Catalyst-Sleeved Air Ionization for Ozone-Controlled Purification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing air ionization systems often generate insufficient ionization levels to effectively clean and sanitize air due to ozone concerns, lack configurability and intelligent control, and are complex, expensive, and difficult to service.
Innovation Solution
An air ionization unit with an ozone dampening catalyst surrounding the ionization tube, which removes ozone created during ionization, and a controller that measures air quality parameters and adjusts ionization levels, allowing for modular configuration and intelligent control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If air ionization is used to clean and sanitize air, then air purification effectiveness is improved, but ozone is generated as a harmful byproduct
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies this principle by using the ozone generated during ionization as a reactive intermediate that is subsequently converted into beneficial oxygen through catalytic conversion. The ozone dampening catalyst tube converts the harmful ozone into useful oxygen, transforming the harmful byproduct into a beneficial outcome for air purification and sanitization.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an ozone dampening catalyst tube as an intermediary component between the ionization source and the air stream. This catalyst tube acts as a mediator that facilitates the conversion of ozone to oxygen, enabling the system to maintain effective ionization while eliminating harmful ozone accumulation.
2Productivity
If higher ionization levels are generated to improve air cleaning, then air purification effectiveness is improved, but ozone generation increases
Solution Approach 1:
By implementing the ozone dampening catalyst tube, the system can operate at higher ionization levels to improve air cleaning efficiency while the catalyst continuously converts the increased ozone generation into beneficial oxygen, effectively decoupling productivity improvement from harmful byproduct accumulation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the chemical state parameter of ozone by introducing the catalyst tube, which transforms ozone (O3) into oxygen (O2). This parameter change allows the system to maintain high ionization levels for improved productivity while controlling harmful ozone concentration through catalytic conversion.
3Reliability
If air ionization units are installed in air ducts for air treatment, then air purification is improved, but device installation and servicing becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The air ionization unit is segmented into separate functional modules: an ionization source, an ozone dampening catalyst tube, and a housing. This segmentation allows for simplified installation and servicing, as components can be independently replaced or maintained without affecting the entire system.
Solution Approach 2:
The housing is designed to provide multiple functions including structural support, electrical insulation, and ozone containment. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed, simplifying both installation and servicing while maintaining effective air purification.
4Object-generated harmful factors
If ozone dampening catalyst is added to remove ozone, then harmful ozone is reduced, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The ozone dampening catalyst tube is nested within the housing structure, utilizing the existing spatial framework. This nesting approach minimizes additional structural complexity while effectively removing harmful ozone, as the catalyst tube integrates seamlessly into the existing device architecture.
5Ease of repair
If modular air ionization units are used for easy replacement, then ease of maintenance is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The air ionization unit is designed as a self-contained modular module with standardized connection interfaces. This segmentation enables easy replacement of entire units without requiring precise field assembly, as pre-assembled modules are installed as complete units, reducing on-site manufacturing precision requirements.
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 enables effective air purification by generating higher levels of negative ions, improving air filtration and sanitization while being modular, cost-effective, and easy to maintain.
Implementation Method 1
an ozone dampening catalyst surrounding the ionization tube. The ozone dampening catalyst removes much or all of the ozone created by ionizing molecules in the air
Implementation Method 2
ionizing molecules in the air... The air is ionized in a standard manner
Data Source
AI summary
Ionization systems configured with a catalyst-bearing sleeve provide improved filtration while keeping ozone levels within acceptable limits. Modular configurations provide for serviceability and replaceability. System controls monitor particulates, temperature, humidity, and other relevant factors and adjust an ionization level accordingly for optimal performance.