Ceramic Plasma Electrode Filter for Extractor Hood Odor Elimination
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vapor extraction devices face inefficiencies in odor filtration due to limited service life of activated carbon and zeolite filters, and insufficient odor neutralization by plasma filters, which also suffer from electrochemical corrosion.
Innovation Solution
A filter unit with a ceramic substrate acting as a dielectric, housing a high-voltage electrode and counter-electrode, forming a plasma electrode that generates non-thermal plasma for efficient odor elimination, while being protected against electrochemical corrosion and easy to clean.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If activated carbon filters or zeolite filters are used for odor filtration, then odor filtration is achieved, but the filter lifespan is limited and filter efficiency decreases over time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/physical adsorption system (activated carbon or zeolite filters) with a plasma-based chemical treatment system. The plasma electrode generates reactive species that actively neutralize odorous compounds in the air stream, eliminating the need for consumable filter media that requires replacement. This substitution maintains high filter efficiency indefinitely without the lifespan limitations of adsorbent materials.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameter from passive adsorption to active plasma generation. By applying high voltage to the plasma electrode, the system creates a plasma field that continuously treats the air stream, transforming the filtration mechanism from a consumable material-based system to an energy-driven system with sustained effectiveness.
2Reliability
If plasma electrodes are used for odor neutralization, then odor neutralization is achieved, but the air does not come into complete contact with plasma and VOCs are only partially broken down
Solution Approach 1:
The plasma electrode incorporates a porous or perforated structure that allows the air stream to pass through multiple pathways in close proximity to the plasma generation surface. This increases the surface area contact between the air containing odorous compounds and the generated plasma, ensuring more complete interaction and breakdown of VOCs compared to solid plasma electrode surfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a two-dimensional surface plasma generation to a three-dimensional plasma distribution by using a porous electrode structure. This allows plasma to be generated throughout the volume of the electrode rather than just on the external surface, creating multiple contact zones that enhance the completeness of plasma-air interaction.
3Reliability
If plasma electrodes are used for odor neutralization, then plasma generation is achieved, but electrochemical corrosion protection is inadequate
Solution Approach 1:
The plasma electrode is constructed as a composite structure combining a corrosion-resistant substrate (such as stainless steel or ceramic) with a plasma-active surface layer. This composite design maintains the plasma generation capability while providing inherent protection against electrochemical corrosion from the kitchen environment, significantly extending the electrode's service life.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a modular plasma electrode design where the corrosion-prone components can be easily replaced or the entire electrode assembly is designed as a replaceable unit. This approach acknowledges that while plasma generation is essential, the electrode may eventually degrade and can be swapped out without requiring complex repair procedures, maintaining system reliability through simplicity.
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 filter unit achieves enhanced odor elimination efficiency and extended service life by ensuring homogeneous air-plasma mixing and protection against corrosion, allowing for effective operation in recirculation mode without the need for frequent replacements.
Implementation Method 1
The plasma electrode (1) comprises a substrate (5) acting as a dielectric, a high-voltage electrode (7), and at least one counter electrode (6). When a voltage is applied, a surface plasma (8) is generated on the substrate for odor elimination.
Implementation Method 2
The air flows parallel to the surface of the plasma electrode. These plasma electrodes have the significant disadvantage that the air flowing along the plasma electrode does not come into complete contact with the generated plasma.
Implementation Method 3
The substrate (5) consists of ceramic material and represents an air-permeable structure with at least one opening (4). At least the high-voltage electrode (7) is embedded in the substrate (5).
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5a~6b
AI summary
The present invention relates to a filter unit for a fume hood, wherein the filter unit (12) comprises at least one plasma electrode (1) comprising a substrate (5) acting as a dielectric, a high-voltage electrode (7), and at least one counter electrode (6). The filter unit (12) is characterized in that the substrate (5) consists of ceramic material, that the substrate (5) is an air-permeable structure with at least one opening (4), and that at least the high-voltage electrode (7) is embedded in the substrate (5). Furthermore, a fume hood with at least one filter unit (12) is described.