly comprising a filter unit comprising a carbon dioxide capture medium, an inlet connected to the rotating filter assembly and an outlet connected to the rotating filter assembly, with a regeneration zone formed between the inlet and the outlet, a conduit connecting the outlet to the inlet and thus forming a collection loop passing through the rotating filter assembly and the regeneration zone, and a first flow generator configured to generate a flow in the collection loop. The module is configured to capture carbon dioxide from a primary airflow when the carbon dioxide capture medium is in the capture zone and to release the captured carbon dioxide to the collection loop when the carbon dioxide capture medium is in the regeneration zone. The module further comprises a second inlet connected to the conduit, the second inlet configured to provide regeneration gas to the collection loop to facilitate said release of the captured carbon dioxide, and a second outlet connected to the conduit, the second outlet configured to exhaust the released carbon dioxide from the collection loop, and the filter unit is configured to rotate between the capture zone and the regeneration zone.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] TECHNICAL FIELD The inventive concepts described herein relate generally to the field of air treatment, and more particularly to modules for managing carbon dioxide removal. [Background technology]

[0002] Nowadays, the field of indoor climate and indoor air quality has many aspects related to comfort and health issues, but also to energy efficiency and generally efficiency, e.g. regarding filter life. In the context of this application, indoor climate control refers to climate aspects such as temperature, humidity and pollutants.

[0003] To control indoor air contaminant levels, indoor air is typically filtered and recirculated and / or vented outside, and ambient or outside air is brought inside.

[0004] However, filtering air for contaminants is an energy intensive process since large amounts of air must be heated not only for comfort but also for filtering, including regeneration of the filtration system.

[0005] Climate awareness has recently been a driving force for innovation in many technical fields. There is a great interest among countries, companies and individuals to live with as little carbon footprint as possible. For example, the demand for optimizing air treatment systems for commercial, industrial and residential buildings remains great, especially with regard to the treatment of filtered pollutants. A common solution is to vent the pollutant, e.g. carbon dioxide, to the outdoor air or to collect it in a filter that is later replaced and discarded. Replacing the filter can be a cumbersome and expensive process. Moreover, venting the pollutants to the outdoor air is an insufficient solution to this problem.

[0006] For example, there are examples of air treatment systems that attempt to regenerate filtration systems to become more energy efficient. The systems may use heat and / or chemicals to regenerate the filters and thus extend their lifespan. The systems still have efficiency issues and do not provide a good solution to the treatment of pollutants.

[0007] To alleviate some of these shortcomings, solutions have been proposed to increase the efficiency of energy use and the treatment of pollutants. For example, heat exchangers may be used to transfer energy between indoor air and outdoor air. This may reduce the need for heating and / or cooling. Also, measuring indoor pollutant levels, such as carbon dioxide levels, may lead to reduced ventilation needs and therefore reduced energy requirements. There are also examples of different ways in which filters can be replaced to make air treatment systems operate more efficiently.

[0008] However, there remains a need for more efficient air treatment systems that can provide a superior solution for the treatment of pollutants while still providing energy efficient removal of, for example, carbon dioxide.

[0009] It is therefore important to develop an efficient system for treating indoor air, i.e., a system that provides efficient energy use, efficient capture of pollutants such as carbon dioxide, and an effective method for treating the filtered pollutants. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0010] SUMMARY OF THE PRESENT EMBODIMENTS The object of the inventive concept is to mitigate, alleviate or eliminate one or more of the above identified shortcomings and difficulties in the art singly or in any combination. [Means for solving the problem]

[0011] In accordance with a first aspect of the inventive concept, these and other objects are achieved in whole or at least in part by a module for treating air. The module comprises a rotating filter assembly comprising a filter unit including a carbon dioxide capture medium, an inlet connected to the rotating filter assembly and an outlet connected to the rotating filter assembly, with a regeneration zone formed between the inlet and the outlet, a conduit connecting the outlet to the inlet to form a collection loop passing through the rotating filter assembly and the regeneration zone, and a first flow generator configured to generate a flow in the collection loop. The module is configured to capture carbon dioxide from a primary airflow and treat the primary airflow when the carbon dioxide capture medium is in the capture zone, and release the captured carbon dioxide to the collection loop when the carbon dioxide capture medium is in the regeneration zone. The module further comprises a second inlet connected to the conduit, configured to provide regeneration gas to the collection loop to facilitate said release of the captured carbon dioxide, and a second outlet connected to the conduit, configured to exhaust the released carbon dioxide from the collection loop. The filter unit is configured to rotate between the capture zone and the regeneration zone.

[0012] Generally, the inventive concept is based on the idea of ​​an air treatment module that efficiently removes the main airflow containing contaminants and / or impurities and / or pollutants and treats the carbon dioxide removed from the air. More specifically, the inventive concept is based on the idea of ​​continuously concentrating carbon dioxide in a collection loop while air is filtered from the main airflow.

[0013] It will be appreciated that the module provides energy efficient removal of air while collecting carbon dioxide in a closed loop, allowing carbon dioxide to be removed from unclean air from a site, for example an office space. The carbon dioxide may be concentrated in the closed loop over time and vented. It will be further appreciated that the module may be configured to collect only carbon dioxide, thus avoiding collection of gases having unspecified composition.

[0014] It will be further appreciated that the module may temporarily store the carbon dioxide. More specifically, the carbon dioxide may be temporarily stored within the closed loop. For example, if the amount of carbon dioxide released from the carbon dioxide capture medium to the collection loop is relatively small, the carbon dioxide may be stored within the closed collection loop for a relatively long period of time until a decision is made to vent the material within the closed loop.

[0015] The inventive concept is further advantageous in that it provides for simple yet efficient concentration of carbon dioxide through a closed loop until a desired concentration of carbon dioxide is reached. The volume in the closed loop with the desired concentration of carbon dioxide can then be transferred to a container for storage or transferred to an external location for use. The external location can be a second location in substantially the same building as the first location where the main airflow occurs. For example, the exhausted carbon dioxide can be transferred to the second location, which can be a greenhouse.

[0016] The inventive concept is advantageous in that the module may function as a stand-alone module in most air handling systems, for example, due to its relatively low operational requirements, small size, and high adaptability.

[0017] The inventive concept is further advantageous in that it allows for the reuse of air already heated in the collection loop to regenerate the rotating filter assembly, making it more energy efficient.

[0018] The module comprises a rotating filter assembly, the rotating filter assembly comprising a filter unit comprising a carbon dioxide capture medium. The carbon dioxide capture medium may comprise one or more filters of the same or different types. The carbon dioxide capture medium may be an adsorbent that captures carbon dioxide by adsorption, e.g., an adsorption filter. The carbon dioxide capture medium may comprise a granular filter. The carbon dioxide capture medium may comprise a powder filter. The module may further comprise other filters, such as a HEPA filter unit, a PM filter unit, and / or a biological filter unit that removes biological contaminants. The biological filter unit may comprise a UV disinfectant and / or a filter material. The rotating filter assembly may be substantially circular. The filter unit may be substantially circular.

[0019] The module further comprises an inlet connected to the rotating filter assembly and an outlet connected to the rotating filter assembly, a regeneration zone being formed inside the rotating filter assembly between the inlet and the outlet.

[0020] The module further comprises a conduit connecting the outlet to the inlet, thus forming a collection loop passing through the rotating filter assembly and the regeneration area. The conduit allows air to circulate in a closed loop. The collection loop may be considered as a combination of components that allows air to circulate in a loop.

[0021] The regeneration zone is part of a rotating filter assembly through which air in the collection loop may pass. In other words, air from the collection loop may be introduced into the regeneration zone through a first inlet, passed through a filter unit with a carbon dioxide capture medium, and released into the collection loop through an outlet.

[0022] The rotary filter assembly includes at least a capture area, the portion of the rotary filter assembly through which air from the primary airflow may pass and through which at least carbon dioxide may be removed from the air from the primary airflow by the carbon dioxide capture media.

[0023] The regeneration zone and the capture zone may be two sectors of the rotary filter assembly when the rotary filter assembly is substantially circular. The sector corresponding to the capture zone may constitute a larger portion of the rotary filter assembly than the sector corresponding to the regeneration zone. The regeneration zone and the capture zone may be substantially or at least partially separated zones inside the rotary filter assembly. The regeneration zone and the capture zone may be substantially or at least partially separated, for example, by one or more partition walls.

[0024] The module further comprises a first flow generator configured to generate a flow in the collection loop. The first flow generator may be a fan. However, it should be understood that the first flow generator may be any device configured to generate a flow.

[0025] Further, the module is configured to capture carbon dioxide from the primary airflow when the carbon dioxide capture medium is in the capture region, thus treating the primary airflow by filtration / removal. 3 / hour~500m 3 / hour air flow. The primary airflow may contain a concentration of 200 ppm to 1000 ppm carbon dioxide. The primary airflow may contain 0.5% to 80% carbon dioxide. Furthermore, the module is configured to release captured carbon dioxide to the collection loop when the carbon dioxide capture media is in the regeneration zone. It will be appreciated that the module of the present concepts allows for carbon dioxide to be captured by the carbon dioxide capture media in the capture zone at the same time that carbon dioxide is released from the capture media into the collection loop in the regeneration zone. When the carbon dioxide capture media is in the regeneration zone, carbon dioxide is released into the collection loop. Over time, the concentration of carbon dioxide in the collection loop increases. In the closed loop, the carbon dioxide concentration increases as the air in the collection loop is continuously passed through the carbon dioxide capture media, releasing more carbon dioxide with each pass.

[0026] The module further comprises a second inlet connected to the conduit. The second inlet is configured to provide a regeneration gas to the collection loop to facilitate release of the captured carbon dioxide from the carbon dioxide capture medium. The regeneration gas may be outdoor air. The regeneration gas may be indoor air, which may be advantageous when the outdoor air is cooler than the indoor air, since release of carbon dioxide from the carbon dioxide capture medium may be increased at higher temperatures. Thus, using indoor air as the regeneration gas may reduce the energy required to bring the regeneration gas to a desired temperature compared to using outdoor air. The inflow of the regeneration gas during operation may preferably be 5% to 25% of the inflow of air in the main airflow, more preferably 5% to 15%, more preferably 8% to 12%, and most preferably 10%. For example, the main airflow may be 500 m 3 / hr, and the inflow of regeneration gas through the second inlet may be 50 m 3 / hour. A preferred ratio between the flow rate of the main airflow and the flow rate of the regeneration gas through the second inlet can provide improved energy efficiency. Furthermore, the ratio can make the concentration of carbon dioxide in the module more efficient. The regeneration gas can be intermittently introduced into the conduit, which can further improve the efficiency of the carbon dioxide concentration and can improve the energy efficiency of the module. The regeneration gas can then be introduced into the collection loop only when deemed necessary, for example, for efficient operation. It will be appreciated that the second inlet can provide the regeneration gas to the collection loop during filtration and regeneration.

[0027] The module further comprises a second outlet connected to the conduit. The second outlet is configured to discharge the released carbon dioxide from the collection loop. It is understood that the discharge may be not only carbon dioxide but also all fluids present in the collection loop, such as oxygen, hydrogen, etc. The discharge may be intermittent. It will be understood that the discharge through the second outlet may be during filtration and regeneration. It will be further understood that the module may be used with a compressor and a vessel for storing the carbon dioxide discharged by the second outlet. For example, the gas discharged from the second outlet may be compressed by a compressor and stored or moved to a desired location.

[0028] Furthermore, the filter unit is configured to rotate between the capture zone and the regeneration zone. The filter unit may rotate relative to the rotating filter assembly. For example, the filter unit may rotate about a central axis of the rotating filter assembly. It should be understood that any additional filter units in the rotating filter assembly may or may not rotate about said axis in the rotating filter assembly. The rotation of the filter unit provides continuous filtration and continuous regeneration. During operation, the filter unit may rotate at a constant speed and / or the rotation speed may be adjusted to accommodate current or predetermined requirements. The speed at which the filter rotates affects the amount of carbon dioxide released into and ultimately exhausted from the collection loop. It will be understood that filtration and regeneration may occur simultaneously. It will be further understood that filtration, regeneration, and carbon dioxide concentration, as well as exhaust, may occur simultaneously.

[0029] First, certain terms may be defined to provide explanation for the following disclosure.

[0030] The terms "pollutant," "contaminant," and "contaminant" are defined in this disclosure, but are not limited to, as particles, compounds, or molecules that have a detrimental effect on human health and / or are undesirable in an air stream, for example, provided as an inflow into a building or enclosed space in which people are present. Thus, elements that may be naturally present in air, such as carbon dioxide, may be considered contaminants. Other examples of air pollutants may include, for example, particulate matter, benzene, nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide, carbon monoxide, benzo(a)pyrene, radon, ozone, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), including, for example, hydrocarbons (HCs), formaldehyde, alcohols, and the like.

[0031] As used herein, the term "filter unit" refers to any unit that removes, absorbs, adsorbs, removes, or filters particles and / or gases, but is not limited to this. In this disclosure, the filter unit can be a cassette.

[0032] It should be understood that the term "air" may refer to any type of gas, e.g., regeneration gas, or substance, particularly with respect to air present in or flowing into or out of the collection loop.

[0033] In accordance with an embodiment of the inventive concept, the module further comprises a heater configured to increase and / or maintain a temperature of the gas in the collection loop. This embodiment is advantageous in that the temperature of the gas in the collection loop may be heated to a temperature that improves the release of carbon dioxide from the carbon dioxide capture medium.

[0034] According to an embodiment of the inventive concept, the gas is regeneration gas and / or released carbon dioxide. It should be understood that the gas is the gas present in the collection loop at any given time. The gas may, for example, include only regeneration gas if there is no carbon dioxide being removed or removed. The gas may include only carbon dioxide, or at least to the extent that the gas is saturated with carbon dioxide. This embodiment is advantageous in that the gas includes gases that are not as toxic as other pollutants and may be discharged through a second outlet to a site where people may be present, for example, a greenhouse.

[0035] According to an embodiment of the inventive concept, the temperature is between 38°C and 80°C. It should be understood that the temperature may refer to the temperature of the gas in the collection loop. The temperature may particularly refer to the temperature of the gas entering the rotating filter assembly through the first inlet, and is used to facilitate the reaction in the carbon dioxide capture medium. The temperature of the gas in the collection loop may be in the interval from 38°C to 200°C. The gas in the collection loop may maintain a temperature from 38°C to 120°C. Preferably, the gas should maintain a temperature of at least 38°C to allow the carbon dioxide capture medium to release carbon dioxide. This embodiment is advantageous in that the temperature interval between 38°C and 80°C is optimal for improving the release of carbon dioxide from the carbon dioxide capture medium in the regeneration zone to the collection loop. Furthermore, this temperature interval is advantageous in that it is energy efficient. Furthermore, this embodiment is advantageous because the heat is easier to control in the collection loop, i.e. fewer means are required to control the heat.

[0036] According to an embodiment of the inventive concept, the module is configured to capture carbon dioxide from a main air stream having a carbon dioxide concentration of less than 300 ppm. More preferably, the carbon dioxide concentration of the main stream may be less than 250 ppm, even more preferably less than 200 ppm, and most preferably less than 100 ppm. This embodiment is advantageous in that the module is capable of capturing carbon dioxide at low concentrations of carbon dioxide. This is further advantageous in that the module may collect and concentrate carbon dioxide in a collection loop from a main air stream having a relatively low concentration of carbon dioxide.

[0037] According to an embodiment of the inventive concept, the primary airflow comprises air from at least one of the outdoor air and the indoor air, which has the further advantage that the module is more versatile and therefore suitable for more air handling systems.

[0038] According to an embodiment of the inventive concept, the filter unit comprises an upstream side and a downstream side in the regeneration area. The first flow generator may be located downstream of the filter unit. In particular, the upstream side and the downstream side may be defined with respect to the direction of gas flow in the collection loop. In the present disclosure, when the first flow generator is located downstream of the filter unit, in the closed loop, the first flow generator is substantially closer to the downstream side of the filter unit than to the upstream side of the filter unit. This is advantageous in that the first flow generator draws carbon dioxide from the carbon dioxide capture medium in the filter unit. In other words, the first flow generator improves the release or desorption of carbon dioxide when the carbon dioxide capture medium comprises a sorbent. The first flow generator increases the drawing force by creating an area of ​​lower pressure downstream of the filter unit comprising the carbon dioxide capture medium.

[0039] According to an embodiment of the inventive concept, the first flow generator is arranged such that air is drawn through the filter unit in the regeneration area, which is advantageous in that it improves the release of carbon dioxide from the carbon dioxide capture medium.

[0040] According to an embodiment of the inventive concept, the module further comprises a third inlet connected to the capture area of ​​the rotating filter assembly, the third inlet configured to direct a primary airflow into the capture area. It is envisioned that the module may further comprise a third outlet through which air passing through the capture area may exit. In other words, the primary airflow may enter the capture area via the third inlet, pass through the capture area, and exit the capture area via the third outlet.

[0041] According to an embodiment of the inventive concept, the module further comprises a second flow generator configured to communicate fluid to the third inlet and generate a flow through the third inlet towards the capture area, This embodiment is advantageous in that it improves the capture of carbon dioxide from the main airflow.

[0042] According to an embodiment of the inventive concept, the filter unit comprises an upstream side and a downstream side within the capture region. The second flow generator may be located upstream of the filter unit. This is advantageous in that the flow generator forces carbon dioxide into the carbon dioxide capture medium within the filter unit, thus improving carbon dioxide capture. The flow generator increases the pushing force by creating a region of higher pressure upstream of the filter unit with the carbon dioxide capture medium.

[0043] According to an embodiment of the inventive concept, the second inlet and the second outlet comprise respective closing mechanisms, allowing the collection loop to be closed to form a closed collection loop and opened to exhaust gas from the collection loop. This is advantageous in that the closing mechanism allows all regeneration gas to be reused in the collection loop. This increases energy efficiency since no new air needs to be heated to increase the efficiency of carbon dioxide release from the carbon dioxide capture medium. This is further advantageous in that the concentration of carbon dioxide in the collection loop may be higher, allowing the module to exhaust carbon dioxide less frequently and / or to exhaust a greater amount of carbon dioxide at each exhaust. The closing mechanism may comprise at least one valve, such as a one-way valve. The closing mechanism at the second inlet may allow the regeneration gas to flow into the collection loop through the second inlet, which may be done without leaking air from the collection loop through the second inlet. The closing mechanism at the second outlet may allow air in the collection loop to be exhausted through the second outlet, which may be done without letting any air into the collection loop through the second outlet.

[0044] According to an embodiment of the inventive concept, the module is further configured to receive a control signal to place the second inlet and the second outlet in a closed configuration until at least one predetermined condition is met. In this embodiment, the closing mechanism may open in response to the control signal. The second inlet and the second outlet open when the predetermined condition is met to allow carbon dioxide to exit the collection loop and to allow regeneration gas to be introduced into the collection loop. The closing mechanism of the second inlet and the closing mechanism of the second outlet may be open for the same amount of time, for example, to substantially maintain gas pressure inside the collection loop.

[0045] The amount of regeneration gas introduced may be correlated to the amount of gas exhausted from the collection loop, for example, to allow a substantially constant gas pressure to be maintained in the collection loop. For example, when the collection loop reaches a certain carbon dioxide concentration, a control signal may be received by the module to signal the opening of the closing mechanisms at the second inlet and the second outlet. Both the second outlet and the closing mechanisms at the second inlet may open or close in response to the control signal. The second inlet and the second outlet may open individually, i.e., the closing mechanism at the second inlet or the second outlet may open while the other closing mechanism is closed, for example, to allow adjustment of the pressure inside the collection loop. The control signal may be received from an external entity, such as a cloud-based application or a monitoring device. The control signal may also be received from an internal processing unit, i.e., processing circuitry, connected to the module. The module may include an internal processing unit. The module may send the control signal to the closing mechanism. This embodiment is advantageous in that the amount of carbon dioxide in the collection loop may be at least partially controlled. Thus, the amount of carbon dioxide exhausted may be at least partially controlled. It should be understood that the second inlet and the second outlet may be opened independently of one another, for example, the second inlet may admit regeneration gas simultaneously with, before, or after the second outlet is opened.

[0046] According to an embodiment of the inventive concept, the at least one predetermined condition is at least one of the concentration of carbon dioxide in the collection loop reaching a predetermined threshold and the time elapsed since the previous purge of gas in the collection loop. This embodiment is advantageous in that the module may purge air from the collection loop with a known concentration of carbon dioxide. This allows for a more accurate use of carbon dioxide. It should be appreciated that the time elapsed may directly correlate to the amount of carbon dioxide in the collection loop. If the module has been pre-calibrated, the time elapsed may be sufficient to identify a substantially accurate carbon dioxide concentration.

[0047] According to an embodiment of the inventive concept, the elapsed time is based on at least one of the rotation speed of the rotating filter, the type of filter, the thickness of the filter, the flow rate in the collection loop defined as the flow rate generated by the flow generator in the collection loop, the flow rate of the main airflow, the area of ​​the regeneration area, and the desired carbon dioxide concentration in the air discharged by the second outlet. This embodiment is advantageous in that the module may better control the amount of carbon dioxide discharged by the second outlet. For example, the flow rate in the collection loop may affect the release of carbon dioxide from the carbon dioxide capture medium to the collection loop. The flow rate of the main airflow, in which carbon dioxide is absorbed, may affect the amount of carbon dioxide released to the collection loop. The area of ​​the regeneration area may further affect the concentration of carbon dioxide in the collection loop, in particular by affecting the amount of carbon dioxide released by the carbon dioxide capture medium.

[0048] It will be appreciated that if one or more of the flow rate in the collection loop, the flow rate of the main air stream, and the area of ​​the regeneration area are specified, the time required to reach a desired concentration of carbon dioxide in the collection loop can be more accurately determined, and therefore the elapsed time between discharges of gas from the collection loop can be more accurately determined.

[0049] In accordance with an embodiment of the inventive concept, the module further comprises a sensor configured to determine the concentration of carbon dioxide in the collection loop. This embodiment allows for a more accurate and reliable method of determining the concentration of carbon dioxide in the collection loop. Thus, control of the carbon dioxide concentration in the exhaust from the collection loop can be more accurate.

[0050] Features described with respect to one embodiment may be incorporated in other embodiments, and the advantages of the features are applicable to all embodiments in which the features are incorporated.

[0051] Features described with respect to one embodiment may also be incorporated in other embodiments, and the advantages of the features are applicable to all embodiments in which the features are incorporated. Any combination of the embodiments disclosed herein is possible, unless expressly stated otherwise.

[0052] Other objects, features, and advantages of the inventive concepts will become apparent from the following detailed disclosure, the appended claims, and the drawings.

[0053] Generally, all terms used in the claims should be interpreted according to the ordinary meaning of such terms in the art, unless otherwise expressly defined herein. Moreover, the use of the terms "first," "second," and "third," and the like, herein does not denote any order, quantity, or importance, but is used to distinguish one element from another. All references to "[element, device, component, means, step, etc.]" should be openly interpreted as referring to at least one example of said element, device, component, means, step, etc., unless otherwise expressly stated. The steps of any method disclosed herein do not have to be performed in the exact order disclosed, unless otherwise expressly stated.

[0054] The above, as well as further objects, features, and advantages of the inventive concept will be more fully understood through the following illustrative and non-limiting detailed description of the inventive concept, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0055] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 shows a schematic diagram of a module according to the inventive concept. [Figure 2a] FIG. 2a illustrates a schematic of a rotating filter assembly in accordance with the concepts of the present invention. [Figure 2b] FIG. 2b shows a schematic cross-sectional side view of a module according to the concept of the present invention. [Figure 3a]FIG. 3a shows a schematic of a module according to the inventive concept. [Figure 3b] FIG. 3b shows a schematic of a module according to the concept of the present invention. [Figure 3c] FIG. 3c shows a schematic of a module according to the inventive concept. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 shows a schematic of a module according to the inventive concept. [Figure 5a] FIG. 5a shows a schematic of a closure mechanism according to the concept of the present invention. [Figure 5b] FIG. 5b shows a schematic of a closure mechanism according to the concepts of the present invention. [Figure 5c] FIG. 5c shows a schematic of a closure mechanism according to the concepts of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0056] The figures are not necessarily to scale and generally show only parts necessary to clarify the concept of the invention, other parts may be omitted or may be merely suggestions.

[0057] FIG. 1 shows a module for treating air according to the concept of the present invention. Here, the module 100 comprises a rotating filter assembly 110, which comprises a filter unit (not shown) disposed inside the rotating filter assembly 110, the filter unit comprising a carbon dioxide capture medium. The filter unit may be, for example, a cassette. The module 100 further comprises an inlet 120 connected to the rotating filter assembly 110, and an outlet 130 connected to the rotating filter assembly 110. Here, the module 100 further comprises a conduit 140 connecting the outlet 130 to the inlet 120, thus forming a collection loop. The collection loop passes through the rotating filter assembly 110 via the inlet 120 and the outlet 130. A regeneration area 114 is formed between the inlet 120 and the outlet 130. The collection loop provides a flow path through which air may circulate through the outlet 130, the conduit 140, the inlet 120, and the regeneration area 114. Here, the collection loop constitutes a substantially closed loop.

[0058] The module 100 further comprises a first flow generator 150 configured to generate a flow in the collection loop. The rotary filter assembly 110 comprises at least two different regions, namely, a capture region 112 and a regeneration region 114. The module 100 is configured to capture carbon dioxide from the primary airflow F1 and process the primary airflow when the carbon dioxide capture medium is in the capture region. In other words, the primary airflow F1 enters the capture region 112, at least a portion of the carbon dioxide content of the air is absorbed by the carbon dioxide capture medium of the filter unit, and the air may exit the capture region 112 with less carbon dioxide than before the air entered the rotary filter assembly 110, as shown by flow F4. The primary airflow may be defined as flow F1 when the air enters the capture region 112 of the rotary filter assembly 110, and as flow F4 when the air exits the capture region 112.

[0059] The module 100 is further configured to release the carbon dioxide into the collection loop when the carbon dioxide capture media is in the regeneration zone 114. A filter unit (not visible) is configured to rotate inside the rotating filter assembly 110 to move the carbon dioxide capture media between the capture zone 112 and the regeneration zone 114.

[0060] The module 100 further comprises a second inlet 160 and a second outlet 170. The second inlet 160 is connected to the conduit 140 and is configured to provide a regeneration gas to the collection loop to facilitate the release of the captured carbon dioxide. The regeneration gas may include outdoor air and may be introduced to the second inlet 160 via stream F2. The regeneration gas may include recycled indoor air from stream F4. The second outlet 170 is connected to the conduit 140 and is configured to vent carbon dioxide that has accumulated over time in the collection loop after being released from the carbon dioxide capture media in the regeneration zone 114.

[0061] The second inlet 160 and the second outlet 170 may comprise respective closing mechanisms 142, 144. The closing mechanisms 142, 144 allow selective closing and opening of the collection loop to control the exhaustion and intake of gas from and to the collection loop. In particular, the closing mechanism 142 may be in an open configuration to allow regeneration gas to enter the collection loop via the second inlet 160. Furthermore, the closing mechanism 142 may be in a closed configuration to prevent the regeneration gas from entering the collection loop via the second inlet 160. Similarly, the closing mechanism 144 may be in an open configuration to allow the regeneration gas and / or carbon dioxide in the collection loop to be exhausted from the collection loop via the second outlet 170. Furthermore, the closing mechanism 144 may be in a closed configuration to prevent the regeneration gas and / or carbon dioxide in the collection loop from being exhausted from the collection loop via the second outlet 170. The closing mechanism 142 may be in an open configuration to allow the regeneration gas to enter the collection loop via the second inlet 160.

[0062] The second outlet 170 may be closed until a predetermined condition is met, and the second outlet 170 may be opened when the predetermined condition is met to discharge carbon dioxide, i.e., the gas inside the collection loop containing carbon dioxide, from the collection loop. The gas inside the collection loop may contain a relatively high concentration of carbon dioxide, up to 100%. Thus, the gas discharged from the collection loop through the second outlet 170 may contain a relatively high concentration of carbon dioxide. However, it should be understood that the amount of carbon dioxide discharged may also be relatively low. In particular, in some cases, gas may be discharged from the collection loop without any carbon dioxide being released.

[0063] The amount of carbon dioxide released may be controlled by a predetermined condition. For example, the predetermined condition may be the concentration of carbon dioxide in the collection loop reaching a predetermined threshold and / or the time elapsed since the previous discharge of gas in the collection loop. By determining the carbon dioxide concentration in the collection loop via the sensor, it is possible to determine when the predetermined condition is met, and therefore when gas should be discharged from the collection loop. The sensor may be located in the collection loop, for example in the conduit 140. The time elapsed since the previous discharge may affect the amount of carbon dioxide in the collection loop. In particular, if one or more of the rotation speed of the filter unit, the flow rate in the collection loop defined as the flow rate generated by the first flow generator 150 in the collection loop, the flow rate of the main airflow, and the area of ​​the regeneration area 114 are known, the determination of the carbon dioxide concentration in the collection loop may be performed in combination with the time elapsed since the previous discharge.

[0064] Here, the module 100 further comprises a heater 180. Preferably, the heater 180 is located near the inlet 130. The heater 180 is configured to increase and / or maintain the temperature of the gas in the collection loop. Locating the heater 180 in the collection loop close to the regeneration region 114 to facilitate maintaining a constant temperature in the regeneration region 114 is advantageous as it provides both more energy efficient heating and improved desorption.

[0065] 2a, a front view of the rotating assembly 110 is shown. Here, the rotating assembly 110 comprises a first inlet 120. Here, the rotating assembly 110 further comprises a capture area 112 and a regeneration area 114. The regeneration area 114 is formed between the inlet 120 and an outlet (not shown). Here, the rotating filter assembly 110 further comprises a filter unit (not shown). The filter unit rotates between the capture area 112 and the regeneration area 114. In FIG. 2a, the filter unit rotates about an axis extending through the center of the rotating filter assembly 110. Since the rotation speed of the filter unit can affect the amount of carbon dioxide captured from the main airflow, the rotation speed can also affect the concentration of carbon dioxide in the collection loop and / or the timing of opening and closing the closing mechanisms 142, 144 that allow gas to enter and exit the collection loop.

[0066] In Fig. 2a, the sector corresponding to the capture zone constitutes a larger portion of the rotating filter assembly than the sector corresponding to the regeneration zone. The relative size of the sector of the capture zone 112 to the size of the sector of the regeneration zone 114 may be determined by several factors, such as the desired carbon dioxide concentration, the efficiency of filtration / removal, and the content / flow of the main airflow. The sector corresponding to the regeneration zone 114 may be larger than the sector corresponding to the capture zone 112. It should be understood that the capture zone 112 and the regeneration zone 114 may have shapes other than sectors.

[0067] 2b, a cross-sectional side view of module 100 is shown. In FIG. 2b, module 100 comprises a rotating filter assembly 110, an inlet 120, and an outlet 130. Here, rotating filter assembly 110 further comprises a capture region 112 and a regeneration region 114 formed between inlet 120 and outlet 130. Rotating filter assembly 110 further comprises a filter unit 190. Here, filter unit 190 rotates about an axis parallel to the direction of flow, which is indicated by an arrow passing through regeneration region 114.

[0068] The module 100 of FIG. 2b further comprises a conduit 140 connecting the outlet 130 and the inlet 120. The module 100 further comprises a first flow generator 150 and a heater 180. Here, the first flow generator 150 is disposed downstream of the regeneration zone 114 close to the outlet 130. The advantages and effects of such an arrangement of the first flow generator 150 are described in the summary section of this disclosure and will not be repeated here for brevity. Here, the heater 180 is disposed upstream of the regeneration zone 114 close to the inlet 120. This arrangement of the heater 180 may improve heating of the gas passing through the inlet 120 into the regeneration zone 114 and therefore may improve or facilitate the release of carbon dioxide from the carbon dioxide capture medium. The filter unit 190 may have a substantially circular shape. The filter unit 190 may have a first portion always in the capture zone 112 and a second portion of the filter unit always in the regeneration zone 112. Thus, the module 100 can continuously and simultaneously capture carbon dioxide with the carbon dioxide capture media in the capture region 112 and release carbon dioxide from the carbon dioxide capture media in the regeneration region 114 to a collection loop.

[0069] It should be understood that the rotating filter assembly 110 may include multiple capture areas 112 and multiple regeneration areas 114 through which the filter units pass upon rotation of the rotating filter assembly. It should also be understood that the module 100 may include multiple collection loops. In other words, there may be two regeneration areas 114, each of which may have one or more features and be connected to its own collection loop arranged as described in this disclosure. A module with multiple collection loops provides for collection of gas in several collection loops, each of which may have a different concentration of carbon dioxide. The carbon dioxide concentration may be controlled, for example, by the flow rate in each collection loop, the area of ​​the regeneration area connected to each collection loop, and / or the closing and opening of the inlets that allow the regeneration gas to enter the collection loops and the outlets that allow the gas to exit the collection loops, respectively.

[0070] FIG. 3A shows a schematic of a module 300 according to the concept of the present invention. Here, the module 300 comprises a rotating filter assembly 310, an inlet 320, and an outlet 330. A regeneration zone 314 may be formed between the inlet 320 and the outlet 330. The module 300 further comprises a conduit 340, a second inlet 360 connected to the conduit 340, and a second outlet 370 connected to the conduit 340. The module 300 further comprises a closing mechanism 342 for the second inlet 360 and a closing mechanism 344 for the second outlet 370. The closing mechanisms 342, 344 allow the collection loop to form a closed loop while the closing mechanisms 342, 344 are in a closed configuration, and further allow the intake of regeneration gas into the collection loop while at least the closing mechanism 342 is in an open configuration. The second inlet 360 allows the introduction of regeneration gas into the collection loop. A corresponding closing mechanism 342 allows for the control of the introduction of the regeneration gas. The closing mechanisms 342, 344 may be any type of damper, shutter, throttle, or one-way valve that controls the flow of air through the passages, for example the second inlet 360, the second outlet 370, and the conduit 340. The intake of regeneration gas via the second inlet 360 and flow F2, and the exhaust of gas from the collection loop via the second outlet 360 and flow F3, respectively, may be repeated intermittently. The exhaust of gas from the collection loop via the second outlet 370 may be performed at predetermined intervals and / or based on the current concentration of carbon dioxide in the collection loop.

[0071] 3A further includes a first flow generator 350 disposed downstream of the rotary filter assembly 310 much closer to the outlet 330 than the inlet 320. Here, the module 300 further includes a heater 380 disposed upstream of the rotary filter assembly 310 much closer to the inlet 320 than the outlet 330.

[0072] 3A, the module 300 further includes a third inlet 316. The third inlet 316 is connected to the capture area 312 of the rotating filter assembly 310 and configured to direct the primary airflow F1 toward the capture area 312. Here, the module 300 further includes a second flow generator 318. The second flow generator 318 is configured to transmit fluid to the third inlet 316 and generate a flow toward the capture area 312 via the third inlet 316.

[0073] Figure 3b illustrates a schematic diagram of a module 300 similar to the module 300 of Figure 3a. As most of the construction and operation of the module 300 is substantially similar to that described in Figure 3a, a detailed description of the features common to the embodiment illustrated in Figure 3a has been omitted for the sake of brevity and clarity to avoid unnecessary redundancy.

[0074] In FIG. 3b, the module 300 further comprises a closure mechanism 346. The closure mechanism 346 is disposed in the conduit 340 between the intersection of the conduit 340 and the second inlet 360 and the intersection of the conduit 340 and the second outlet 370. The closure mechanism 346 is configured to stop the flow of air between the intersection of the conduit 340 and the second inlet 360 and the intersection of the conduit 340 and the second outlet 370. The closure mechanism 346 may provide more controlled and improved evacuation of air through the second outlet 370 because, in the absence of the closure mechanism 346, a portion of the air circulating in the collection loop may enter the conduit 340 at the intersection of the conduit 340 and the second outlet 370, even when the closure mechanism 344 is open, instead of being evacuated through the second outlet 370. Thus, the closing mechanism 346 may provide better control of the exhaust of air from the collection loop and / or better control of the amount of carbon dioxide in the air exhausted through the second outlet 370. In FIG. 3b, the closing mechanisms 342, 344, 346 may include dampers that allow them to be fully open, fully closed, or anywhere in between, i.e., partially open / closed. In FIG. 3b, the closing mechanisms 342 and 346 may be controlled in response to the same control signal. The closing mechanisms 342 and 346 may have an inverse relationship such that when one is open, the other is closed. The closing mechanisms 342, 344, 346 may be configured to be controlled relative to each other to maintain a desired flow in the collection loop and a desired carbon dioxide concentration in the exhausted air. In other words, the closing mechanisms 342, 344, and 346 may cooperate to maintain a specific flow in the collection, a specific inflow through the second inlet, and a specific outflow through the second outlet. Additionally, the closure mechanisms 343, 344, and 346 may open and close independently of one another to any degree, ie, anywhere between fully open and fully closed.

[0075] Figure 3c illustrates a schematic diagram of a module 300 similar to the module 300 of Figure 3a. As most of the construction and operation of the module 300 is substantially similar to that described in Figure 3a, a detailed description of the features common to the embodiment illustrated in Figure 3a has been omitted for the sake of brevity and clarity to avoid unnecessary redundancy.

[0076] In FIG. 3c, the closing mechanism 342 is disposed at the intersection of the conduit 340 and the second inlet 360, and the closing mechanism 344 is disposed at the intersection of the conduit 340 and the second outlet 370. In FIG. 3c, the closing mechanisms 342, 344 can be configured in an open configuration, a closed configuration, or any configuration in between, i.e., various degrees of semi-open or semi-closed configurations. The open configuration of the closing mechanism 342 allows regeneration gas to enter the collection loop via the second inlet 360 and prevents air from circulating within the collection loop by preventing air from flowing from the closing mechanism 344 and through the closing mechanism 342. The closed configuration of the closing mechanism 342 prevents regeneration gas from entering the collection loop via the second inlet 360, but allows air to circulate within the collection loop by allowing air to flow from the closing mechanism 344 and through the closing mechanism 342. The semi-open or semi-closed configuration of the closure mechanism 342 allows regeneration gas to enter the collection loop via the second inlet 360 and allows air to circulate within the collection loop.

[0077] Similarly, an open configuration of the closing mechanism 344 allows air to be exhausted from the collection loop via the second outlet 370 and prevents air from circulating within the collection loop by preventing air from passing from the closing mechanism 344 towards the closing mechanism 342. A closed configuration of the closing mechanism 344 prevents air from being exhausted from the collection loop via the second outlet 370 but allows air to circulate within the collection loop by allowing air to pass from the closing mechanism 344 towards the closing mechanism 342. A semi-open or semi-closed configuration allows air to be exhausted from the collection loop via the second outlet 370 and allows air to circulate within the collection loop.

[0078] Thus, when the closing mechanisms 342, 344 are both in a closed configuration, the collection loop essentially forms a closed loop in which regeneration gas cannot enter the collection loop via the second inlet 360 and air in the collection loop cannot be exhausted via the second outlet 370. In such a condition, air may circulate within the collection loop. Furthermore, when the closing mechanisms 342, 344 are both in an open configuration, air may be exhausted from the collection loop via the second outlet 370 and regeneration gas may enter the collection loop via the second inlet 360, but air may not circulate within the collection loop. It should be understood that all combinations of open / closed / semi-open / semi-closed configurations of the closing mechanisms 342, 344 are possible.

[0079] Figure 4 illustrates a schematic diagram of a module 300 similar to the module 300 of Figure 3a. Because most of the construction and operation of the module 300 is substantially similar to that described in Figure 3a, a detailed description of features common to the embodiment illustrated in Figure 3a has been omitted for the sake of brevity and clarity to avoid unnecessary redundancy.

[0080] In FIG. 4, the first flow generator 350 is disposed downstream of the second inlet 360 near the second inlet 360. This location of the first flow generator 350 may provide improved inflow of regeneration gas into the collection loop. Furthermore, in FIG. 4, the heater 380 is disposed upstream of the second outlet 370, but closer to the second outlet 370, between the rotating filter assembly 310 and the second outlet 370. This location of the heater 380 may improve heating to a desired temperature for the exhausted gas. It should be further understood that various locations of the closing mechanism disclosed in conjunction with FIG. 3a-c may be applied to the illustrated module.

[0081] 5a-c, there is shown a diagram of a closing mechanism 544 according to the concept of the present invention. In FIG. 5a-c, the closing mechanism 544 may comprise at least one damper. The closing mechanism may be configured to close the outlet 570 as seen in FIG. 5a, close the conduit 540 as seen in FIG. 5b, or partially open and close the outlet 570 and the conduit 540 as seen in FIG. 5c. The closing mechanism 544 allows the outlet 570 to be closed while the conduit 540 is open, thus forming a substantially closed collection loop in which carbon dioxide may accumulate. The closing mechanism 544 further opens the outlet 570 while preventing air flow through the passage 540, allowing air to be exhausted from the collection loop. Furthermore, the closing mechanism 544 allows a portion of the air to circulate within the collection loop and a portion of the air to be exhausted through the outlet 570.

[0082] As will be readily appreciated by those skilled in the art, numerous modifications and variations may be conceived in light of the above description of the principles of the inventive concept, and all such modifications and variations are intended to be considered within the scope of the inventive concept as the scope of the inventive concept is defined in the appended claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0083] 100 Modules 110 Rotating Filter Assembly 112 Capture area 114 Play area 120 Entrance 130 Exit 140 Conduit 142 Closing mechanism 144 Closing mechanism 150 First flow generating unit 160 Second Entrance 170 2nd Exit 180 Heater 190 Filter Unit 300 Module 310 Rotating Filter Assembly 312 Capture area 314 Play area 316 Third Entrance 318 Second flow generator 320 Entrance 330 Exit 340 Conduit 342 Closing mechanism 344 Closing mechanism 346 Closing mechanism 350 First flow generating unit 360 Second Entrance 370 2nd Exit 380 Heater 390 Filter Unit 540 Conduit 544 Closing mechanism 570 Exit

Claims

1. A module (100) for treating air, said module comprising: a rotating filter assembly (110) comprising a filter unit (190) comprising a carbon dioxide capture media; an inlet (120) connected to the rotary filter assembly and an outlet (130) connected to the rotary filter assembly, a regeneration zone (114) formed between the inlet and the outlet; a conduit (140) connecting the outlet to the inlet to form a collection loop passing through the rotating filter assembly and the regeneration area; a first flow generator (150) configured to generate a flow within the collection loop; Equipped with the module is configured to capture carbon dioxide from a primary airflow and treat the primary airflow when the carbon dioxide capture medium is in a capture zone, and to release captured carbon dioxide to the collection loop when the carbon dioxide capture medium is in the regeneration zone; The module comprises: a second inlet (160) connected to the conduit, the second inlet configured to provide a regeneration gas to the collection loop to facilitate the release of captured carbon dioxide; a second outlet (170) connected to the conduit and configured to discharge the released carbon dioxide from the collection loop; Further comprising: The filter unit is configured to rotate between the capture region and the regeneration region.

2. The module of claim 1 , further comprising a heater (180) configured to increase and / or maintain a temperature of gas in the collection loop.

3. 3. The module of claim 2, wherein the gas is the regeneration gas and / or released carbon dioxide.

4. 4. The module according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the temperature is between 38°C and 80°C.

5. 10. The module of claim 1, wherein the module is configured to capture carbon dioxide from the primary air stream having a carbon dioxide concentration of less than 300 ppm.

6. The module of claim 1 , wherein the primary airflow includes air from at least one of outdoor air and indoor air.

7. The module of claim 1 , wherein the filter unit has an upstream side and a downstream side within the regeneration area, and the first flow generator is disposed on the downstream side of the filter unit.

8. The module of claim 7 , wherein the first flow generator is positioned such that air is drawn through the filter unit in the regeneration area.

9. 2. The module of claim 1, further comprising a third inlet (316) connected to the capture area of ​​the rotating filter assembly, the third inlet configured to direct the primary airflow toward the capture area.

10. 10. The module of claim 9, further comprising a second flow generator configured to communicate fluid to the third inlet and generate a flow through the third inlet toward the capture area.

11. The module of claim 10 , wherein the filter unit has an upstream side and a downstream side within the capture region, and the second flow generator is disposed on the upstream side of the filter unit.

12. 2. The module of claim 1, wherein the second inlet and the second outlet include respective closing mechanisms (142, 144) that enable the collection loop to be closed to form a closed collection loop and opened to vent gas from the collection loop.

13. The module of claim 12 , further configured to receive a control signal to cause the second inlet and the second outlet to be in a closed configuration until at least one predetermined condition is met.

14. The at least one predetermined condition is: the concentration of carbon dioxide in the collection loop reaches a predetermined threshold; and 14. The module of claim 13, wherein the at least one of the time elapsed since a previous evacuation of the gas in the collection loop.

15. 15. The module of claim 14, wherein the elapsed time is based on at least one of a rotational speed of the filter unit, a type of filter, a thickness of the filter, a flow rate in the collection loop defined as a flow rate generated by the first flow generator in the collection loop, a flow rate of the main airflow, an area of ​​the regeneration area, and a desired carbon dioxide concentration in the air discharged by the second outlet.

16. 16. The module of claim 14 or 15, wherein the module further comprises a sensor configured to determine the concentration of carbon dioxide in the collection loop.

Images