Device and method for humidifying air
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing air humidification devices with multiple water atomising modules suffer from voltage erosion, electrolytic gas production, and reduced lifespan due to current leakage between modules, as well as relay switch failures from excessive currents and voltage corrosion.
Innovation Solution
Each atomising module is powered by a separate transformer, with AC/DC converters to ensure electrical separation and prevent current flow between modules, and redundant switches to maintain functionality even if one fails.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If multiple water atomising modules are connected to a common power supply, then the device complexity is reduced, but voltage erosion and current leakage occur between modules
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the common power supply into separate power supplies for each atomising module. Each module receives power from its dedicated transformer, eliminating electrical connections between modules through water and preventing voltage erosion and current leakage.
2Ease of operation
If relay switches are used to control individual modules, then operational flexibility is improved, but excessive currents cause switch failures and welding
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces RC circuits (resistor-capacitor combinations) in parallel with each relay switch to suppress voltage spikes and excessive currents during switching operations. This protective measure prevents switch contact welding and burn marks before they occur, extending switch lifespan while maintaining operational flexibility.
3Ease of manufacture
If modules share a common electrical circuit, then installation is simplified, but electrolytic gas production occurs on metal housings
Solution Approach 1:
The patent electrically isolates each module's power circuit through separate transformers, eliminating the common electrical pathway that enables electrolysis. This segmentation prevents electrolytic gas production on metal housings while maintaining installation simplicity through modular design.
4Reliability
If capacitors are used in the power supply circuit, then voltage regulation is improved, but large discharge currents reduce component lifespan
Solution Approach 1:
The patent places RC circuits in parallel with relay switches to cushion the impact of capacitor discharge currents. The resistor limits the discharge current magnitude, preventing damage to rectifiers and other components while the capacitor maintains voltage stability during normal operation.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution prevents voltage corrosion, electrolytic gas production, and extends the lifespan of components by eliminating current leakage and reducing switch wear, ensuring the air humidification device operates safely and efficiently.
Implementation Method 1
The transducers contain thin piezoelectric elements, hereafter referred to as membranes, which vibrate at an ultrasonic frequency
Implementation Method 2
The transducers contain thin piezoelectric elements, hereafter referred to as membranes
Implementation Method 3
Research has shown that when using a power transformer for all atomising modules
Implementation Method 4
The electronic circuit contains, amongst others, a rectifier and a capacitor
Implementation Method 5
The electronic circuit contains, amongst others, a rectifier and a capacitor
Implementation Method 6
Between the transformer and each water atomising module, a relay switch is placed so that individual water atomising modules can be turned on and off
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a device for humidifying air, comprising a water reservoir for filling water therein to a certain level and a number of atomising modules for atomising a part of the water in the water reservoir. Each atomising module comprises a housing with a substantially metal top wall and a number of piezoelectric elements arranged in one of the openings of the top wail. The device further includes a power supply circuit for supplying power to the atomising modules, whereby each atomising module is separately powered by a transformer. By galvanicaily separating the atomising modules, the leak currents that cause the problems in the prior art, are largely resolved.