Dielectric Filter Self-Cleaning in Air Conditioning Units
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional air conditioning systems with self-cleaning filters require a water supply and frequent filter replacement, increasing system volume and user inconvenience due to the need for manual maintenance.
Innovation Solution
An air conditioning apparatus with a filter device comprising arrays of conductive members coated with dielectric material, where a power supply applies a low-frequency voltage for filtering and a high-frequency voltage for automatic self-cleaning through dielectric barrier discharge, eliminating the need for manual filter maintenance.
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
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical water spraying system with an electrical field-based cleaning mechanism. The power supply applies high voltage to the conductive members, creating an electrical field that generates plasma or corona discharge to decompose and remove dust particles from the filter surface, eliminating the need for mechanical spraying devices and water supply systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operating parameters by using electrical voltage and frequency instead of mechanical water pressure. The power supply provides controlled electrical parameters (voltage and frequency) to the conductive members, transforming the cleaning mechanism from hydraulic to electrical, thereby reducing system volume while maintaining automated cleaning functionality.
2Extent of automation
If water is used for spraying to clean the filter, then the filter can be cleaned autonomously, but the user must frequently replace the water
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes the water-based cleaning system with an electrical field-based system. Instead of requiring water supply and periodic water replacement by users, the system uses electrical voltage applied to conductive members to generate plasma discharge that cleans the filter autonomously, eliminating all water-related maintenance operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The filter cleaning function becomes fully self-service through the electrical field mechanism. The power supply automatically applies voltage to the conductive members at appropriate intervals or conditions, and the electrical field performs the cleaning action without any user intervention for water refilling or system maintenance, making the operation completely hands-free for the user.
3Ease of repair
If conventional spraying method is used for filter cleaning, then the filter can be cleaned, but dust particles may be discharged into the environment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the cleaning mechanism from mechanical water spraying to electrical field action. By applying high voltage to the conductive members, plasma or corona discharge is generated that decomposes dust particles into smaller particles or removes them through electrostatic attraction, preventing the mechanical dislodging and environmental discharge that occurs with water spraying.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical water spray system with an electrical field-based cleaning system. The electrical field gently decomposes and removes dust particles without the mechanical force of water jets, thereby preventing dust particle discharge into the environment while maintaining effective filter cleaning capability.
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 provides automatic filter cleaning, reducing user inconvenience and minimizing dust particle discharge, while maintaining air quality without the need for frequent filter replacements.
Implementation Method 1
a power supply part to supply a voltage to each of the arrays, wherein each of the arrays comprises a 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
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.