Multimodal oxygen control module and multimodal oxygen control device

Abstract

A multimodal oxygen control module according to an exemplary embodiment comprises: an oxygen generator for discharging, as a second flow and a third flow, air that flows therein as a first flow, and separating oxygen from other components of the air; an exhaust node providing a branch point for the third flow and allowing communication with the outside; an ozone generator for receiving a fourth flow branching off at the exhaust node, and converting, into ozone, oxygen from among components of the influent air and discharging the ozone as a fifth flow; and an intake node, which receives the fifth flow, communicates with the outside, and provides the first flow to the oxygen generator, wherein an ozone component included in the fifth flow becomes the first flow through the intake node and flows into the oxygen generator, thereby regenerating the oxygen generator.

Description

Multimodal oxygen control module and multimodal oxygen control device

[0001] An exemplary embodiment relates to a multimodal oxygen control module and a multimodal oxygen control device.

[0002] An oxygen control device is a device that can increase or decrease the concentration of oxygen components contained in the air of a specific environment.

[0003] The oxygen control device may include an oxygen generator configured to separate oxygen from the air. When the oxygen control device is used for a long period, the oxygen generator's performance in separating oxygen may deteriorate.

[0004] A multimodal oxygen control module according to an exemplary embodiment may include an oxygen generator configured to separate oxygen from the components of air by discharging air introduced in a first flow into a second flow and a third flow.

[0005] A multimodal oxygen control module according to an exemplary embodiment may include an exhaust node that provides a branch point to a third flow and communicates with the outside.

[0006] A multimodal oxygen control module according to an exemplary embodiment may include an ozone generator configured to receive a fourth flow branched from an exhaust node and configured to convert oxygen among the components of the incoming air into ozone and discharge it as a fifth flow.

[0007] A multimodal oxygen control module according to an exemplary embodiment may include an intake node configured to receive a fifth flow, communicate with the outside, and provide the first flow to the oxygen generator.

[0008] In a multimodal oxygen control module according to an exemplary embodiment, the ozone component included in the fifth flow may be configured to regenerate the oxygen generator by passing through the intake node to become the first flow and flowing into the oxygen generator.

[0009] A multimodal oxygen control device according to an exemplary embodiment may include an oxygen generator configured to separate oxygen from the components of air by discharging air introduced in a first flow into a second flow and a third flow.

[0010] A multimodal oxygen control device according to an exemplary embodiment may include a chamber configured to provide the first flow to an oxygen generator and to receive the second flow.

[0011] A multimodal oxygen control device according to an exemplary embodiment may include a control node that includes a control path configured to inhale air from the outside or exhale air to the outside and provides a branch point to a third flow.

[0012] A multimodal oxygen control device according to an exemplary embodiment may include an ozone generator configured to receive a fourth flow branched from a control node and configured to convert oxygen among the components of the incoming air into ozone and discharge it as a fifth flow connected to a chamber.

[0013] In a multimodal oxygen control device according to an exemplary embodiment, the ozone component included in the fifth flow may be configured to regenerate the oxygen generator by passing through a chamber to become the first flow and flowing into the oxygen generator.

[0014] FIG. 1 is a conceptual diagram of a multimodal oxygen control module according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0015] FIG. 2 is a conceptual diagram showing the first mode of a multimodal oxygen control module according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0016] FIG. 3 is a conceptual diagram showing the deodorization mode of a multimodal oxygen control module according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0017] FIG. 4a is a conceptual diagram showing an oxygen generator according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0018] FIG. 4b is a conceptual diagram showing an oxygen generator according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0019] FIG. 4c is a conceptual diagram showing an oxygen generator according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0020] FIG. 4d is a conceptual diagram showing an oxygen generator according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0021] FIG. 4e is a conceptual diagram showing an oxygen generator according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0022] FIG. 5 is a conceptual diagram showing a second mode of a multimodal oxygen control module according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0023] FIG. 6 is a conceptual diagram showing an oxygen generator according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0024] FIG. 7 is a conceptual diagram showing a multimodal oxygen control device (20) according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0025] FIG. 8 is a conceptual diagram showing the first mode of a multimodal oxygen control device (20) according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0026] FIG. 9 is a conceptual diagram showing a second mode of a multimodal oxygen control device (20) according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0027] FIG. 10 is a conceptual diagram showing a second mode of a multimodal oxygen control device (20) according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0028] FIG. 11 is a conceptual diagram showing a third mode of a multimodal oxygen control device (20) according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0029] FIG. 12 is a conceptual diagram showing a third mode of a multimodal oxygen control device (20) according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0030] FIG. 13 is a conceptual diagram showing the fourth mode of a multimodal oxygen control device (20) according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0031] FIG. 14 is a conceptual diagram showing the fifth mode of a multimodal oxygen control device (20) according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0032] FIG. 15 is a conceptual diagram showing the fifth mode of a multimodal oxygen control device (20) according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0033] The various embodiments of this document and the terms used therein are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, and should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutions of said embodiments.

[0034] In relation to the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components.

[0035] The singular form of the noun corresponding to the item may include one or multiple items, unless the relevant context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0036] In this document, each of the phrases such as "A or B", "at least one of A and B", "at least one of A or B", "A, B or C", "at least one of A, B and C", and "at least one of A, B, or C" may include any one of the items listed together in the corresponding phrase, or all possible combinations thereof.

[0037] The term "and / or" includes a combination of multiple related described components or any of the multiple related described components.

[0038] Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used simply to distinguish a component from another component and do not limit the components in other aspects (e.g., importance or order).

[0039] Where any (e.g., 1st) component is referred to as "coupled" or "connected" to another (e.g., 2nd) component, with or without the terms "functionally" or "communicationly," it means that said any component may be connected to said other component directly (e.g., via a wire), wirelessly, or through a third component.

[0040] Terms such as "include" or "have" are intended to specify the existence of the features, numbers, steps, actions, components, parts, or combinations thereof described in this document, and do not preclude the existence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, actions, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

[0041] When it is said that a component is "connected," "combined," "supported," or "in contact" with another component, this includes not only cases where the components are directly connected, combined, supported, or in contact, but also cases where they are indirectly connected, combined, supported, or in contact through a third component.

[0042] When it is said that a component is located "on" another component, this includes not only cases where one component is in contact with the other, but also cases where another component exists between the two components.

[0043] Hereinafter, a multimodal oxygen control module and a multimodal oxygen control device (20) according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the contents described in the attached drawings. Identical reference numbers or symbols presented in each drawing indicate parts or components that perform substantially the same function.

[0044] Unless otherwise specified, the term “oxygen” as used in this specification may refer to an oxygen molecule (O2) formed by the combination of two oxygen atoms (O). Additionally, unless otherwise specified, “nitrogen” may refer to a nitrogen molecule (N2) formed by the combination of two nitrogen atoms (N). Additionally, unless otherwise specified, “ozone” may refer to an ozone molecule (O3) formed by the combination of three oxygen atoms.

[0045] FIG. 1 is a conceptual diagram of a multimodal oxygen control module (1) according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0046] Referring to FIG. 1, a multimodal oxygen control module (1) according to an exemplary embodiment may be configured to separate and discharge oxygen from the components of air introduced from the outside. The multimodal oxygen control module (1) may be provided to increase or decrease the oxygen concentration in a specific space. The multimodal oxygen control module (1) may be provided in medical devices, purification devices, food aging devices, etc., but is not limited thereto.

[0047] A multimodal oxygen control module (1) according to an exemplary embodiment may include an oxygen generator (12). The oxygen generator (12) may be configured to discharge air flowing into a first flow (121) into a second flow (122) and a third flow (123). The oxygen generator (12) may be configured to separate oxygen from the components of the air. Separating oxygen from the components of the air by the oxygen generator (12) may be achieved by discharging air flowing into the first flow (121) into the second flow (122) and the third flow (123), but is not limited thereto. In this case, the first flow (121) may refer to air containing oxygen that is connected to the interior of the oxygen generator (12). Additionally, the oxygen generator (12) may discharge oxygen from the components of the air contained in the first flow (121) into the third flow (123). Conversely, the oxygen generator (12) can separate components other than oxygen (e.g., nitrogen) from the components of air contained in the first flow (121) and discharge them into the second flow (122). However, it is not limited thereto, and the oxygen generator (12) may, for example, discharge oxygen from the components of air flowing into the first flow (121) into the second flow (122) and discharge components other than oxygen into the third flow (123).

[0048] The oxygen generator (12) may be configured to separate oxygen from the components of air through an electrochemical method. The oxygen generator (12) may include, for example, an electrochemical cell configured to reduce oxygen atoms contained in water by applying voltage to the cathode and the anode, but is not limited thereto.

[0049] The oxygen generator (12) can be configured to separate oxygen from the components of air by utilizing the difference in membrane permeation rates according to the components of the gas. The oxygen generator (12) may be composed of, for example, a plurality of separation membranes, but is not limited thereto.

[0050] The oxygen generator (12) can be configured to separate oxygen from the components of air by utilizing the difference in adsorption selectivity according to the components of the gas. The oxygen generator (12) may include, for example, a pressure swing adsorption (PSA) structure, but is not limited thereto. Meanwhile, the specific operation of the oxygen generator (12) including the PSA structure will be described later.

[0051] A multimodal oxygen control module (1) according to an exemplary embodiment can selectively operate an oxygen generator (12). More specifically, the multimodal oxygen control module (1) can separate oxygen from the components of air flowing into the first flow (121) by operating the oxygen generator (12) to separate it into a second flow (122) and a third flow (123), or it can discharge the air flowing into the first flow (121) into the second flow (122) or the third flow (123) by not operating the oxygen generator (12). When the multimodal oxygen control module (1) does not operate the oxygen generator (12), the oxygen generator (12) may not separate oxygen from the components of air flowing into the first flow (121).

[0052] A multimodal oxygen control module (1) according to an exemplary embodiment may include an intake path and an exhaust path (140). The multimodal oxygen control module (1) may draw in air from the outside through the intake path (150). The air drawn in from the outside through the intake path (150) may be connected to an oxygen generator (12) through a first flow (121) via an intake node (15) described later. The multimodal oxygen control module (1) may discharge air to the outside through the exhaust path (140). A third flow (123) discharged from the oxygen generator (12) may be discharged to the outside through the exhaust path (140) via an exhaust node (14) described later.

[0053] A multimodal oxygen control module (1) according to an exemplary embodiment may include an exhaust node (14). The exhaust node (14) provides a branching point to the third flow (123) and may be in communication with the outside. The third flow (123) may be branched into a fourth flow (134) through the exhaust node (14). The third flow (123) may be discharged to the outside through the exhaust passage (140) via the exhaust node (14). The fact that the exhaust node (14) is in communication with the outside may mean that the third flow (123) may be discharged to the outside through the exhaust passage (140) via the exhaust node (14). The exhaust node (14) may selectively block the flow of air branching into the fourth flow (134). If the exhaust node (14) blocks the airflow branching into the fourth flow (134), all third flow (123) connected to the exhaust node (14) can be discharged to the outside through the exhaust passage (140). The exhaust node (14) can selectively block the airflow branching through the exhaust passage (140). If the exhaust node (14) blocks the airflow branching through the exhaust passage (140), all third flow (123) connected to the exhaust node (14) can be branched into the fourth flow (134). If the exhaust node (14) blocks the airflow branching through the exhaust passage (140), the multimodal oxygen control module (1) may not discharge air to the outside.

[0054] A multimodal oxygen control module (1) according to an exemplary embodiment may include an ozone generator (13). The ozone generator (13) may convert oxygen into ozone among the components of the air. A fourth flow (134) branching from an exhaust node (14) may be connected to the ozone generator (13). The ozone generator (13) may be configured to discharge air flowing into the fourth flow (134) into the fifth flow (135). The ozone generator (13) may convert oxygen into ozone among the components of the air flowing into the fourth flow (134) and discharge it into the fifth flow (135). However, it is not limited thereto, and the ozone generator (13) may also convert oxygen into ozone among the components of the air flowing in through a path other than the fourth flow (134) and discharge it into the fifth flow (135).

[0055] The ozone generator (13) can be configured to convert oxygen into ozone through a discharge method that applies high voltage to the airflow. However, it is not limited to this, and the method by which the ozone generator (13) converts oxygen into ozone can be various, such as ultraviolet irradiation, electrolysis, or radiation irradiation.

[0056] A multimodal oxygen control module (1) according to an exemplary embodiment can selectively operate an ozone generator (13). More specifically, the multimodal oxygen control module (1) can convert oxygen into ozone among the components of the air flowing into the fourth flow (134) and discharge it into the fifth flow (135) by operating the ozone generator (13), or it can discharge the air flowing into the fourth flow (134) into the fifth flow (135) as is by not operating the ozone generator (13).

[0057] A multimodal oxygen control module (1) according to an exemplary embodiment may include an intake node (15). A fifth flow (135) discharged by an ozone generator (13) may be connected to the intake node (15). The intake node (15) may be in communication with the outside. Being in communication with the outside of the intake node (15) may mean that air drawn in from the outside through the intake path (150) is connected to the intake node (15). The intake node (15) may provide a first flow (121) to the oxygen generator (12). The intake node (15) may selectively block the flow of air drawn in through the intake path (150). When the intake node (15) blocks the flow of air drawn in through the intake path (150), the multimodal oxygen control module (1) may not draw in air from the outside.

[0058] Below, we intend to describe in more detail each mode of the multimodal oxygen control module (1) that selectively operates the oxygen generator (12) and the ozone generator (13).

[0059] FIG. 2 is a conceptual diagram showing the first mode (M1) of a multimodal oxygen control module (1) according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0060] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, a multimodal oxygen control module (1) according to an exemplary embodiment may have a first mode (M1) that operates optionally. In the first mode (M1), the multimodal oxygen control module (1) may increase or decrease the oxygen concentration of the air discharged to the outside through the exhaust node (14) by operating the oxygen generator (12). Here, the air discharged to the outside through the exhaust node (14) may refer to air discharged to the outside through the exhaust path (140) after passing through the exhaust node (14), but is not limited thereto. Additionally, the multimodal oxygen control module (1) increasing or decreasing the oxygen concentration of the air discharged through the exhaust node (14) may mean that the oxygen concentration discharged through the exhaust node (14) is higher or lower compared to the air introduced from the outside through the intake node (15). Here, the air introduced from the outside through the intake node (15) may refer to air introduced from the outside through the intake passage (150), but is not limited thereto.

[0061] When the multimodal oxygen control module (1) according to an exemplary embodiment operates in the first mode (M1), the exhaust node (14) may block the flow of air branching into the fourth flow (134). When the exhaust node (14) blocks the flow of air branching into the fourth flow (134), the third flow (123) connected to the exhaust node (14) may be discharged to the outside through the exhaust path (140). When the multimodal oxygen control module (1) operates in the first mode (M1), the intake node (15) may not block the flow of air being drawn in through the intake path (150). When the intake node (15) does not block the flow of air being drawn in through the intake path (150), the multimodal oxygen control module (1) may draw in air from the outside.

[0062] A multimodal oxygen control module (1) according to an exemplary embodiment can form a circuit communicating with the outside in a first mode (M1). In other words, the multimodal oxygen control module (1) can draw air from the outside through an intake passage (150) to an intake node (15) in the first mode (M1), and can discharge air to the outside through an intake passage (150) via an intake node (15). The multimodal oxygen control module (1) can provide the air drawn from the outside in the first mode (M1) to an oxygen generator (12) through a first flow (121). The multimodal oxygen control module (1) can discharge air to the outside through a second flow (122) in the first mode (M1). The multimodal oxygen control module (1) can discharge air to the outside through a third flow (123) that is discharged through an exhaust node (14) via an intake passage (150) in the first mode (M1).

[0063] When the multimodal oxygen control module (1) according to an exemplary embodiment operates to increase the concentration of oxygen discharged to the outside through the exhaust node (14) in the first mode (M1), the oxygen generator (12) operates to separate oxygen from the components of air entering the first flow (121) and discharge it into the third flow (123). When the multimodal oxygen control module (1) operates to decrease the concentration of oxygen discharged to the outside through the exhaust node (14) in the first mode (M1), the oxygen generator (12) operates to separate oxygen from the components of air entering the first flow (121) and discharge it into the second flow (122).

[0064] FIG. 3 is a conceptual diagram showing the deodorization mode (MS) of a multimodal oxygen control module (1) according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0065] Referring to FIGS. 1 and FIGS. 3, a multimodal oxygen control module (1) according to an exemplary embodiment may have a deodorization mode (MS) that operates optionally. When the multimodal oxygen control module (1) operates in the deodorization mode (MS), it may draw in air from the outside and remove components that cause odor (e.g., volatile organic compounds) and discharge them to the outside. The multimodal oxygen control module (1) may not operate the oxygen generator (12) in the deodorization mode (MS). Not operating the oxygen generator (12) by the multimodal oxygen control module (1) may mean that air flowing into the oxygen generator (12) in the first flow (121) is discharged in the third flow (123), but is not limited thereto.

[0066] An oxygen generator (12) according to an exemplary embodiment may include an adsorbent. The oxygen generator (12) may adsorb odor-causing components from the air flowing into the first flow (121) and discharge them into the third flow (123). The multimodal oxygen control module (1) may perform an air purification function by drawing in air from the outside, adsorbing odor-causing components onto the adsorbent of the oxygen generator (12), and discharging purified air.

[0067] FIG. 4a is a conceptual diagram showing an oxygen generator (12) according to an exemplary embodiment. FIG. 4b is a conceptual diagram showing an oxygen generator (12) according to an exemplary embodiment. FIG. 4c is a conceptual diagram showing an oxygen generator (12) according to an exemplary embodiment. FIG. 4d is a conceptual diagram showing an oxygen generator (12) according to an exemplary embodiment. FIG. 4e is a conceptual diagram showing an oxygen generator (12) according to an exemplary embodiment. FIG. 4a to FIG. 4e may show each state of the oxygen generator (12) operating in the first mode (M1) of the multimodal oxygen control module (1). FIG. 4a to FIG. 4e may show each state of the oxygen generator (12) operating in the first mode (M1) of the multimodal oxygen control module (1) in chronological order. Additionally, the oxygen generator (12) operating in the first mode (M1) of the multimodal oxygen control module (1) can be switched to the state shown in FIG. 4a after the state shown in FIG. 4e. In other words, the oxygen generator (12) operating in the first mode (M1) of the multimodal oxygen control module (1) can cycle through the states shown in FIG. 4a to FIG. 4e.

[0068] Referring to FIGS. 1, FIGS. 2 and FIGS. 4a through 4e, an oxygen generator (12) according to an exemplary embodiment may include a Pressure-Swing-Adsorption (PSA) structure. An oxygen generator (12) having a PSA structure may be composed of a pressurizing unit (1210) and an adsorption unit (1220). The pressurizing unit (1210) may be configured to compress air flowing into a first flow (121). The air compressed by the pressurizing unit (1210) inside the oxygen generator (12) may flow into the adsorption unit (1220). The adsorption unit (1220) may be configured to separate the components of the air by utilizing the difference in adsorption degree according to the components of the air. The adsorption unit (1220) may include an adsorbent (e.g., zeolite), but is not limited thereto.

[0069] An adsorption unit (1220) according to an exemplary embodiment may include a plurality of adsorption units. The adsorption unit (1220) may include a first adsorption unit (1221) and a second adsorption unit (1222). The first adsorption unit (1221) may be in communication with the first flow (121). The second adsorption unit (1222) may be in communication with the first flow (121). In other words, the air compressed by the pressurizing unit (1210) may be independently introduced into the interior of the first adsorption unit (1221) and the second adsorption unit (1222). The oxygen generator (12) may control the flow of air flowing inside.

[0070] An oxygen generator (12) according to an exemplary embodiment may be composed of a plurality of flow paths including a plurality of branching points. The plurality of flow paths inside the oxygen generator (12) may form a plurality of circuits through which air can flow. The plurality of circuits may be connected to a first flow path (121) connected to the oxygen generator (12). The plurality of circuits may be connected to a second flow path (122) discharged by the oxygen generator (12). The plurality of circuits may be connected to a third flow path (123) discharged by the oxygen generator (12). The plurality of circuits may be connected to a first adsorption unit (1221). The plurality of circuits may be connected to a second adsorption unit (1222).

[0071] An oxygen generator (12) according to an exemplary embodiment may include a shut-off valve (1230) configured to control the flow of air flowing inside. The shut-off valve (1230) may selectively block the flow of air flowing inside the oxygen generator (12). Since the shut-off valve (1230) selectively blocks the flow of air flowing inside the oxygen generator (12), air may flow through a specific circuit among a plurality of circuits inside the oxygen generator (12).

[0072] A shut-off valve (1230) according to an exemplary embodiment may include a first shut-off valve (1231) through a sixth shut-off valve (1236). The first shut-off valve (1231) may selectively shut off a circuit connecting the first flow (121) and the first adsorption unit (1221). The second shut-off valve (1232) may selectively shut off a circuit connecting the first adsorption unit (1221) and the third flow (123). The third shut-off valve (1233) may selectively shut off a circuit connecting the first adsorption unit (1221) and the second flow (122). The fourth shut-off valve (1234) may selectively shut off a circuit connecting the first flow (121) and the second adsorption unit (1222). The fifth shut-off valve (1245) may selectively shut off a circuit connecting the second adsorption unit (1222) and the third flow (123). The sixth shut-off valve (1236) can selectively block the circuit connecting the second adsorption unit (1222) and the second flow (122).

[0073] Referring again to FIGS. 1, 2 and 4a, when the multimodal oxygen control module (1) according to an exemplary embodiment has a first mode (M1), high-pressure air can be introduced into the first adsorption unit (1221) by opening the first shut-off valve (1231). At this time, the circuit connecting the first adsorption unit (1221) and the third flow (123) can be blocked by closing the second shut-off valve (1232). At this time, the circuit connecting the first adsorption unit (1221) and the second flow (122) can be blocked by closing the third shut-off valve (1233). At this time, the circuit connecting the first flow (121) and the second adsorption unit (1222) can be blocked by closing the fourth shut-off valve (1234).

[0074] Referring again to FIGS. 1, FIGS. 2, FIGS. 4a and FIGS. 4b, when the multimodal oxygen control module (1) according to an exemplary embodiment has a first mode (M1), oxygen among the components of air introduced into the first adsorption unit (1221) can be discharged into the third flow (123) by opening the second shut-off valve (1232). At this time, the remaining components of air introduced into the first adsorption unit (1221) other than oxygen (e.g., nitrogen) may remain inside the first adsorption unit (1221), but are not limited thereto.

[0075] Referring again to FIGS. 1, FIGS. 2, FIGS. 4b and FIGS. 4c, when the multimodal oxygen control module (1) according to an exemplary embodiment has a first mode (M1), the components of the air introduced into the first adsorption unit (1221), excluding oxygen, can be discharged into the third flow (123) by opening the third shut-off valve (1233). At this time, the circuit connecting the first adsorption unit (1221) and the third flow (123) can be blocked by closing the second shut-off valve (1232). At this time, high-pressure air can be introduced into the second adsorption unit (1222) by opening the fourth shut-off valve (1234), but is not limited thereto.

[0076] Referring again to FIGS. 1, FIGS. 2, FIGS. 4c and FIGS. 4d, when the multimodal oxygen control module (1) according to an exemplary embodiment has a first mode (M1), oxygen among the components of air introduced into the interior of the second adsorption unit (1222) can be discharged into the third flow (123) by opening the fifth shut-off valve (1245). At this time, the remaining components of air introduced into the interior of the second adsorption unit (1222), excluding oxygen, may remain inside the second adsorption unit (1222), but are not limited thereto.

[0077] Referring again to FIGS. 1, FIGS. 2, FIGS. 4d and FIGS. 4e, when the multimodal oxygen control module (1) according to an exemplary embodiment has a first mode (M1), the remaining components of the air introduced into the interior of the second adsorption unit (1222), excluding oxygen, can be discharged into the third flow (123) by opening the sixth shut-off valve (1236). At this time, the circuit connecting the second adsorption unit (1222) and the third flow (123) can be blocked by closing the fifth shut-off valve (1245). At this time, high-pressure air can be introduced into the first adsorption unit (1221) by opening the first shut-off valve (1231), but is not limited thereto.

[0078] Referring again to FIGS. 1 to 4e, when a multimodal oxygen control module (1) according to an exemplary embodiment has a first mode (M1), a plurality of adsorption units included in an oxygen generator (12) may optionally be in communication with a first flow (121). More specifically, when the first adsorption unit (1221) is in communication with the first flow (121) in the first mode (M1), the second adsorption unit (1222) may not be in communication with the first flow (121). When the second adsorption unit (1222) is in communication with the first flow (121) in the first mode (M1), the first adsorption unit (1221) may not be in communication with the second flow (122).

[0079] Meanwhile, the performance of the oxygen generator (12) may be degraded during the operation of the multimodal oxygen control module (1) in the first mode (M1) or the deodorization mode (MS). The degradation of the performance of the oxygen generator (12) may mean that the oxygen generator (12) has a reduced ability to separate oxygen, but is not limited thereto, and may also include a reduced ability of the oxygen generator (12) to adsorb components that cause odor. Additionally, it may be understood that the performance of the oxygen generator (12) is degraded in the case where microorganisms proliferate inside the oxygen generator (12) due to organic matter remaining inside the oxygen generator (12). The cause of the performance degradation of the oxygen generator (12) may be that a polymer compound adsorbed on the adsorption part (1220) in the oxygen generator (12) including the PSA structure remains without being discharged to the outside of the oxygen generator (12), but is not limited thereto. For example, in an oxygen generator (12) comprising multiple separation membranes, the proliferation of microorganisms between each separation membrane can also constitute a cause of performance degradation of the oxygen generator (12). If the performance of the oxygen generator (12) deteriorates, the performance of the oxygen generator (12) may be restored by regenerating the oxygen generator (12).

[0080] Below, we intend to describe in more detail a multimodal oxygen control module (1) configured to regenerate the oxygen generator (12) by optionally operating in a second mode (M2).

[0081] FIG. 5 is a conceptual diagram showing the second mode (M2) of a multimodal oxygen control module (1) according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0082] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 5, a multimodal oxygen control module (1) according to an exemplary embodiment may have a second mode (M2) that operates optionally. In the second mode (M2) of the multimodal oxygen control module (1), the oxygen generator (12) may be regenerated by operating the ozone generator (13). Here, regenerating the oxygen generator (12) may mean oxidizing organic matter accumulated inside the oxygen generator (12) through ozone components introduced into the oxygen generator (12), but is not limited thereto.

[0083] When the multimodal oxygen control module (1) according to an exemplary embodiment operates in the second mode (M2), the exhaust node (14) can block the flow of air discharged to the outside through the exhaust path (140). The exhaust node (14) may not block the flow of air branching into the fourth flow (134). All third flow (123) connected to the exhaust node (14) can be branched into the fourth flow (134). In other words, the third flow (123) discharged by the oxygen generator (12) can pass through the exhaust node (14) to become the fourth flow (134) and connect to the ozone generator (13).

[0084] When the multimodal oxygen control module (1) according to an exemplary embodiment operates in the second mode (M2), the ozone generator (13) can convert oxygen into ozone among the components of the air flowing into the fourth flow (134) and discharge it into the fifth flow (135). The fifth flow (135) can be connected to the intake node (15).

[0085] When the multimodal oxygen control module (1) according to an exemplary embodiment operates in a second mode (M2), the intake node (15) can block the flow of air drawn in from the outside through the intake path (150). The fifth flow (135) connected to the intake node (15) can become the first flow (121) by passing through the intake node (15). The fifth flow (135) can become the first flow (121) by passing through the intake node (15) and connect to the oxygen generator (12).

[0086] When the multimodal oxygen control module (1) according to an exemplary embodiment operates in the second mode (M2), the fifth flow (135) may contain an ozone component. The ozone component contained in the fifth flow (135) may pass through the intake node (15) to become the first flow (121) and be introduced into the oxygen generator (12). When the ozone component is introduced into the oxygen generator (12), the ozone component may regenerate the oxygen generator (12). Regeneration of the oxygen generator (12) may mean the recovery of the performance of the oxygen generator (12) that had deteriorated. For example, if the oxygen generator (12) includes a plurality of membranes, regeneration of the oxygen generator (12) by the ozone component may mean sterilizing microorganisms that have proliferated between each membrane. For example, if the oxygen generator (12) includes a PSA structure, the regeneration of the oxygen generator (12) by the ozone component may be achieved by oxidizing a polymer compound (e.g., ethylene) adsorbed on the adsorption part (1220) and discharging it outside the oxygen generator (12). However, the above description regarding the method of regenerating the oxygen generator (12) by the ozone component is merely an exemplary description and is not limited thereto.

[0087] When the multimodal oxygen control module (1) according to an exemplary embodiment operates in a second mode (M2), the exhaust node (14) can block the flow of air discharged to the outside through the exhaust path (140). The third flow (123) discharged by the oxygen generator (12) passes through the exhaust node (14) to become a fourth flow (134) and can be connected to the ozone generator (13). The fourth flow (134) introduced into the ozone generator (13) becomes a fifth flow (135) and can be connected to the intake node (15).

[0088] When the multimodal oxygen control module (1) according to an exemplary embodiment operates in the second mode (M2), the intake node (15) can block the flow of air entering from the outside through the intake path (150). The fifth flow (135) discharged by the ozone generator (13) passes through the intake node (15) to become the first flow (121) and can be connected to the oxygen generator (12). The first flow (121) introduced into the oxygen generator (12) becomes the third flow (123) and can be connected to the exhaust node (14).

[0089] A multimodal oxygen control module (1) according to an exemplary embodiment may not form a circuit communicating with the outside in the second mode (M2). In other words, the multimodal oxygen control module (1) may form a closed circuit. More specifically, a closed circuit may be formed by the circulation of the first flow (121), the third flow (123), the fourth flow (134), and the fifth flow (135) within the multimodal oxygen control module (1). By forming a closed circuit in the second mode (M2), the multimodal oxygen control module (1) may prevent or reduce the leakage of ozone components to the outside.

[0090] When the multimodal oxygen control module (1) according to an exemplary embodiment operates in a second mode (M2), the air circulating through the closed circuit may contain ozone components at a concentration greater than a predetermined concentration. For example, the concentration of ozone components in the air circulating through the closed circuit may be 200 ppb or higher. For example, the concentration of ozone components in the air circulating through the closed circuit may be 400 ppb or higher. However, this is merely an exemplary description and is not limited thereto.

[0091] A multimodal oxygen control module (1) according to an exemplary embodiment may operate in a second mode (M2) for a predetermined period of time. At this time, the predetermined period may mean a time sufficient for the multimodal oxygen control module (1) to regenerate the oxygen generator (12) with air containing ozone components, but is not limited thereto. For example, the time during which the multimodal oxygen control module (1) circulates air containing ozone components through a closed circuit may be 5 minutes or more and 240 minutes or less. For example, the time during which the multimodal oxygen control module (1) circulates air containing ozone components through a closed circuit may be 10 minutes or more and 60 minutes or less. However, this is merely an exemplary description and is not limited thereto.

[0092] A multimodal oxygen control module (1) according to an exemplary embodiment may have a first mode (M1) and a second mode (M2) that operate optionally. A user may operate the multimodal oxygen control module (1) in a specific mode according to their selection. For example, by operating the multimodal oxygen control module (1) in the first mode (M1), the user may increase or decrease the concentration of oxygen in the surrounding environment. By operating the multimodal oxygen control module (1) in the second mode (M2), the user may regenerate the oxygen generator (12). However, the method by which the multimodal oxygen control module (1) determines the operating mode is not limited thereto. For example, the multimodal oxygen control module (1) may regenerate the oxygen generator (12) by operating in the second mode (M2) according to a set time interval. For example, the multimodal oxygen control module (1) can regenerate the oxygen generator (12) by determining the oxygen separation performance of the oxygen generator (12) and operating in a second mode (M2) when the performance of the oxygen generator (12) is degraded.

[0093] FIG. 6 is a conceptual diagram showing an oxygen generator (12) according to an exemplary embodiment. FIG. 6 may show the state of the oxygen generator (12) in the second mode (M2) of the multimodal oxygen control module (1).

[0094] Referring to FIGS. 1, 5, and 6, when the multimodal oxygen control module (1) according to an exemplary embodiment operates in a second mode (M2), the oxygen generator (12) may not operate the pressurizing unit (1210). In the second mode (M2), the oxygen generator (12) may communicate the first flow (121) to the first adsorption unit (1221). In the second mode (M2), the oxygen generator (12) may communicate the first flow (121) to the second adsorption unit (1222). In the second mode (M2), the oxygen generator (12) may simultaneously communicate the first flow (121) to the first adsorption unit (1221) and the second adsorption unit (1222). In other words, a plurality of adsorption units may be in communication with the first flow (121) in total. When the multimodal oxygen control module (1) operates in the second mode (M2), multiple adsorption units can be regenerated simultaneously if they are all connected to the first flow (121). When the multimodal oxygen control module (1) operates in the second mode (M2), if multiple adsorption units are all connected to the first flow (121), the noise generated by the oxygen generator (12) may not be large.

[0095] Below, we will describe a multimodal oxygen control device (20) configured to control the air composition inside the chamber (24). At this time, descriptions that overlap with the previously mentioned content will be omitted, and the focus will be on the differences.

[0096] FIG. 7 is a conceptual diagram showing a multimodal oxygen control device (20) according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0097] Referring to FIG. 7, a multimodal oxygen control device (20) according to an exemplary embodiment may be configured to separate and discharge oxygen from the components of air introduced from the outside. The multimodal oxygen control device (20) may be provided to control the air composition inside a chamber (24). The multimodal oxygen control device (20) may include, but is not limited to, a storage device, a refrigeration device, and a food aging device.

[0098] A multimodal oxygen control device (20) according to an exemplary embodiment may include an oxygen generator (22) and an ozone generator (23). The specific configuration of the oxygen generator (22) and the ozone generator (23) may be the same as described above.

[0099] A multimodal oxygen control module according to an exemplary embodiment may include a control node (25). The control node (25) may be in communication with the outside. The control node (25) may include a control channel (250). The control channel (250) may be configured to draw in air from the outside or discharge air to the outside. The multimodal oxygen control device (20) may draw in air from the outside through the control channel (250). The multimodal oxygen control device (20) may discharge air to the outside through the control channel (250). The control channel (250) may provide a path for exchanging air between the inside and outside of the multimodal oxygen control device (20). The control channel (250) may be composed of a single channel, but is not limited thereto and may be composed of multiple channels. For example, a path for the multimodal oxygen control device (20) to draw in air from the outside and a path for the multimodal oxygen control device (20) to discharge air to the outside may be provided separately.

[0100] A control node (25) according to an exemplary embodiment may provide a branching point to the third flow (223). The third flow (223) may be connected to the control node (25). The third flow (223) connected to the control node (25) may be discharged to the outside through the control path (250). The third flow (223) connected to the control node (25) may be branched into the fourth flow (234). The control node (25) may selectively block the airflow branching into the fourth flow (234). When the control node (25) blocks the airflow branching into the fourth flow (234), all of the third flow (223) connected to the control node (25) may be discharged to the outside. The control node (25) may selectively block the airflow discharged to the outside through the control path (250). If the control node (25) blocks the flow of air being discharged to the outside, all of the third flow (223) connected to the control node (25) can be branched into the fourth flow (234).

[0101] The control node (25) can selectively block the flow of air connected to the outside through the control channel (250). When the control node (25) blocks the flow of air connected to the outside through the control channel (250), all third flow (223) connected to the control node (25) can be branched into fourth flow (234). When the control node (25) blocks the flow of air connected to the outside through the control channel (250), the multimodal oxygen control device (20) may not inhale air from the outside or exhale air to the outside.

[0102] A multimodal oxygen control device (20) according to an exemplary embodiment may include a chamber (24). The chamber (24) may provide a first flow (221) to an oxygen generator (22). Conversely, air extracted from inside the chamber (24) may be provided to the oxygen generator (22) as the first flow (221). A second flow (222) may be connected to the chamber (24). Conversely, the chamber (24) may receive the second flow (222) discharged by the oxygen generator (22). A fifth flow (235) may be connected to the chamber (24). Conversely, the chamber (24) may receive the fifth flow (235) discharged by the ozone generator (23). The first flow (221), the second flow (222), and the fifth flow (235) may be provided to control the air composition inside the chamber (24). For example, the air composition inside the chamber (24) can be controlled by adjusting the components of the air provided to the chamber (24) by the second flow (222) and / or the fifth flow (235). For example, the air composition inside the chamber (24) can be controlled by the first flow (221) extracting air from inside the chamber (24). However, the above description is merely an exemplary description and is not limited thereto.

[0103] Below, we intend to describe in more detail each mode of the multimodal oxygen control device (20) that selectively operates the oxygen generator (22) and the ozone generator (23).

[0104] FIG. 8 is a conceptual diagram showing the first mode (M1) of a multimodal oxygen control device (20) according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0105] Referring to FIGS. 7 and 8, a multimodal oxygen control device (20) according to an exemplary embodiment may have a first mode (M1) that operates optionally. The multimodal oxygen control device (20) may increase or decrease the oxygen concentration inside the chamber (24) by operating the oxygen generator (22) in the first mode (M1). Increasing or decreasing the oxygen concentration inside the chamber (24) by the multimodal oxygen control device (20) may mean that the oxygen concentration of the air provided to the chamber (24) by the second flow (222) and / or the fifth flow (235) is higher or lower compared to the air extracted inside the chamber (24) by the first flow (221), but is not limited thereto.

[0106] When the multimodal oxygen control device (20) according to an exemplary embodiment operates in the first mode (M1), the control node (25) can block the airflow branching into the fourth flow (234). When the control node (25) blocks the airflow branching into the fourth flow (234), the third flow (223) connected to the control node (25) can be discharged to the outside through the control path (250). The multimodal oxygen control device (20) can form a circuit communicating with the outside in the first mode (M1).

[0107] When the multimodal oxygen control device (20) according to an exemplary embodiment operates to increase the oxygen concentration inside the chamber (24) in the first mode (M1), the oxygen generator (22) may operate to separate oxygen from the components of the air flowing into the first flow (221) and discharge it into the second flow (222). The oxygen concentration in the second flow (222) may be higher than that in the first flow (221). The multimodal oxygen control device (20) may increase the oxygen concentration inside the chamber (24) by supplying the oxygen separated into the second flow (222) from the air flowing into the first flow (221) to the oxygen generator (22) in the first mode (M1).

[0108] When the multimodal oxygen control device (20) according to an exemplary embodiment operates to reduce the oxygen concentration inside the chamber (24) in the first mode (M1), the oxygen generator (22) may operate to separate oxygen from the components of air flowing into the first flow (221) and discharge it into the third flow (223). The oxygen concentration in the third flow (223) may be higher than that in the first flow (221). The third flow (223) may be discharged to the outside through the control node (25). Conversely, the oxygen concentration in the second flow (222) may be lower than that in the first flow (221). The oxygen generator (22) may reduce the oxygen concentration inside the chamber (24) by extracting the first flow (221), which has a relatively high oxygen concentration, from inside the chamber (24) and supplying the second flow (222), which has a relatively low oxygen concentration, into the chamber (24). The multimodal oxygen control device (20) can reduce the oxygen concentration inside the chamber (24) by discharging oxygen separated into a third flow (223) from the air flowing into the oxygen generator (22) as a first flow (221) in the first mode (M1) to the outside through the control node (25).

[0109] Referring again to FIGS. 4A through 4E, FIGS. 7, and FIGS. 8, the oxygen generator (22) of the multimodal oxygen control device (20) according to an exemplary embodiment may include a PSA structure. The oxygen generator (22) may include a pressurizing unit that compresses air flowing into the first flow (221). The oxygen generator (22) may include an adsorption unit that separates the components of the air using the difference in adsorption degree according to the components of the air. The adsorption unit may include a first adsorption unit and a second adsorption unit.

[0110] FIG. 9 is a conceptual diagram showing a second mode (M2) of a multimodal oxygen control device (20) according to an exemplary embodiment. FIG. 10 is a conceptual diagram showing a second mode (M2) of a multimodal oxygen control device (20) according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0111] Referring to FIGS. 7, 9 and 10, a multimodal oxygen control device (20) according to an exemplary embodiment may have a second mode (M2) that operates optionally. In the second mode (M2), the multimodal oxygen control device (20) may regenerate the oxygen generator (22) by operating the ozone generator (23). In the second mode (M2) of the multimodal oxygen control device (20), the oxygen generator (22) may be regenerated by operating the ozone generator (23). Here, regenerating the oxygen generator (22) may mean oxidizing organic matter accumulated inside the oxygen generator (22) through ozone components introduced into the oxygen generator (22), but is not limited thereto.

[0112] When the multimodal oxygen control device (20) according to an exemplary embodiment has a second mode (M2), the control node (25) can block the flow of air that is discharged to the outside or introduced from the outside through the control path (250). In other words, the third flow (223) discharged by the oxygen generator (22) can pass through the control node (25) to become the fourth flow (234) and connect to the ozone generator (23).

[0113] When the multimodal oxygen control device (20) according to an exemplary embodiment has a second mode (M2), the ozone generator (23) can convert oxygen into ozone among the components of the air flowing into the fourth flow (234) and discharge it into the fifth flow (235). The fifth flow (235) can be connected to the chamber (24).

[0114] When the multimodal oxygen control device (20) according to an exemplary embodiment has a second mode (M2), the fifth flow (235) may contain an ozone component. The ozone component contained in the fifth flow (235) may oxidize organic matter inside the chamber (24). For example, the ozone component contained in the fifth flow (235) may sterilize microorganisms inside the chamber (24), but is not limited thereto. The ozone component inside the chamber (24) may be contained in the first flow (221) and introduced into the oxygen generator (22). The first flow (221) extracted from inside the chamber (24) may contain an ozone component. When the ozone component is introduced into the oxygen generator (22), the ozone component may regenerate the oxygen generator (22). Regeneration of the oxygen generator (22) may be the recovery of the performance of the oxygen generator (22) that had deteriorated. For example, if the oxygen generator (22) includes multiple separation membranes, the regeneration of the oxygen generator (22) by the ozone component may mean sterilizing microorganisms that have proliferated between each separation membrane. For example, if the oxygen generator (22) includes a PSA structure, the regeneration of the oxygen generator (22) by the ozone component may mean that a polymer compound (e.g., ethylene) adsorbed on the adsorption part is oxidized and discharged to the outside of the oxygen generator (22). However, the above description regarding the method of regenerating the oxygen generator (22) by the ozone component is merely an exemplary description and is not limited thereto.

[0115] Referring again to FIG. 9, when the multimodal oxygen control device (20) according to an exemplary embodiment has a second mode (M2), the oxygen generator (22) can separate oxygen from the components of the air flowing in as a first flow (221) and discharge it as a third flow (223). In other words, when the multimodal oxygen control device (20) has a second mode (M2), the oxygen generator (22) can operate together with the ozone generator (23). The third flow (223) discharged by the oxygen generator (22) can become a fourth flow (234) and be introduced into the ozone generator (23). When the multimodal oxygen control device (20) has a second mode (M2), the oxygen generator (22) can operate, and the efficiency of the ozone generator (23) converting oxygen into ozone can be excellent.

[0116] Referring again to FIGS. 6 and FIGS. 10, when the multimodal oxygen control device (20) according to an exemplary embodiment has a second mode (M2), the oxygen generator (22) can discharge the air introduced into the first flow (221) as is into the third flow (223). In other words, when the multimodal oxygen control device (20) has a second mode (M2), the oxygen generator (22) may not operate. At this time, if the oxygen generator (22) includes a PSA structure, a plurality of adsorption units may be in communication with the first flow (221) as a whole.

[0117] Referring again to FIGS. 9 and FIGS. 10, the multimodal oxygen control device (20) according to an exemplary embodiment may not form a circuit communicating with the outside in the second mode (M2). The multimodal oxygen control device (20) may not exchange air with the outside by blocking the control path (250). In other words, the multimodal oxygen control device (20) may form a closed circuit. More specifically, the first flow (221) to the fifth flow (235) within the multimodal oxygen control device (20) may be configured to circulate air inside the chamber (24). The multimodal oxygen control device (20) may prevent or reduce the leakage of ozone components to the outside by forming a closed circuit in the second mode (M2).

[0118] FIG. 11 is a conceptual diagram showing a third mode (M3) of a multimodal oxygen control device (20) according to an exemplary embodiment. FIG. 12 is a conceptual diagram showing a third mode (M3) of a multimodal oxygen control device (20) according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0119] Referring to FIGS. 11 and 12, a multimodal oxygen control device (20) according to an exemplary embodiment may additionally have a third mode (M3) that operates optionally. In the third mode (M3), the multimodal oxygen control device (20) may reduce the ozone component inside the chamber (24). The multimodal oxygen control device (20) may extract a first flow (221) containing an ozone component inside the chamber (24). An oxygen generator (22) may convert the ozone component contained in the first flow (221) into oxygen. For example, if the oxygen generator (22) includes an adsorbent, the ozone component may be reduced to oxygen by the adsorbent acting as a catalyst. However, the above description of the method by which the oxygen generator (22) converts the ozone component into oxygen is merely an exemplary description and is not limited thereto.

[0120] A multimodal oxygen control device (20) according to an exemplary embodiment may block the control path (250) in a third mode (M3). The multimodal oxygen control device (20) may not exchange air with the outside in the third mode (M3). The multimodal oxygen control device (20) may not discharge intermediate products (e.g., methanol) that may exist during the process of converting ozone to oxygen to the outside.

[0121] FIG. 13 is a conceptual diagram showing the fourth mode (M4) of a multimodal oxygen control device (20) according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0122] Referring to FIG. 13, the multimodal oxygen control device (20) according to an exemplary embodiment may additionally have a fourth mode (M4) that operates optionally. The multimodal oxygen control device (20) may increase the pressure inside the chamber (24) in the fourth mode (M4). The multimodal oxygen control device (20) may draw in air from the outside through the control path (250) in the fourth mode (M4). The multimodal oxygen control device (20) may supply the air drawn in from the outside through the control path (250) in the fourth mode (M4) as a fifth flow (235) inside the chamber (24). The oxygen generator (22) may not extract the air inside the chamber (24) as a first flow (221). The fourth mode (M4) may be operated, for example, when the pressure inside the chamber (24) is excessively reduced as the multimodal oxygen control device (20) discharges air to the outside in the first mode (M1), but is not limited thereto.

[0123] FIG. 14 is a conceptual diagram showing the fifth mode (M5) of a multimodal oxygen control device (20) according to an exemplary embodiment. FIG. 15 is a conceptual diagram showing the fifth mode (M5) of a multimodal oxygen control device (20) according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0124] Referring to FIGS. 14 and 15, a multimodal oxygen control device (20) according to an exemplary embodiment may further include a bypass channel (26). The bypass channel (26) may be configured to draw in air from the outside and connect it to an ozone generator (23). The bypass channel (26) may be configured to be distinct from the control channel (250). The bypass channel (26) may introduce air into the ozone generator (23) without passing through the control node (25).

[0125] A multimodal oxygen control device (20) according to an exemplary embodiment may additionally have a fifth mode (M5) that operates optionally. In the fifth mode (M5), the multimodal oxygen control device (20) may oxidize organic matter inside the chamber (24). At this time, oxidizing organic matter inside the chamber (24) may mean sterilizing microorganisms inside the chamber (24), but is not limited thereto. In the fifth mode (M5), the multimodal oxygen control device (20) may convert oxygen into ozone from the components of air flowing into the ozone generator (23) through the bypass path (26) and provide it to the chamber (24). More specifically, the ozone generator (23) may convert oxygen into ozone from the components of air flowing in through the sixth flow and provide it to the chamber (24) through the fifth flow (235).

[0126] Referring again to FIG. 14, a multimodal oxygen control device (20) according to an exemplary embodiment can discharge air to the outside through a control channel (250) in a fifth mode (M5). A control node (25) can block the flow of air branching into a fourth flow (234). By discharging air to the outside through a control channel (250) in a fifth mode (M5), the multimodal oxygen control device (20) can control the pressure inside the chamber (24) to remain constant.

[0127] Referring again to FIG. 15, a multimodal oxygen control device (20) according to an exemplary embodiment can separate oxygen from the air flowing into the first flow (221) inside the chamber (24) by operating the oxygen generator (22) in the fifth mode (M5). The multimodal oxygen control device (20) can discharge air to the outside through the control path (250) in the fifth mode (M5). The control node (25) can block the flow of air branching into the fourth flow (234). When the oxygen separated by the oxygen generator (22) from the first flow (221) is discharged to the outside through the control node (25) via the third flow (223), the oxygen concentration inside the chamber (24) can be reduced. When oxygen separated from the first flow (221) by the oxygen generator (22) flows into the chamber (24) through the second flow (222), the oxygen concentration inside the chamber (24) may decrease. The multimodal oxygen control device (20) can control the oxygen concentration inside the chamber (24) while oxidizing organic matter inside the chamber (24) by simultaneously operating the ozone generator (23) and the oxygen generator (22) in the fifth mode (M5).

[0128] A multimodal oxygen control module according to an exemplary embodiment comprises: an oxygen generator configured to separate oxygen from the components of air by discharging air introduced in a first flow into a second flow and a third flow; an exhaust node that provides a branch point to the third flow and communicates with the outside; an ozone generator configured to convert oxygen from the components of the incoming air into ozone and discharge it as a fifth flow, to which a fourth flow branched from the exhaust node is connected; and an intake node to which the fifth flow is connected, which communicates with the outside and provides the first flow to the oxygen generator; wherein the ozone component contained in the fifth flow passes through the intake node to become the first flow and is introduced into the oxygen generator, thereby regenerating the oxygen generator.

[0129] The multimodal oxygen control module has a first mode and a second mode that operate selectively, and in the first mode, the oxygen generator is operated to increase or decrease the oxygen concentration of the air discharged to the outside through the exhaust node, and in the second mode, the ozone generator is operated to oxidize organic matter accumulated inside the oxygen generator through the ozone component introduced into the oxygen generator.

[0130] In the second mode above, a closed circuit is formed in which the first flow, the third flow, the fourth flow, and the fifth flow circulate, thereby preventing or reducing the leakage of the ozone component to the outside.

[0131] The above oxygen generator may include a Pressure-Swing-Adsorption (PSA) structure comprising a pressurizing unit including a compressor that compresses air introduced in the first flow and an adsorption unit that separates the components of the air using the difference in adsorption degree according to the components of the air.

[0132] The adsorption unit of the oxygen generator comprises a plurality of adsorption units that are optionally in communication with the first flow in the first mode, and in the second mode, the plurality of adsorption units may be in communication with the first flow as a whole.

[0133] In the second mode above, the time for circulating air containing the ozone component through the closed circuit may be 5 minutes or more and 240 minutes or less.

[0134] In the second mode above, the concentration of the ozone component in the air circulating through the closed circuit may be 200 ppb or more.

[0135] A multimodal oxygen control device (20) according to an exemplary embodiment comprises: an oxygen generator configured to separate oxygen from the components of air by discharging air introduced in a first flow into a second flow and a third flow; a chamber to which the second flow connects and which provides the first flow to the oxygen generator; a control node configured to have a control flow path configured to inhale air from the outside or discharge air to the outside and which provides a branch point to the third flow; and an ozone generator to which a fourth flow branched from the control node connects and which converts oxygen from the components of the incoming air into ozone and discharges it into a fifth flow connected to the chamber; wherein the ozone component contained in the fifth flow passes through the chamber to become the first flow and is introduced into the oxygen generator, thereby regenerating the oxygen generator.

[0136] The multimodal oxygen control device (20) has a first mode and a second mode that operate selectively, and in the first mode, the oxygen generator is operated to increase or decrease the oxygen concentration inside the chamber, and in the second mode, the ozone generator is operated to oxidize the organic matter accumulated inside the oxygen generator through the ozone component introduced into the oxygen generator.

[0137] In the first mode above, the oxygen concentration inside the chamber can be increased by supplying oxygen separated into the second flow from the air flowing into the oxygen generator with the first flow into the chamber, or the oxygen concentration inside the chamber can be decreased by discharging oxygen separated into the third flow from the air flowing into the oxygen generator with the first flow to the outside through the control node.

[0138] In the above second mode, the ozone component can be prevented or reduced from leaking out by blocking the control path.

[0139] The above oxygen generator may include a PSA structure comprising a pressurizing unit including a compressor that compresses air introduced in the first flow, and an adsorption unit that separates the components of the air using the difference in adsorption degree according to the components of the air.

[0140] The multimodal oxygen control device (20) further has a third mode that operates optionally, and in the third mode, the control path is blocked and the oxygen generator can reduce the concentration of the ozone component inside the chamber by converting the ozone component contained in the first flow into oxygen.

[0141] The above multimodal oxygen control device (20) further has a fourth mode that operates optionally, and in the fourth mode, the pressure inside the chamber can be increased by supplying air introduced from the outside through the control channel into the chamber as the fifth flow.

[0142] The multimodal oxygen control device (20) further includes a bypass channel configured to draw in air from the outside and connect it to the ozone generator; and the multimodal oxygen control device (20) further has a fifth mode that operates optionally, and in the fifth mode, the oxygen among the components of the air flowing into the ozone generator through the bypass channel is converted into ozone and provided to the chamber, thereby oxidizing the organic matter inside the chamber.

[0143] The above-described embodiments are merely exemplary, and various modifications and equivalent alternative embodiments are possible therefrom for those skilled in the art. Accordingly, the true scope of technical protection according to the exemplary embodiments must be determined by the technical concept of the invention as described in the following claims.

Claims

1. An oxygen generator (12) configured to separate oxygen from the components of air by discharging air flowing in through the first flow (121) into the second flow (122) and the third flow (123); An exhaust node (14) that provides a branch point to the third flow (123) and communicates with the outside; An ozone generator (13) configured to receive a fourth flow (134) branched from the exhaust node (14) and configured to convert oxygen among the components of the incoming air into ozone and discharge it as a fifth flow (135); and Intake node (15) configured to receive the fifth flow (135), communicate with the outside, and provide the first flow (121) to the oxygen generator (12); A multimodal oxygen control module (1) configured to regenerate the oxygen generator (12) by having the ozone component included in the fifth flow (135) pass through the intake node (15) to become the first flow (121) and flow into the oxygen generator (12).

2. In Paragraph 1, The above multimodal oxygen control module (1) has a first mode (M1) and a second mode (M2) configured to operate selectively, and In the first mode (M1) above, the oxygen generator (12) is operated to increase or decrease the oxygen concentration of the air discharged to the outside through the exhaust node (14), and A multimodal oxygen control module (1) configured to oxidize organic matter accumulated inside the oxygen generator (12) through the ozone component introduced into the oxygen generator (12) by operating the ozone generator (13) in the above second mode (M2).

3. In Paragraph 2, In the above second mode (M2), A multimodal oxygen control module (1) configured to reduce the leakage of ozone components to the outside by forming a closed circuit in which the first flow (121), the third flow (123), the fourth flow (134), and the fifth flow (135) circulate.

4. In Paragraph 2, The above oxygen generator (12) is, A multimodal oxygen control module (1) comprising a pressure-swing-adsorption (PSA) structure including a pressurizing unit (1210) comprising a compressor that compresses air flowing into the first flow (121) and an adsorption unit (1220) that separates the components of the air using the difference in adsorption degree according to the components of the air.

5. In Paragraph 4, The adsorption part (1220) of the above oxygen generator (12) is, In the first mode (M1) above, a plurality of adsorption units are included, each having an adsorber and communicating with the first flow (121). In the above second mode (M2), The above plurality of adsorption units are multimodal oxygen control modules (1) that are in communication with the first flow (121).

6. In Paragraph 4, In the above second mode (M2), A multimodal oxygen control module (1) in which the time for circulating air containing the ozone component through the above closed circuit is in the range of about 5 minutes or more and 240 minutes or less.

7. In Paragraph 4, In the above second mode (M2), A multimodal oxygen control module (1) in which the concentration of the ozone component in the air circulating through the above closed circuit is 200 ppb or higher.

8. An oxygen generator (22) configured to separate oxygen from the components of air by discharging air flowing in through the first flow (221) into the second flow (222) and the third flow (223); A chamber (24) configured to provide the first flow (221) to the oxygen generator (22) and to receive the second flow (222); A control node (25) comprising a control channel (250) configured to draw in air from the outside or discharge air to the outside and providing a branch point to the third flow (223); and An ozone generator (23) configured to receive a fourth flow (234) branched from the control node (25) and configured to convert oxygen among the components of the incoming air into ozone and discharge it as a fifth flow (235) connected to the chamber (24); A multimodal oxygen control device (20) configured to regenerate the oxygen generator (22) by passing the ozone component included in the fifth flow (235) through the chamber (24) to become the first flow (221) and flowing into the oxygen generator (22).

9. In Paragraph 8, The above multimodal oxygen control device (20) has a first mode (M1) and a second mode (M2) configured to operate selectively, and In the first mode (M1) above, the oxygen generator (22) is operated to increase or decrease the oxygen concentration inside the chamber (24), and A multimodal oxygen control device (20) configured to oxidize organic matter accumulated inside the oxygen generator (22) through the ozone component introduced into the oxygen generator (22) by operating the ozone generator (23) in the above second mode (M2).

10. In Paragraph 9, In the above first mode (M1), By supplying oxygen separated into the second flow (222) from the air flowing into the oxygen generator (22) with the first flow (221) into the chamber (24), the oxygen concentration inside the chamber (24) is increased, or A multimodal oxygen control device (20) that reduces the oxygen concentration inside the chamber (24) by discharging oxygen separated into the third flow (223) from the air flowing into the oxygen generator (22) in the first flow (221) to the outside through the control node (25).

11. In Paragraph 10, In the above second mode (M2), A multimodal oxygen control device (20) configured to reduce the leakage of the ozone component to the outside by blocking the control path (250).

12. In Paragraph 10, The oxygen generator (22) above is, A multimodal oxygen control device (20) comprising a pressurizing unit including a compressor that compresses air flowing into the first flow (221) and an adsorption unit that separates the components of the air using the difference in adsorption degree according to the components of the air.

13. In Paragraph 12, The above multimodal oxygen control device (20) further has a third mode (M3) configured to operate selectively, and In the above third mode (M3), A multimodal oxygen control device (20) that reduces the concentration of the ozone component inside the chamber (24) by blocking the control path (250) and converting the ozone component contained in the first flow (221) into oxygen using the oxygen generator (22).

14. In Paragraph 10, The above multimodal oxygen control device (20) further has a fourth mode (M4) configured to operate selectively, and In the above fourth mode (M4), A multimodal oxygen control device (20) that increases the pressure inside the chamber (24) by supplying air introduced from the outside through the control channel (250) into the chamber (24) as the fifth flow (235).

15. In Paragraph 10, The above multimodal oxygen control device (20) is, It further includes a bypass path (26) configured to draw in air from the outside and connect it to the ozone generator (23); The above multimodal oxygen control device (20) further has a fifth mode (M5) configured to operate selectively, and In the above 5th mode (M5), A multimodal oxygen control device (20) that oxidizes organic matter inside the chamber (24) by converting oxygen into ozone among the components of the air flowing into the ozone generator (23) through the bypass path (26) and supplying it to the chamber (24).

Images