Methods for improving the operational efficiency of an electrostatic precipitator in an uncontrolled environment

Abstract

An electrostatic precipitator includes a precipitation electrode, a discharge electrode, a particulate removal assembly, and a controller configured to: initiate an airflow through the electrostatic precipitator; measure a temperature, humidity, and PM value of the airflow; set a target potential difference between the discharge electrode and the precipitation electrode; after a testing period, measure a first potential difference of the electrostatic precipitator and calculate a potential difference change between the target potential difference and the first potential difference; estimate a particle resistivity of the inlet particles based on the potential difference change, the temperature of the airflow, the humidity of the airflow, and the PM value of the airflow; calculate a cleaning threshold potential difference based on the particle resistivity; measure a second potential difference of the electrostatic precipitator; and in response to the cleaning threshold potential difference exceeding the second potential difference initiate a particulate cleaning cycle.

Description

METHODS FOR IMPROVING THE OPERATIONAL EFFICIENCY OF AN ELECTROSTATIC PRECIPITATOR IN AN UNCONTROLLED ENVIRONMENTCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This Application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 584,637 filed on 22-SEP-2023, which is incorporated in its entirety by this reference.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] This invention relates generally to the field of industrial and outdoor air purification and, more specifically, to a new and useful method for improving operational efficiency of an electrostatic precipitator in an uncontrolled environment and exemplary electrostatic precipitators for the execution thereof in the field of industrial air purification.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0003] FIGURE 1 is a flowchart representation of one variation of a method for improving operational efficiency of an electrostatic precipitator in an uncontrolled environment.

[0004] FIGURE 2 is a schematic representation of one variation of an electrostatic precipitator.

[0005] FIGURE 3 is a schematic representation of one variation of a controller of the electrostatic precipitator.

[0006] FIGURE 4 is a schematic representation of one variation of the electrostatic precipitator.

[0007] FIGURE 5 is a schematic representation of one variation of the electrostatic precipitator.

[0008] FIGURE 6 is a schematic representation of one variation of the electrostatic precipitator.

[0009] FIGURE 7 is a flowchart representation of one variation of the method.

[0010] FIGURE 8 is a flowchart representation of one variation of the method.DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

[0011] The following description of embodiments of the invention is not intended to limit the invention to these embodiments but rather to enable a person skilled in the art to make and use this invention. Variations, configurations, implementations, example implementations, and examples described herein are optional and are not exclusive to the variations, configurations, implementations, example implementations, and examples they describe. The invention described herein can include any and all permutations of these variations, configurations, implementations, example implementations, and examples.

[0012] Generally, the term “can,” as utilized herein, indicates an action or attribute of the system, which may or may not be executed by or be applicable to the system depending on the implementation or embodiment of the system.

[0013] Generally, the term “include,” as utilized herein, can mean “comprise,” “consist of,” or “consist essentially of’ and is not restricted to any one of the above interpretations throughout.

[0014] Generally, the term “a set of,” as utilized herein, refers to one or more of the subject objects. Additionally, the terms “first,” “second,” “third,” etc., as utilized herein, do not imply an order but simply identify multiple instances of a step or component unless an order or series is otherwise implied.

[0015] Generally, the term “representative,” as utilized herein, indicates a central tendency statistic such as a mean or median of a particular data type over a short period of time suitable for use in the calculation of operational parameters.

[0016] Generally, the term “distribution,” as utilized herein, represents any characterization of data that approximates a true distribution of the data and is not intended to imply any degree of accuracy.

[0017] Generally, the terms “particles,” particulates,” and “particulate matter,” as utilized herein, are all interchangeable and refer to particles removed from the air by the electrostatic precipitator.

[0018] Generally, the term “core” refers to the interior volume of the electrostatic precipitator between one instance of a discharge electrode and a precipitation electrode.1. Method for Improving Operational Efficiency of an Electrostatic Precipitator in Uncontrolled Environments

[0019] As shown in FIGURE 1, a method SI 00 for improving efficiency of an electrostatic precipitator including a precipitation electrode, a discharge electrode 142, a particulate removal assembly 120 (hereinafter “the method S100”) includes: initiating an inlet airflow through the electrostatic precipitator between the discharge electrode 142 and the precipitation electrode in Step SI 10; measuring a representative temperature of the inlet airflow, a representative humidity of the inlet airflow, and a representative PM value of inlet particles present in the inlet airflow in Step S120; at a first time, setting a target potential difference between the discharge electrode 142 and the precipitation electrode in Step SI 30; and at a second time after the first time by a testing period, measuring a first measured potential difference between the discharge electrode 142 and the precipitation electrode and calculating a potential difference change between the target potential difference and the first measured potential difference in Step S140.

[0020] The method SI 00 can additionally include, in response to the potential difference change exceeding the measurable threshold: estimating a representative particle resistivity of the particles present in the inlet airflow based on the potential difference change, the representative temperature of the inlet airflow, the representative humidity of the inlet airflow, and the representative PM value of the inlet particles in Step SI 50; calculating a cleaning threshold potential difference based on the representative particle resistivity in Step SI 60; and, at a third time, measuring a second measured potential difference between the discharge electrode 142 and the precipitation electrode in Step SI 70. The method SI 00 also includes, in response to the cleaning threshold potential difference exceeding the second measured potential difference: pausing the inlet airflow in Step S200 and activating the particulate removal assembly 120 to remove accumulated particles from the precipitation electrode in Step S210.

[0021] The method SI 00 can further include, in response to a measurable threshold exceeding the potential difference change: estimating a particle accumulation rate based on the representative temperature of the inlet airflow, the representative humidity of the inlet airflow, and the representative PM value of the inlet particles in Step SI 80; calculating a cleaning interval based on the particle accumulation rate, the representative temperature of the inlet airflow, and the representative humidity of the inlet airflow in Step SI 90; and at a third time after the first time by the cleaning interval: pause the inlet airflow in Step S200 and activate the particulate removal assembly 120 to remove accumulated particles from the surface of the precipitation electrode in Step S210.2. Electrostatic Precipitator

[0022] As shown in FIGURE 2, an electrostatic precipitator 100 includes a chassis 102, an inlet assembly 110 coupled to the chassis 102, a precipitation assembly 130 coupled to the chassis 102, a discharge assembly 140 coupled to the chassis 102, and a particulate removal assembly 120 coupled to the chassis 102. The inlet assembly 110 includes: an inlet funnel 112 defining an upward-facing inlet and a downward-facing outlet; an inlet fan 114 occupying the downward-facing outlet of the inlet funnel 112 and configured to generate an airflow; and an inlet manifold 118 communicatively coupled to the inlet fan 114 and configured to direct the airflow. The precipitation assembly 130: includes a tubular support 132 constructed from a non-conductive, fireproof material; includes a precipitation electrode concentric with the non-conductive tubular support 132 and coupled to an inner surface of the non-conductive tubular support 132; and is configured to receive the inlet airflow via the inlet manifold 118. The discharge assembly 140: includes a discharge electrode 142, concentric with the precipitation electrode 134 and the tubular support 132, extending from below the precipitation electrode 134through the tubular support 132 and precipitation electrode 134, terminating within the inlet manifold 118, and configured to generate negative ions in the inlet airflow via a corona discharge at the surface of the discharge electrode 142; and includes a non-conductive support 116 extending from the discharge electrode 142 within the inlet manifold 118 and configured to contact the inlet manifold 118 in response to deflection of the discharge electrode 142 by greater than a threshold deflection. The particulate removal assembly 120 includes: a rotational unit 122 arranged between the inlet manifold 118 and the precipitation assembly 130 and configured to rotate concentrically with the precipitation electrode 134; and a non-conductive wiper 124 coupled to the rotational unit 122, extending through a length of the precipitation electrode 134, and configured to dislodge particulate matter electrostatically adhering to the precipitation electrode 134 in response to rotation of the rotational unit 122.3. Applications

[0023] Generally, an electrostatic precipitator 100 executes the method S100 in order to: measure environmental conditions affecting precipitation efficiency (i.e., the proportion of entrained particles removed from an inlet airflow) and, therefore, the rate of particulate accumulation; predict or detect a drop in efficiency corresponding to an overaccumulation of particulates on the internal surface of the precipitation assembly 130; and automatically remove precipitated particulates from the internal surface of the precipitation assembly 130 to restore the efficiency of the electrostatic precipitator 100. More specifically, the method SI 00 enables the use of the electrostatic precipitator 100 for atypical applications, such as in varied industrial and outdoor environments, by estimating the resistivity of particulates ingested by the electrostatic precipitator 100 to establish a threshold potential difference that more accurately indicates a drop in efficiency for the particular environment of the electrostatic precipitator 100. Thus, the method SI 00 enables the deployment of filterless and energy-efficient electrostatic precipitator 100 technology to varied particulate environments while maintaining high uptime, high overall efficiency, and a reduction in the risk of back-corona effects and dust explosions.

[0024] The method SI 00 can be executed by any electrostatic precipitator 100 including a precipitation electrode 134, a discharge electrode 142, a particulate removal assembly 120, and a controllable inlet fan 114. However, one variation of a tubular electrostatic precipitator 100 configured to execute the method SI 00 is disclosed herein. The tubular electrostatic precipitator 100 includes a two-part construction, ensuring there is no mechanical continuity (conductive or non-conductive) between the discharge assembly 140 and the precipitation assembly 130 within the core of the electrostatic precipitator 100, thereby preventing shorts between the discharge assembly 140 and the precipitation assembly 130 due to the collection of conductive particulateon internal surfaces of the electrostatic precipitator 100. In addition to preventing shorts, the two-part design of the electrostatic precipitator 100 enables the use of a wiper-based particulate removal assembly 120 that extends into the core without interfering with any support structures connecting the discharge assembly 140 to the precipitation assembly 130, thereby improving the efficacy of the particulate removal assembly 120 relative to vibration-based particulate-removal means. However, in some implementations, the electrostatic precipitator 100 can additionally or alternatively include a rapper-based vibration particulate removal assembly 120 to further reduce opportunities for shorts. Thus, the electrostatic precipitator 100 can execute cleaning cycles as soon as a drop in efficiency is detected and can remove particulates more effectively than previous electrostatic precipitator 100 designs.

[0025] One application of the method SI 00 includes industrial air purification and / or filtration settings in which rapid removal of small airborne particulate matter improves air quality and, therefore, working conditions for humans present within the facility. In this application, the electrostatic precipitator 100 can remove particulate matter from ambient air from a variety of sources within the facility. In these industrial facilities, the electrostatic precipitator 100 may ingest particulate matter characterized by an initially unknown distribution of particle sizes and resistivities. By executing the method SI 00, the electrostatic precipitator 100 can: detect the distribution of particle sizes and resistivities specific to the facility in which the electrostatic precipitator 100 is operating and calculate threshold operational conditions specific to the facility. Thus, the electrostatic precipitator 100 can increase its effective operational time and remove additional particulate matter from the air when compared with electrostatic precipitator not executing the method SI 00.

[0026] In another application, the electrostatic precipitator 100 can execute the method SI 00 in an outside urban environment where the electrostatic precipitator 100 may be exposed to a similar, initially unknown distribution of airborne particulate matter. The electrostatic precipitator 100 can periodically execute the method SI 00 to identify a set of threshold operating conditions for multiple operating conditions present in the urban environment over time, thereby adapting to changes in the composition of particulate pollution in the urban environment and maximizing uptime of the electrostatic precipitator 100.4. Chassis

[0027] As shown in FIGURE 2, the electrostatic precipitator 100 includes a chassis 102 to which the inlet assembly 110, the precipitation assembly 130, the discharge assembly 140, the particulate removal assembly 120, and the particulate collection assembly 150 can be independently coupled. More specifically, the electrostatic precipitator 100 includes a staticchassis 102 that exhibits minimal deformation when subjected to the weight of the electrostatic precipitator 100 and any reasonable impact loads to which the electrostatic precipitator 100 may be subjected during normal use. By incorporating independent connections between the chassis 102 and each of the aforementioned assemblies, the electrostatic precipitator 100 obviates the need for structural supports in or around the core of the electrostatic precipitator 100 (i.e., the volume between a discharge electrode 142 and a precipitation electrode 134), thereby preventing electrical shorts between the precipitation assembly 130 and the discharge assembly 140 due to the accumulation of conductive particulate matter.5. Inlet Assembly

[0028] As shown in FIGURE 2, the electrostatic precipitator 100 includes an inlet assembly 110 coupled to the chassis 102 and is configured to direct polluted, ambient air into the core of the electrostatic precipitator 100. More specifically, the inlet assembly 110 includes: an inlet funnel 112 defining an upward-facing inlet and a downward-facing outlet; an inlet fan 114 occupying the downward-facing outlet of the inlet funnel 112 and configured to generate an airflow; and an inlet manifold 118 communicatively coupled to the inlet fan 114 and configured direct the airflow. In addition to the aforementioned functions, the inlet assembly 110 can modulate the airflow rate (or mass flux) through the core of the electrostatic precipitator 100 to improve operating efficiency of the electrostatic precipitator 100. Thus, the inlet assembly 110 guides inlet air into the core of the electrostatic precipitator 100 at an appropriate airspeed to enable the efficient removal of particulate matter from the airflow.

[0029] The inlet assembly 110 includes an upward-facing inlet funnel 112 with an inlet fan 114 occupying the outlet of the inlet funnel 112 in order to generate a downward airflow through the core of the electrostatic precipitator 100, such that precipitated particles can drop downward through the core due to the force of gravity upon being dislodged from the precipitation electrode 134. However, in some implementations, the inlet assembly 110 can include an inlet funnel 112 facing horizontally, downward, or any other orientation in conjunction with an inlet manifold 118 configured to direct the airflow produced by the inlet fan 114 within the inlet funnel 112 toward the core of the electrostatic precipitator 100 in a downward direction.

[0030] In one implementation, the inlet assembly 110 includes a variable speed inlet fan 114 electrically coupled to a controller 160 of the electrostatic precipitator 100 and configured to vary airflow velocity (e.g., via changes in rotational speed) in response to an inlet fan 114 speed signal received from the control. The inlet assembly 110 can include an inlet fan 114 of any type including but not limited to an in-line, axial fan or a centrifugal fan. Thus, the inlet fan 114 canincrease or decrease the velocity of the airflow through the core of the electrostatic precipitator 100.

[0031] In another implementation, the inlet assembly 110 includes an inlet manifold 118 that is not directly connected to the precipitation assembly 130 and instead directs airflow into the core of the electrostatic precipitator 100 without being coupled directly to the precipitation electrode 134 or the tubular support 132 of the precipitation assembly 130. In this implementation, the electrostatic precipitator 100 can include an airgap (e.g., less than one centimeter) between the inlet manifold 118 and any component of the precipitation assembly 130 such that the airgap does not significantly slow the inlet airflow but prevents physical contact between the inlet assembly 110 and the precipitation assembly 130. Thus, the inlet assembly 110 prevents shorts from occurring between the precipitation electrode 134 and the discharge electrode 142, which can extend or come into contact with the inlet manifold 118 in some implementations.6. Precipitation Assembly

[0032] As shown in FIGURE 2, the precipitation assembly 130 includes a tubular support 132 and a precipitation electrode 134, and is configured to receive the inlet airflow generated by the inlet assembly 110 via the inlet manifold 118 and separate oppositely charged particulate matter from the airflow. More specifically, the precipitation assembly 130: includes a tubular support 132 constructed from a non-conductive material and a precipitation electrode 134 concentric with the non-conductive tubular support 132 and coupled to an inner surface of the non-conductive tubular support 132; and is configured to receive the inlet airflow via the inlet manifold 118. Thus, the precipitation assembly 130 provides the external structure of the core of the electrostatic precipitator 100 and cooperates with the discharge assembly 140 to remove particulate matter from the airflow.

[0033] Generally, the precipitation assembly 130 includes a tubular support 132 constructed from a non-conductive rigid material such as acrylic, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polycarbonate (PC), polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polystyrene (PS), or polyamide (PA). Additionally, the tubular support 132 can include a conductive coating, enabling the dissipation of accumulated static charge from the non-conductive material. Thus, the tubular support 132 mechanically supports the precipitation electrode 134 while protecting the precipitation electrode 134 from accumulating charged particles on the exterior surface of the tubular support 132.

[0034] The tubular support 132 is characterized by an internal diameter based on the external diameter of the precipitation electrode 134, which is further described below, such that theexternal surface of the precipitation electrode 134 can adhere to the internal surface of the tubular support 132 via fasteners, adhesive, or by any other means.

[0035] Generally, the precipitation assembly 130 includes a precipitation electrode 134 configured to attract particles charged via ion production at the discharge electrode 142 to the internal surface of the precipitation electrode 134. More specifically, the precipitation electrode 134 is constructed from a conductive and corrosion-resistant material such as high-conductivity stainless steel. The precipitation electrode 134 is characterized by an inner diameter selected based on a target flow rate through the core of the electrostatic precipitator 100, the expected particle characteristics (e.g., expected particle size distribution, expected particle resistivity distribution, expected operational temperature, expected operational humidity), spatial constraints for the electrostatic precipitator 100, and the target efficiency of the electrostatic precipitator 100. Therefore, depending on the target application of the electrostatic precipitator 100, the electrostatic precipitator 100 can include a precipitation electrode 134 with an internal diameter within a range of operative diameters. In particular, the electrostatic precipitator 100 can include a precipitation electrode 134 with a larger diameter (e.g., between 20 and 30 centimeters) to support higher flow rates, to leverage a favorable expected particle resistivity distribution that is predominantly within an efficient range (e.g., between 108and 1012ohm-centimeters), and / or to leverage a favorable expected particle size distribution that is predominantly within an efficient range (e.g., either smaller than 1 micrometer or larger than 10 micrometers). Alternatively, the electrostatic precipitator 100 can be characterized by a smaller diameter (e.g., less than 20 centimeters) to more effectively remove particles with less ideal properties for electrostatic precipitation.

[0036] Additionally, the electrostatic precipitator 100 can include a precipitation electrode 134 that is electrically coupled to a precipitation circuit (including the discharge electrode 142 and high-voltage power supply 162) to maintain a target potential difference between the precipitation electrode 134 and the discharge electrode 142, thereby ensuring that the precipitation electrode 134 and the discharge electrode 142 are oppositely charged. Thus, the tubular precipitation electrode 134 provides an oppositely charged collection surface for particles to adhere to after being electrostatically charged via the discharge electrode 142.

[0037] In one implementation, the precipitation assembly 130 is not directly coupled to the inlet assembly 110 and receives the inlet airflow across a small (e.g., less than 1 centimeter) air gap in order to prevent surface continuity between the inner surface of the precipitation electrode 134 and the inlet manifold 118. This design further decreases the probability of shorting between theprecipitation electrode 134 and the discharge electrode 142 via conductive particulate collected on the internal surface of the inlet manifold 118.7. Discharge Assembly

[0038] As shown in FIGURE 2, the electrostatic precipitator 100 includes a discharge assembly 140 that includes a discharge electrode 142 positioned such that the discharge electrode 142 aligns with a central axis of the precipitation electrode 134 and tubular support 132 without requiring any direct mechanical connection between the discharge assembly 140 and the precipitation assembly 130. More specifically, the discharge assembly 140 is coupled to the chassis 102 and can include a discharge electrode 142 concentric with the precipitation electrode 134 and the tubular support 132, extending from one side of the precipitation electrode 134 through the tubular support 132 and precipitation electrode 134, and terminating within the inlet manifold 118. Additionally, the discharge assembly 140 is configured to generate negative ions in the inlet airflow via a corona discharge at the surface of the discharge electrode 142. In some implementations further described below, the discharge electrode 142 and the precipitation electrode 134 can also be horizontally oriented. Additionally, the discharge assembly 140 includes a non-conductive support 116 extending from the discharge electrode 142 within the inlet manifold 118 and configured to contact the inlet manifold 118 in response to deflection of the discharge electrode 142 by greater than a threshold deflection. Thus, the discharge assembly 140 supports and positions the discharge electrode 142 within the core of the electrostatic precipitator 100, enabling the electrostatic precipitator 100 to generate ions within the airflow, which adhere to particle particulate matter within the airflow and cause this particulate matter to experience a radial electromagnetic force toward the precipitation electrode 134 based on the electric field between the discharge electrode 142 and the precipitation electrode 134.

[0039] Generally, the discharge electrode 142 is constructed from a corrosion-resistant and conductive material, such as conductive alloys of stainless steel. Additionally, the discharge electrode 142 defines a cross-section based on balancing surface area, distance between the discharge electrode 142 and the precipitation electrode 134, and minimizing the corona onset voltage of the discharge to reduce the power consumption of the electrostatic precipitator 100. In one implementation, the discharge electrode 142 is constructed from a steel rod with wire-cut radial spikes, maximizing surface area for the coronal discharge. In another implementation, the discharge electrode 142 is constructed from a rod with diecut spikes or ridges. Thus, the discharge electrode 142 is shaped to efficiently generate negative ions in the airflow via corona discharge.

[0040] In one implementation, the discharge electrode 142 is positioned within the core of the electrostatic precipitator 100 via a mechanical support extending from the chassis 102 below the core toward the central axis of the core. The mechanical support can also include integrated electrical wiring electrically connecting the discharge electrode 142 to the precipitation circuit. Thus, because the mechanical support of the discharge electrode 142 is positioned outside and below the core of the electrostatic precipitator 100, the mechanical support does not present surfaces for particulate to collect within the core and cause an electrical short between the discharge electrode 142 and the precipitation electrode 134. Additionally, the positioning of the mechanical support below the core of the electrostatic precipitator 100 enables the particulate removal assembly 120 to function within the core, as is further described below.8. Particulate-Removal Assembly

[0041] As shown in FIGURE 2, the electrostatic precipitator 100 includes a particulate removal assembly 120 positioned between the inlet assembly 110 and the core of the electrostatic precipitator 100 and extending into the core such that a wiper of the particulate removal assembly 120 can rotate while in contact with the inner surface of the precipitation electrode 134, thereby removing particulate from the inner surface of the precipitation electrode 134. More specifically, the particulate removal assembly 120 includes a rotational unit 122: arranged between the inlet manifold 118 and the precipitation assembly 130; configured to rotate concentrically with the precipitation electrode 134; and including a non-conductive wiper 124. The non-conductive wiper 124 is: coupled to the rotational unit 122, extends through a length of the precipitation electrode 134, and is configured to dislodge particulate matter electrostatically adhering to the precipitation electrode 134 in response to rotation of the rotational unit 122. Thus, the electrostatic precipitator 100 can utilize the particulate removal assembly 120 to periodically remove particulate from the inner surface of the precipitation electrode 134, thereby improving the average efficiency of the electrostatic precipitator 100 during operation.

[0042] Generally, the particulate removal assembly 120 can include a rotational unit 122, such as a hollow gear with an internal diameter equal to or greater than the internal diameter of the precipitation electrode 134, thereby allowing the inlet airflow from the inlet manifold 118 to pass through the center of the rotational unit 122 and into the core of the electrostatic precipitator 100 without significant disruption in the airflow. In one implementation, the rotational unit 122 is supported by a bearing collar positioned around the upper external lip of the tubular support 132. Thus, the particulate removal assembly 120 includes a rotational unit 122 that can rotate about the central axis of the core of the electrostatic precipitator 100 without interfering with the inlet airflow from the inlet manifold 118 into the core of the electrostatic precipitator 100.

[0043] In one implementation, the rotational unit 122 engages with a drive unit, such as an electric motor sufficient to cause rotation of the rotational unit 122 about the core. In implementations in which the rotational unit 122 is a hollow gear, the drive unit can integrate with the rotational unit 122 via a gear meshing interface suitable to transfer torque between the drive unit and the rotational unit 122.

[0044] Generally, the particulate removal assembly 120 can include a non-conductive wiper 124 mechanically coupled to the rotational unit 122 and extending from the rotational unit 122 through the length of the precipitation electrode 134.

[0045] In one implementation, the non-conductive wiper 124 includes a wiper blade and a wiper support. The wiper support is a sufficiently rigid beam structure to ensure sustained contact of the wiper blade with the inner surface of the precipitation electrode 134. Alternatively, the particulate removal assembly 120 includes a second rotational unit 122 to support a distal end of the non-conductive wiper 124.

[0046] In another implementation, the non-conductive wiper 124 can include retractable wiper support enabling the non-conductive wiper 124 to retract toward the central axis of the precipitation electrode 134, thereby increasing the effective surface area of precipitation electrode 134 while the non-conductive wiper 124 is not in use.

[0047] In yet another implementation, the non-conductive wiper 124 includes a wiper blade constructed from glass-reinforced epoxy resin (such as FR4 or FR5) for applications in which the operating temperature within the core is relatively high and / or particulate matter in the operating environment is flammable. Alternatively, the wiper can include a wiper blade constructed from silicone, which may maintain better contact with the inner surface of the precipitation electrode 134 during a particulate-cleaning cycle and is also fire resistant. In this alternative implementation, the wiper can include a wiper blade constructed from medium density silicone characterized by an electric breakdown tolerance of 25-30 kV / mm.

[0048] In yet another implementation, the non-conductive wiper 124 includes a set of smaller wipers arranged along the wiper support and configured to independently oscillate, vibrate, and / or rotate in order to more effectively remove accumulated particulate matter from the precipitation electrode 134. In this implementation, the particulate removal assembly 120 can include electric motors housed within the rotational unit 122 with corresponding non-conductive mechanical communicators (e.g., cables or rods) extending internally or externally down the length of the wiper support, enabling actuation of the set of wiper blades via force transferred from the electric motors via the mechanical communicators. Thus, in this implementation, the non-conductive wiper 124 can utilize vibration, oscillation, and / or other movement of the set ofwiper blades while still being non-conductive, thereby preventing corona discharge between the non-conductive wiper 124 and the discharge electrode 142.

[0049] In yet another implementation, the particulate removal assembly 120 includes a set of rotationally symmetric rappers configured to strike an external surface of the tubular support 132, thereby transmitting vibrations toward the precipitation electrode 134 to dislodge accumulated particulates from the surface of the precipitation electrode 134. More specifically, the particulate removal assembly 120 includes a set of rappers configured to cause vibration of the first precipitation electrode 134 sufficient to dislodge particulate matter adhering to the first precipitation electrode 134. In one example of this implementation, the rotational unit 122 is configured to rotate the set of rotationally symmetric rappers about the tubular support 132, thereby translating the vibration sources behind the surface area of the precipitation electrode 134 to more effectively remove particulates from the surface area of the precipitation electrode 134.

[0050] In yet another implementation, the particulate removal assembly 120 includes a set of rotationally symmetric non-conductive wipers 124 coupled to and arranged about the rotational unit 122, thereby reducing bearing stress for the rotational unit 122 and increasing the rate at which the particulate removal assembly 120 can dislodge particulate matter, which in turn enables increased operational time for the electrostatic precipitator 100.

[0051] As shown in FIGURE 4, in yet another implementation, the electrostatic precipitator 100 includes a second inlet manifold 118 feeding a second discharge electrode 142 and second precipitation electrode 134. In this implementation, the electrostatic precipitator 100 can include a single drive unit that rotates a second rotational unit 122 for removing particulates from the second precipitation electrode 134. More specifically, in this implementation, the inlet assembly 110 includes a second inlet manifold 118 communicatively coupled to the inlet fan 114 and configured to direct a second inlet airflow. Additionally, in this implementation, the electrostatic precipitator 100 includes a second precipitation assembly 130, including a second precipitation electrode 134 and configured to receive the second inlet airflow via the second inlet manifold 118. Also, in this implementation, the electrostatic precipitator 100 includes a second discharge electrode 142: concentric with the second precipitation electrode 134, extending through the second precipitation electrode 134, and terminating within the second inlet manifold 118; and configured to generate negative ions in the second inlet airflow via a corona discharge at the surface of the second discharge electrode 142. Furthermore, in this implementation, the particulate removal assembly 120 includes: a second rotational unit 122 arranged between the second inlet manifold 118 and the second precipitation assembly 130, and configured to rotateconcentrically with the second precipitation electrode 134; a second non-conductive wiper 124 coupled to the rotational unit 122, extending through a length of the second precipitation electrode 134, and configured to dislodge particulate matter adhering to the second precipitation electrode 134 in response to rotation of the rotational unit 122; and a drive unit configured to transfer torque to the first rotational unit 122 and the second rotational unit 122, causing simultaneous rotation of the first non-conductive wiper 124 over the first precipitation electrode 134 and the second non-conductive wiper 124 over the second precipitation electrode 134. Thus, in this implementation, the electrostatic precipitator 100 can drive multiple non-conductive wipers 124 within multiple pairs of discharge electrodes 142 and precipitation electrodes 134 to simultaneously remove particulates from the precipitation electrodes 134.9. Particulate-Collection Assembly

[0052] As shown in FIGURE 2, the electrostatic precipitator 100 includes a particulate collection assembly 150 that operates in coordination with the particulate removal assembly 120 to collect and capture particulate matter dislodged from the precipitation electrode 134 by the particulate removal assembly 120. Additionally, the particulate collection assembly 150 includes features that enable easy extraction of collected particulate matter from the particulate collection assembly 150 once the particulate collection assembly 150 has been filled to maximum capacity. More specifically, the particulate collection assembly 150 can include: a particulate receptacle arranged below an outlet of the precipitation electrode 134; a particulate inlet; and a particulate outlet. Thus, during a particulate-removal cycle, the electrostatic precipitator 100 can actuate the particulate inlet to open such that dislodged particulate matter from the precipitation electrode 134 can fall through the particulate inlet into the particulate receptacle. Once a threshold amount of particulate has accumulated within the particulate receptacle, an operator or automated system may remove accumulated particulate from the particulate receptacle via the particulate outlet.

[0053] Generally, the particulate inlet includes an electrically actuated door configured to hinge, slide, or fold open during a particulate-removal cycle in order to admit falling particulate matter into the particulate receptacle below. During normal operation, the electrostatic precipitator 100 keeps the particulate inlet in a closed position causing outlet air from the core of the electrostatic precipitator 100 to be diverted by the exterior surface of the particulate inlet door towards an outlet manifold of the electrostatic precipitator 100.

[0054] In one implementation, the particulate collection assembly 150 includes an iris diaphragm as the particulate inlet to selectively admit particulates into the particulate receptacle during a particulate-removal cycle. Thus, in this implementation, the electrostatic precipitator100 can minimize the volume occupied by the particulate collection assembly 150 while enabling precise adjustment of the size of the inlet to the particulate receptacle.10. Sensor Systems

[0055] Generally, the electrostatic precipitator 100 includes a set of sensors 164 that transmit signals indicating the state of the ambient environment and the environment within the electrostatic precipitator 100, including potential difference and current measurement across the discharge electrode 142 and the precipitation electrode 134, to the controller 160, such that the controller 160 can initiate a cleaning cycle to remove accumulated particulate matter from the inner surface of the precipitation electrode 134. More specifically, the electrostatic precipitator 100 can include: an inlet temperature sensor, an inlet humidity sensor, and an inlet particulate matter sensor (hereinafter “PM sensor”). Thus, the electrostatic precipitator 100 can gather data that inform the operation of the electrostatic precipitator 100 and, in particular, inform initiation of the particulate-removal cycle.

[0056] Generally, the electrostatic precipitator 100 can include a set of inlet sensors arranged about the inlet assembly 110 or specifically within the inlet manifold 118 of the inlet assembly 110 to accurately measure various properties of air flowing to the core of the electrostatic precipitator 100 (i.e., the volume between the discharge electrode 142 and the precipitation electrode 134). Additionally, in some implementations, the electrostatic precipitator 100 can include a set of outlet sensors arranged about an outlet manifold in order to measure post-precipitation properties of air outlet from the core to enable estimation of the efficiency of the electrostatic precipitator 100.

[0057] In one implementation, the electrostatic precipitator 100 includes a set of PM sensors for different particles sizes, such as a PM2.5 sensor, a PM10 sensor, and / or a PMl sensor, such that the electrostatic precipitator 100 can predict a distribution of particle sizes in the based on a set of individual measurements from each of the set of PM sensors. Thus, the electrostatic precipitator 100 can utilize the predicted distribution of particle sizes in the inlet airstream as an input in the calculation of particle resistivity, which in turn informs the electrostatic precipitator 100 during calculation of a threshold potential difference at which to initiate a particulate-removal cycle.

[0058] Generally, the electrostatic precipitator 100 can include a voltage sensor for high-voltage applications including, but not limited to, voltage dividers, Zener-diode-based voltage sensors, and / or other electrically isolated voltmeters. More specifically, the electrostatic precipitator 100 can include a voltmeter configured to measure the voltage between the discharge electrode 142 and the precipitation electrode 134. Additionally, the electrostatic precipitator 100 can include acurrent sensor configured to measure the current provided by the high-voltage power supply. More specifically, the electrostatic precipitator 100 can include Hall effect sensors, shunt resistors, and / or Rogowski coils with DC integration. Thus, the controller 160 is configured to receive potential difference and current measurements across the core of the electrostatic precipitator 100.11. Redundant Core Variation

[0059] As shown in FIGURE 4, in one variation, the electrostatic precipitator 100 includes multiple assemblies of the above components (hereinafter “cores”) sharing the same controller 160 and power supply, thereby enabling continuous uptime for the electrostatic precipitator 100 by alternating particulate cleaning cycles across the multiple assemblies. More specifically, the electrostatic precipitator 100 can include: a second precipitation electrode 134; a second discharge electrode 142; and a second particulate removal assembly 120. In particular, the electrostatic precipitator 100 can continue to operate the second precipitation electrode 134 and the second discharge electrode 142 while activating the first particulate removal assembly 120 to remove particulates from the surface of the first precipitation electrode 134. Additional Steps executed by the controller 160 in this implementation are further described below.12. Vertical and Horizontal Variations

[0060] As shown in FIGURE 2, the electrostatic precipitator 100 can be oriented vertically, thereby enabling particulates to fall vertically along the vertical axis into the particulate collection assembly 150. More specifically, in this implementation, the electrostatic precipitator 100 defines a vertically oriented common axis of the first discharge electrode 142 and the first precipitation electrode 134 and includes a particulate receptacle arranged below an outlet of the first precipitation electrode 134. Additionally, in this implementation, the particulate removal assembly 120 is configured to dislodge accumulated particles from the precipitation electrode 134 into the particulate receptacle. Thus, in this implementation, the electrostatic precipitator 100 leverages the existing tubular airway formed by the precipitation electrode 134 to allow particulates to fall into the particulate collection assembly 150.

[0061] As shown in FIGURE 6, in another implementation, the electrostatic precipitator 100 can be oriented horizontally, which enables more coaxial pairs of discharge electrodes 142 and precipitation electrodes 134 to be arranged within a given footprint, which may enable greater particulate-removal capacity within a given floorspace. More specifically, in this implementation, the electrostatic precipitator 100 can define a horizontal common axis of the first discharge electrode 142 and the first precipitation electrode 134. Additionally, in this implementation, the electrostatic precipitator 100 includes: a first precipitation electrode 134 anda tubular support 132 defining a slot parallel to the central axis and positioned over a bottom secant of the tubular support 132 and the first precipitation electrode 134; and a particulate receptacle arranged below the slot. Also, the electrostatic precipitator 100 includes a first particulate removal assembly 120: including an electromechanically actuated door 152 that closes the slot in a closed configuration and opens the slot in an open configuration; and configured to, during a particulate-cleaning cycle, transition the door from the closed configuration to the open configuration and rotate the first non-conductive wiper 124 along the first precipitation electrode 134 to cause particulates to fall through the slot into the particulate receptacle. Thus, in this implementation, the electrostatic precipitator 100 introduces increased complexity in the form of the slot and the electromechanically actuated door 152 in order to increase the particulate-removal capacity density within a given floorspace.13. Controller

[0062] As shown in FIGURE 3, the electrostatic precipitator 100 includes a computer, microprocessor, a data storage unit, and / or communication unit configured to execute Steps of the method SI 00 in order to initiate particulate-removal cycles via the particulate removal assembly 120 to increase operational efficiency of the electrostatic precipitator 100. More specifically, the controller 160 can electrically communicate with a high-voltage power supply 162 in the precipitation unit to access a current potential difference between the discharge electrode 142 and the precipitation electrode 134; set a target potential difference between the discharge electrode 142 and precipitation electrode 134 for execution by the high-voltage power supply 162; receive data from the set of sensors 164; transmit control signals to the inlet fan 114 to adjust an inlet flow rate; and initiate particulate-removal cycles by the particulate removal assembly 120 and the particulate collection assembly 150. The electrostatic precipitator 100 can execute steps of the method SI 00 via the controller 160 locally or via communication over a network with a cloud computing system. Thus, the electrostatic precipitator 100 executes all electromechanical functions via control signals sent to and from the controller 160.13.1 Airflow Initiation and Condition Measurement

[0063] Generally, upon startup of the electrostatic precipitator 100, the controller 160 can initiate airflow through the inlet assembly 110 via activation of the inlet fan 114 in Step SI 10 in order to measure accurate values from the set of inlet sensors, such as an initial representative humidity, an initial representative temperature, and an initial particulate matter concentration in Step S120. More specifically, the method SI 00 includes: initiating an inlet airflow through the electrostatic precipitator 100 between the discharge electrode 142 and the precipitation electrode 134 in Step SI 10; and measuring a representative temperature of the inlet airflow, a representative humidityof the inlet airflow, and a representative PM value of inlet particles present in the inlet airflow in Step S120. Thus, by initiating airflow, the electrostatic precipitator 100 can sense environmental conditions to set accurate parameters for maintaining operational efficiency by promptly initiating particulate-cleaning cycles upon detecting efficiency degradation.

[0064] In one implementation, the controller 160 can estimate a particle distribution based on a set of particulate matter concentrations accessed from a set of PM sensors configured to detect particulate matter concentrations of various particle sizes (e.g., PM10, PM2.5, PM1). The controller 160 can then estimate a particle size distribution representing a range of particle distributions and the concentrations of each particle size in the range of particle sizes based on historical data stored in data tables, at the controller 160, or in the cloud. Alternatively, the controller 160 can execute a particle size distribution model to estimate the particle size distribution based on discrete particle size concentrations accessed from PM sensors at the electrostatic precipitator 100. Thus, by activating the inlet fan 114, the controller 160 can characterize the properties of the inlet air to inform operation of the electrostatic precipitator 100. 13.2 Setting a Target Operational Parameters

[0065] Generally, the controller 160 can utilize initial data accessed via the set of inlet sensors to calculate a target potential difference between the discharge electrode 142 and the precipitation electrode 134 based on the initial representative temperature, the initial representative humidity, and an initial particle size distribution in Step S130. More specifically, the method S100 includes, at a first time, setting a target potential difference between the discharge electrode 142 and the precipitation electrode 134 in Step S130. The controller 160 can then transmit control signals to the high-voltage power supply 162 to generate the calculated target potential difference within the core of the electrostatic precipitator 100 in Step S130. Thus, the controller 160 can select a target potential that approximates optimal particulate collection efficiency for the electrostatic precipitator 100 based on measured initial conditions.

[0066] In one implementation, the controller 160 calculates the target potential difference based on an empirically derived lookup table that defines the most efficient operating potential differences corresponding to each combination of representative humidity, representative temperature, and representative particle size distribution.

[0067] In one implementation, the controller 160 can also calculate a target flow rate for the inlet fan 114 based on the initial representative humidity, the initial representative temperature, and the initial particle size distribution. As described above with respect to calculating the target potential difference, the controller 160 can calculate the target flow rate for the inlet fan 114 thatapproximately optimized the particulate collection efficiency of the electrostatic precipitator 100 in combination with the target potential difference.13.3 Measuring Potential Difference Decay

[0068] Generally, as the electrostatic precipitator 100 causes precipitation of particulate matter at the inner surface of the precipitation electrode 134 in response to the electric field generated within the core, the controller 160 can transmit a control signal to the high-voltage power supply 162 to maintain the initial target power corresponding to the target potential difference between the discharge electrode 142 and the precipitation electrode 134. While maintaining this initial power draw, the potential difference between the discharge electrode 142 and the precipitation electrode 134 may decrease as precipitation occurs at the surface of the precipitation electrode 134. In particular, the electrostatic precipitator 100 causes precipitation of particulate matter at the inner surface of the precipitation electrode 134 in response to the electric field generated within the core, the controller 160 can transmit a control signal to the high-voltage power supply 162 to maintain the initial power corresponding to the target potential difference between the discharge electrode 142 and the precipitation electrode 134. While maintaining this initial power draw, the potential difference between the discharge electrode 142 and the precipitation electrode 134 will decrease as precipitation occurs at the surface of the precipitation electrode 134. The controller 160 can measure the rate of this decrease in the potential difference via the high-voltage power supply 162 in Step S140. More specifically, the method S100 includes, at a second time after the first time by a testing period, measuring a first measured potential difference between the discharge electrode 142 and the precipitation electrode 134, and calculating a potential difference change between the target potential difference and the first measured potential difference in Step S140. Thus, the controller 160 can utilize the change in the measured potential difference from the target potential difference to calculate a representative resistivity of the particulates within the inlet air.13.4 Potential Difference Based Cleaning Cycle

[0069] As shown in FIGURE 7, in instances in which the controller 160 is able to detect a measurable change in the potential difference between the discharge electrode 142 and the precipitation electrode 134, the controller 160 can utilize this potential difference change to estimate a representative resistivity of the particles in the inlet air. More specifically, the controller 160 can, in response to the potential difference change exceeding the measurable threshold: estimate a representative particle resistivity of the particles present in the inlet airflow based on the potential difference change, the representative temperature of the inlet airflow, therepresentative humidity of the inlet airflow, and the representative PM value of the inlet particles in Step SI 50. Thus, the controller 160 can estimate properties of the inlet particulate matter.

[0070] In one implementation, the controller 160 is configured to execute a resistivity model, such as a theoretical resistivity model, to estimate the resistivity of the particle based on the measured potential difference change. More specifically, in this implementation, the controller 160 is configured to estimate the representative particle resistivity of the particles present in the first inlet airflow by executing a theoretical resistivity model based on on the potential difference change, the representative temperature of the first inlet airflow, the representative humidity of the first inlet airflow, and the representative PM value of the inlet particles. In particular, the controller 160 can estimate a representative resistivity for the inlet particles by evaluating a parallel resistance path model of the core of the electrostatic precipitator 100. In particular, the controller 160 can evaluate the following equation for R particlesV = I (1 / R . + / (p . , L } current target air particles ) where V represents the current potential difference measured between the discharge current electrode 142 and the precipitation electrode 134, I represents the target current generatedby the high-voltage power supply 162 to generate the target potential difference prior to particulate accumulation, represents the resistance of the air gap between the dischargeelectrode 142 and the precipitation electrode 134, A represents the surface area of the precipitation electrode 134, L represents the thickness of the accumulated particulate layer, and p1, represents a representative resistivity for the accumulated particles. In this particles1 1 J 1implementation, the controller 160 can calculate R based on the current humidity and currenttemperature of the inlet air. Additionally, the controller 160 can calculate L by directly measuring the thickness of the particulate layer via distance sensors positioned within the core and / or by estimating the thickness of the particulate layer based on empirically derived performance models for the given set of environmental conditions. Thus, the controller 160 can utilize a theoretical model to calculate an estimated representative particle resistivity.

[0071] In another implementation, the controller 160 is configured to execute a machine learning resistivity model to predict particle resistivity. More specifically, the controller 160 is configured to estimate the representative particle resistivity of the particles present in the inlet airflow by executing a machine learning model based on on the potential difference change, the representative temperature of the first inlet airflow, the representative humidity of the first inlet airflow, and the representative PM value of the inlet particles. In this implementation, thecontroller 160 can execute a machine learning model trained on training examples including a measured representative resistivity for particles precipitated by the electrostatic precipitator 100, representative temperature, representative humidity, the target potential difference, and the potential difference change over the testing time period. Additionally, the controller 160 can execute a machine learning model trained on data that includes categorical data, such as the setting (a type of factory or industrial facility or an outdoor location), which could be correlated with the type of particulate matter precipitated by the electrostatic precipitator 100. In this implementation, the controller 160 can execute machine learning models such as regression models, tree-based models, neural networks, or any other suitable model.

[0072] In yet another implementation, the controller 160 can execute a hybrid resistivity model including both theoretical and machine learning approaches. More specifically, in this implementation, the controller 160 is further configured to estimate the representative particle resistivity of the particles present in the first inlet airflow by executing a hybrid model based on the potential difference change, the representative temperature of the first inlet airflow, the representative humidity of the first inlet airflow, and the representative PM value of the inlet particles. The controller 160 can execute a theoretical model and feed the output of the theoretical model into a machine learning model for subsequent adjustment. Additionally or alternatively, the controller 160 can execute a machine learning model to estimate parameters for input into a theoretical model. Thus, the controller 160 can simultaneously leverage multiple types of models to accurately estimate a representative resistivity for the inlet particles.

[0073] In yet another implementation, the controller 160 can utilize the steps described above to also estimate a representative permittivity (i.e., dielectric constant) of the inlet particles. More specifically, in this implementation, the controller 160 can: estimate a representative particle permittivity based on the potential difference change, the representative temperature of the first inlet airflow, the representative humidity of the first inlet airflow, and the representative PM value of the inlet particles; and calculate the cleaning threshold potential difference based on the representative particle resistivity and the representative particle permittivity.

[0074] Generally, upon calculating the representative particle resistivity, the controller 160 can calculate (via a lookup function) a threshold potential difference based on the particle resistivity in Step SI 60. By setting the threshold potential difference based on particle resistivity, the controller 160 can account for varying degradation in the efficiency of the electrostatic precipitator 100 based on particle resistivity when initiating particulate-removal cycles. Because low-resistivity particles (below 108ohm-cm) and high-resistivity particles (above 1010ohm-cm) more acutely inhibit the function of the electrostatic precipitator 100, the controller 160 canaccount for this by increasing the threshold potential difference relative to the target potential difference, thereby causing the controller 160 to initiate the particulate-removal cycle after a smaller degree of particle accumulation at the precipitation electrode 134. More specifically, the controller 160 can set an efficiency threshold and subsequently utilize a lookup table to identify the threshold potential difference corresponding to the efficiency threshold based on the representative resistivity of the inlet particles. Thus, by relating the threshold potential difference to a threshold efficiency based on the representative particle resistivity, the controller 160 ensures that the electrostatic precipitator 100 maintains an efficiency greater than the efficiency threshold at all times while operating.13.4.1 Triggering a Particulate Cleaning Cycle

[0075] After setting a threshold potential difference, the controller 160 can continue sampling the high-voltage power supply 162 to evaluate whether the threshold potential difference exceeds the current potential difference in Step SI 70. Upon detecting that the threshold potential difference exceeds the current potential difference, the controller 160 can initiate the particulate-removal cycle in Steps S200 and S210. More specifically, the controller 160 can, after the second time, periodically measure a measured potential difference between the first discharge electrode 142 and the first precipitation electrode 134; and, in response to the cleaning threshold potential difference exceeding the measured potential difference, initiate the particulate cleaning cycle. The particulate cleaning cycles includes: pausing the first inlet airflow in Step S200, and activating the first particulate removal assembly 120 to remove accumulated particles from the surface of the first precipitation electrode 134.

[0076] The controller 160 initiates a particulate-removal cycle first by terminating the inlet airflow into the core of the electrostatic precipitator 100 in Step S200, thereby preventing particulate matter dislodged by the particulate removal assembly 120 from being flushed out of the outlet manifold during the particulate-removal cycle. Simultaneously, the controller 160 can actuate the inlet of the particulate-collection unit to open toward the core of the electrostatic precipitator 100, such that particulate matter dislodged by the particulate removal assembly 120 is collected within the particulate receptacle. Once airflow is terminated and the particulate collection assembly 150 is open, the controller 160 can activate the particulate-removal cycle by initiating rotation of the rotational unit 122, causing the non-conductive wiper 124 to swipe over the inner surface of the precipitation electrode 134, thereby releasing particulate matter precipitated on the inner surface in Step S210.13.5 Particle Accumulation Based Cleaning Cycle

[0077] As shown in FIGURE 8, in applications of the electrostatic precipitator 100 for which the inlet particulates have especially high resistivity and / or permittivity, the controller 160 may not be able to detect a measurable change in the potential difference over the testing period. In these circumstances, the controller 160 can detect that a measurable change in the potential difference has not occurred within the testing period and instead estimate a particle accumulation rate to determine when to trigger a cleaning cycle. More specifically, the controller 160 can, in response to a measurable threshold exceeding the second measured potential difference: estimate a particle accumulation rate based on the representative temperature of the inlet airflow, the representative humidity of the inlet airflow, and the representative PM value of the inlet particles in Step SI 80; calculating a cleaning interval based on the particle accumulation rate, the representative temperature of the inlet airflow, and the representative humidity of the inlet airflow in Step SI 90. Thus, the controller 160 can leverage an estimate of the particle accumulation rate based on environmental conditions to determine when to initiate a cleaning cycle.

[0078] In one implementation, the controller 160 is configured to estimate the particle accumulation rate by executing a particulate accumulation model, such as an empirical particulate accumulation model, representing the performance of the electrostatic precipitator 100 based on the representative temperature of the inlet airflow, the representative humidity of the inlet airflow, and the representative PM value of the inlet particles.

[0079] In another implementation, the controller 160 can leverage a known range of particle resistivities and / or permittivities that do not cause a potential difference change between the discharge electrode 142 and the precipitation electrode 134 within the testing period (e.g., greater than 1012ohm-centimeters), and calculate a conservative estimate for particle accumulation on the surface of the precipitation electrode 134. For example, the controller 160 can be configured to evaluate variations of the Deutsch-Anderson equation to generate an upper bound for the efficiency of the electrostatic precipitator 100 and, correspondingly, the rate of accumulation of particles on the surface of the precipitation electrode 134.

[0080] Upon calculating a particle accumulation rate for the electrostatic precipitator 100 based on current environmental conditions, the controller 160 can calculate a cleaning interval that prevents an efficiency-degrading or potentially destructive accumulation of particulates on the surface of the precipitation electrode 134. For example, the controller 160 can define a threshold thickness of an accumulated particulate layer on the surface of the precipitation electrode 134 based on the representative humidity and the representative temperature of the inlet air. The threshold thickness can be empirically defined based on the observed and / or simulated collection efficiency for various operating conditions. In another example, the controller 160 can define athreshold thickness of the accumulated particulate layer based on the simulated or observed likelihood of the back-corona effect at various layer thicknesses in various environmental conditions.13.5.1 Triggering a Particulate Cleaning Cycle

[0081] Generally, upon calculation of the cleaning interval, the controller 160 can initiate a cleaning cycle after expiration of the cleaning interval since the end of the testing period. More specifically, controller 160 can, at a third time after the first time by the cleaning interval pause the inlet airflow in Step S200 and activate the particulate removal assembly 120 to remove accumulated particles from the surface of the precipitation electrode 134 in Step S210. In one implementation, the controller 160 can periodically initiate cleaning cycles on the cleaning interval. Alternatively, the controller 160 can adjust the cleaning interval periodically to adapt to changing environmental conditions. Thus, by initiating a cleaning cycle upon expiration of the cleaning interval the controller 160 prevents inefficient or damaging conditions from developing within the electrostatic precipitator 100.13.6 Independent Core Variation

[0082] As shown in FIGURE 5, in one variation, the electrostatic precipitator 100 can include a second, independently operable core, such that while one core is not operating due to a concurrent particulate cleaning cycle, the controller 160 can continue to operate the second core to prevent the electrostatic precipitator 100 from experiencing any downtime. Generally, the electrostatic precipitator 100 can include multiple inlet fans 114 to independently feed inlet air to the independent cores. More specifically, in this implementation, the controller 160 is configured to: initiate a second inlet airflow through the electrostatic precipitator 100 between the second discharge electrode 142 and the second precipitation electrode 134; at a fourth time, measure a third measured potential difference between the second discharge electrode 142 and the second precipitation electrode 134. Additionally, in response to the cleaning threshold potential difference exceeding the third measured potential difference and the fourth time being non-concurrent with the particulate cleaning cycle, initiate a second particulate cleaning cycle by: pausing the second inlet airflow and activating the second particulate removal assembly 120 to remove accumulated particles from the second precipitation electrode 134. Alternatively, in response to the cleaning threshold potential difference exceeding the third measured potential difference and the fourth time being concurrent with the particulate cleaning cycle, wait until completion of the particulate cleaning cycle before initiating a second particulate cleaning cycle by: pausing the second inlet airflow and activating the second particulate removal assembly 120 to remove accumulated particles from the second precipitation electrode 134. Thus, in instancesin which a cleaning cycle would be triggered at the second core, the controller 160 first checks to see if there is an ongoing cleaning cycle occurring at the first core before triggering a cleaning cycle at the second core.

[0083] The systems and methods described herein can be embodied and / or implemented at least in part as a machine configured to receive a computer-readable medium storing computer-readable instructions. The instructions can be executed by computer-executable components integrated with the application, applet, host, server, network, website, communication service, communication interface, hardware / firmware / software elements of a user computer or mobile device, wristband, smartphone, or any suitable combination thereof. Other systems and methods of the embodiment can be embodied and / or implemented, at least in part, as a machine configured to receive a computer-readable medium storing computer-readable instructions. The instructions can be executed by computer-executable components integrated by computer-executable components integrated with apparatuses and networks of the type described above. The computer-readable medium can be stored on any suitable computer-readable media such as RAMs, ROMs, flash memory, EEPROMs, optical devices (CD or DVD), hard drives, floppy drives, or any suitable device. The computer-executable component can be a processor but any suitable dedicated hardware device can (alternatively or additionally) execute the instructions.

[0084] As a person skilled in the art will recognize from the previous detailed description and from the figures and claims, modifications and changes can be made to the embodiments of the invention without departing from the scope of this invention as defined in the following claims.

Claims

CLAIMSWe Claim:

1. An electrostatic precipitator comprising a precipitation electrode, a discharge electrode, a particulate removal assembly, and a controller configured to:• initiate an inlet airflow through the electrostatic precipitator between the discharge electrode and the precipitation electrode;• measure a representative temperature of the inlet airflow, a representative humidity of the inlet airflow, and a representative PM value of inlet particles present in the inlet airflow;• at a first time, set a target potential difference between the discharge electrode and the precipitation electrode;• at a second time after the first time by a testing period, measure a first measured potential difference between the discharge electrode and the precipitation electrode and calculate a potential difference change between the target potential difference and the first measured potential difference;• in response to a measurable threshold exceeding the potential difference change: o estimate a particle accumulation rate based on the representative temperature of the inlet airflow, the representative humidity of the inlet airflow, and the representative PM value of the inlet particles; o calculate a cleaning interval based on the particle accumulation rate, the representative temperature of the inlet airflow, and the representative humidity of the inlet airflow; and o at a third time after the first time by the cleaning interval:■ pause the inlet airflow; and■ activate the particulate removal assembly to remove accumulated particles from the surface of the precipitation electrode;• in response to the potential difference change exceeding the measurable threshold; o estimate a representative particle resistivity of the particles present in the inlet airflow based on the potential difference change, the representative temperature of the inlet airflow, the representative humidity of the inlet airflow, and the representative PM value of the inlet particles; o calculate a cleaning threshold potential difference based on the representative particle resistivity; o at a third time, measure a second measured potential difference between the discharge electrode and the precipitation electrode; ando in response to the cleaning threshold potential difference exceeding the second measured potential difference:■ pause the inlet airflow; and■ activate the particulate removal assembly to remove accumulated particles from the precipitation electrode.

2. The electrostatic precipitator of Claim 1 :• further comprising a chassis;• further comprising an inlet assembly coupled to the chassis: o comprising an inlet funnel defining an inlet and an outlet; o comprising an inlet fan occupying the outlet of the inlet funnel and configured to generate the inlet airflow; and o comprising an inlet manifold communicatively coupled to the inlet fan and configured direct the inlet airflow;• further comprising a precipitation assembly coupled to the chassis: o comprising a tubular support constructed from a non-conductive material; o comprising the precipitation electrode defining a tubular form concentric with the tubular support and coupled to an inner surface of the tubular support; and o configured to receive the inlet airflow via the inlet manifold;• wherein the discharge electrode is: o concentric with the precipitation electrode and the tubular support, extending through the tubular support and precipitation electrode, and terminating within the inlet manifold; and o configured to generate negative ions in the inlet airflow via a corona discharge at the surface of the discharge electrode; and• the particulate removal assembly: o comprising a rotational unit arranged between the inlet manifold and the precipitation assembly and configured to rotate concentrically with the precipitation electrode; and o comprising a non-conductive wiper coupled to the rotational unit, extending through a length of the precipitation electrode, and configured to dislodge particulate matter adhering to the precipitation electrode in response to rotation of the rotational unit.

3. An electrostatic precipitator comprising a first precipitation electrode, a first discharge electrode, a first particulate removal assembly, and a controller configured to:• initiate a first inlet airflow through the electrostatic precipitator between the first discharge electrode and the first precipitation electrode;• measure a representative temperature of an first inlet airflow, a representative humidity of the first inlet airflow, and a representative PM value of inlet particles present in the first inlet airflow;• at a first time, set a target potential difference between the first discharge electrode and the first precipitation electrode;• at a second time after the first time by a testing period, measure a first measured potential difference between the first discharge electrode and the first precipitation electrode and calculating a potential difference change between the target potential difference and the first measured potential difference;• estimate a representative particle resistivity of the particles present in the first inlet airflow based on the potential difference change, the representative temperature of the first inlet airflow, the representative humidity of the first inlet airflow; and the representative PM value of the inlet particles;• calculate a cleaning threshold potential difference based on the representative particle resistivity;• at a third time, measure a second measured potential difference between the first discharge electrode and the first precipitation electrode; and• in response to the cleaning threshold potential difference exceeding the second measured potential difference, initiate a particulate cleaning cycle by: o pausing the first inlet airflow; and o activating the first particulate removal assembly to remove accumulated particles from the first precipitation electrode.

4. The electrostatic precipitator of Claim 3, wherein the controller is further configured to, in response a measurable threshold exceeding the potential difference change:• estimate a particle accumulation rate based on the representative temperature of the first inlet airflow, the representative humidity of the first inlet airflow; and the representative PM value of the inlet particles;• calculate a cleaning interval based on the particle accumulation rate, the representative temperature of the first inlet airflow, and the representative humidity of the first inlet airflow;• at a third time after the first time by the cleaning interval: o pause the first inlet airflow; and o activate the first particulate removal assembly to remove accumulated particles from the surface of the first precipitation electrode.

5. The electrostatic precipitator of Claim 3, wherein the controller is further configured to:• after the second time, periodically measure a measured potential difference between the first discharge electrode and the first precipitation electrode; and• in response to the cleaning threshold potential difference exceeding the measured potential difference initiating the particulate cleaning cycle by: o pausing the first inlet airflow; and o activating the first particulate removal assembly to remove accumulated particles from the surface of the first precipitation electrode.

6. The electrostatic precipitator of Claim 3, wherein the controller is further configured to estimate the representative particle resistivity of the particles present in the first inlet airflow by executing a theoretical resistivity model based on the potential difference change, the representative temperature of the first inlet airflow, the representative humidity of the first inlet airflow, and the representative PM value of the inlet particles.

7. The electrostatic precipitator of Claim 3, wherein the controller is further configured to estimate the representative particle resistivity of the particles present in the first inlet airflow by executing a machine learning model based on on the potential difference change, the representative temperature of the first inlet airflow, the representative humidity of the first inlet airflow, and the representative PM value of the inlet particles.

8. The electrostatic precipitator of Claim 3, wherein the controller is further configured to estimate the representative particle resistivity of the particles present in the first inlet airflow by executing a hybrid model based on the potential difference change, the representative temperature of the first inlet airflow, the representative humidity of the first inlet airflow, and the representative PM value of the inlet particles.

9. The electrostatic precipitator of Claim 3, wherein the controller is further configured to:• estimate a representative particle permittivity based on the potential difference change, the representative temperature of the first inlet airflow, the representative humidity of the first inlet airflow, and the representative PM value of the inlet particles; and• calculate the cleaning threshold potential difference based on the representative particle resistivity and the representative particle permittivity.

10. The electrostatic precipitator of Claim 3:• further comprising: o a second precipitation electrode; o a second discharge electrode; and o a second particulate removal assembly; and• wherein the controller is further configured to: o initiate a second inlet airflow through the electrostatic precipitator between the second discharge electrode and the second precipitation electrode; o at a fourth time, measure a third measured potential difference between the second discharge electrode and the second precipitation electrode; o in response to the cleaning threshold potential difference exceeding the third measured potential difference and the fourth time being non-concurrent with the particulate cleaning cycle, initiate a second particulate cleaning cycle by:■ pausing the second inlet airflow; and■ activating the second particulate removal assembly to remove accumulated particles from the second precipitation electrode; and o in response to the cleaning threshold potential difference exceeding the third measured potential difference and the fourth time being concurrent with the particulate cleaning cycle, wait until completion of the particulate cleaning cycle before initiating a second particulate cleaning cycle by:■ pausing the second inlet airflow; and■ activating the second particulate removal assembly to remove accumulated particles from the second precipitation electrode.

11. The electrostatic precipitator of Claim 3 :• further comprising a chassis;• further comprising an inlet assembly coupled to the chassis: o comprising an inlet funnel defining an inlet and an outlet; o comprising an inlet fan occupying the outlet of the inlet funnel and configured to generate the first inlet airflow; and o comprising a first inlet manifold communicatively coupled to the inlet fan and configured to direct the first inlet airflow;• further comprising a first precipitation assembly coupled to the chassis: o comprising a tubular support constructed from a non-conductive material; o comprising the first precipitation electrode defining a tubular form concentric with the tubular support and coupled to an inner surface of the tubular support; and o configured to receive the first inlet airflow via the first inlet manifold;• wherein the first discharge electrode is: o concentric with the first precipitation electrode and the tubular support, extending through the tubular support and first precipitation electrode, and terminating within the first inlet manifold; and o configured to generate negative ions in the first inlet airflow via a corona discharge at the surface of the first discharge electrode; and• the first particulate removal assembly: o comprising a first rotational unit arranged between the first inlet manifold and the first precipitation assembly and configured to rotate concentrically with the first precipitation electrode; and o comprising a first non-conductive wiper coupled to the rotational unit, extending through a length of the first precipitation electrode, and configured to dislodge particulate matter adhering to the first precipitation electrode in response to rotation of the rotational unit.

12. The electrostatic precipitator of Claim 11 :• wherein a common axis of the first discharge electrode and the first precipitation electrode is oriented vertically;• further comprising a particulate receptacle arranged below an outlet of the first precipitation electrode; and• wherein the first particulate removal assembly is configured to dislodge the accumulated particles from the first precipitation electrode into the particulate receptacle.

13. The electrostatic precipitator of Claim 11 :• wherein a common axis of the first discharge electrode and the first precipitation electrode is oriented horizontally;• wherein the first precipitation electrode and the tubular support define a slot parallel to the central axis and positioned over a bottom secant of the tubular support and the first precipitation electrode;• a particulate receptacle arranged below the slot; and• wherein the first particulate removal assembly: o comprises an electromechanically actuated door that closes the slot in a closed configuration and opens the slot in an open configuration; and o is configured to, during a particulate-cleaning cycle:■ transition the door from the closed configuration to the open configuration; and■ rotate the first non-conductive wiper along the first precipitation electrode to cause particulates to fall through the slot into the particulate receptacle.

14. The electrostatic precipitator of Claim 11, further comprising a discharge assembly:• comprising the first discharge electrode; and• comprising a non-conductive support extending from the first discharge electrode within the first inlet manifold and configured to contact the first inlet manifold in response to deflection of the first discharge electrode by greater than a threshold deflection.

15. The electrostatic precipitator of Claim 11 :• wherein the inlet assembly further comprises a second inlet manifold communicatively coupled to the inlet fan and configured to direct a second inlet airflow;• further comprising: o a second precipitation assembly:■ comprising a second precipitation electrode; and■ configured to receive the second inlet airflow via the second inlet manifold; o a second discharge electrode:■ concentric with the second precipitation electrode, extending through the second precipitation electrode, and terminating within the second inlet manifold; and■ configured to generate negative ions in the second inlet airflow via a corona discharge at the surface of the second discharge electrode• wherein the first particulate removal assembly further comprises: o a second rotational unit arranged between the second inlet manifold and the second precipitation assembly, and configured to rotate concentrically with the second precipitation electrode; o comprising a second non-conductive wiper coupled to the rotational unit, extending through a length of the second precipitation electrode, and configured to dislodge particulate matter adhering to the second precipitation electrode in response to rotation of the rotational unit; and o a drive unit configured to transfer torque to the first rotational unit and the second rotational unit, causing simultaneous rotation of the first non-conductive wiper over the first precipitation electrode and the second non-conductive wiper over the second precipitation electrode.

16. The method of Claim 3, wherein the first particulate removal assembly comprises a set of rappers configured to cause vibration of the first precipitation electrode sufficient to dislodge particulate matter adhering to the first precipitation electrode.

17. An electrostatic precipitator comprising a precipitation electrode, a discharge electrode, a particulate removal assembly, and a controller configured to:• initiate an inlet airflow through the electrostatic precipitator between the discharge electrode and the precipitation electrode;• measure a representative temperature of the inlet airflow, a representative humidity of the inlet airflow, and a representative PM value of inlet particles present in the inlet airflow;• at a first time, set a target potential difference between the discharge electrode and the precipitation electrode;• at a second time after the first time by a testing period, measure a first measured potential difference between the discharge electrode and the precipitation electrode and calculating a potential difference change between the target potential difference and the first measured potential difference;• in response to a measurable threshold exceeding the potential difference change: o estimate a particle accumulation rate based on the representative temperature of the inlet airflow, the representative humidity of the inlet airflow, and the representative PM value of the inlet particles; o calculate a cleaning interval based on the particle accumulation rate, the representative temperature of the inlet airflow, and the representative humidity of the inlet airflow; and o at a third time after the first time by the cleaning interval:■ pause the inlet airflow; and■ activate the particulate removal assembly to remove accumulated particles from the surface of the precipitation electrode.

18. The electrostatic precipitator of Claim 17, wherein the controller is further configured to estimate the particle accumulation rate by executing an empirical model representing the performance of the electrostatic precipitator based on the representative temperature of the inlet airflow, the representative humidity of the inlet airflow and the representative PM value of the inlet particles.

19. The electrostatic precipitator of Claim 17, wherein the controller is further configured to calculate the cleaning interval by executing a model of the back-corona effect based on the particle accumulation rate, the representative temperature of the inlet airflow, and the representative humidity of the inlet airflow.

20. The electrostatic precipitator of Claim 17:• further comprising a chassis;• further comprising an inlet assembly coupled to the chassis: o comprising an inlet funnel defining an inlet and an outlet; o comprising an inlet fan occupying the outlet of the inlet funnel and configured to generate the inlet airflow; and o comprising an inlet manifold communicatively coupled to the inlet fan and configured direct the inlet airflow;• further comprising a precipitation assembly coupled to the chassis: o comprising a tubular support constructed from a non-conductive material;o comprising the precipitation electrode defining a tubular form concentric with the tubular support and coupled to an inner surface of the tubular support; and o configured to receive the inlet airflow via the inlet manifold;• wherein the discharge electrode is: o concentric with the precipitation electrode and the tubular support, extending through the tubular support and precipitation electrode, and terminating within the inlet manifold; and o configured to generate negative ions in the inlet airflow via a corona discharge at the surface of the discharge electrode; and• the particulate removal assembly: o comprising a rotational unit arranged between the inlet manifold and the precipitation assembly and configured to rotate concentrically with the precipitation electrode; and o comprising a non-conductive wiper coupled to the rotational unit, extending through a length of the precipitation electrode, and configured to dislodge particulate matter adhering to the precipitation electrode in response to rotation of the rotational unit.

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