Blower Filter Device Closed-Loop Air Flow Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing blower-assisted respirator systems face inaccuracies in air flow control, leading to high energy consumption and short operating duration due to open-loop control methods, and sensor malfunctions in harsh environments.
Innovation Solution
A blower filter device with a control unit that combines blower motor control using flow and operating parameters, employing sensors like hot-wire anemometers and magnetic field sensors to achieve accurate closed-loop control, minimizing energy demand and extending operating duration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If open-loop control of the blower motor is used, then the control system is simple, but the air flow control accuracy is low and energy consumption is high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements closed-loop control by introducing sensors that continuously monitor air flow parameters and feed this information back to the control unit. The control unit adjusts the blower motor operation based on this feedback to maintain accurate air flow control, thereby resolving the contradiction between system simplicity and control accuracy.
2Measurement precision
If sensors are used for closed-loop control of the blower motor, then air flow control accuracy is improved, but the sensors require frequent cleaning or replacement in harsh environments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary protective structure or housing that shields the sensors from direct exposure to harsh environmental conditions. This protective intermediary allows the sensors to function accurately while being protected from soiling and aging, reducing the need for frequent maintenance.
3Productivity
If high air flow is actuated to guarantee minimum air flow, then the minimum air flow requirement is met, but the energy consumption of the blower motor increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic control of the blower motor by continuously adjusting its operation based on real-time air flow measurements. Instead of running at constant high power, the motor dynamically adapts its speed and power consumption to match the actual requirements, thereby meeting minimum air flow guarantees while minimizing energy consumption.
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
The solution provides high accuracy in air flow control, reducing energy consumption, extending the blower filter device's operating time, and allowing for lighter, more comfortable respirator systems with reduced sensor maintenance needs.
Implementation Method 1
sensors like hot-wire anemometers
Implementation Method 2
sensors like hot-wire anemometers and magnetic field sensors
Data Source
AI summary
A fan filter device (50) for a respirator (1) includes an air inlet (54) for unfiltered air and an air outlet (56) for the discharge of filtered air. A fan unit (60), for aspirating air through the air inlet, includes a fan motor (62) and a fan sensor (64). The fan sensor is designed for detecting at least one operating parameter of the fan motor. The fan filter device further includes a filter unit (31) for receiving a filter (30) for filtering the aspirated air and an air flow sensor (58) for detecting at least one flow parameter of the filtered air flowing through the air outlet. A control unit (66) is configured to monitor the fan motor as a function of the at least one flow parameter and the at least one operating parameter. A respirator and method for operating such a fan filter device are also provided.