Filtering assembly and filtering method for air and gaseous fluids in general
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing air filtration systems struggle to effectively remove a wide range of pollutants, including particulates of varying sizes, micro-organisms, and toxic gases, while also addressing negative ion imbalances, often requiring complex and costly infrastructure that is impractical for many applications.
Innovation Solution
A filtering assembly and method that utilizes a duct with a conductive grille and filament at a negative electric potential to emit electrons that pair with pollutants, an accumulation plate for collection, and an ion emission source to restore electric charge, effectively removing pollutants of different sizes and rebalancing negative ions, using commonly available materials and minimizing maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If selective action filters are used for specific pollutant categories, then the filtering system is simple and costs are low, but the filtering effectiveness against multiple pollutant types is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a multi-functional filtering system where a single integrated device performs multiple operations: mechanical filtration for particles, electrostatic precipitation for charged particles, and ion emission for negative ion replenishment. This universal approach eliminates the need for multiple separate filtering systems while achieving comprehensive pollutant removal across different size ranges and types
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges three distinct filtering mechanisms into one integrated system: a pre-filter for large particles, an electrostatic precipitator for fine particles, and an ion emitter for negative ion restoration. By combining these functions in a single device with shared housing and coordinated operation, the system achieves broad-spectrum filtration effectiveness without proportionally increasing complexity
2Reliability
If complex infrastructures and plants are installed to ensure comprehensive filtering, then the filtering effectiveness against all pollutant types is improved, but the installation costs and logistical problems increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the filtering process into three distinct functional zones within a single compact device: a pre-filter section for large particles, an electrostatic precipitation section for fine particles, and an ion emission section for negative ion replenishment. This segmentation allows each function to be optimized independently while maintaining a unified, space-efficient structure that avoids complex infrastructure requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a nested arrangement where the electrostatic precipitator components (grilles and filaments) are positioned within the housing in a compact configuration, and the ion emitter is integrated downstream. This nesting approach maximizes functional density within a small footprint, eliminating the need for large-scale infrastructure while maintaining comprehensive filtration capabilities
3Reliability
If conventional filters are used for particulate removal, then the filtration of larger particles is effective, but the filtration of ultra-fine particles and micro-organisms is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical parameter of particle charging by applying high voltage to filaments, creating an electrostatic field that enables capture of ultra-fine particles and micro-organisms. This parameter change from mechanical filtration alone to electrostatically enhanced filtration extends the effective particle size range from micrometers down to nanometer-scale particles and biological entities
4Reliability
If multiple filtering stages are implemented to remove all pollutant types, then the overall filtering performance is improved, but the maintenance requirements and operational costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-cleaning mechanism where the electrostatic precipitator periodically reverses its polarity to discharge accumulated particles from the collection surfaces. This automatic self-service function reduces maintenance frequency by eliminating the need for manual cleaning of filters, as the system cleans itself through periodic electrical discharge
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 solution achieves high efficiency in removing pollutants, with over 90% bacterial load reduction and significant reduction of toxic gases and ultra-fine particulates, while ensuring health and well-being in environments, without the need for complex installations or frequent maintenance.
Implementation Method 1
at least one conductive grille, having at least one hole that faces and that is proximate to at least one conductive filament, said at least one grille and said at least one filament being kept at a negative electrical potential, for the emission of electrons
Implementation Method 2
downstream of said grille there being at least one accumulation plate, which is kept at a positive electric potential, for the stable collection of pollutants paired with the electrons
Implementation Method 3
at least one source of emission of ions, for the restoration of the electric charge of the gaseous fluid, flowing over said source
Data Source
AI summary
A filtering assembly for air and gaseous fluids in general is provided comprising a duct, which can be crossed by a gaseous fluid carrying pollutants. The filtering assembly comprises: at least one filtering station to remove toxic gases and solid particle pollutants of dimensions preferably greater than 50 μm; at least one conductive grille, having at least one hole which faces and is proximate to at least one conductive filament being kept at a negative electric potential for the emission of electrons, which can be paired with pollutants of the solid particles and micro-organisms type of dimensions preferably between 10 nm and 50 μm, at least one accumulation plate downstream of the grille, maintained at a positive electrical potential for the stable collection of pollutants paired with the electrons at least one emission source of ions, for the restoration of electric charge of the gaseous fluid, flowing over the source.