Dielectric Barrier Filter Cleaning for Compact Air Conditioners
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing air conditioning systems with self-cleaning filters require a water supply and frequent water replacement, increasing system volume and user inconvenience due to the need for manual filter maintenance.
Innovation Solution
An air conditioning apparatus with a filter device comprising arrays of conductive members coated with dielectric material, where a power supply switches between low and high frequencies to perform dielectric barrier discharge for automatic filter cleaning, reducing the need for manual intervention and water usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a water supply device and spraying device are provided for the self-cleaning function, then the filter can be autonomously cleaned, but the whole system increases in volume and water needs to be frequently replaced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical water spraying system with an electrostatic field-based cleaning system. The power supply part generates high voltage to create electrostatic fields between the conductive members, which attract and collect dust particles on the filter surface, enabling cleaning without mechanical water spraying components.
Solution Approach 2:
The filter cleaning function is achieved through the filter device's own structure (conductive members integrated into the filter) and the power supply part, without requiring external water supply devices or spraying mechanisms. The system uses its inherent electrical components to perform the cleaning function autonomously.
2Extent of automation
If a water supply device and spraying device are provided for the self-cleaning function, then the filter can be autonomously cleaned, but water used for spraying has to be frequently replaced causing user inconvenience
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the water-based cleaning mechanism with an electrostatic field-based mechanism. By using high voltage from the power supply part to create electrostatic attraction between conductive members and dust particles, the system eliminates the need for water supply and spraying, thereby removing the burden of frequent water replacement for users.
3Ease of operation
If conductive members with dielectric coating are used for filter cleaning, then automatic cleaning is achieved without water supply, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the cleaning function with the existing filter structure by integrating conductive members directly into the filter. The dielectric coating is applied to these conductive members, combining the filtration and cleaning functions in a single integrated component rather than adding separate cleaning mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The conductive members with dielectric coating serve multiple functions: they are part of the filter structure for dust collection during normal operation, and simultaneously serve as electrostatic cleaning elements when high voltage is applied. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated cleaning components.
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 apparatus achieves automatic filter cleaning without user intervention, minimizing dust particle discharge and improving user convenience by storing separated dust particles within the system, thus reducing maintenance burdens and system complexity.
Implementation Method 1
a dielectric layer formed by coating a dielectric material on an outer surface of the conductive member, the conductive member contacts a dielectric containing a dielectric material, the power supply part supplies a voltage having a first frequency to the filter to allow the filter to filter dusts, and when cleaning of the filter is needed, the power supply part supplies a voltage having a second frequency higher than the first frequency to the filter
Data Source
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AI summary
Provided is an air conditioning apparatus. The air conditioning apparatus includes a main body having a suction part through which air is suctioned and a discharge part through which the air suctioned through the suction part is discharged, a fan disposed within the main body to allow the air to flow, a filter device disposed between the suction part and the discharge part within the main body, the filter device including a filter including a plurality of arrays that are spaced apart from each other, and a power supply part to supply a voltage to each of the arrays. Each of the arrays includes a conductive member, the conductive member contacts a dielectric containing a dielectric material.