Dual-Filter CO2 Capture System for Vehicle Emissions
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current air filters in engine systems do not effectively remove carbon dioxide from the air, leading to increased emissions and potential harm to the ozone layer, while also failing to address airflow reduction and allergen introduction in vehicles.
Innovation Solution
A dual-filter system comprising a regular air filter and a carbon capture filter with activated carbon membranes and sensors, designed to be recyclable and adaptable for various applications, which captures toxic gases like CO2 and monitors filter life.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If a traditional air filter is used, then airflow is maintained, but carbon dioxide and harmful gases are not removed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines a traditional air filter with a carbon capture filter into a single integrated unit. The regular filter element handles particulate matter while the activated carbon filter element simultaneously captures gaseous pollutants like CO2, merging two separate filtration functions into one device without requiring multiple separate components
Solution Approach 2:
The dual-filter system performs multiple functions simultaneously: the regular filter captures particulates while the activated carbon filter captures gases, making a single filter assembly capable of handling both particulate and gaseous pollution, thereby reducing the need for separate filtration systems
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a carbon capture filter is added, then CO2 removal is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the carbon capture filter element directly into the existing filter housing and assembly structure. The activated carbon filter element is positioned adjacent to or integrated with the regular filter element, sharing common mounting points, housing, and airflow pathways, thereby adding CO2 removal capability without requiring a completely separate system
3Object-affected harmful factors
If filter elements are added to remove pollutants, then air quality is improved, but airflow restriction increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses activated carbon material with highly porous structure and large surface area, concentrating the filtration function in a compact volume. This allows effective pollutant capture without requiring thick or extensive filter media that would restrict airflow, maintaining good airflow characteristics while improving air quality
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
Effectively reduces harmful emissions by removing CO2 from the air, improving air quality and reducing mechanical wear in engines, while being recyclable and applicable across different settings.
Implementation Method 1
Filters containing an adsorbent or catalyst such as charcoal (carbon) may also remove odors and gaseous pollutants such as volatile organic compounds or ozone
Implementation Method 2
The sensor is configured to detect a life remaining in the filter element
Data Source
AI summary
An illustrated view of an exemplary air filter for reducing emissions is presented. The air filter is useful for removing toxic gases from the air surrounding a combustion engine of a vehicle is presented. The air filter is useful for scrubbing the ambient air for removal of toxic contaminants such as carbon dioxide and thus reducing harmful emissions of a vehicle. The air filter though described for a vehicle can also be used in industry settings as well as at home. The air filter is recyclable. Although a vehicle is shown, it is an example only. Other applications are possible and have been contemplated for the air filter 100 including, but not limited to, commercial applications, home applications, industrial applications, etc.