Air purification device providing odor reduction and improved air purification functions

Abstract

Disclosed is an air purification device providing odor reduction and air purification functions according to various embodiments of the present invention for achieving the objectives described above. The air purification device comprises: a suction unit having a suction port through which external air is suctioned in; a purification unit for purifying air suctioned in via the suction port; and a discharge unit provided with a discharge fan that generates airflow for suctioning and discharging the air, wherein the purification unit includes a plurality of purification spaces partitioned by each of one or more partition walls, a plurality of purification modules are arranged in each of the plurality of purification spaces, and the suctioned air is progressively purified by the plurality of purification modules while sequentially passing through each of the purification spaces.

Description

Air purifier that provides odor reduction and improved air purification capabilities

[0001] The present invention relates to an air purification device utilizing a photocatalytic reaction, and more specifically, to an air purification device for providing an improved air purification function together with an odor reduction function.

[0002] Air quality significantly impacts the health of all air-breathing animals, including humans. However, air pollution caused by industrialization and urbanization is rapidly deteriorating air quality to the point of threatening health and life. Consequently, the use of air purification devices to improve air quality is increasing in spaces where people and animals spend long periods of time, such as buildings and cars.

[0003] In general, air purification devices maintain the cleanliness of an environmental space by removing airborne pollutants such as fine particles, bacteria, and toxic gases. Air purification devices can be configured to purify using various methods, such as oxidation, reduction, decomposition, adsorption, air filters, and electrostatic precipitation.

[0004] For example, an air purification device may be provided in the form of a chamber in which a purification space is formed inside, and an inlet for introducing polluted air and an outlet for discharging purified air are formed on opposite sides, respectively. Such a conventional air purification device may be provided including an ultraviolet light source that emits ultraviolet light within the purification space and a photocatalyst that causes an air purification effect in response to the ultraviolet light. That is, air (polluted air) introduced through the inlet can be discharged in a purified state after having pollutants removed by the photocatalyst as it passes through the purification space. However, although conventional air purification devices can have the unique sterilizing effect of UV and remove some pollutants, they cannot provide a function to reduce or eliminate odors, so their applications may be somewhat limited.

[0005] Furthermore, the larger the area of ​​contact between the photocatalyst and UV light, or the longer the contact time between the air and the photocatalyst, the more enhanced the photocatalytic reaction, thereby maximizing air purification performance. However, increasing the photocatalytic reaction area or extending the photocatalytic reaction time increases the manufacturing difficulty and thus the cost burden.

[0006] The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide an air purification device that provides an improved air purification function along with an odor reduction function in order to solve the above-described problem.

[0007] The problems to be solved by the present invention are not limited to the problems mentioned above, and other problems not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description below.

[0008] In order to solve the above-described problem, an air purification device providing an odor reduction and air purification function according to various embodiments of the present invention is disclosed. The air purification device includes an intake section having an intake port through which outside air is sucked in, a purification section for purifying the air sucked in through the intake port, and an exhaust section having an exhaust fan for generating an air flow for sucking and exhausting the air, wherein the purification section includes a plurality of purification spaces each partitioned by one or more partition walls, and a plurality of purification modules are arranged in each of the plurality of purification spaces, and the sucked air is characterized in that it is purified in stages by the plurality of purification modules in a process of sequentially passing through each of the purification spaces.

[0009] In an alternative embodiment, the air purification device may further include a sensor unit provided on the outside of the device to obtain external air sensing information related to the external air, and a control unit that controls the operation of the exhaust fan based on the external air sensing information.

[0010] In an alternative embodiment, the suction unit may include a suction housing forming a space in which a stabilizing gear array connected to the plurality of purification modules is provided, a filter unit for filtering air flowing in through the suction port, an suction fan for generating suction force corresponding to the suction port, and an suction circulation fan for ventilating air in the space.

[0011] In an alternative embodiment, each of the purification modules may be provided to form a group arranged in a row through a plurality of combinations in a direction perpendicular to the direction of air movement, wherein each of the plurality of groups is arranged to have a predetermined separation distance on each purification space, and the partition wall may be characterized by having a coating layer that disperses and diffuses light.

[0012] In an alternative embodiment, each of the plurality of purification modules includes a light source that supplies light and an outer structure that surrounds the light source and has a photocatalyst applied to a surface thereof, wherein the outer structure is provided in a screw shape that forms a through hole into which the light source is inserted, and may include a plurality of holes.

[0013] In an alternative embodiment, the light source comprises at least one of a first light source associated with an ozone lamp generating ozone, a second light source associated with a UV-C lamp having a wavelength of 100 nm to 280 nm, and a third light source associated with a UV-A lamp having a wavelength of 320 nm to 400 nm, and the plurality of purification modules may be provided to include all of the first light source, the second light source, and the third light source.

[0014] In an alternative embodiment, the control unit may be characterized in that it generates purification direction information based on the air sensing information, and controls the lighting of each of the first light source, the second light source, and the third light source among the plurality of purification modules based on the generated purification direction information.

[0015] In an alternative embodiment, the purification unit may include a purification housing forming the plurality of purification spaces, a purification inlet formed in a first direction relative to the suction unit, a connection hole connecting each of the purification spaces, a curved portion formed to form a curve on the plurality of purification spaces corresponding to a direction in which the connection hole is provided, and a purification outlet formed in a second direction relative to the discharge unit.

[0016] In an alternative embodiment, the purification unit further includes a purification space opening / closing member that is provided corresponding to each of the purification inlet and the purification outlet, and opens and closes the purification inlet and the purification outlet under the control of the control unit, and the control unit may be characterized in that, when a critical reference time has elapsed after the operation of the discharge fan, the operation of the discharge fan is controlled to be stopped, and the purification space opening / closing member is controlled to close the purification inlet and the purification outlet.

[0017] In an alternative embodiment, the plurality of purification spaces may include a first purification space connected to the purification inlet, a second purification space connected to the purification outlet, and at least one intermediate purification space provided between the first purification space and the second purification space, and the proportion of the third light source may increase as it goes from the first purification space toward the second purification space.

[0018] In an alternative embodiment, the purification unit may include an internal circulation pipe connecting the first purification space and the second purification space, a purification circulation fan provided in the internal circulation pipe, and a circulation control valve provided in each of the first purification space and the second purification space to allow or block the inflow or outflow of air in the direction of the internal circulation pipe.

[0019] In an alternative embodiment, the purification unit may further include an inner sensor module provided adjacent to the purification outlet, and the control unit may be characterized in that it controls the operation of the circulation control valve and the purification circulation fan based on a comparison between sensing information sensed through each of the inner sensor module and the sensor unit.

[0020] Other specific details of the present invention are included in the detailed description and drawings.

[0021] According to various embodiments of the present invention, an air purification device having a structure in which a photocatalytic reaction is maximized can reduce odor and provide an improved air purification effect.

[0022] The effects of the present invention are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description below.

[0023] Various aspects are now described with reference to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals are used to refer to similar components generally. In the following examples, for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth to provide a comprehensive understanding of one or more aspects. However, it will be apparent that such aspects may be practiced without these specific details.

[0024] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating an air purification device that provides odor reduction and improved air purification performance in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary block diagram of an air purifying device that provides odor reduction and improved air purification performance in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

[0026] Figure 3 is an exemplary diagram illustrating an air purification process related to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] FIG. 4 is an exemplary view of a suction unit viewed from one side according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] FIG. 5 is an exemplary view from one direction of an air purification device that provides odor reduction and improved air purification performance in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] Fig. 6 is an exemplary drawing showing the appearance of a purification unit related to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] FIG. 7 is an exemplary diagram illustrating components included inside a purification unit related to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] FIG. 8 is an exemplary diagram illustrating an internal circulation pipe provided in a purification unit related to one embodiment of the present invention and a process of recirculating air within the purification unit by utilizing the same.

[0032] Figure 9 is an exemplary diagram illustrating a purification module related to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] FIG. 10 is an exemplary diagram illustrating that different types of light sources may be included in relation to the placement positions of each of a plurality of purification modules related to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] Fig. 11 is an exemplary view of an exhaust section viewed from one side according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] Various embodiments and / or aspects are now disclosed with reference to the drawings. In the following description, for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of one or more aspects. However, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that the aspect(s) may be practiced without these specific details. The following description and the accompanying drawings detail specific exemplary aspects of one or more aspects. However, these aspects are exemplary, and any of the various methods within the principles of the various aspects may be utilized, and the description is intended to encompass all such aspects and their equivalents. Specifically, the terms "embodiment," "example," "aspect," and "example" as used herein are not intended to imply that any aspect or design described therein is preferred or advantageous over other aspects or designs.

[0036] Hereinafter, regardless of the drawing numbers, identical or similar components are assigned the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions thereof are omitted. Furthermore, when describing the embodiments disclosed in this specification, if a detailed description of a related known technology is judged to obscure the gist of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, the detailed description thereof will be omitted. Furthermore, the attached drawings are only intended to facilitate easy understanding of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, and the technical concepts disclosed in this specification are not limited by the attached drawings.

[0037] Although the terms "first," "second," etc. are used to describe various elements or components, these elements or components are not limited by these terms. These terms are merely used to distinguish one element or component from another. Accordingly, it should be understood that a "first element or component" referred to below may also be a "second element or component" within the technical scope of the present invention.

[0038] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein may be used in their common sense to those of ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention pertains. Furthermore, terms defined in commonly used dictionaries are not to be interpreted ideally or excessively unless explicitly and specifically defined otherwise.

[0039] Furthermore, the term "or" is intended to mean an inclusive "or" rather than an exclusive "or." That is, unless otherwise specified or clear from context, "X employs A or B" is intended to mean either of the natural inclusive permutations. That is, if X employs A; X employs B; or X employs both A and B, "X employs A or B" can apply to any of these cases. Furthermore, the term "and / or" as used herein should be understood to refer to and include all possible combinations of one or more of the associated items listed.

[0040] Additionally, it should be understood that the terms "comprises" and / or "comprising" imply the presence of a given feature and / or component, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, components, and / or groups thereof. Furthermore, unless otherwise specified or clear from context to refer to the singular form, the singular form in the specification and claims should generally be construed to mean "one or more."

[0041] When a component is referred to as being "connected" or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that it may be directly connected or connected to that other component, but that there may be other components intervening. Conversely, when a component is referred to as being "directly connected" or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that there are no other components intervening.

[0042] The suffixes “module” and “part” used for components in the following description are given or used interchangeably only for the convenience of writing specifications, and do not have distinct meanings or roles in themselves.

[0043] When an element or layer is referred to as being "on" or "on" another element or layer, this includes not only directly on the other element or layer, but also whether or not there are other intervening elements or layers. Conversely, when an element is referred to as being "directly on" or "directly on" the other element or layer, this means that there are no intervening elements or layers.

[0044] Spatially relative terms such as "below," "beneath," "lower," "above," and "upper" may be used to easily describe the relationship between one component or another as depicted in the drawings. Spatially relative terms should be understood to include different orientations of the component during use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the drawings.

[0045] For example, if a component depicted in a drawing is flipped, a component described as "below" or "beneath" another component may be positioned "above" the other component. Thus, the exemplary term "below" may encompass both the above and below orientations. Components may also be oriented in other directions, and thus spatially relative terms may be interpreted based on their orientation.

[0046] The purposes and effects of the present invention, as well as the technical configurations for achieving them, will become clearer with reference to the embodiments described in detail below, along with the accompanying drawings. In describing the present invention, detailed descriptions of known functions or configurations will be omitted if they are deemed to unnecessarily obscure the gist of the invention. Furthermore, the terms described below are defined based on their functions in the present invention and may vary depending on the intentions or practices of the user or operator.

[0047] However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below and can be implemented in various other forms. These embodiments are provided solely to ensure the completeness of the present invention and to fully inform those skilled in the art of the scope of the disclosure. The present invention is defined solely by the scope of the claims. Therefore, such definitions should be based on the contents of this specification.

[0048]

[0049] Air quality has a significant impact on the health of all air-breathing animals, including humans. However, due to air pollution caused by industrialization and urbanization, air quality is rapidly deteriorating to the point of threatening health and life. Therefore, maintaining the cleanliness of environmental spaces is very important.

[0050] Maintaining air quality is particularly crucial in livestock farming settings. Recently, as livestock farming has become increasingly large-scale, enclosed barns have become widespread, facilitating easy management and control of the work environment. Raising large numbers of livestock in confined spaces results in the accumulation of feed and manure within the barns for extended periods, generating harmful gases such as organic dust, endotoxins, ammonia, and hydrogen sulfide. Livestock workers are constantly exposed to these harmful factors, leading to a high incidence of respiratory diseases, dermatitis, and other ailments. This deterioration in air quality within barns not only negatively impacts the health of humans and livestock, but can also pose significant environmental risks to nearby residents. Consequently, complaints about odors from nearby residents are on the rise.

[0051] In this way, reducing the sources of pollutants may be the most effective way to improve air quality in livestock farming sites, but this may be difficult to apply due to constraints in economic feasibility, work characteristics, and production conditions.

[0052] Accordingly, many livestock farms are currently installing ventilation systems or air purification devices in livestock sheds to reduce the generation of harmful substances.

[0053] Commonly used air purifiers utilize activated carbon for air purification. Activated carbon is a specially treated carbon with a porous structure. This porous structure allows activated carbon to effectively adsorb airborne pollutants and purify the air. Specifically, activated carbon possesses a very high surface area, allowing it to adsorb airborne pollutants onto its surface. In particular, activated carbon's porous structure selectively adsorbs molecules of a specific size, making it effective in removing harmful substances from the air. Thus, air purification using activated carbon is extremely helpful in purifying pollutants such as smoke, gases, and harmful gases.

[0054] These activated carbons can become saturated with contaminants, in which case the filter made of activated carbon must be replaced or regenerated.

[0055] Activated carbon has no global substitute. Korea, in particular, relies heavily on imports. Furthermore, the price of activated carbon is rising sharply worldwide each year. Consequently, continued use of activated carbon for air purification can be costly.

[0056] The present invention aims to provide a low-cost, highly efficient, and eco-friendly odor reduction and air purification device. According to an embodiment, the present invention can reduce odor and purify the air in a space through a photocatalytic reaction. Specifically, by inducing a photocatalytic reaction between ultraviolet (UV) light and a titanium oxide (TiO2) photocatalyst and introducing air into the photocatalytic reaction space, the photocatalyst's organic matter decomposition effect is induced in addition to the UV's inherent sterilization effect, thereby providing a high sterilization efficiency. In this way, when implementing an air purification device utilizing a photocatalytic reaction, there is an advantage in that it can be used semi-permanently without the need for a separate filter (e.g., an activated carbon filter) to be replaced.

[0057] However, in the case of air purification devices utilizing photocatalytic reactions, the degree of air purification can be affected by the area of ​​the photocatalytic reaction and the time it takes for air to move through the photocatalytic reaction process. For example, if odor-containing or polluted air rapidly passes through the photocatalytic reaction space, adequate air purification may not occur. Therefore, structural equipment is required to enhance the efficiency of the photocatalytic reaction.

[0058] The present invention provides an air purification device (1000) having an internal structure capable of improving a photocatalytic reaction area and a photocatalytic reaction time, thereby improving air purification efficiency by increasing the photocatalytic reaction efficiency. In addition, the air purification device (1000) of the present invention does not simply include one light source and one photocatalytic reaction space, but arranges a plurality of different types of light sources capable of performing various sterilizing actions in combination on a plurality of photocatalytic reaction spaces, thereby reducing the odor of the inhaled air (e.g., polluted or odor-containing air) and efficiently improving the air quality. A more detailed description of the specific structure of the air purification device providing an odor reduction and improved air purification function of the present invention and the effects generated thereby will be described below with reference to FIGS. 1 to 11.

[0059]

[0060] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating an air purification device providing odor reduction and improved air purification performance according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is an exemplary block diagram illustrating an air purification device providing odor reduction and improved air purification performance according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is an exemplary diagram illustrating an air purification process according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 is an exemplary diagram illustrating a side view of an intake unit according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5 is an exemplary diagram illustrating a side view of an air purification device providing odor reduction and improved air purification performance according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is an exemplary diagram illustrating the exterior of a purification unit according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7 is an exemplary diagram illustrating components included inside a purification unit according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 8 is an exemplary diagram illustrating an internal circulation pipe provided in a purification unit according to an embodiment of the present invention and a process of recirculating air within the purification unit by utilizing the same. FIG. 9 is an exemplary diagram illustrating a purification module according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is an exemplary diagram illustrating that different types of light sources may be included in relation to the placement positions of each of a plurality of purification modules according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 11 is an exemplary diagram illustrating an exhaust section according to one embodiment of the present invention viewed from one side.

[0061]

[0062] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, an air purifying device (1000) (hereinafter referred to as "air purifying device") providing an odor reduction and improved air purification function of the present invention may include an intake unit (100), a purifying unit (200), an exhaust unit (300), a moving unit (400), a sensor unit (500), and a control unit (600). The components described above are exemplary, and the scope of the present invention is not limited to the components described above. That is, additional components may be included or some of the components described above may be omitted depending on the implementation aspect of embodiments of the present invention.

[0063] According to an embodiment, the air purification device (1000) may be installed in a space corresponding to odor reduction and air purification. For example, the air purification device (1000) may be installed and equipped in a livestock shed containing harmful substances such as organic dust, endotoxin, ammonia, and hydrogen sulfide, and containing odors. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the air purification device of the present invention may be installed in a work space related to various industrial fields requiring air purification.

[0064] In an embodiment, a moving part (400) may be provided at the bottom of the air purification device (1000). As the moving part is provided in the air purification device (1000), the placement location of the air purification device (1000) within various spaces may be changed.

[0065] In one embodiment, the air purification device (1000) may be provided with an intake section (100) through which polluted air is introduced and an exhaust section (300) through which purified air is discharged, respectively, corresponding to each of two sides of a chamber-shaped purification section (200) forming an internal space related to purification.

[0066] Specifically, referring to FIG. 3, air (e.g., polluted air) introduced in one direction of the air purification device (1000) is sucked into the intake section (100), delivered to the purification section (200), purified in the purification section (200), and discharged through the discharge section (300). In this case, the purification section (200) may be formed to include a plurality of purification spaces (212). A plurality of purification modules that perform purification of polluted air through a photocatalytic reaction may be arranged and provided on the plurality of purification spaces (212). The plurality of purification spaces (212) are partitioned by a partition wall section (212a) to form individual spaces, and allow movement of air between adjacent purification spaces through a connecting hole (213). That is, the air purification device of the present invention may be characterized by allowing air sucked in through the suction unit (100) to sequentially pass through each purification space, thereby performing stepwise air purification by the purification module provided in each purification space. This is a structure that maximizes the purification photocatalytic reaction area and photocatalytic reaction time of the injected air, and in particular, by performing stepwise purification of the air, it can provide the effect of improving the efficiency of air purification.

[0067] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the air purification device (1000) may include an intake portion (100) having an intake port (120) formed through which outside air is sucked.

[0068] In an embodiment, the suction unit (100) may include a suction housing (110), a filter unit (130), an intake fan (121), an intake circulation fan (170), a display unit (140), a visual information display unit (160), and an input unit (150), as illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5. The components included in the aforementioned suction unit are exemplary, and additional components may exist or some of the aforementioned components may be omitted. FIGS. 4 (a) and 4 (b) are exemplary views showing the suction unit from the front, and each showing the case where the door is in an open and closed state.

[0069] According to one embodiment, the suction housing (110) forming the exterior of the suction unit (100) may be included. The suction housing (110) may form a space (110b) in which a stabilizer gear array (110c) is provided. The suction housing (110) may be provided in a hexahedral shape with a hollow interior, and the stabilizer gear array (110c) may be stored on the hollow interior, i.e., the space (110b). The stabilizer gear array (110c) may include a circuit board that serves to manage and control the electrical performance of the light source. The stabilizer gear array (110c) may mean a combination of stabilizers that control each of a plurality of light sources. Since the light source generates light through a complex electrical process, a stabilizer that performs management and control is required for stable operation. For example, a high voltage is required to turn on a light source, and the ballast provides the required high voltage to cause an electric discharge in the gas inside the light source to generate light. In addition, the ballast controls power usage by adjusting the current after the light source is turned on, thereby increasing energy efficiency, and also detects the temperature of the light source to prevent overheating. In this way, the ballast gear array (110c) connected to each of the light sources (i.e., purification modules) provided in the purification unit (200) is stored and provided in the inner space of the suction housing (110) (i.e., the installation space (110b)). That is, the suction housing (110) may include a suction housing (110) that forms an installation space (110b) in which a ballast gear array (110c) connected to a plurality of purification modules (200a) is provided.

[0070] According to an embodiment, a suction opening / closing door (110a) may be provided on one side (e.g., facing the front) of the suction housing (110). Depending on whether the suction opening / closing door (110a) is opened or closed, the inner space where the stabilizing gear array (110c) is provided may be exposed or blocked from the outside. For example, when the suction opening / closing door (110a) is open, the space (110b) where the stabilizing gear array (110c) is accommodated may be exposed.

[0071] Such a suction opening / closing door (110a) may be equipped with an opening / closing locking device. The opening / closing locking device may include, but is not limited to, at least one of a sliding opening / closing method, a pivoting opening / closing method, a folding opening / closing method, a detachable opening / closing method, or a magnetic opening / closing method.

[0072] According to an embodiment, the suction unit (100) may include a suction unit circulation fan (170) that ventilates the air in the equipped space (110b). Referring to FIG. 5, the suction unit circulation fan (170) may be provided corresponding to the equipped space (110b) in which the stabilizer array (110c) is provided, and serves to ventilate the corresponding space. In one embodiment, the suction unit circulation fan (170) may be characterized in that it operates in synchronization with the operation of a light source (i.e., a purification module). In a specific embodiment, the control unit (600) may drive the suction unit circulation fan (170) to ventilate the space in which the stabilizer array (110c) is provided when a plurality of purification modules (200a) are driven. That is, by driving the suction unit circulation fan (170) when the purification module is in operation, the stabilizer array can be prevented from being heated to a high temperature.

[0073] According to an embodiment, an intake port (120) for the intake of air may be formed on one side of the intake housing (110), and a filter unit (130) and an intake fan (121) may be arranged in the inner direction of the intake port (120) as shown in FIGS. 4 and 5.

[0074] In various embodiments, the intake fan (121) and the filter unit (130) may be provided on the internal space of the intake housing, and in a specific configuration, only the filter unit (130) may be provided exposed to the outside of the device while the intake fan (121) is positioned inside the intake housing. This design can improve the appearance of the device by minimizing the external protrusion area of ​​the filter unit (130), enable easy attachment and detachment of the filter, and increase space efficiency.

[0075] In addition, by arranging both the intake fan (121) and the filter unit (130) in the internal space of the intake housing, it can be implemented in a form that is completely embedded inside. This internal embedded configuration can improve the integration and stability of the device and increase resistance to physical damage from the outside. This arrangement has the advantage of optimizing the design and functionality of the air purification device and simultaneously improving the user's convenience and ease of maintenance of the device. In an embodiment, the intake unit (100) can include a filter unit (130) that filters the air introduced through the intake port (120). The filter unit (130) can serve to block (i.e., filter) impurities from the air introduced into the air purification device (1000). For example, the air introduced into the device may contain a lot of dust or various impurities, and if this is not properly filtered, it can cause serious wear and tear inside the device, which can reduce the operating efficiency of the device. The filter unit (130) can filter impurities contained in the air flowing into the air purification device (1000) to prevent device failure and improve durability.

[0076] For example, the filter unit (130) may be provided with various filters such as a carbon filter, a CFM filter, a pre-filter, and an Andrea filter. In a specific embodiment, the filter unit (130) may include at least one of a pre-filter that prevents the inflow of foreign substances, a HEPA filter that filters out dust or bacteria, and a deodorizing filter that is effective in removing unpleasant odors. The pre-filter may be, for example, a filter that filters out animal fur, lint, hair, large dust, etc. Such a pre-filter may be located at the outermost part of the filter unit (130) to protect a high-performance filter (e.g., a HEPA filter) and increase its lifespan. A HEPA filter is a high-performance filter that can filter out most fine particles, and can filter out more than 99.97% of particles with a size of 0.3 μm in the air.

[0077] In addition, in the embodiment, the suction unit (100) may also include an intake fan (121) that generates suction force corresponding to the intake port (120). The intake fan (121) may be located at the rear end of the intake port (120) and may generate an air flow to introduce air into the interior of the air purification device (1000). In the embodiment, the intake fan (121) may generate an air flow through the rotation of a propeller. For example, the intake fan (121) may generate an air flow that causes air to be introduced into the interior of the air purification device (1000) through a first side and discharged to the exterior through a second side.

[0078] In addition, according to an embodiment, a display unit (140) may be provided on one side of the suction housing (110). For example, the one side of the suction housing (110) on which the display unit (140) is provided may be a side related to the front side of the air purification device (1000), as illustrated in (a) of FIG. 4. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the display unit may be provided attached to various areas of the air purification device that are easily accessible to the user (e.g., an outer side of the purification unit or an outer side of the discharge unit, etc.).

[0079] The display unit (140) can display (output) various information related to the operation of the air purification device (1000). For example, the display unit (140) can output information about the air quality related to the current space, information about the time it takes for the air quality to improve, and information about how much the air quality has improved. As another example, the display unit (140) can display execution screen information of an application program running in the air purification device (1000), or UI (User Interface) or GUI (Graphical User Interface) information according to such execution screen information. The specific description of the information displayed by the above-described display unit is only an example, and the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0080] The display unit (140) may include at least one of a liquid crystal display (LCD), a thin film transistor-liquid crystal display (TFT LCD), an organic light-emitting diode (OLED), a flexible display, a 3D display, and an e-ink display.

[0081] In an embodiment, the display unit (140) may be formed as a touch screen by forming a mutual layer structure with the touch sensor or by forming an integral structure. Such a touch screen may function as a user input unit that provides an input interface between the air purifying device (1000) and the user, and at the same time, provide an output interface between the air purifying device (1000) and the user.

[0082] Additionally, according to an embodiment, one surface of the suction housing (110) may be provided with one or more input units (150). The input units (150) may include mechanical input means (e.g., buttons, dome switches, jog wheels, jog switches, etc.) and touch input means.

[0083] For example, one or more input units (150) may include a first input unit (151), a second input unit (152), and a third input unit (153). The first input unit (151) to the third input unit (153) may be configured to generate a control signal for controlling the on / off of the air purifying device (1000), controlling the on / off of a fan, or controlling the on / off of a light source. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and one or more input units may be utilized to generate various control signals, such as adjusting the rotation speed of a fan to adjust the wind speed, or controlling only some of a plurality of light sources to be turned off.

[0084] Additionally, according to an embodiment, the suction unit (100) may include a visual information display unit (160). The visual information display unit (160) is provided on one side of the suction housing (110) and can provide visual recognition information to the user through various lighting methods. The visual information display unit (160) can provide information to the user more intuitively by utilizing at least one output method among a blinking change method or a color change method.

[0085] For example, the visual information display unit of an air purifier may be designed to incorporate a three-color LED warning light to convey important information to the user in a highly intuitive manner. The visual information display unit may utilize visual signals in various colors to allow the user to immediately recognize the current operating status of the air purifier.

[0086] When the air purifier is operating normally, the visual information display may activate a green warning light, symbolizing activity and stability. This provides a positive signal to the user that the device is actively purifying the air and that the environment is safe. Conversely, when the device is inactive or automatically turns off without user intervention, a red warning light may illuminate to alert the user to a change in status. This red signal clearly indicates that the device is currently inactive, prompting the user to perform any necessary actions. Furthermore, when a problem occurs with the device, a yellow warning light, indicating a warning and caution, may illuminate alongside the red warning light to indicate the severity of the problem. This yellow warning light does not illuminate alone, but rather only illuminates in conjunction with the red warning light, indicating that the device is inactive, further alerting the user that the device requires inspection or maintenance. This color combination has the advantage of allowing the user to quickly recognize any abnormalities in the device and take appropriate action.

[0087] Implementing a visual information display like this allows users to easily understand the various statuses of air purifiers and supports efficient use and management of the device. Furthermore, by intuitively understanding the real-time status of the air purifier, maintenance becomes easier and contributes to long-term performance. This intuitive visual information provision method significantly enhances the user experience and plays a crucial role in maximizing the convenience and safety of air purifiers.

[0088] For another example, when the air pollution level in the space where the air purification device (1000) is installed is high, a red light can be displayed through the visual information display unit (160), and when the air pollution level is low, a green light can be lit, and so on, lights of different colors can be lit depending on the air pollution level. For another example, the lighting pattern of the visual information display unit (160) can be changed depending on the type of light source driven for air purification (e.g., whether a light source related to a UV-C lamp is lit, a light source related to an ozone lamp is lit, or a light source related to a UV-C lamp is lit). The specific description of the operation of the visual information display unit described above is merely an example, and the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0089] That is, the visual information display unit (160) can provide users of the air purification device with intuitive cognitive information about the real-time status of operation and pollution level by blinking the LED in various ways through the control of the control unit (600) based on the air pollution level in the work space or the operating status of the air purification device (1000).

[0090] In various embodiments, the air purification device (1000) of the present invention may include a sensor unit (500) that senses the state of air in a space in which the air purification device (1000) is installed. The sensor unit (500) may be installed on the outside of the air purification device (1000) to obtain external air sensing information related to the external air. In an embodiment, the operating state of the air purification device (1000) may be controlled through the external air sensing information. The external air sensing information may include information about the current air pollution level and information about the degree of odor in the space. As an example, the sensor unit (500) may be a composite gas measuring device that measures composite gases. For example, the sensor unit (500) may generate outside air sensing information by sensing information on nitrogen dioxide (NO2), sulfur dioxide (SO2), carbon monoxide (CO), hydrogen sulfide (H2S), ammonia (NH3), formaldehyde (HCHO), acetaldehyde (C2H4O), toluene (C7H8), etc., but is not limited thereto. In an embodiment, the sensor unit (500) may be provided with a PM2.5 / PM10 sensor module for measuring the concentration of fine dust, a carbon dioxide sensor module for measuring the concentration of carbon dioxide (CO2), a VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) sensor module for measuring the concentration of hazardous chemical substances, an ozone sensor module for measuring the concentration of ozone (O3) in the air, an odor sensor module for measuring the degree of odor, etc.

[0091] In addition, according to an embodiment, the air purification device (1000) of the present invention may include a control unit (600) that controls components of the air purification device based on information sensed through a sensor unit and information input through an input unit.

[0092] The control unit (600) typically controls the overall operation of the air purification device (1000). For example, the control unit (600) may receive a user's input through the display unit (140) or the input unit (150) and generate a driving control signal to drive the fan or purification module of the air purification device. As another example, the control unit (600) may control the rpm of the exhaust fan (330) based on external air sensing information. For a specific example, when the level of air contamination is high based on the external air sensing information, the control unit may generate a control signal to rotate the exhaust fan (330) at a low rpm, and when the level of air contamination is low, the control unit may generate a control signal to rotate the exhaust fan at a high rpm. That is, the control unit (600) may control to lower the rpm when the level of air contamination is high so that the air passes through the purification space slowly and the purification time is long, and to increase the rpm when the level of air contamination is low so that the air passes through the purification space quickly and the purification time is short.

[0093] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the air purification device (1000) may include a storage unit. The storage unit may store program codes for the operation of the control unit (600) and temporarily store input / output data.

[0094] The storage unit may include at least one type of storage medium among a flash memory type, a hard disk type, a multimedia card micro type, a card type memory (e.g., SD or XD memory, etc.), a random access memory (RAM), a static random access memory (SRAM), a read-only memory (ROM), an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), a programmable read-only memory (PROM), a magnetic memory, a magnetic disk, and an optical disk. The air purifying device (1000) may also operate in relation to web storage that performs a storage function of the storage unit on the internet.

[0095] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the air purification device (1000) may include a communication unit that transmits and receives information for an air purification service from at least one of an external device and an input unit (150).

[0096] The communication unit may include a wired / wireless Internet module for network access. Wireless Internet technologies that may be used include WLAN (Wireless LAN) (Wi-Fi), Wibro (Wireless broadband), Wimax (World Interoperability for Microwave Access), and HSDPA (High Speed ​​Downlink Packet Access). Wired Internet technologies that may be used include XDSL (Digital Subscriber Line), FTTH (Fibers to the home), and PLC (Power Line Communication). In addition, the communication unit may include a short range communication module. Short range communication technologies that may be used include Bluetooth, RFID (Radio Frequency Identification), IrDA (Infrared Data Association), UWB (Ultra Wideband), and ZigBee.

[0097] In addition, the communication unit uses radio waves to recognize unique information of a user at a distance using RFID (Radio Frequency Identification), a type of short-range communication technology. For example, the user may carry a card or mobile terminal containing an RFID module. Information identifying the user (e.g., the user's personal ID, identification code, etc. registered in the air purification device) may be recorded in the RFID module carried by the user. By identifying the RFID module carried by the user, the air purification device (1000) can identify a user who wishes to use the air purification service using the air purification device (1000), update a database for the identified user, or accumulate new data.

[0098] In addition to RFID technology, the communication unit may include various technologies (e.g., short-range communication technologies such as Bluetooth) that can transmit and receive a user's unique information in a contactless or contactless manner. Furthermore, the communication unit may include a biometric data identification module that identifies the user's biometric data (voice, fingerprint, face) in conjunction with a microphone, touchpad, camera module, etc.

[0099] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the air purification device (1000) may include a purification unit (200) that purifies air sucked in through an intake port (120). The purification unit (200) may purify the inflowing air by utilizing a photocatalytic reaction. As illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 5 , the purification unit (200) is provided between the intake port (100) and the discharge port (300), and may purify air moving from the intake port (100) to the discharge port (300). In an embodiment, the purification unit (200) may purify air filtered after passing through the filter unit (130) of the intake port (100). A more specific description of the purification unit (200) will be described later with reference to FIGS. 6 to 10 .

[0100] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the purification unit (200) may include a purification housing (210), a plurality of purification modules (200a), a purification inlet (211), a plurality of purification spaces (212), a partition wall portion (212a), a connection hole (213), a curved portion (214), and a purification outlet (215). The components included in the above-described purification unit are exemplary, and additional components may be present or some of the above-described components may be omitted.

[0101] According to one embodiment, the purification unit (200) may include a purification housing (210) that forms the exterior of the purification unit (200) and forms an internal space in which various components of the purification unit (200) are arranged.

[0102] In an embodiment, a door (220) may be provided on one side of the purification housing (210). Depending on whether the door (220) is opened or closed, an internal space in which a plurality of purification modules (200a) are provided may be exposed or blocked. For example, when the door (220) is open, an internal space in which a plurality of purification modules (200a) are arranged may be exposed. For example, a user may open the door (220) to replace a plurality of purification modules (200a) or adjust the arrangement positions of each purification module (200a).

[0103] Such a door (220) may be equipped with an opening / closing locking device. The opening / closing locking device may include, but is not limited to, at least one of a sliding opening / closing method, a pivoting opening / closing method, a folding opening / closing method, a detachable opening / closing method, or a magnetic opening / closing method.

[0104] A plurality of purification spaces (212) may be formed inside the purification housing (210). The plurality of purification spaces (212) may form spaces divided by one or more partition walls (212a), and air movement between adjacent purification spaces may be permitted through connection holes (213). The connection holes (213) may refer to passages connecting each purification space, as illustrated in FIG. 7.

[0105] According to an embodiment, the purification unit (200) may include a purification inlet (211) formed in a first direction relative to the suction unit. The purification inlet (211) may be formed on one surface of the purification housing (210) corresponding to the suction unit (100). Air sucked into the suction unit (100) passes through the filter unit (130) and the suction fan (121) and is then introduced into the purification inlet (211).

[0106] Air introduced into the purification space through the purification inlet (211) can be purified in stages through each of the plurality of purification modules (200a) provided in each purification space, and can be delivered to the discharge unit (300) by passing through the purification outlet (215) formed in the second direction relative to the discharge unit (300). The purification outlet (215) can be formed on one surface of the purification housing (210) corresponding to the discharge unit (300).

[0107] That is, the purification unit (200) may include a plurality of purification spaces each partitioned by one or more partition walls (212a), and a plurality of purification modules are arranged on each purification space. In this case, the air introduced through the purification inlet (211) may be purified in stages by the plurality of purification modules (200a) arranged on each space while sequentially passing through the plurality of purification spaces, and is delivered to the discharge unit (300) through the purification outlet (215).

[0108] In an embodiment, a plurality of purification modules (200a) may be installed in a direction perpendicular to the direction of air movement inside a plurality of purification spaces (212). With reference to FIG. 7, the direction of air movement may be a first axis direction related to up and down, and the installation direction of the plurality of purification modules (200a) may be a second axis direction related to a depth (or thickness) perpendicular to the first axis. In addition, in an embodiment, a plurality of purification modules (200a) may form a group that is arranged in a row through a plurality of combinations. Specifically, the purification modules may be arranged to form a group by being aligned in a third axis direction perpendicular to both the first and second axes. In a specific example, as illustrated in FIG. 7, three purification modules may form each group, and each group may be arranged to have a predetermined distance apart from each other on each purification space. That is, each of the plurality of groups may be arranged to have a preset distance apart from each other on each purification space.

[0109] According to one embodiment, each of the plurality of purification modules (200a) may include a light source (200a-1) that supplies light, as illustrated in FIG. 9, and an outer structure (200a-2) that surrounds the light source (200a-1) and has a photocatalyst applied to its surface. In this case, the outer structure (200a-2) may be provided in a screw shape that forms a through hole into which the light source (200a-1) is inserted, and may include a plurality of holes (200a-2a).

[0110] According to an embodiment, the light supplied by the light source (200a-1) may include ultraviolet rays (UV). Ultraviolet rays are light with a wavelength range of 10 to 400 nm (energy range of 3 eV to 124 eV), and may refer to electromagnetic waves with a wavelength shorter than visible light and longer than X-rays. For example, the light source (200a-1) may include artificial lighting such as lamps, incandescent lamps, mercury lamps, and light-emitting diodes. More specifically, the light source (200a-1) may be implemented through a UV LED and a UV lamp. Compared to a UV lamp, a UV LED has the advantages of easy wavelength control, low power consumption, and low heat generation. In addition, a UV LED has the advantages of excellent durability as a solid-state lighting, being environmentally friendly because it does not use harmful discharge gases such as mercury, and having a very long lifespan. UV lamps require time to turn on and warm up for stabilization, but they have the advantage of being fast in response and small in size, allowing for a variety of design applications and allowing for a variety of configurations.

[0111] According to one embodiment, the light source (200a-1) may be provided in a cylindrical shape having a predetermined length, as illustrated in FIG. 9. Here, the predetermined length may correspond to the length of the width (i.e., depth) of the purification unit (200). In the embodiment, the length of the light source (200a-1) may be formed to be smaller than the width of the inner space of the purification unit (200) and may be provided inside the purification housing (210).

[0112] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the light source (200a-1) may include one or more light sources that perform different purification functions. Specifically, the light source (200a-1) may include a first light source (200a-1) related to an ozone lamp that generates ozone, a second light source (200a-1) related to a UV-C lamp having a wavelength of 100 nm to 280 nm, and a third light source (200a-1) related to a UV-A lamp having a wavelength of 320 nm to 400 nm.

[0113] The first light source (200a-1) related to the ozone lamp supplies light with a wavelength of 185 nm, which is excellent for purification related to the decomposition of organic matter. In addition, the second light source (200a-1) related to the UV-C lamp supplies light with a wavelength of 254 nm, which can be used for the main purpose of air sterilization. In addition, the third light source (200a-1) related to the UV-A lamp supplies light with a wavelength of 360 to 405 nm, which can reduce odor. In particular, the third light source (200a-1) can decompose ozone. For example, in the case of ozone, it is important to prevent ozone from being transmitted to the user because it has a direct effect on respiratory and cardiovascular health. In the case of utilizing the first light source (200a-1) related to the ozone lamp, such as the air purification device (1000) of the present invention, it is preferable to also provide a third light source to decompose ozone, as ozone may be transmitted to the user or livestock.

[0114] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the purification unit (200) may include an outer structure (200a-2) provided along the perimeter of the light source (200a-1). In one embodiment, the outer structure (200a-2) may be characterized by being coated with a photocatalyst.

[0115] Photocatalysts can provide antibacterial, antiviral, and deodorizing properties in response to light above a certain energy level. Photocatalytic devices absorb light energy, resulting in catalytic activity. This catalytic activity, combined with their powerful oxidizing power, can oxidize and decompose environmental pollutants such as organic substances.

[0116] Specifically, a photocatalyst may be characterized by promoting a chemical reaction (e.g., a redox reaction) through ultraviolet light. When irradiated with light having a certain energy or higher, the photocatalyst generates reactive oxygen species and hydroxyl radicals, which can decompose odorous substances and have an antibacterial effect through their strong oxidation and reduction effects. In an embodiment, the photocatalyst may include titanium oxide (TiO2). That is, the outer structure of the present invention may be provided by coating titanium oxide. Titanium oxide has the advantages of being harmless to the human body, having excellent photocatalytic activity, excellent light corrosion resistance, and being inexpensive.

[0117] Titanium dioxide reacts with light with energy above its band gap (e.g., ultraviolet light), causing electrons to transition from the valence band to the conduction band and holes to form in the valence band. These electrons and holes can then react with oxygen and moisture to undergo redox reactions or recombine to generate heat.

[0118] Titanium oxide generates electrons and holes by light emitted from a light source, and each electron and hole can react with O2 and H2O in the air to produce two types of active oxygen on the surface: superoxide anion (O2-) and hydroxyl radical (-OH).

[0119] Hydroxyl radicals have high oxidation and reduction potentials, so they are excellent for purifying NOx, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and various odors, and can completely remove BOD, chromatic and non-biodegradable pollutants, and environmental hormones from livestock wastewater, sewage, and factory wastewater. In addition, hydroxyl radicals can oxidize various target substances, such as sterilizing over 99% of various pathogenic bacteria and pathogenic Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and O-157. This titanium oxide can be economical because it reacts with solar energy or fluorescent light and exhibits permanent function through the cycle of "fixation to an object, photolysis, and regeneration." In addition, since the byproducts after the reaction are water and CO2, which are harmless to humans and the environment, it can be applied to various fields.

[0120] The outer structure (200a-2) has a screw shape with a hollow formed in the center as shown in Fig. 9, and can be provided so that a light source (200a-1) is inserted inside. The outer structure (200a-2) is configured through a screw shape wound in a helically direction, and can form a plurality of layers. Each layer of the outer structure may be characterized by having a plurality of holes formed therein. The plurality of holes can serve as passages through which air can pass. As air moves through the outer structure, it can be continuously introduced into the plurality of holes formed in each layer, and thus the area and time of the photocatalytic reaction can be increased.

[0121] According to one embodiment, the plurality of purification spaces (212) provided inside the purification housing (210) may include a first purification space connected to the purification inlet (211), a second purification space connected to the purification outlet (215), and one or more intermediate purification spaces provided between the first purification space and the second purification space. In a specific example, referring to FIG. 7, the first space (212-1) may correspond to the first purification space, the second space (212-2) and the third space (212-3) may correspond to one or more intermediate purification spaces, and the fourth space (212-4) may correspond to the second purification space. According to an embodiment, the air introduced into the purification inlet (211) may be purified in stages while sequentially passing through the first space (212-1), the second space (212-2), the third space (212-3), and the fourth space (212-4).

[0122] These first space (212-1) to fourth space (212-4) may be formed by being separated by one or more partition walls (212a). In various embodiments, each of the one or more partition walls (212a) may be characterized by having a coating layer that disperses and diffuses light.

[0123] According to one embodiment, the coating layer may be configured via a prism to scatter light emitted from the light source (200a-1). The light emitted from the light source (200a-1) may be dispersed and diffusely reflected in multiple directions by the coating layer formed on the partition wall portion (212a). Accordingly, the efficiency of the photocatalytic reaction may be further improved as the amount of light scattered in each purification space increases.

[0124] In another embodiment, the coating layer may be formed using a photocatalyst. Specifically, a photocatalyst, titanium oxide, may be applied along the surface of the partition wall (212a) to form the coating layer. This coating layer can induce a photocatalytic reaction through air moving within the internal space and light (i.e., ultraviolet rays) supplied from a light source. In other words, as the area of ​​the photocatalyst in contact with air increases beyond the outer structure on which the photocatalyst is applied, the photocatalytic reaction occurs more significantly, thereby maximizing air purification performance.

[0125] According to one embodiment, the purification unit (200) may include a curved portion (214) formed to form a curved surface on a plurality of purification spaces (212) corresponding to the direction in which the connection holes (213) are provided. The curved portion (214) may be formed corresponding to an area in which the connection holes (213) are provided, as illustrated in FIG. 7. The curved portion (214) may be for inducing a smooth flow of air. For example, air may remain in one area due to a swirling phenomenon at the corner portion of each purification space. When the curved portion (214) is provided, a smooth flow of air occurs corresponding to the corner area, thereby improving the air purification efficiency.

[0126] In an embodiment, the light source (200a-1) provided in the air purification device (1000) of the present invention may be at least one of a first light source related to an ozone lamp that generates ozone, a second light source related to a UV-C lamp having a wavelength of 100 nm to 280 nm, and a third light source related to a UV-A lamp having a wavelength of 320 nm to 400 nm, and the plurality of purification modules (200a) may be characterized in that they are provided to include all of the first light source (200a-1), the second light source (200a-1), and the third light source (200a-1).

[0127] According to one embodiment, an ozone lamp may be provided including high-purity quartz. The quartz tube used in the manufacture of the ozone lamp simultaneously transmits 253.7 nm (germicidal wavelength) and 185 nm (ozone generation wavelength), and accordingly, the 185 nm wavelength generated and transmitted from the ozone lamp can react with oxygen in the air to generate ozone (O3). The ozone generated in this way has a strong oxidizing effect, and thus performs sterilizing and deodorizing effects. The generated ozone can be diffused into the air within the purification space, enabling sterilization of non-irradiated surfaces and providing a strong deodorizing effect.

[0128] According to an embodiment, a first light source related to an ozone lamp supplies light with a wavelength of 185 nm to perform purification related to decomposition of organic matter, a second light source related to a UV-C lamp supplies light with a wavelength of 254 nm to perform sterilization, and a third light source related to a UV-A lamp supplies light with a wavelength of 360 to 405 nm to reduce odor and decompose ozone.

[0129] That is, the present invention arranges a plurality of purification modules (200a) corresponding to each of a plurality of purification spaces (212), and provides light sources included in each purification module to include all of the first light source, the second light source, and the third light source, thereby performing various purifications (e.g., sterilization, decomposition of organic matter, and reduction of odor) on the air, thereby improving the efficiency of purification.

[0130] According to one embodiment of the present invention, it may be characterized in that the proportion of the third light source increases from the first purification space toward the second purification space. For example, referring to FIG. 7, the first purification space may refer to the first space (212-1), and the second purification space may refer to the fourth space (212-4). For example, the first light source may be an ozone lamp that can generate ozone. Although ozone generated through the first light source is excellent for sterilization and deodorization, it has a direct impact on respiratory and cardiovascular health, so it is important to prevent ozone from being delivered to the user. The air purification device (1000) of the present invention utilizes the first light source related to the ozone lamp, but increases the proportion of the third light source that decomposes ozone toward the rear end of the purification, thereby preventing ozone from being delivered to the user or livestock.

[0131] In one embodiment, PLC-based Hertz (Hz) control can be performed to maximize the performance, efficiency, and user convenience of the air purifier. More specifically, the control unit (600) can precisely control the speed of the exhaust fan within the air purifier directly based on user input. The user can directly set the desired fan speed through an interface installed in the PLC, and the PLC can also automatically adjust the fan speed based on environmental data collected from sensors.

[0132] For example, a user could select the operating speed using input buttons numbered 1 through 10 displayed on the display. Each numbered button represents a specific Hertz (Hz) value, starting at 15 Hz and extending up to 60 Hz. This allows the user to freely adjust the exhaust fan speed within a range of 15 Hz to 60 Hz, optimizing air circulation within the space.

[0133] In addition, the control unit (600) can control each light source to reduce the risk of malfunction due to overcurrent when the equipment is powered on, in order to ensure stable operation of the equipment. Specifically, when the equipment is powered on, the light sources are controlled to light sequentially from channel 1 to channel 4 (e.g., from the first space to the fourth space), thereby enabling each channel to be stably activated. This sequential lighting method has the advantage of minimizing electrical shock that may occur during the initial operation of the equipment, thereby increasing the safety of the equipment and reducing the possibility of malfunction.

[0134] This PLC-based Hertz control method allows users to easily adjust the operating speed of the air purifier, maintaining an air circulation rate appropriate for the space. This can offer various benefits, including improved energy efficiency, minimizing fan noise, and extending the lifespan of the device. Furthermore, PLC-based Hertz control makes air purifier operation smarter and more economical, providing optimal environmental conditions and high user satisfaction.

[0135] In various embodiments, the control unit (600) may be characterized by generating purification direction information based on air sensing information, and controlling the lighting of each of the first light source, the second light source, and the third light source among the plurality of purification modules based on the generated purification direction information. Here, the air sensing information may be information on the quality of external air measured through the sensor unit (500) provided on the outside of the air purification device (1000), and the purification direction information may include information on the type of light source that should be driven to purify the measured external air quality.

[0136] For example, if the air sensing information measured through the sensor unit (500) includes information that the level of organic matter content is good but a lot of bacteria are contained, the operation of the purification module related to the first light source can be controlled to turn off the ozone lamp related to the decomposition of organic matter, and the operation of the purification module related to the second light source can be controlled to turn on the UV-C lamp whose main purpose is sterilization. In this case, the purification module formed as a light source unnecessary for purification may not be driven, so that unnecessary waste of power can be minimized, and there is an advantage in that more appropriate purification can be performed in response to real-time air quality. That is, according to the air sensing information measured in real time, purification directional information can be generated so that a light source capable of performing more appropriate purification can be turned on, so that appropriate purification in response to the current air quality can be performed. The specific description of the above-described air sensing information, purification directional information, and the lighting of the light source according to the same is merely an example, and the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0137] According to one embodiment of the present invention, it may be characterized in that the purification modules composed of a first light source related to an ozone lamp are provided in a purification space ahead of the purification modules composed of a third light source related to UV-A.

[0138] In a specific example, the first purification space (212) may be provided with purification modules composed of a first light source related to an ozone lamp, and the second purification space (212) may be provided with purification modules composed of a third light source related to UV-A. This is to perform powerful decomposition of organic matter through the generation of ozone in the front stage of purification, and to prevent ozone from being discharged to the outside of the device through post-processing to decompose the initially generated ozone in a later stage. For example, if the purification modules composed of the first light source are arranged in front of the purification modules composed of the third light source (i.e., on the front purification space), ozone may not be decomposed and may be exposed to the outside, which may cause great damage.

[0139] In a more specific embodiment, referring to FIG. 10, four purification spaces (212) may be provided inside the purification housing (210). In this case, the first space (212-1) corresponds to the first purification space, the fourth space (212-4) corresponds to the second purification space, and the second space (212-2) and the third space may correspond to one or more intermediate purification spaces. First, a first light source related to an ozone lamp may be arranged on the first purification space. Specifically, all six purification modules corresponding to group ① may be arranged to be configured as the first light source. In addition, all six purification modules corresponding to group ② may be configured as the first light source. In the embodiment, each of the six purification modules corresponding to group ③ may be provided to include at least one of the first light source or the second light source. In addition, purification modules each configured as the second light source and the third light source corresponding to group ④ may be arranged in a mixed manner. In this way, the layout design can be performed so that purification modules composed of a first light source are placed at the front end, and purification modules composed of a third light source are placed at the rear end.

[0140] According to one embodiment, the purification unit (200) may further include a purification space opening / closing member (216) that is provided corresponding to each of the purification inlet (211) and the purification outlet (215), and that opens and closes the purification inlet (211) and the purification outlet (215) under the control of the control unit (600). For example, as illustrated in FIGS. 7 and 8, the purification space opening / closing member (216) may open and close each of the purification inlet (211) and the purification outlet (215) through sliding movement. The opening / closing member (216) may be changed to at least one of a first state and a second state by an opening / closing control signal of the control unit (600), thereby opening or closing the purification inlet (211) and the purification outlet (215).

[0141] In an embodiment, the control unit (600) may be characterized in that, when a critical reference time elapses after the operation of the exhaust fan (330), the operation of the exhaust fan (330) is stopped, and the purification space opening / closing member (216) is controlled to close the purification inlet (211) and the purification outlet (215).

[0142] In one embodiment, the operation of the exhaust fan (330) may be to generate a flow of air into the purification unit (200) for purifying the outside air. For example, when purifying air through a photocatalytic reaction, it is important to ensure that the air remains in the photocatalytic reaction space for a certain period of time. If the air passes through at a high speed, proper purification cannot be performed. Accordingly, the control unit (600) may control the purification inlet (211) and the purification outlet (215) to seal the purification spaces inside the purification unit (200) when the air to be purified flows into the purification unit (200) for a certain period of time (e.g., 20 seconds).

[0143] This configuration increases the time that air remains in the internal purification space, which in turn increases the photocatalytic reaction time and maximizes the air purification efficiency.

[0144] In an embodiment, the control unit (600) controls the purification space opening / closing member (216) to open the purification inlet (211) and the purification outlet (215) again when the internal purification spaces are sealed and a sealing reference time (e.g., 30 seconds) has elapsed, so that air drawn into the inside of the purification unit is discharged to the discharge unit (300).

[0145] In various embodiments, the threshold reference time and the sealing reference time, which serve as criteria for closing and reopening the purification space opening / closing member (216), may be varied based on the outside air sensing information obtained through the sensor unit (500). Specifically, the better the outside air quality measured through the sensor unit (500), the more the control unit (600) may increase the threshold reference time and decrease the sealing reference time. Conversely, the worse the outside air quality measured through the sensor unit (500), the more the control unit (600) may decrease the threshold reference time and increase the sealing reference time. For example, when the outside air sensing information identifies that the air quality is very good, the control unit (600) may change the threshold reference time from the existing 20 seconds to 40 seconds, and may change the sealing reference time from the existing 30 seconds to 10 seconds. The specific numerical descriptions of the above-described threshold reference time and sealing reference time are merely examples, and the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0146] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the purification unit (200) may include an internal circulation pipe (230) connecting a first purification space and a second purification space, a purification circulation fan (231) provided in the internal circulation pipe (230), and a circulation control valve (232) provided in each of the first purification space and the second purification space to allow or block the inflow or outflow of air in the direction of the internal circulation pipe (230).

[0147] Specifically, referring to FIG. 8, an internal circulation pipe (230) may be provided to connect a first space (212-1) corresponding to a first purification space and a second space (212-2) corresponding to a second purification space, and a circulation control valve (232) is formed corresponding to each of the first space (212-1) and the second space (212-2) where both ends of the internal circulation pipe (230) are formed. The internal circulation pipe (230) may be a pipe for circulating air inside the purification unit. The circulation control valve (232) may be configured to allow and block the movement of air to the internal circulation pipe (230). For example, the circulation control valve (232) may include, but is not limited to, a solenoid valve and a motor valve that control the opening and closing of the valve by generating an electromagnetic force of an electromagnetic coil based on a control signal generated from the control unit (600). The circulation control valve may be provided with various power transmission configurations that open or close the internal circulation pipe based on various electronic signals. The purification circulation fan (231) may be located inside the purification unit (200) and may generate an air flow that allows air introduced into the purification unit to circulate through a plurality of purification spaces (212) included inside the purification unit (200). For example, the purification circulation fan (231) may generate an air flow to allow air in the fourth space (212-4) to be recirculated to the first space (212-1).

[0148] According to an embodiment, the control unit (600) can control the closing and opening of the purification space opening / closing member (216) based on the critical reference time and the sealing reference time as described above, and at the same time control the circulation control valve (232) and the purification circulation fan (231) so that air can circulate inside the purification unit. For example, when the purification inlet (211) and the purification outlet (215) are closed by controlling the purification space opening / closing member (216), the control unit (600) can open the circulation control valve (232) so that air can move to the internal circulation pipe (230) and drive the purification circulation fan (231) to circulate air inside the purification unit. This can provide the effect of increasing the contact surface of the air during the photocatalytic reaction process, thereby further improving the air purification efficiency.

[0149] In various embodiments, the purification unit (200) may further include an internal sensor module provided adjacent to the purification outlet (215). The internal sensor module is provided inside the purification unit (200), but is provided adjacent to the purification outlet (215), so that it can measure the quality of air discharged after purification.

[0150] According to an embodiment, the control unit (600) may be characterized by controlling the operation of the circulation control valve (232) and the purification circulation fan (231) based on a comparison between the sensing information sensed through each of the inner sensor module and the sensor unit (500). That is, the control unit (600) may determine the quality of the outside air before being purified (e.g., polluted air) and the purified air, respectively, and determine whether to recirculate the air internally based on the difference in air quality. For example, if the quality of the inside air (i.e., the quality of the purified air) measured through the inner sensor module is improved compared to the quality of the outside air measured through the sensor unit (500) (i.e., the quality of the air initially introduced into the device), the circulation control valve (232) and the purification circulation fan (231) may not be operated. In this case, the purified air is delivered to the discharge unit (300) through the purification outlet (215) and discharged to the outside. Conversely, if the difference between the quality of the outside air measured through the sensor unit (500) and the quality of the inside air is not large, the circulation control valve (232) and the purification circulation fan (231) are driven to allow the air in the fourth space to circulate back to the first space, thereby performing purification of the air again. That is, if the quality of the air has not improved to a certain level compared to the quality of the air initially input, the control unit (600) can induce recirculation of the air inside the purification unit to further purify the air. In the case of the air recirculated inside the purification unit, it can be purified in stages while passing through a plurality of purification spaces in sequence again, so that the quality of the air that is finally discharged can be improved.

[0151] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the air purification device (1000) may include an exhaust unit (300) equipped with an exhaust fan (330) that generates an air flow for intake and exhaust of air.

[0152] The discharge unit (300) may include a discharge housing (310) and a discharge fan (330), as illustrated in FIGS. 5 and 11. FIGS. 11 (a) and (b) are exemplary views of the discharge unit viewed from the front, showing the discharge opening / closing door in an open and closed state, respectively.

[0153] According to one embodiment, the discharge unit (300) may include a discharge housing (310) forming the exterior. The discharge housing (310) may form a space (310b) in which a stabilizing gear array (310c) is provided. The discharge housing (310) may be provided in a hexahedral shape with a hollow interior, and the stabilizing gear array (310c) may be stored in the hollow interior, i.e., on the space (310b). That is, the discharge housing (310) may include a discharge housing (310) forming a space (310b) in which stabilizing gear arrays (310c) connected to a plurality of purification modules (200a) are provided.

[0154] According to various embodiments, an LED lamp plate may be arranged on one side of the exhaust housing (310) so that a user can check whether each light source mounted on the device is operating normally. This allows the user to immediately recognize that a specific light source, for example, light source 13, is not operating through the LED lamp plate corresponding to light source 13. This design allows the user to easily check the lamp, ballast, and wire connection of the light source, and perform necessary repairs or replacements more efficiently. This function of the LED lamp plate can simplify device maintenance and contribute to improving long-term operating efficiency. According to an embodiment, an exhaust opening / closing door (310a) may be arranged on one side (e.g., the rear reflection side) of the exhaust housing (310). Depending on the opening or closing of the exhaust opening / closing door (310a), the inner space where the stabilizer array (310c) is installed may be exposed or blocked from the outside. For example, when the opening / closing door (310a) is open, the space (310b) in which the stabilizing gear array (310c) is accommodated may be exposed.

[0155] Such an exhaust opening / closing door (310a) may be equipped with an opening / closing locking device. The opening / closing locking device may include, but is not limited to, at least one of a sliding opening / closing method, a pivoting opening / closing method, a folding opening / closing method, a detachable opening / closing method, or a magnetic opening / closing method.

[0156] According to an embodiment, the exhaust unit (300) may include an exhaust circulation fan (340) for ventilating the air in the equipped space (310b). Referring to FIG. 5, the exhaust circulation fan (340) may be provided corresponding to the equipped space (310b) in which the stabilizer array (310c) is provided, and serves to ventilate the corresponding space. In one embodiment, the exhaust circulation fan (340) may be characterized in that it operates in synchronization with the operation of a light source (i.e., a purification module). In a specific embodiment, the control unit (600) may operate the exhaust circulation fan (340) to ventilate the space in which the stabilizer array (310c) is provided when a plurality of purification modules (200a) are operated. That is, by operating the exhaust circulation fan (340) when the purification module is operated, the stabilizer array can be prevented from being heated to a high temperature.

[0157] According to an embodiment, an exhaust port (320) for the introduction of air may be formed on one side of the exhaust housing (310), and as shown in FIG. 11, an exhaust fan (330) may be arranged in the inner direction of the exhaust port (320).

[0158] In various embodiments, the exhaust fan (330) may be implemented as embedded within the internal space of the device. This embedded configuration enhances the device's integration and stability, and increases its resistance to external physical damage. This arrangement optimizes the design and functionality of the air purifier, while simultaneously improving user convenience and ease of maintenance.

[0159] The exhaust unit (300) may include an exhaust fan (330) that generates suction force corresponding to the exhaust port (320). The exhaust fan (330) may generate an air flow to introduce outside air into the interior of the air purification device (1000). In an embodiment, the exhaust fan (330) may generate an air flow through the rotation of a propeller. For example, the exhaust fan (330) may generate an air flow to allow air to be introduced into the interior of the air purification device (1000) through a first side and discharged to the exterior through a second side.

[0160]

[0161] While the embodiments of the present invention have been described above with reference to the attached drawings, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the present invention can be implemented in other specific forms without altering the technical concept or essential features thereof. Therefore, the embodiments described above should be understood to be illustrative in all respects and not restrictive.

[0162] The specific implementations described in the present invention are exemplary embodiments and do not limit the scope of the present invention in any way. For the sake of brevity, descriptions of conventional electronic components, control systems, software, and other functional aspects of the systems may be omitted. In addition, the lines connecting or connecting members between components depicted in the drawings are merely representative of functional connections and / or physical or circuit connections, and may be replaced or represented as various additional functional connections, physical connections, or circuit connections in an actual device. In addition, unless specifically mentioned as "essential," "important," etc., a component may not be absolutely necessary for the application of the present invention.

[0163] It should be understood that the specific order or hierarchy of steps in the presented processes is merely an example of exemplary approaches. It should be understood that the specific order or hierarchy of steps in the processes may be rearranged within the scope of the present invention based on design priorities. The appended method claims provide elements of various steps in a sample order, but are not intended to be limited to the specific order or hierarchy presented.

[0164] The description of the disclosed embodiments is provided to enable any person skilled in the art to make or use the present invention. Various modifications to these embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein may be applied to other embodiments without departing from the scope of the present invention. Therefore, the present invention is not intended to be limited to the embodiments disclosed herein, but is to be construed in the broadest scope consistent with the principles and novel features disclosed herein.

[0165]

[0166] (Explanation of symbols)

[0167] 1000: Air purifier

[0168] 100: Suction part 110: Suction housing

[0169] 110a: Suction opening / closing door 110b: Equipment space

[0170] 110c: Stabilizer array 120: Intake

[0171] 121: Intake fan 130: Filter unit

[0172] 140: Display section 150: Input section

[0173] 160: Visual information display unit 170: Intake circulation fan

[0174] 200: Purification unit 200a: Multiple purification modules

[0175] 200a-1: Light source 200a-2: Outer structure

[0176] 200a-2a: Multiple holes 210: Purification housing

[0177] 211: Purification entrance 212: Multiple purification spaces

[0178] 212a: Bulkhead 212-1: Space 1

[0179] 212-2: Second Space 212-3: Third Space

[0180] 212-4: 4th space 213: Connecting hall

[0181] 214: Curved surface 215: Purification outlet

[0182] 216: Purification space opening / closing member 220: Door

[0183] 220a: Switching device 230: Internal circulation pipe

[0184] 231: Purification circulation fan 232: Circulation control valve

[0185] 300: Discharge port 310: Discharge housing

[0186] 310a: Exhaust opening / closing door 310b: Storage space

[0187] 310c: Stabilizer array 320: Exhaust

[0188] 330: Exhaust fan 340: Exhaust circulation fan

[0189] 400: Moving part 500: Sensor part

[0190] 600: Control Unit

[0191] The best mode for carrying out the invention as described above has been described.

Claims

1. A suction part having an intake port through which outside air is sucked in; A purification unit that purifies the air sucked through the above suction port; and An exhaust unit having an exhaust fan that generates air flow for intake and exhaust of the air; The above purification unit includes a plurality of purification spaces each partitioned by one or more bulkheads, In each of the above plurality of purification spaces, a plurality of purification modules are arranged, The above-mentioned suctioned air is characterized in that it is purified in stages by the plurality of purification modules in the process of sequentially passing through each of the above-mentioned purification spaces. An air purifying device that provides odor reduction and air purification functions.

2. In paragraph 1, A sensor unit provided on the outside of the air purification device to obtain external air sensing information; and Further comprising a control unit that controls the operation of the exhaust fan based on the external air sensing information; An air purifying device that provides odor reduction and air purification functions.

3. In paragraph 1, The above suction part, A suction housing forming a space in which a stabilizing gear array connected to the plurality of purification modules is provided; A filter unit that filters air flowing in through the above intake port; An intake fan that generates suction force corresponding to the above intake port; and Including an intake circulation fan for ventilating the air in the above-mentioned space; An air purifying device that provides odor reduction and air purification functions.

4. In paragraph 1, Each of the above purification modules is provided to form a group arranged in a row through a plurality of combinations in a direction perpendicular to the direction of air movement, and each of the plurality of groups is arranged to have a preset separation distance on each purification space. The above bulkhead is characterized in that it is provided with a coating layer that disperses and diffuses light. An air purifying device that provides odor reduction and air purification functions.

5. In paragraph 2, Each of the above multiple purification modules, a light source supplying light; and An outer structure provided to surround the light source, the outer structure including a photocatalyst applied to the surface; The above outer structure is, It is provided with a screw shape that forms a hole into which the light source is inserted, and includes a plurality of holes. An air purifying device that provides odor reduction and air purification functions.

6. In paragraph 5, The above light source is, A first light source related to an ozone lamp that generates ozone; A second light source relating to a UV-C lamp having a wavelength of 100 nm to 280 nm; and A third light source comprising at least one of a UV-A lamp having a wavelength of 320 nm to 400 nm; The above multiple purification modules, Equipped to include all of the above first light source, the above second light source, and the above third light source, An air purifying device that provides odor reduction and air purification functions.

7. In paragraph 6, The above control unit, Characterized in that purification direction information is generated based on the air sensing information, and lighting of each of the first light source, the second light source, and the third light source among the plurality of purification modules is controlled based on the generated purification direction information. An air purifying device that provides odor reduction and air purification functions.

8. In paragraph 6, The above purification unit, A purification housing forming the plurality of purification spaces; A purification inlet formed in the first direction relative to the above suction unit; A connecting hole connecting each of the above purification spaces; A curved portion provided to form a curved surface on the plurality of purification spaces corresponding to the direction of the connection hole; and A purification outlet formed in a second direction related to the above discharge portion; including; An air purifying device that provides odor reduction and air purification functions.

9. In paragraph 8, The above purification unit, Further comprising a purification space opening / closing member corresponding to each of the purification inlet and the purification outlet, and opening and closing the purification inlet and the purification outlet by control of the control unit; The above control unit, After the operation of the above exhaust fan, when a critical reference time has elapsed, the operation of the exhaust fan is controlled to stop, and the purification space opening / closing member is controlled to close the purification inlet and the purification outlet. An air purifying device that provides odor reduction and air purification functions.

10. In paragraph 8, The above multiple purification spaces are, A first purification space connected to the above purification entrance; A second purification space connected to the above purification outlet; and It includes one or more intermediate purification spaces provided between the first purification space and the second purification space; Characterized in that the proportion of the third light source increases as it moves from the first purification space toward the second purification space. An air purifying device that provides odor reduction and air purification functions.

11. In paragraph 10, The above purification unit, An internal circulation pipe connecting the first purification space and the second purification space; A purification circulation fan provided in the internal circulation pipe; and A circulation control valve provided in each of the first purification space and the second purification space to allow or block the inflow or outflow of air in the direction of the internal circulation pipe; An air purifying device that provides odor reduction and air purification functions.

12. In paragraph 11, The above purification unit, Further comprising an inner sensor module provided adjacent to the purification outlet; The above control unit, Characterized in that the operation of the circulation control valve and the purification circulation fan is controlled based on a comparison between the sensing information sensed through the inner sensor module and each of the sensor units. An air purifying device that provides odor reduction and air purification functions.

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