A clean air module

Abstract

An apparatus, and method for air purification is described. In various embodiments herein, we disclose a clean air module and use thereof on an indoor air conditioner unit to maintain air quality. Using the existing infrastructure of an air conditioner air pollutants can be removed. Controlling the air quality helps with the well-being of residents, better cooling / heating, and higher life of the heat exchangers and air conditioners.

Description

RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims priority to International Application No. PCT / IN2023 / 051105, filed Nov. 27, 2023, which claims priority to Indian Patent Application No. 202211060596, filed Nov. 25, 2022, the contents of which are incorporated by reference herein in their entireties.FIELD OF INVENTION

[0002] The present invention relates generally to filtration of indoor air, and more particularly to the air filtration module that combines with other air conditioning systems.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] Air conditioners are widely adopted as a means to maintain and control the temperature and humidity of an enclosed space. Most air conditioners have means to provide for cooling of air through a condenser portion and another means for air circulation. Some air conditioners may have both functionalities integrated into a single unit. Alternatively, air conditioners may usually have an indoor unit and an outdoor unit. In such air conditioners, the function of the indoor unit is to recirculate the air in an enclosed space using a fan through a heat exchanger. The function of the outdoor unit is to compress the refrigerant and exchange heat.

[0004] The air conditioners control the temperature but air quality remains an unsolved issue. With industrialization and urbanization, indoor air quality has become a major concern for the physical and mental well-being of the residents. Indoor air pollution has been proven to decrease our lifespan and is linked to long-term diseases.

[0005] In contemporary art in the field, air conditioners recirculate the air with no consideration given to proper air pollutants removal. If dust gets on either the (evaporator) coil or the condenser coil, it prevents the coils from absorbing or releasing heat. Further, dusty coils have trouble absorbing heat and tend to ice over. Dust on the blower motor hampers smooth operation. Furthermore, there is a loss of energy that is spent to cool the suspended dust particles in the air.

[0006] The present invention provides an invention to overcome the above-mentioned difficulties.SUMMARY

[0007] An air purification device is disclosed. The air purification device is configured to be installed at an air inlet of an air conditioning unit, comprising: a mechanical frame with an air input section and an air output section; at least one filter section between said air input section and said air output section, for securely holding one or more filter; an ac interface having a flexible surface placed along a boundary of said air output section; and, a mounting mechanism coupled to said AC interface for removably coupling said mechanical frame to the AC unit such that the flexible surface of said AC interface flexes along said air inlet of the air conditioning unit.

[0008] In one embodiment Filter section comprises: one or more guiding channels along an inner surface 103a of said filter section for allowing lateral movement of said one or more filters. In one embodiment, the filter section comprises: a pre-filter subsection allowing removable placement of a pre-filter closer to the air input section of said mechanical frame. In one embodiment, the Filter section comprises: a Fine filter subsection allowing removable placement of a fine filter closer to the air output section of said mechanical frame.

[0009] In one embodiment the mechanical Frame is of a shape from a group of rectangular, circular, conical and indefinite.

[0010] In one embodiment the Mounting mechanism comprises one portion of a securing means attached to the AC purification device and another portion of the securing means attachable to the AC unit.

[0011] In one embodiment, the securing means comprises the group consisting of magnetic tape, mechanical screws, Velcro™, glue sticks. In one embodiment, the AC interface having a flexible surface is selected from a group consisting of a gasket, Sponge, and foam.

[0012] In one embodiment, the filter section comprises the pre filter section placed next to the air input section and the fine filter section placed next to the air output section such that the air being input into said air purification device passes through the pre filter before passing through the fine filter. In one embodiment, filter section comprises a fine filter placed covering a portion of said air input section along said guiding channel while a pre-filter covers a remaining portion.

[0013] One embodiment provides a fan configured to pull air into the said air input section and blow air out of said air output section.

[0014] One embodiment provides an air quality sensor configured to measure the level of air quality depending on the level of purity of the air.

[0015] One embodiment provides a pressure drop sensor to sense the drop in pressure due to passage of air through said air purification device with said filters. One embodiment provides a Germicidal irradiation source placed after said filter section and in close proximity to the AC inlet section to kill microorganisms present in the air input into said air purification device. One embodiment provides a fan configured to change speed depending upon the reading of an air quality sensor.

[0016] One embodiment provides an Ionizer configured to allow active air purification after the filter section allowing transmission of anions into an enclosed space whose air is being purified.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0017] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood when the following detailed description is read with reference to the accompanying drawings in which like characters represent like parts throughout the drawings, wherein:

[0018] FIG. 1 illustrates an isometric view of an air purification device 100 being placed over an air conditioning unit 101 as per an embodiment herein.

[0019] FIG. 2 illustrates a front view of the air purification device with certain details of the filter section as per an embodiment herein.

[0020] FIG. 3a illustrates an isometric view of the air purification device in one configuration as per an embodiment herein.

[0021] FIG. 3b illustrates an isometric view of the air purification device in one configuration as per an embodiment herein.

[0022] FIG. 3c illustrates an isometric view of the air purification device in one configuration as per an embodiment herein.

[0023] FIG. 4a illustrates an isometric view of a fine filter of an air purification device as per an embodiment herein.

[0024] FIG. 4b illustrates a pictorial view of a fine filter of an air purification device as per an embodiment herein showing a finer detail.

[0025] FIG. 4c illustrates a cross sectional view of each fin of the fine filter of an air purification device as per an embodiment herein.

[0026] FIG. 5 illustrates an air purification device including an air quality sensor as per an embodiment herein.

[0027] FIG. 6 illustrates an air purification device including a pressure drop sensor as per an embodiment herein.

[0028] FIG. 7 illustrates an air purification device including germicidal irradiation source as per an embodiment herein.

[0029] FIG. 8 illustrates an air purification device including an ionizer as per an embodiment herein.

[0030] Further, skilled artisans will appreciate that elements in the drawings are illustrated for easy understanding of significant aspects and may not have necessarily been drawn to scale. Furthermore, the drawings may show only those specific details that are pertinent to understanding the embodiments of the present invention so as not to obscure the drawings with details that will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art having benefit of the description herein.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0031] For the purpose of promoting an understanding of the principles of the invention, reference will now be made to the embodiment illustrated in the drawings and specific language will be used to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the invention is thereby intended, such alterations and further modifications in the illustrated system, and such further applications of the principles of the invention as illustrated therein being contemplated as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to which the invention relates.

[0032] It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory of the invention and are not intended to be restrictive thereof.

[0033] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. The system, methods, and examples provided herein are illustrative only and not intended to be limiting.

[0034] Embodiments of the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0035] An apparatus, and method for air purification is described. In various embodiments herein, we disclose an air purification device or an air cleaning module and use thereof on an indoor air conditioner unit to maintain air quality. Using the existing infrastructure of an air conditioner air pollutants can be removed. Controlling the air quality helps with the well-being of residents, better cooling / heating, and higher life of the heat exchangers and air conditioners. Through this process not only is the quality of the indoor air improved but the health of the air conditioner improved.

[0036] FIG. 1 illustrates an isometric view of an air purification device 100 as per an embodiment herein.

[0037] In an embodiment herein the said air purification device 100 may be placed over an air conditioning unit 101 at the air inlet 101a of the air conditioning unit. Such a placement allows purification of the air before the air gets into the air conditioner unit. In one embodiment this might be over an air circulation unit of a split type air conditioner (A / C). In another embodiment the air purification device may be placed over the inlet section of the integrated indoor air conditioner units (window air conditioners) installed in a window.

[0038] In an embodiment, the air purification device may comprise a mechanical frame 102 for providing housing and mechanical stability to various types of filter / s and other sections. This may be made up of various materials such as metal / plastics or PVC material. The frame may be of various shapes such as for example, rectangular, circular, conical and indefinite. A person skilled in the art may realize various shapes may be used. The said frame may have an air input section 102a and an air output section 102b. The frame may have at least one filter section 103 between said air input section and said air output section, for securely holding one or more filters. Further, an air conditioner interface (A / C interface) 104 having a flexible surface placed along a boundary of said air output section may be provided. The A / C interface may be detachably placed along the boundary of the frame. The A / C interface may be made up of various materials that allow contouring along a surface to allow an air tight interface between the air purification unit and the air conditioner. This may be made possible because of the flexible surface of the said A / C interface. Exemplary materials may be a rubber gasket, a sponge, foam and the like.

[0039] In an embodiment, a mounting mechanism 105 coupled to said A / C interface may be provided. This may allow for removably coupling said mechanical frame to the AC unit such that the flexible surface of said AC interface flexes / molds / contours along said air inlet of the air conditioning unit. In an embodiment, the Mounting mechanism comprises one portion of a securing means attached to the AC purification device and another portion of the securing means attachable to the AC unit. The securing mechanism with a flexible ac interface is able to better fit the air purification device, reduce air leakages and improve efficiency. Various types of securing means may be used such as for example magnetic tape, screws, VelcroTM, glue tape. While attaching with the air purification unit, one portion of the securing means may attach with the A / C interface or with the mechanical frame, while the other portion of the securing mechanism may be attached with the air conditioning unit.

[0040] FIG. 2 illustrates a front view of the air purification device with certain details of the filter section as per an embodiment herein. As shown in FIG. 2, In one embodiment, the filter section may comprise of a pre-filter subsection 103d allowing removable placement of a pre-filter closer to the air input section of said mechanical frame. Further, a fine filter subsection 103e allowing removable placement of a fine filter closer to the air output section of said mechanical frame may be provided. Each subsection may have guiding channels 103b provided for placement of filters of various kinds. The lateral movement of the filters along the guiding channels may be made possible.

[0041] FIG. 3a illustrates a front view of the air purification device in one configuration of the filter section as per an embodiment herein. As shown in FIG. 3a, a pre-filter 103g may cover the entire length of the pre-filter subsection, and a fine filter 103h may cover the entire length of the fine filter subsection. In this configuration, the air being input into said air purification device passes through the pre filter before passing through the fine filter, before entering the A / C unit. This configuration may be useful for more polluted areas requiring filtration in stages. The embodiments herein allow for such modularity depending on the situation or air conditions.

[0042] FIG. 3b illustrates an isometric view of the air purification device in one configuration as per an embodiment herein. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 3b, a fine filter may be placed covering a portion of said air input section along said guiding channel while a pre-filter covers a remaining portion. In this configuration, a portion of air being input into said air purification device passes through the pre filter while the remaining passes through the fine filter, before entering the A / C unit. Since the air conditioning unit is continuously pulling air from an enclosed space the effective flow of air is maintained while achieving desired air purification levels. This configuration may be useful when requiring low pressure drop or when the air pollution is not as intense. A person skilled in the art may realize that in this configuration the pre-filter and the fine filter may be placed on any of the guiding channels as long as their physical construction allows. The fine filter / s and the pre-filter / s may be all placed on the same guiding channel unless the placement on two different channels does not allow air to pass through neither of the filters.

[0043] FIG. 3c illustrates an isometric view of the air purification device in one configuration as per an embodiment herein. In this configuration two similar shaped fine filters are provided which when placed next to each other on a same channel cover the entire length of the filter section. One of such fine filter may be used in the configuration shown in FIG. 3b.

[0044] FIG. 4a illustrates an isometric view of a fine filter of an air purification device as per an embodiment herein. FIG. 4b illustrates a pictorial view of a fine filter of an air purification device as per an embodiment herein showing a finer detail. In an embodiment, a three dimensional filter may be provided. The filter may comprise of a number of fins 401. FIG. 4c illustrates a cross sectional view of each fin of the fine filter of an air purification device as per an embodiment herein. The filter may comprise of at least two surfaces each of which are of a V shape cross section. This allows for increased surface area for interfacing with the input air. In one configuration, the fine filter layer 1 (411) and fine filter layer 3 (413) may engulf the fine filter layer 2 (412). Different shapes of air filters can be used e.g. semi-cylindrical, v-shaped and others. Further the layers may comprise of an antimicrobial coating for killing the microorganisms. In another embodiment, the antimicrobial coating may be present in the input / output layer of the said filter. Similar construction may be done for the pre filter section as well with changes in the grain of the filter depending on the kind of particles being targeted.

[0045] In an embodiment, a fan may be installed in the air purification device such that the fan is configured to pull air into the said air input section and blow air out of said air output section.

[0046] As shown in FIG. 5, an air quality monitor / sensor 501 may be installed in the air purification device to sense the quality of the air. The air quality sensors may have a display output. In one embodiment this may be placed at the input section of the frame or an output section of the frame. Alternatively, the sensor / s may be placed at the output section of the A / C unit. Based on the readings of the air quality sensor the flow rate and air passing through the filters can be regulated using an integrated circuit with the air conditioner. In another embodiment, the processing of the quality of the inlet and the outlet air may be integrated into the air conditioner processing unit. Furthermore, the fan unit provided in the clean air module may be replaced by the fan of the air conditioner. Hence, a fan may be configured to change speed depending upon the reading of an air quality sensor.

[0047] As shown in FIG. 6, a pressure drop sensor 601 may be installed to sense the drop in pressure due to passage of air through said air purification device with said filters. Pressure drop sensor can be used in the clean air module to accurately find the time to clean or replace the filters in the air purification device.

[0048] As shown in FIG. 7, a germicidal irradiation source 701 placed after said filter section and in close proximity to the AC inlet section to kill microorganisms present in the air input into said air purification device may be provided.

[0049] As shown in FIG. 8, an Ionizer 801 configured to allow active air purification may be provided. This section may be placed after the filter section hence helping with transmitting the anions in the room.

[0050] In another embodiment, the clean air module may be integrated with a moisturizing unit, or an air conditioning unit that does not deal with temperature modulation. In yet another embodiment, a new type of indoor unit air conditioner can be designed with an integrated clean air module in it. In another embodiment, air quality sensor as shown in FIG. 5 may be used to find real-time air quality and air passing through can be regulated. For example, the detection of the filtered air not passing a certain threshold of air quality index the fan speed may be lowered in order to allow more filtration time for the inlet air. Alternatively, the fan speed may be increased based on the detection of low quality of air purification. The air quality sensor may also include a particulate matter sensor.

[0051] In another embodiment, an air conditioner may be constructed including an integrated air filter module as disclosed herein. In another embodiment, particulate matter sensors (as a part of air quality sensor as shown in FIG. 5, or as a standalone unit) may be used to find real-time air quality and air passing through can be regulated. For example, the detection of the filtered air not passing a certain threshold of air quality index the fan speed may be lowered in order to allow more filtration time for the inlet air.

[0052] In another embodiment, the processing of the quality of the inlet and the outlet air may be integrated into the air conditioner processing unit. Furthermore, the fan provided in the clean air module may be replaced by the fan of the air conditioner.

[0053] In an embodiment, a method of purifying air is also disclosed. In one embodiment the method may comprise of the steps:

[0054] 1. Regulating the flow of air into the inlet of the clean air module based on the regulation of the fan therein.

[0055] 2. Directing the airflow to pass through a clean air module as being introduced before the inlet of the air into the indoor air conditioner.

[0056] 3. Purifying the inlet air through a series of mechanical and / or electrical air filtration, such that the air is purified continuously (repeatedly) wherein the system is configured in an optimised manner for filtration area, pressure drop and cooling efficiency.

[0057] 4. Directing the inlet air to pass through a Pre-filter stage to remove bigger particulate matter through a sieving mechanism.

[0058] 5. Directing the inlet air to pass through a Fine filter used to remove nano-sized particular matter through mechanical filtration using impaction, interception and diffusion principles. The fine filter may be coated with antimicrobial coating for microbial deactivation properties.

[0059] 6. Directing the inlet air to pass through an Electric filter used to remove pollutants through electrostatic attractions.

[0060] 7. Directing the inlet air to pass through a VOC removal filter, used to remove volatile organic compounds through adsorption.

[0061] In various embodiment, the removal of air pollutants will lead to lesser energy consumption because of the following factors:

[0062] 1. Dust doesn't settle on either the indoor heat exchanger unit / coil. The settled dust hamper with the heat absorption or release through the heat exchanger.

[0063] 2. Lack of dusty coils would eradicate trouble of absorbing heat and hence not ice over.

[0064] 3. Lack of dust on the fan / blower motor would no longer hamper smooth operation.

[0065] 4. Energy would no longer be lost in cooling / heating suspended dust particles in the air.

[0066] Additionally, the VOC (volatile organic compounds) removal helps with lesser corrosion of the PCB board. Further, the Air pollutants are trapped and the users get clean air. This may be available as an add on to the pre-existing air conditioners. Furthermore, the unit may be placed inside or outside the air conditioner.

[0067] Various advantages in addition to those described above include, possibility of the use of the unit over various air conditioning systems. The embodiments may be used in various settings such as, for example: homes, hospitals, Diagnostic laboratories, food and beverage industries, corporate offices. Thus protection against air pollution and disease transmission is provided. The customization based on different locations may take place as described and inferred by a person skilled in the art. Further, the clean air module is provided to cause minimal air pressure due to the presence thereof. Further, the same is monitored and accounted for in the dynamic decision making about air inlet speed.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0031]For the purpose of promoting an understanding of the principles of the invention, reference will now be made to the embodiment illustrated in the drawings and specific language will be used to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the invention is thereby intended, such alterations and further modifications in the illustrated system, and such further applications of the principles of the invention as illustrated therein being contemplated as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to which the invention relates.

[0032]It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory of the invention and are not intended to be restrictive thereof.

[0033]Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belo...

RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims priority to International Application No. PCT / IN2023 / 051105, filed Nov. 27, 2023, which claims priority to Indian Patent Application No. 202211060596, filed Nov. 25, 2022, the contents of which are incorporated by reference herein in their entireties.FIELD OF INVENTION

[0002] The present invention relates generally to filtration of indoor air, and more particularly to the air filtration module that combines with other air conditioning systems.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] Air conditioners are widely adopted as a means to maintain and control the temperature and humidity of an enclosed space. Most air conditioners have means to provide for cooling of air through a condenser portion and another means for air circulation. Some air conditioners may have both functionalities integrated into a single unit. Alternatively, air conditioners may usually have an indoor unit and an outdoor unit. In such air conditioners, the function of the indoor unit is to recirculate the air in an enclosed space using a fan through a heat exchanger. The function of the outdoor unit is to compress the refrigerant and exchange heat.

[0004] The air conditioners control the temperature but air quality remains an unsolved issue. With industrialization and urbanization, indoor air quality has become a major concern for the physical and mental well-being of the residents. Indoor air pollution has been proven to decrease our lifespan and is linked to long-term diseases.

[0005] In contemporary art in the field, air conditioners recirculate the air with no consideration given to proper air pollutants removal. If dust gets on either the (evaporator) coil or the condenser coil, it prevents the coils from absorbing or releasing heat. Further, dusty coils have trouble absorbing heat and tend to ice over. Dust on the blower motor hampers smooth operation. Furthermore, there is a loss of energy that is spent to cool the suspended dust particles in the air.

[0006] The present invention provides an invention to overcome the above-mentioned difficulties.SUMMARY

[0007] An air purification device is disclosed. The air purification device is configured to be installed at an air inlet of an air conditioning unit, comprising: a mechanical frame with an air input section and an air output section; at least one filter section between said air input section and said air output section, for securely holding one or more filter; an ac interface having a flexible surface placed along a boundary of said air output section; and, a mounting mechanism coupled to said AC interface for removably coupling said mechanical frame to the AC unit such that the flexible surface of said AC interface flexes along said air inlet of the air conditioning unit.

[0008] In one embodiment Filter section comprises: one or more guiding channels along an inner surface 103a of said filter section for allowing lateral movement of said one or more filters. In one embodiment, the filter section comprises: a pre-filter subsection allowing removable placement of a pre-filter closer to the air input section of said mechanical frame. In one embodiment, the Filter section comprises: a Fine filter subsection allowing removable placement of a fine filter closer to the air output section of said mechanical frame.

[0009] In one embodiment the mechanical Frame is of a shape from a group of rectangular, circular, conical and indefinite.

[0010] In one embodiment the Mounting mechanism comprises one portion of a securing means attached to the AC purification device and another portion of the securing means attachable to the AC unit.

[0011] In one embodiment, the securing means comprises the group consisting of magnetic tape, mechanical screws, Velcro™, glue sticks. In one embodiment, the AC interface having a flexible surface is selected from a group consisting of a gasket, Sponge, and foam.

[0012] In one embodiment, the filter section comprises the pre filter section placed next to the air input section and the fine filter section placed next to the air output section such that the air being input into said air purification device passes through the pre filter before passing through the fine filter. In one embodiment, filter section comprises a fine filter placed covering a portion of said air input section along said guiding channel while a pre-filter covers a remaining portion.

[0013] One embodiment provides a fan configured to pull air into the said air input section and blow air out of said air output section.

[0014] One embodiment provides an air quality sensor configured to measure the level of air quality depending on the level of purity of the air.

[0015] One embodiment provides a pressure drop sensor to sense the drop in pressure due to passage of air through said air purification device with said filters. One embodiment provides a Germicidal irradiation source placed after said filter section and in close proximity to the AC inlet section to kill microorganisms present in the air input into said air purification device. One embodiment provides a fan configured to change speed depending upon the reading of an air quality sensor.

[0016] One embodiment provides an Ionizer configured to allow active air purification after the filter section allowing transmission of anions into an enclosed space whose air is being purified.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0017] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood when the following detailed description is read with reference to the accompanying drawings in which like characters represent like parts throughout the drawings, wherein:

[0018] FIG. 1 illustrates an isometric view of an air purification device 100 being placed over an air conditioning unit 101 as per an embodiment herein.

[0019] FIG. 2 illustrates a front view of the air purification device with certain details of the filter section as per an embodiment herein.

[0020] FIG. 3a illustrates an isometric view of the air purification device in one configuration as per an embodiment herein.

[0021] FIG. 3b illustrates an isometric view of the air purification device in one configuration as per an embodiment herein.

[0022] FIG. 3c illustrates an isometric view of the air purification device in one configuration as per an embodiment herein.

[0023] FIG. 4a illustrates an isometric view of a fine filter of an air purification device as per an embodiment herein.

[0024] FIG. 4b illustrates a pictorial view of a fine filter of an air purification device as per an embodiment herein showing a finer detail.

[0025] FIG. 4c illustrates a cross sectional view of each fin of the fine filter of an air purification device as per an embodiment herein.

[0026] FIG. 5 illustrates an air purification device including an air quality sensor as per an embodiment herein.

[0027] FIG. 6 illustrates an air purification device including a pressure drop sensor as per an embodiment herein.

[0028] FIG. 7 illustrates an air purification device including germicidal irradiation source as per an embodiment herein.

[0029] FIG. 8 illustrates an air purification device including an ionizer as per an embodiment herein.

[0030] Further, skilled artisans will appreciate that elements in the drawings are illustrated for easy understanding of significant aspects and may not have necessarily been drawn to scale. Furthermore, the drawings may show only those specific details that are pertinent to understanding the embodiments of the present invention so as not to obscure the drawings with details that will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art having benefit of the description herein.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0031] For the purpose of promoting an understanding of the principles of the invention, reference will now be made to the embodiment illustrated in the drawings and specific language will be used to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the invention is thereby intended, such alterations and further modifications in the illustrated system, and such further applications of the principles of the invention as illustrated therein being contemplated as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to which the invention relates.

[0032] It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory of the invention and are not intended to be restrictive thereof.

[0033] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. The system, methods, and examples provided herein are illustrative only and not intended to be limiting.

[0034] Embodiments of the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0035] An apparatus, and method for air purification is described. In various embodiments herein, we disclose an air purification device or an air cleaning module and use thereof on an indoor air conditioner unit to maintain air quality. Using the existing infrastructure of an air conditioner air pollutants can be removed. Controlling the air quality helps with the well-being of residents, better cooling / heating, and higher life of the heat exchangers and air conditioners. Through this process not only is the quality of the indoor air improved but the health of the air conditioner improved.

[0036] FIG. 1 illustrates an isometric view of an air purification device 100 as per an embodiment herein.

[0037] In an embodiment herein the said air purification device 100 may be placed over an air conditioning unit 101 at the air inlet 101a of the air conditioning unit. Such a placement allows purification of the air before the air gets into the air conditioner unit. In one embodiment this might be over an air circulation unit of a split type air conditioner (A / C). In another embodiment the air purification device may be placed over the inlet section of the integrated indoor air conditioner units (window air conditioners) installed in a window.

[0038] In an embodiment, the air purification device may comprise a mechanical frame 102 for providing housing and mechanical stability to various types of filter / s and other sections. This may be made up of various materials such as metal / plastics or PVC material. The frame may be of various shapes such as for example, rectangular, circular, conical and indefinite. A person skilled in the art may realize various shapes may be used. The said frame may have an air input section 102a and an air output section 102b. The frame may have at least one filter section 103 between said air input section and said air output section, for securely holding one or more filters. Further, an air conditioner interface (A / C interface) 104 having a flexible surface placed along a boundary of said air output section may be provided. The A / C interface may be detachably placed along the boundary of the frame. The A / C interface may be made up of various materials that allow contouring along a surface to allow an air tight interface between the air purification unit and the air conditioner. This may be made possible because of the flexible surface of the said A / C interface. Exemplary materials may be a rubber gasket, a sponge, foam and the like.

[0039] In an embodiment, a mounting mechanism 105 coupled to said A / C interface may be provided. This may allow for removably coupling said mechanical frame to the AC unit such that the flexible surface of said AC interface flexes / molds / contours along said air inlet of the air conditioning unit. In an embodiment, the Mounting mechanism comprises one portion of a securing means attached to the AC purification device and another portion of the securing means attachable to the AC unit. The securing mechanism with a flexible ac interface is able to better fit the air purification device, reduce air leakages and improve efficiency. Various types of securing means may be used such as for example magnetic tape, screws, VelcroTM, glue tape. While attaching with the air purification unit, one portion of the securing means may attach with the A / C interface or with the mechanical frame, while the other portion of the securing mechanism may be attached with the air conditioning unit.

[0040] FIG. 2 illustrates a front view of the air purification device with certain details of the filter section as per an embodiment herein. As shown in FIG. 2, In one embodiment, the filter section may comprise of a pre-filter subsection 103d allowing removable placement of a pre-filter closer to the air input section of said mechanical frame. Further, a fine filter subsection 103e allowing removable placement of a fine filter closer to the air output section of said mechanical frame may be provided. Each subsection may have guiding channels 103b provided for placement of filters of various kinds. The lateral movement of the filters along the guiding channels may be made possible.

[0041] FIG. 3a illustrates a front view of the air purification device in one configuration of the filter section as per an embodiment herein. As shown in FIG. 3a, a pre-filter 103g may cover the entire length of the pre-filter subsection, and a fine filter 103h may cover the entire length of the fine filter subsection. In this configuration, the air being input into said air purification device passes through the pre filter before passing through the fine filter, before entering the A / C unit. This configuration may be useful for more polluted areas requiring filtration in stages. The embodiments herein allow for such modularity depending on the situation or air conditions.

[0042] FIG. 3b illustrates an isometric view of the air purification device in one configuration as per an embodiment herein. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 3b, a fine filter may be placed covering a portion of said air input section along said guiding channel while a pre-filter covers a remaining portion. In this configuration, a portion of air being input into said air purification device passes through the pre filter while the remaining passes through the fine filter, before entering the A / C unit. Since the air conditioning unit is continuously pulling air from an enclosed space the effective flow of air is maintained while achieving desired air purification levels. This configuration may be useful when requiring low pressure drop or when the air pollution is not as intense. A person skilled in the art may realize that in this configuration the pre-filter and the fine filter may be placed on any of the guiding channels as long as their physical construction allows. The fine filter / s and the pre-filter / s may be all placed on the same guiding channel unless the placement on two different channels does not allow air to pass through neither of the filters.

[0043] FIG. 3c illustrates an isometric view of the air purification device in one configuration as per an embodiment herein. In this configuration two similar shaped fine filters are provided which when placed next to each other on a same channel cover the entire length of the filter section. One of such fine filter may be used in the configuration shown in FIG. 3b.

[0044] FIG. 4a illustrates an isometric view of a fine filter of an air purification device as per an embodiment herein. FIG. 4b illustrates a pictorial view of a fine filter of an air purification device as per an embodiment herein showing a finer detail. In an embodiment, a three dimensional filter may be provided. The filter may comprise of a number of fins 401. FIG. 4c illustrates a cross sectional view of each fin of the fine filter of an air purification device as per an embodiment herein. The filter may comprise of at least two surfaces each of which are of a V shape cross section. This allows for increased surface area for interfacing with the input air. In one configuration, the fine filter layer 1 (411) and fine filter layer 3 (413) may engulf the fine filter layer 2 (412). Different shapes of air filters can be used e.g. semi-cylindrical, v-shaped and others. Further the layers may comprise of an antimicrobial coating for killing the microorganisms. In another embodiment, the antimicrobial coating may be present in the input / output layer of the said filter. Similar construction may be done for the pre filter section as well with changes in the grain of the filter depending on the kind of particles being targeted.

[0045] In an embodiment, a fan may be installed in the air purification device such that the fan is configured to pull air into the said air input section and blow air out of said air output section.

[0046] As shown in FIG. 5, an air quality monitor / sensor 501 may be installed in the air purification device to sense the quality of the air. The air quality sensors may have a display output. In one embodiment this may be placed at the input section of the frame or an output section of the frame. Alternatively, the sensor / s may be placed at the output section of the A / C unit. Based on the readings of the air quality sensor the flow rate and air passing through the filters can be regulated using an integrated circuit with the air conditioner. In another embodiment, the processing of the quality of the inlet and the outlet air may be integrated into the air conditioner processing unit. Furthermore, the fan unit provided in the clean air module may be replaced by the fan of the air conditioner. Hence, a fan may be configured to change speed depending upon the reading of an air quality sensor.

[0047] As shown in FIG. 6, a pressure drop sensor 601 may be installed to sense the drop in pressure due to passage of air through said air purification device with said filters. Pressure drop sensor can be used in the clean air module to accurately find the time to clean or replace the filters in the air purification device.

[0048] As shown in FIG. 7, a germicidal irradiation source 701 placed after said filter section and in close proximity to the AC inlet section to kill microorganisms present in the air input into said air purification device may be provided.

[0049] As shown in FIG. 8, an Ionizer 801 configured to allow active air purification may be provided. This section may be placed after the filter section hence helping with transmitting the anions in the room.

[0050] In another embodiment, the clean air module may be integrated with a moisturizing unit, or an air conditioning unit that does not deal with temperature modulation. In yet another embodiment, a new type of indoor unit air conditioner can be designed with an integrated clean air module in it. In another embodiment, air quality sensor as shown in FIG. 5 may be used to find real-time air quality and air passing through can be regulated. For example, the detection of the filtered air not passing a certain threshold of air quality index the fan speed may be lowered in order to allow more filtration time for the inlet air. Alternatively, the fan speed may be increased based on the detection of low quality of air purification. The air quality sensor may also include a particulate matter sensor.

[0051] In another embodiment, an air conditioner may be constructed including an integrated air filter module as disclosed herein. In another embodiment, particulate matter sensors (as a part of air quality sensor as shown in FIG. 5, or as a standalone unit) may be used to find real-time air quality and air passing through can be regulated. For example, the detection of the filtered air not passing a certain threshold of air quality index the fan speed may be lowered in order to allow more filtration time for the inlet air.

[0052] In another embodiment, the processing of the quality of the inlet and the outlet air may be integrated into the air conditioner processing unit. Furthermore, the fan provided in the clean air module may be replaced by the fan of the air conditioner.

[0053] In an embodiment, a method of purifying air is also disclosed. In one embodiment the method may comprise of the steps:

[0054] 1. Regulating the flow of air into the inlet of the clean air module based on the regulation of the fan therein.

[0055] 2. Directing the airflow to pass through a clean air module as being introduced before the inlet of the air into the indoor air conditioner.

[0056] 3. Purifying the inlet air through a series of mechanical and / or electrical air filtration, such that the air is purified continuously (repeatedly) wherein the system is configured in an optimised manner for filtration area, pressure drop and cooling efficiency.

[0057] 4. Directing the inlet air to pass through a Pre-filter stage to remove bigger particulate matter through a sieving mechanism.

[0058] 5. Directing the inlet air to pass through a Fine filter used to remove nano-sized particular matter through mechanical filtration using impaction, interception and diffusion principles. The fine filter may be coated with antimicrobial coating for microbial deactivation properties.

[0059] 6. Directing the inlet air to pass through an Electric filter used to remove pollutants through electrostatic attractions.

[0060] 7. Directing the inlet air to pass through a VOC removal filter, used to remove volatile organic compounds through adsorption.

[0061] In various embodiment, the removal of air pollutants will lead to lesser energy consumption because of the following factors:

[0062] 1. Dust doesn't settle on either the indoor heat exchanger unit / coil. The settled dust hamper with the heat absorption or release through the heat exchanger.

[0063] 2. Lack of dusty coils would eradicate trouble of absorbing heat and hence not ice over.

[0064] 3. Lack of dust on the fan / blower motor would no longer hamper smooth operation.

[0065] 4. Energy would no longer be lost in cooling / heating suspended dust particles in the air.

[0066] Additionally, the VOC (volatile organic compounds) removal helps with lesser corrosion of the PCB board. Further, the Air pollutants are trapped and the users get clean air. This may be available as an add on to the pre-existing air conditioners. Furthermore, the unit may be placed inside or outside the air conditioner.

[0067] Various advantages in addition to those described above include, possibility of the use of the unit over various air conditioning systems. The embodiments may be used in various settings such as, for example: homes, hospitals, Diagnostic laboratories, food and beverage industries, corporate offices. Thus protection against air pollution and disease transmission is provided. The customization based on different locations may take place as described and inferred by a person skilled in the art. Further, the clean air module is provided to cause minimal air pressure due to the presence thereof. Further, the same is monitored and accounted for in the dynamic decision making about air inlet speed.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0031]For the purpose of promoting an understanding of the principles of the invention, reference will now be made to the embodiment illustrated in the drawings and specific language will be used to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the invention is thereby intended, such alterations and further modifications in the illustrated system, and such further applications of the principles of the invention as illustrated therein being contemplated as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to which the invention relates.

[0032]It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory of the invention and are not intended to be restrictive thereof.

[0033]Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belo...

Claims

1. An air purification device 100, configured to be installed at an air inlet 101a of an air conditioning unit 101, comprising:a mechanical frame 102 with an air input section 102a and an air output section 102b;at least one filter section 103 between said air input section and said air output section, for securely holding one or more filter;an ac interface 104 having a flexible surface placed along a boundary of said air output section; and,amounting mechanism 105 coupled to said AC interface for removably coupling said mechanical frame to the AC unit such that the flexible surface of said AC interface flexes along said air inlet of the air conditioning unit.

2. An air purification device as in claim 1, wherein the Filter section comprises: one or more guiding channels 103b along an inner surface 103a of said filter section for allowing lateral movement of said one or more filters.

3. An air purification device as in claim 1, wherein the Filter section comprises:a pre-filter subsection allowing removable placement of a pre-filter closer to the air input section of said mechanical frame.

4. An air purification device as in claim 1, wherein the Filter section comprises:a Fine filter subsection allowing removable placement of a fine filter closer to the air output section of said mechanical frame.

5. An air purification device as in claim 1, wherein the mechanical Frame is of a shape from a group of rectangular, circular, conical and indefinite.

6. An air purification device as in claim 1, wherein the Mounting mechanism comprises one portion of a securing means attached to the AC purification device and another portion of the securing means attachable to the AC unit.

7. An air purification device as in claim 1, wherein the securing means comprises the group consisting of magnetic tape, mechanical screws, Velcro™, glue sticks.

8. An air purification device as in claim 1, wherein the AC interface having a flexible surface is selected from a group consisting of a gasket, Sponge, and foam.

9. An air purification device as in claim 1, wherein Wherein the filter section comprises the pre filter section placed next to the air input section and the fine filter section placed next to the air output section such that the air being input into said air purification device passes through the pre filter before passing through the fine filter.

10. An air purification device as in claim 1, wherein said filter section comprises a fine filter placed covering a portion of said air input section along said guiding channel while a pre-filter covers a remaining portion.

11. An air purification device as in claim 1, comprising:a fan configured to pull air into the said air input section and blow air out of said air output section.

12. An air purification device as in claim 1, comprising: an air quality sensor configured to measure the level of air quality depending on the level of purity of the air.

13. An air purification device as in claim 1, comprising:a pressure drop sensor to sense the drop in pressure due to passage of air through said air purification device with said filters.

14. An air purification device as in claim 1, comprising:a Germicidal irradiation source placed after said filter section and in close proximity to the AC inlet section to kill microorganisms present in the air input into said air purification device.

15. An air purification device as in claim 1, comprising a fan configured to change speed depending upon the reading of an air quality sensor.

16. An air purification device as in claim 1, comprising:an Ionizer configured to allow active air purification after the filter section allowing transmission of anions into an enclosed space whose air is being purified.

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