Electro-ionic devices for improved protection from airborne biopathogens
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing filtration technologies, such as N95 masks, are inadequate in preventing airborne transmission of viruses like COVID-19, as they may trap viral particles but fail to kill them, potentially re-releasing them back into the respiratory system, and do not effectively address the transmission of small particles that can bypass the nasal and oral mucous membranes.
Innovation Solution
A wearable electro-ionic device with a fibrous filter and electrical conductors that apply varying voltages to generate ozone and attract charged airborne particles, using a combination of sensors to detect inspiration and expiration, and a portable DC power supply to ensure continuous operation, effectively capturing and killing viral particles in real-time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a fibrous filter is used to trap viral particles, then particle capture is improved, but the filter may become a secondary reservoir that re-releases viruses back into the respiratory system
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies strong oxidants (ozone and hydrogen peroxide) to chemically destroy trapped viral particles on the filter surface and within the filter matrix. This prevents the filter from becoming a reservoir by actively killing viruses through oxidation, thereby resolving the contradiction between capture effectiveness and re-release prevention
Solution Approach 2:
The patent converts the potential harm of trapped viruses (which could be re-released) into a benefit by using the trapped viruses as targets for electrochemical destruction. The filter becomes not just a passive barrier but an active destruction zone where trapped pathogens are eliminated, transforming the reservoir problem into a destruction opportunity
2Reliability
If high voltage is applied to generate ozone for viral destruction, then viral killing capability is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic voltage cycling between anodic and cathodic phases. During the anodic phase, ozone is generated for viral destruction; during the cathodic phase, the system resets and reduces energy demand. This periodic action maintains effective viral deactivation while significantly reducing average energy consumption compared to continuous high-voltage application
Solution Approach 2:
The patent dynamically changes voltage parameters (magnitude, polarity, duration) based on operational needs. By adjusting the duty cycle and voltage levels during different phases of operation, the system optimizes the balance between viral destruction effectiveness and energy consumption, using higher voltages only when and where needed
3Reliability
If a wearable device with electrical conductors and power supply is added to the mask, then viral particle killing capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple functions into a single wearable device: filtration, electrochemical viral destruction, humidity control, and power management. By combining these functions into one unified system rather than separate components, the patent reduces overall device complexity while maintaining real-time viral deactivation capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the power supply, electrical conductors, filter, and control systems into an integrated wearable unit. This consolidation eliminates the need for multiple separate components and interfaces, simplifying the overall device structure while enabling continuous viral particle killing throughout the respiratory pathway
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 a 99.8% reduction in viral penetration, providing effective protection against airborne pathogens by continuously capturing and killing viral particles during both inhalation and exhalation, with a battery life of at least 8 to 12 hours and a comfortable, lightweight design.
Implementation Method 1
a circuit configured to apply a first voltage between the two conductors during inspiration and a second voltage greater than the first voltage during expiration
Implementation Method 2
at least two electrical conductors spaced apart from each other defining at least a portion of a respiratory pathway therebetween
Data Source
AI summary
An electro-ionic device configured for being worn on the face of a person is disclosed. The electro-ionic device includes at least two electrical conductors spaced apart from each other defining at least a portion of a respiratory pathway therebetween and a circuit configured to apply a first voltage between the two conductors during inspiration and a second voltage greater than the first voltage during expiration.