A portable air treatment device

Abstract

The present invention provides a portable air treatment device (100) for treating air in the vicinity of a defined space. The device (100) comprising at least one air circulation unit (123) for generating an air current within the air treatment device (123), a first cavity (111) having a first surface (111a) for passage of the air current through the air treatment device (100), a first light source (112) for illuminating the first surface (111a), and a second light source (115) illuminating an outer surface (116) of the air treatment device (100), wherein the first surface (111a) and the outer surface (116) each carries a photocatalytic material that is adapted to produce free radicals in the presence of light from the first light source (112) and the second light source (115), respectively, to remove volatile compounds from any or both the air current and surroundings of the outer surface (116). A corresponding method is further disclosed.

Description

[0001]

[0002] A PORTABLE AIR TREATMENT DEVICE

[0003] FIELD OF INVENTION

[0004] The present invention relates to a portable air treatment device. More specifically, the present invention relates to a device that removes harmful chemicals such as Volatile Organic Chemicals (VOC), airborne bacteria and viruses from the air.

[0005] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0006] Harmful exhaust emissions contribute to PM2.5 pollution, while humid climates create ideal conditions for mould growth. These airborne substances, including Formaldehyde, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), bacteria, vehicle exhaust pollutants, and viruses, pose serious health risks to a person. It is known that exposure to these substances in high concentration irritates a person, while prolonged exposure to these harmful substances compromises their health. However, low-concentration exposures to these harmful substances often go unnoticed or are brushed aside for being too inconvenient to address the issue, setting up time bombs for the health of the persons exposed.

[0007] In recent years, awareness of these harmful airborne substances has been increasing. As concerns over air quality, sterilization, and mould prevention continue to improve, the environmental protection industry is experiencing rapid advancements. One such advancement is disclosed in United States patent application US201313756810A. The prior art describes a photocatalytic air treatment system comprising a housing with a nozzle passage and a vent near its upstream end. The system includes a photocatalyst positioned within the nozzle passage and a light source that emits light to activate the photocatalyst. This configuration facilitates the treatment of air passing through the nozzle passage by the activated photocatalyst.

[0008] On the other hand, a Korean patent KR102615265B1 describes a photocatalytic filter, an air treatment device incorporating the filter, and its manufacturing method. The invention aims to

[0009]

[0010] enhance air purification efficiency by eliminating bacteria and viruses that accumulate on filters. The photocatalytic filter has a porous substrate containing activated carbon and a photocatalytic composition that includes titanium dioxide (TiCh), silver nitrate (AgNOs). copper oxide (CuO), and manganese dioxide (MnCh). When exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light, the filter generates reactive oxygen species to break down airborne pollutants. Additionally, the photocatalytic composition is coated on both the filter and adjacent frame areas to prevent degradation due to light exposure. The air treatment device integrates a sterilization unit with a UV LED light source positioned at an optimal distance for effective photocatalysis. The filter's structure enhances pollutant absorption and decomposition while ensuring durability and efficiency in air purification applications.

[0011] Each prior art discloses an air duct and fan assembly to create an air current blowing out the treated air. This results in the treated air being concentrated at the air outlet of the devices. If the air treatment device is placed in close proximity to the user, such as in a small confined space such as a pet enclosure, or on top of a table, it is preferable to provide the air treatment feature in a wide area, avoiding excessive disruption towards the surrounding air, creating noise that is audible to the residing animal that may irritate it. There exists a need to provide a device to overcome these problems, particularly a smart portable air treatment device capable of providing the air treatment function to a localised region in the direct vicinity of the air treatment device.

[0012] SUMMARY OF INVENTION

[0013] The present invention discloses a portable air treatment device for treating air in a small confined area, such as a pet enclosure. The small confined area may also include a study desktop or a small room. The present invention utilises photocatalytic effect to produce free radicals in the air to react with harmful pollutants in the air such as volatile organic compounds (VOC), Formaldehyde, and airborne bacteria and viruses.

[0014] The present invention provides a portable air treatment device for treating air in the vicinity of

[0015]

[0016] a defined space. The device comprising at least one air circulation unit for generating an air current within the air treatment device, a first cavity having a first surface for passage of the air current through the air treatment device, a first light source for illuminating the first surface, and a second light source illuminating an outer surface of the air treatment device, wherein the first surface and the outer surface each carries a photocatalytic material that is adapted to produce free radicals in the presence of light from the first light source and the second light source, respectively, to remove volatile compounds from any or both the air current and surroundings of the outer surface.

[0017] Preferably, the air treatment device further comprises at least one photocatalytic core that carries the photocatalytic material.

[0018] Preferably, the photocatalytic material is mixed with a resin-based composite material, to adhere to the first surface, the photocatalytic cores and the outer surface.

[0019] Preferably, the first light source illuminates the first light source in a frequency that is within an ultraviolet range.

[0020] Preferably, the air treatment device further comprises a second end to further connect the air treatment device with at least one modular attachment, wherein the modular attachment is any one of a camera module, a sensory module, an extension power accumulation unit, an ozone generator, a negative ion generator, an electrostatic precipitator, a hair and dust vacuum, a fan, an air conditioner, another air treatment device of the same, or any compatible device designed to attach to the second end.

[0021] Preferably, the air treatment device further comprises an additive compartment which houses an essential oil diffuser block, a compacted ozone generator, a compacted negative ion generator, a compacted electrostatic precipitator, a compacted hair and dust vacuum, a compacted fan, a miniature air conditioner, or any combination thereof.

[0022]

[0023] Preferably, the air treatment device further comprises at least one sensor for detecting air quality in the air treatment device.

[0024] Preferably, the air treatment device further comprises a control unit and a user device, wherein the control unit is in communication with the sensors, the first light source, the second light source, the air circulation unit, the negative ion generator, the ozone generator, the camera module, the electrostatic precipitator, the hair and dust vacuum, the fan, the air conditioner, and the user device.

[0025] Preferably, the air treatment device further comprises at least one power accumulation unit for receiving an input of power to be distributed to the electronic components within the air treatment device and attachments connected thereto.

[0026] Preferably, the air treatment device further comprises a first filter for trapping particles in air entering the air treatment device.

[0027] The present invention further provides a method for treating air in the vicinity of a defined space, comprising the steps of generating an air current within the air treatment device by at least one air circulation unit, passing the air current through the air treatment device by a first cavity having a first surface, illuminating the first surface by a first light source, and illuminating an outer surface of the air treatment device by a second light source, wherein the first surface and the outer surface each carries a photocatalytic material that is adapted to produce free radicals in the presence of light from the first light source and the second light source respectively to remove volatile compounds from any or both the air current and surroundings of the outer surface.

[0028] One skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the present invention is well adapted to carry out the objects and obtain the ends and advantages mentioned, as well as those inherent therein. The embodiment described herein is not intended as limitations on the scope of the invention.

[0029]

[0030] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0031] For the purpose of facilitating an understanding of the invention, there is illustrated in the accompanying drawing the preferred embodiments from an inspection of which when considered in connection with the following description, the invention, its construction and operation and many of its advantages would be readily understood and appreciated.

[0032] FIG. 1 is an illustration depicting a first embodiment of the current invention attached to a pet enclosure.

[0033] FIG. 2 is an illustration depicting the frontal view of the air treatment device according to the first embodiment of the current invention.

[0034] FIG. 3 is an illustration depicting a cross-sectional view of the main body of the air treatment device according to the first embodiment of the invention.

[0035] FIG. 4 is an illustration depicting the exploded view of the first end of the first embodiment of the invention.

[0036] FIG. 5 is an illustration depicting an exploded view of the first end of a second embodiment of the invention.

[0037] FIG. 6 is an illustration depicting a cross-sectional view of the second end of the first embodiment of the invention.

[0038] FIG. 7 is an illustration depicting a perspective view of the second end of the first embodiment of the invention.

[0039] FIG. 8 is an illustration depicting an exploded view of the mounting unit of the first embodiment of the invention.

[0040]

[0041] FIG. 9 is an illustration depicting a perspective view of the first embodiment of the invention attached to the rack unit.

[0042] FIG. 10 is an illustration depicting a perspective view of the first embodiment of the invention attached to a different rack unit.

[0043] FIG. 11 is an illustration depicting an exploded view of the first end of the second embodiment of the invention.

[0044] FIG. 12 is an illustration depicting an exploded view of the second end of the second embodiment of the invention.

[0045] FIG. 13 is a block diagram depicting the components in the control unit.

[0046] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0047] The present invention discloses a portable air treatment device, configured to remove harmful Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) from air within its vicinity. The present invention further comprises a passage within its main body to take in surrounding air on one end to be treated in the passage, before expelling treated air on its opposite end.

[0048] Hereinafter, the invention shall be described according to the preferred embodiments of the present invention and by referring to the accompanying description and drawings. However, it is to be understood that limiting the description to the preferred embodiments of the invention is merely to facilitate discussion of the present invention and it is envisioned that those skilled in the art may devise various modifications without departing from the scope of the appended claim.

[0049] FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a first embodiment of the portable air treatment device

[0050]

[0051] 100 atached to a pet enclosure 200. The pet enclosure 200 may be any generic cage or carrier for confining one or more animals within. By way of example, the pet enclosure 200 may be of wireframes that form a crate. In this example, the portable air treatment device 100 is attached to the wireframe of the pet enclosure 200 via the mounting unit 140. The air treatment device 100 functions to remove any volatile organic compounds (VOC) in the vicinity of the defined space to be treated, which is the air within and around the pet enclosure 200. If required, the air treatment device 100 is easily detachable from the pet enclosure 200 by disjointing the connection between mounting unit 140 and the air treatment device 100. In the first embodiment of the invention, the air treatment device 100 is in communication with a user device 300. The user device 300 may be a portable handheld communication device, such as a mobile phone, a smart phone, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a computer, or the like. The user device 300 further comprises a user interface for the user to interact with air treatment device 100 thereon. Interactions between the user and the air treatment device 100 include communicating the air quality data between the user and the air treatment device 100, controlling the operations of the air treatment device 100, and sending notification and / or alarms to the user to inform the user on issues in the air treatment device 100.

[0052] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the first embodiment of the portable air treatment device 100 on its own. The air treatment device 100 comprises a main body 110, a first end 120, and a second end 130. As shown in FIG. 2, the portable air treatment device 100 is configured to generate an air current within the main body 110, in which air travels from the first end 120 to the second end 130. To achieve this, the first end 120 further comprises an inlet disposed at its botom surface that takes in air from under the first end 120. The air then passes across the main body 110 while being treated by the device, and subsequently exits the air treatment device 100 from an outlet disposed at a botom surface of the second end 130. In addition, the main body 110 is also capable of treating the air in its surroundings.

[0053] FIG. 3 illustrates a cross-section of the main body 110 of the portable air treatment device 100, according to the first embodiment of the current invention. In particular, the main body 110 is tube-shaped, in which its hollowed centre portion is defined as a first cavity 111 for the passage

[0054]

[0055] of air from the first end 120 to the second end 130. A first light source 112 is disposed within the first cavity 111, such that light emitted from the first light source 112 illuminates the first cavity 111 of the main body 110. Internal surfaces of the cavity 111, including walls and floor, are defined as the first surface Illa, wherein the first surface Illa carries a photocatalytic material to release free radicals into the air within its vicinity upon illumination by the first light source 112. By way of example, the photocatalytic material may be a substance comprising Titanium dioxide (TiO), that releases free radicals when exposed to light or ultraviolet (UV) radiation. The substance is applied as a coating layer onto the first surface Illa. When the first light source 112 is switched on, light from the first light source 112 is radiated onto the first surface Illa, and free radicals are produced within the first cavity 111. By way of example, these free radicals include highly reactive hydroxyl radicals ( OH) and superoxide anions (O2 ) produced from the photocatalytic material. These compounds react with volatile organic compounds (VOCs) to decompose them into CO2 and H2O, while microbial cell membranes are disrupted. As a result, the air treatment device achieves a pathogen inactivation rate of approximately 99.97%.

[0056] Referring to FIG. 3 as well, the main body 110 further comprises a second cavity 114 disposed between the first surface Illa and an outer surface 116 of the main body 110. In other words, the structure of the main body 110 is of a hollow tube shape, where walls of the first cavity 111 are also hollow, having the second cavity 114 within. The second cavity 114 further comprises a second light source 115 configured to emit light towards the outer surface 116 of the main body 110. By way of example, the first light source 112 and the second light source 115 may be chosen from a group of illumination devices comprising LED light strips, light bulbs, ultraviolet (UV) radiation devices, or the like. Preferably, the outer surface 116 can be detached and reattached as needed from the main body 110 to allow direct access to the second light source 115 or to replace the outer surface 116 when the photocatalytic material on the outer surface 116 loses its effectiveness overtime.

[0057] As shown in FIG. 3, the main body 110 of the portable air treatment device 100 comprises a curved top portion and a flat bottom portion. This arrangement allows the first light source 112

[0058]

[0059] to be arranged onto the top portion of the main body 110, and the light from the first light source 112 to reach the entirety of the first surface Illa. Apocket is disposed on the first surface Illa that is part of the main body 110, to form a top channel 119a for placing the first light source 112 therewithin. This results in the light from the first light source 112 to be diffused evenly within the first cavity 111, in addition to increasing the surface area having the coat of photocatalytic material for improved free radical release. A similar channel 119b is also provided at the base of the first cavity 111, where electrical cables can be passed from the first end 120 therethrough to the second end 130. The top channel 119a and the bottom channel 119b allow the first cavity to be free of any other components for the photocatalytic material to be exposed to the light from the first light source 112 without interference from any objects in between.

[0060] Furthermore, the adjacent sides, or vertical walls, of the first cavity 111 further comprise grooves that allow insertion of at least one photocatalytic core 113 within the first cavity 111. This increases the total surface area within the first cavity 111 for containing more photocatalytic material. By way of example, the photocatalytic cores 113 may be transparent acrylic plates configured to slide into the grooves of the first surface Illa, such that the photocatalytic cores 113 are spaced apart from each other to allow the air current to pass between them, carrying the produced free radicals to treat the air in the air current.

[0061] In the first embodiment of the present invention, the photocatalytic cores 113, the first surface Illa, and the outer surface 116 are coated with the photocatalytic material. To ensure the adhesion of the photocatalytic material onto the surfaces of said components, the photocatalytic material is mixed with a resin-based composite material to form a paste that is applied onto said surfaces. The paste is then passed under a UV light to cure and harden. Once the mixture is hardened, it forms a coat of photocatalytic material that is difficult to remove, even when the surface is scratched with other surfaces.

[0062] In one embodiment of the invention, the first light source 112 may be configured to emit ultraviolet (UV) light instead of visible light. In this configuration, the first surface Illa is

[0063]

[0064] opaque to prevent UV radiation from exiting the first cavity 111, thereby preventing health threats to the user nearby. On the other hand, the outer surface 116 may be transparent to allow light from the second light source 115 to shine through the outer surface 116. Upon illumination from the second light source 115, the outer surface 116 releases free radicals into the surrounding of the portable air treatment device 100.

[0065] According to the first embodiment of the invention, the main body 110 further comprises an indent track 118 along the bottom ofthe air treatment device 100. The indent track 118 provides a space for inserting a slider 142 therein, for connecting with a clip 141 to allow the main body 110 to be attached to the mounting unit 140. Having the indent track 118 along the main body 110 allows the clips 141 of the mounting unit 140 to be positioned at any preferred location along the main body 110. Advantageously, this allows the air treatment device 100 to be mounted onto the pet enclosure 200 without being restricted by any fixed distance between the mounting units 140. In addition, the main body 110 is durable against impacts. The main body 110 should not shatter easily so that it can withstand any impact from the surroundings in the pet enclosure 200, such as being swiped from within the enclosure 200. By way of example, the main body 110 is of a transparent acrylic material, a transparent plastic material or the like.

[0066] FIG. 4 illustrates an exploded view of the first end 120 of the present invention. The first end 120 comprises a control unit 121, a power adapter 122 for supplying power to the control unit 121, an air circulation unit 123, a first filter 124, and a housing 127. The first end 120 takes in air from its bottom surface and forces the air to pass through the first cavity 111 of the main body 110. This is achieved by having the air circulation unit 123 create an air current blowing into the first cavity 111. The air current causes a low-pressure area in the first end 120, which will in turn pull in air from outside of the first end 120 through an inlet positioned under the first end 120 (not shown). By way of example, the air circulation unit 123 may be a silent fan with a reduced noise level in order to prevent disturbance to the animals inside the pet enclosure 200. The inlet is protected with a first filter 124 which traps any large particles such as dirt, hair, or dust particles entering the main body 110 and that may reduce the efficiency of the release of free radicals, allowing the air treatment device 100 to release the treated air free of

[0067]

[0068] those particles. By way of example, the first filter 124 may be a replaceable three-stage gradient filter, comprising a pre-filter layer, a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filtration layer, and an activated carbon adsorption layer. The first filter 124 traps airborne contaminants laiger than 0.3 micrometres in size, such as dust, pollen, mould bacteria and / or harmful airborne particles within the filters, preventing those contaminants from entering the air treatment device 100 and reducing the effectiveness of the photocatalytic treatment of the air in the main body 110.

[0069] FIG. 5 shows the exploded view of the first end 120 from another angle. From this angle, it is shown that the first end 120 further comprises a second filter 125 and a plurality of circuit connectors 126. The components of the first end 120 mentioned are enclosed within a housing 127 which further connects the first end 120 to the main body 110 via a plurality of screws 127a. By way of example, the second filter 125 may be an isolation mesh configured to prevent dislodged parts of the first end 120 from entering the first cavity 111 to cause damage to the photocatalytic material in the first cavity 111. On the other hand, the circuit connectors 126 function to electrically connect the control unit 121 to the first light source 112 and the second light source 115, thereby providing them with the instruction and power required to produce light.

[0070] Referring to FIG. 4 and FIG. 5, the control unit 121 is located within a compartment at a distal side of the first end 120. The control unit 121 is in communication with a first sensor that collects air quality data in the first end 120. By way of example, the first sensor may be a laser particle sensor configured to detect contaminants in its proximity. The control unit 121 then controls the first light source 112 and the second light source 115 to emit light at required intensities based on the air quality data obtained. The control unit 121 is powered by the power adapter 122, which is connected to an electrical power source, such as a USB power outlet, a wall receptacle or the like. Although not shown in FIG. 4 or 5, the power adapter 122 may be attached to a first power accumulation unit, such as a battery, to receive the input of power from the power adapter 122 to be distributed to the electronic components within the air treatment device 100. The power accumulation unit may allow the air treatment device to remain operable temporarily in the event that the power is disconnected by depleting the

[0071]

[0072] accumulated power within the power accumulation unit. This enabled the air treatment device 100 to be portable. It is noted that in any one embodiment of the present invention, the air treatment device 100 may be connected to the power adapter 122 to be directly powered therefrom, and no power accumulation unit is required to store power.

[0073] FIG. 6 illustrates a cross-section of the second end 130 of the air treatment device 100. The second end 130 is similar in shape to the first end 120. In general, the second end 130 further comprises an outlet disposed at its bottom position for the air within the first cavity 111 to exit the air treatment device 100. The second end 130 receives treated air form the main body 110 due to the air current generated by the air circulation unit 123 through a third filter 131. The third filter 131 comprises a similar mesh structure as in the second filter 125, and functions to prevent any dirt or dust from entering back into the main body 110. Furthermore, an additive compartment 132 is located at a position over the outlet such that air must pass through the additive compartment 132 as it exits the air treatment device 100 through the outlet. Preferably, the additive compartment 132 may be, or may house, an essential oil diffuser block adapted to diffuse additives such as aromatics, into the air current to provide the user with a soothing effect upon smelling the treated air. By way of example, the aromatic may be an essential oil equipped within the essential oil diffuser block. In one separate embodiment of the present invention, the additive compartment 132 may be, or may include, a compacted ozone generator, a compacted negative ion generator, a compacted electrostatic precipitator, a compacted hair and dust vacuum, a compacted fan, a miniature air conditioner, or any combination thereof.

[0074] Referring to FIGS. 5 and 6, the second end 130 further comprises a plurality of second circuit connectors that connect the ends of the first light source 112 and second light source 115 to the second end 130. The second end 130 is enclosed within a housing 134, which is similar to the housing 127 in the first end 120 to maintain symmetry between both ends of the air treatment device. The housing 127 in the first end 120 and the housing 134 in the second end 130 may be equipped with an insulation layer 128 to prevent entry of moisture into the first end 120 and second end 130, preventing water from damaging electronic components within the air treatment device 100 during cleaning of the pet enclosure 200. In addition, the insulation layer

[0075]

[0076] enclosure 200 is not disturbed by any sound generated within the air treatment device 100. The second end 130 is securely joined to the main body using a plurality of screws 134a. In particular, one of the screws 134a horizontally connects the top part of the main body 110 and the second end 130, while another screw 134a connects the bottom part of the second end 130 to the indent track 118 of the main body.

[0077] In the first embodiment of the invention, the second end 130 further comprises a distal end having a second sensor and a second power accumulation unit (not shown) that is disposed within the housing 134. The second sensor and the second power accumulation unit are electrically connected to the control unit 121 via a cable that is lined along the bottom channel 119b of the main body 110. The second sensor and the second power accumulation unit are attached to the distal end of the second end 130, in a similar manner as the control unit 121 at the first end 120. The second sensor is configured to detect air quality data within the air from the main body 110, and sends the obtained data to the control unit 120 for comparison with the air quality data obtained by the first sensor to evaluate the treatment process within the main body 110. Similarly to the first sensor, the second sensor may be a laser particle sensor and the second power accumulation unit may be a battery to power the electronic components connected thereto.

[0078] FIG. 7 illustrates a perspective view of the second end 130. As shown in the figure, an opening is located at the outside surface of the second end 130, to which an extension joint 136 is connected. The extension joint comprises one end that connects to the second end 130, and an opposing end that connects to a first end 120 of a second air treatment device 100 of the same. The extension joint 136 is also connected to the second power accumulation unit in the second end 130, which supplies power to the second air treatment device 100. This omits the need to have a second power cable to power the second air treatment device 100, thereby improving the elegance and efficiency of the design as there is no need for cable management and the need for another power outlet. In one embodiment of the invention, the extension j oint 136 may be in the form of a pogo pin that connects the first air treatment device 100 to the second air

[0079]

[0080] treatment device 100.

[0081] FIG. 8 illustrates an exploded view of the mounting unit 140, which comprises a clip 141, the slider 142, and an attachment unit 143. The clip 141 further comprises at least one recess 141a having a ledge for holding onto a rod structure via a snap-fit mechanism. An opposite end of the clip 141 is connected to the slider 142 which is in turn attached to the main body 110 of the air treatment device 100. The attachment unit 143 comprises a grooved projection that is configured to fit into the recesses 141a of the clip 141, for allowing the air treatment device 100 to be attached to a flat surface, such as a wall or a ceiling using a screw protruding from the attachment unit 143.

[0082] FIG. 9 illustrates a perspective view of the air treatment device 100, mounted on the mounting unit 140. The mounting unit 140 further comprises a pair of rack units 144 that are secured to the pet enclosure 200 using a clamp 145. Each rack unit 144 is of a rod structure, to be snap-fitted into the recess 141a of the clip 141. The clip 141 is further attached to the slider 142 in the indented track 118 of the main body 110. Each of the rack units 144 comprises one vertical portion, one horizontal portion, and one curved portion. Each of the clips 141 is configured to attach onto the rack units 144 at either one of the portions to configure the angle at which the air treatment device 100 is oriented. The mounting unit 140 is configured to be secured to a surface or frame of the pet enclosure 200 via the clamps 145, which comprises a first plate securely attached to the rack unit 144, and a bottom plate that sandwiches the surface of the pet enclosure 200. This is so that the air treatment device 100 does not fall off even when agitated by the animals within the pet enclosure 200. To achieve this, the clips 141 may be of a strong material to securely hold onto the rack unit 144. By way of example and not limiting the scope of the invention, such material may include ABS plastic.

[0083] FIG. 10 illustrates the air treatment device 100 of the present invention, mounted on a rack unit 144 that is arranged parallel with the main body 110. This is achieved due to the structure of the clip 141 having another set of recess 141a that are arranged parallel to the main body 110. This configuration allows the air treatment device to be arranged vertically, on a rack unit

[0084]

[0085] 144 in the form of a pole, thereby minimizing space occupied by the air treatment device 100.

[0086] FIG. 11 illustrates an exploded view of the first end of the second embodiment, in this embodiment, the first end 120 is connected to the main body 110 through a snap-fit groove 127b disposed at the side of the first end 120. The inlet is disposed at its distal end, allowing the first end 120 to draw in air from a direction that is parallel to the air current generated by the air circulation unit 123. The first filter 124 comprises a shape that corresponds to the first cavity 111, to be inserted therein. As shown in FIG. 11, a flange is disposed at one end of the first filter 124 to allow it to be easily removed from the first cavity 111 for replacement. The control unit 121 is disposed adjacent to the air circulation unit 123, against the distal end of the first end 120. This allows the power adapter 122 to be directly connected to the control unit 121 from outside of the first end 120. In this embodiment, the first end 120, the main body 110, and the second end 130 are electronically connected by magnetic pogo pins 129. Power and data are transmitted across these parts of the air treatment device 100 while allowing the user to easily detach each end 120, 130 from the main body for cleaning and / or maintenance.

[0087] FIG. 12 illustrates an exploded view of the second end 130 of the second embodiment. In this embodiment, the outlet may be disposed at the distal end of the second end 130. This allows the air current to exit the air treatment device 100 directly, preferably in a laminar manner, without having to change its direction of flow. Hence, this reduces flow turbulence of the air current that could have affected the emission range of the treated air. In this embodiment, the additive compartment 132 may be disposed vertically in the path of the air current to infuse the air with the additives before it is emitted from the air treatment device 100.

[0088] In one embodiment of the invention, the slider 142 may be in the form of a snap-fit clip, that is clipped onto a plurality of indent tracks 118 as shown in FIG. 12. In this embodiment, the slider 142 can be clipped onto the air treatment device 100 without having to remove one of the ends 120, 130 to insert the slider 142 into the indent track. The slider 142 can be inserted into the plurality of indent tracks 118 by a snap-fit mechanism. The clamp 145 is in turn screwed into the slider 142 to allow the air treatment device 100 to be attached onto a surface.

[0089]

[0090] Referring to FIG. 12 as well, the housing 134 of the second end 130 further comprises at least one snap-fit groove 137 on at least one of its edges. These snap-fit grooves 137 allow the second end 130 to be mounted with an attachment. One such attachment is a camera module 139 as shown in FIG. 12. Power and data are supplied to the camera module 139 through at least one pogo pin 138 disposed on the camera module 139, the housing 134 of the second end 130, and the main body 110 to operate the camera module 139. Subsequently, all data from the camera module 139 may be transmitted to the user device 300 wirelessly from the camera module 139. In the embodiment having the control unit 121, the data from the sensor may also be transmitted thereto via the pogo pin 138.

[0091] Alternatively, the second end 130 may also be able to be modularly attached to at least one attachment, based on the requirements of the user. By way of example, these modular attachments may include the camera module 139, a sensory module, an extension power accumulation unit, an ozone generator, a negative ion generator, an electrostatic precipitator, a hair and dust vacuum, a fan, an air conditioner, a main body 110 of a second air treatment device 100 of the same, or any compatible device designed to attach to the second end 130. The pogo pins 138 disposed on the second end 130 correspond to the pogo pins of the attachments to provide an electrical connection between the second end 130 and the attachments. If no attachment is connected to the second end 130, a dedicated end cap may be utilised to cover the exposed pogo pin, protecting it from oxidation.

[0092] FIG. 13 illustrates a block diagram of the components within the control unit 121 of the air treatment device 100. The control unit 121 further comprises a processor 1211, and a data storage unit 1212. The processor 1211 further comprises a data storage module 1211a, a processing module 1211b, and a communication module 1211c. The data storage module 1211a configures the processor 1211a to store and manage data in the data storage unit 1212. The processing module 1211b configures the processor to perform calculations and analysis on the data in the data storage unit 1212, and generate instructions based on the data to be delivered to the other components in communication with the air treatment device 100. The

[0093]

[0094] communication module 1211c connects and communicates the control unit 121 with the other components within the air treatment device 100, as well as any other external device that is in communication with the air treatment device 100. These components and external devices include, but are not limited to, the first light source 112, the second light source 115, the air circulation unit 123, a second air treatment device 100 of the same, the camera module 139, the electrostatic precipitator, the hair and dust vacuum, the fan, the air conditioner, and the user device 300.

[0095] In particular, the processor 1211 communicates with the sensors in the first end 120 and the second end 130 through the communication module 1211c to retrieve data regarding the air quality near the sensors for storage in the data storage unit 1212 by the data storage module 1211a. The processor 1211 then processes the retrieved data in the data storage unit 1212 to determine the air quality near the sensors. Once a parameter of the air quality reaches a predetermined level, the processor 1212 communicates with the sensors in the first end 120 and the second end 130 through the communication module 1211c to temporarily shut down the air treatment device 100. Additionally, the processor 1211 also compares the data retrieved from the sensors, to determine the difference of the air quality near the sensors. In the event the difference in the parameter of the air quality is detected to be below a predetermined level, a signal is delivered to the user device 300 via the communication module 1211c to remind the user for maintenance of the air treatment device 100. This allows the user to retrieve information on the surroundings of the air treatment device 100, such as temperature, air quality, and brightness, and video of the surroundings remotely through the user device 300. As well as control the air treatment device 100 in terms of its output, such as the fan speed of the air circulation device 123 and the intensity of the first and second light sources 112, 115.

[0096] The present disclosure includes as contained in the appended claims, as well as that of the foregoing description. Although this invention has been described in its preferred form with a degree of particularly, it is understood that the present disclosure of the preferred form has been made only by way of example and that numerous changes in the details of construction and the combination and arrangements of parts may be resorted to without departing from the scope of

[0097]

[0098] the invention.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A portable air treatment device (100) for treating air in the vicinity of a defined space, the device (100) comprisingat least one air circulation unit (123) for generating an air current within the air treatment device (100);a first cavity (111) having a first surface (Illa) for passage of the air current through the air treatment device (100);a first light source (112) for illuminating the first surface (Illa); and a second light source (115) illuminating an outer surface (116) of the air treatment device (110);wherein the first surface (Illa) and the outer surface (116) each carries photocatalytic material that is adapted to produce free radicals in the presence of light from the first light source (112) and the second light source (115), respectively, to remove volatile compounds from any or both the air current and surroundings of the outer surface (116).

2. The air treatment device (100) according to claim 1, further comprising at least one photocatalytic core (113) that carries the photocatalytic material.

3. The air treatment device ( 100) according to claim 2, wherein the photocatalytic material is mixed with a resin-based composite material to adhere to the first surface (11 la), the photocatalytic cores (113) and the outer surface (116).

4. The air treatment device (100) according to claim 1, wherein the first light source (115) illuminates the first cavity (111) in a frequency that is within an ultraviolet range.

5. The air treatment device (100) according to claim 1 , further comprising a secondend (130) to further connect the air treatment device (100) with at least one modular attachment, wherein the modular attachment is any one of a camera module (139), a sensory module, an extension power accumulation unit, an ozone generator, a negative ion generator, an electrostatic precipitator, a hair and dust vacuum, a fan, an air conditioner, another air treatment device (100) of the same, or any compatible device designed to attach to the second end (130).

6. The air treatment device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising at least one sensor for detecting air quality in the air treatment device (100).

7. The air treatment device (100) according to claim 6, further comprising a control unit (121) and a user device (300), wherein the control unit (121) is in communication with the sensors, the first light source (112), the second light source (115), the air circulation unit (123), the negative ion generator, the ozone generator, the camera module (139) the electrostatic precipitator, the hair and dust vacuum, the fan, the air conditioner, and the user device (300).

8. The air treatment device (100) according to 8, further comprising at least one power accumulation unit for receiving an input of power to be distributed to the electronic components within the air treatment device (100) and attachments connected thereto.

9. The air treatment device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising an additive compartment (132) which houses an essential oil diffuser block, a compacted ozone generator, a compacted negative ion generator, a compacted electrostatic precipitator, a compacted hair and dust vacuum, a compacted fan, a miniature air conditioner, or any combination thereof.

10. The air treatment device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a first filter (124) for trapping particles in air entering the air treatment device (100).

11. A method for treating air in the vicinity of a defined space to be treated by an air treatment device (100), comprising the steps ofgenerating an air current within the air treatment device (100) by at least one air circulation unit (123);passing the air current through the air treatment device (100) by a first cavity (111) having a first surface (Illa);illuminating the first surface (Illa) by a first light source (112); and illuminating an outer surface ( 116) of the air treatment device ( 110) by a second light source (115);wherein the first surface (Illa) and the outer surface (116) each carries a photocatalytic material that is adapted to produce free radicals in the presence of light from the first light source (112) and the second light source (115) respectively to remove volatile compounds from any or both the air current and surroundings of the outer surface (116).

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