Cold Plasma Sterilization Device with Segmented Electrode Modules
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional high-temperature sterilization methods damage the nutritional value and taste of heat-sensitive food items like fresh fish, meat, and fruits and vegetables.
Innovation Solution
A cold plasma sterilization device is developed, comprising a housing with multiple core modules, each containing electrode assemblies, a transformer, and a control system that generates a 60-90 kV electric field between upper and lower electrodes, creating plasma for effective sterilization without heat.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If high temperature sterilization is used, then sterilization effect is improved, but nutritional value and taste of heat-sensitive food are damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the fundamental parameter of sterilization from thermal energy to electrical energy (cold plasma). By using high-voltage electric fields (60-90 kV) to generate plasma between electrodes, the process achieves effective sterilization without thermal damage to heat-sensitive food products, directly resolving the contradiction between sterilization efficacy and preservation of nutritional value.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the thermal sterilization mechanism with a cold plasma mechanism. Instead of using heat (thermal energy), the system uses high-voltage electric fields to ionize gas and create plasma, which then provides sterilization through reactive species and ionization effects, eliminating the harmful thermal impact on food quality.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If cold plasma sterilization is used, then nutritional value and taste are preserved, but device complexity increases due to multiple electrode assemblies and control systems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the sterilization system into multiple independent core modules, each containing electrode assemblies. This segmentation allows the complex cold plasma sterilization function to be distributed across several manageable units, making the overall system more controllable and easier to maintain despite the inherent complexity of the technology.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs core modules that can be arranged in series to handle different production capacities and food types. Each module serves multiple functions: generating cold plasma, providing sterilization, and being adjustable for different packaging sizes. This multi-functionality reduces the need for entirely separate systems for different applications, managing complexity through versatile design.
3Reliability
If multiple core modules are arranged in series, then sterilization coverage is improved, but device length increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the sterilization process into multiple core modules arranged in series along the conveying assembly path. Each module provides a discrete sterilization zone with electrode assemblies, ensuring comprehensive coverage as food packages pass through each module sequentially, thereby achieving thorough sterilization within a compact series arrangement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the spatial dimension along the conveying assembly to arrange core modules in series, transforming the sterilization coverage problem from a surface area issue to a longitudinal progression issue. Packages are sterilized sequentially as they move through multiple modules, achieving complete coverage without requiring excessive lateral space.
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 device achieves safe and efficient sterilization of food products by stimulating gas to produce plasma, preserving the nutritional value and taste of heat-sensitive items.
Implementation Method 1
the transformer comprises an output interface in parallel connection to the upper electrode(s) and the lower electrode(s) of the electrode assemblies via a high voltage shielding line; in the presence of a 220 V voltage, a 60-90 kV electric field is produced between the upper electrode(s) and the lower electrode(s). The packed food is placed between the upper electrode(s) and the lower electrode(s). The high voltage electric filed stimulates the gas in the packed food to produce plasma thus achieving safe and efficient sterilization effect.
Implementation Method 2
in the presence of a 220 V voltage, a 60-90 kV electric field is produced between the upper electrode(s) and the lower electrode(s)
Data Source
AI summary
A device cold plasma sterilization includes a housing, a base, a conveying assembly, a plurality of core modules, a transformer, a control cabinet, a distribution box, a shielding door, and a controller. The housing is disposed on the base. The plurality of core modules is disposed in the housing along a moving direction of the conveying assembly and are spaced apart from each other. The plurality of core modules each include a plurality of electrode assemblies spaced from one another by equal distance and arranged in a row. The transformer, the control cabinet, and the distribution box are disposed in a lower part of the base and are connected to the plurality of electrode assemblies. The conveying assembly is disposed in a middle part of the base. The base includes an inlet for entry and an outlet for exit of a package to be sterilized.