Filter with Copper and Photocatalyst Layers for Multi-Contaminant Removal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current air filters are inadequate in simultaneously removing particulate matter, gaseous materials, and biomaterials such as viruses and bacteria, particularly in effectively decomposing volatile organic compounds and improving biomaterial removal performance.
Innovation Solution
A filter system comprising a porous filter frame with a copper material layer for oligodynamic action and a photocatalyst layer activated by light energy, which includes metal compounds like TiO2 or WO3, and a catalyst material activated by energy other than light to remove particulate and gaseous materials, with a light source for activating the photocatalyst layer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single filter structure is used, then the device complexity is low, but the ability to remove multiple types of contaminants (particulate matter, gaseous materials, biomaterials) simultaneously is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functional layers (photocatalyst layer, copper material layer, and filter frame) into a single integrated filter structure. The photocatalyst layer and copper material layer are disposed on opposite surfaces of the same filter frame, creating a unified device that can simultaneously address particulate matter, gaseous materials, and biomaterials without requiring multiple separate filters
Solution Approach 2:
The filter frame serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural support, acts as a physical barrier for particulate matter filtration, and serves as a substrate for both the photocatalyst layer (for gaseous material decomposition) and copper material layer (for biomaterial removal). This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction by enabling one device to handle multiple contaminant types
2Reliability
If multiple functional layers are added to the filter, then the removal performance of various contaminants is improved, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different materials and functions to specific locations: the photocatalyst layer is disposed on the first surface for gaseous material decomposition, while the copper material layer is disposed on the second surface for biomaterial removal. The filter frame itself provides structural support and particulate filtration. This localized functional distribution optimizes performance while maintaining manufacturability through clear spatial separation of functions
Solution Approach 2:
The filter employs a composite structure combining the filter frame (providing mechanical strength and particulate filtration), photocatalyst layer (for photocatalytic decomposition of gases), and copper material layer (for oligodynamic action against biomaterials). This composite approach integrates multiple material properties in a single manufacturable unit that addresses multiple contaminant types simultaneously
3Productivity
If the filter is designed for high performance, then the air purification efficiency is improved, but the maintenance cost increases due to frequent replacement
Solution Approach 1:
The filter frame is designed to be reusable and can be recovered after the functional layers are consumed or degraded. The photocatalyst layer and copper material layer can be regenerated or replaced on the same frame structure, allowing the expensive structural component to be reused multiple times rather than discarded with each filter replacement, thereby reducing overall maintenance costs
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 filter system effectively filters particulate matter, decomposes gaseous materials, and enhances biomaterial removal through oligodynamic and photocatalytic actions, improving overall air purification efficiency and reducing maintenance costs by allowing filter reuse.
Implementation Method 1
a copper material layer disposed on at least a portion of the first upstream-side surface
Implementation Method 2
a photocatalyst layer that is disposed on the second downstream-side surface, and the photocatalyst layer is activated by light energy
Implementation Method 3
a porous filter frame having a first upstream-side surface and a second downstream-side surface based on a thickness direction, the porous filter frame filtering particulate matter
Data Source
AI summary
A filter and a filter system including the filter. The filter includes a porous filter frame having a first upstream-side surface, and a second downstream-side surface based on a thickness direction, the porous filter frame filtering particulate matter. A copper material layer is disposed on at least a portion of the first upstream-side surface of the filter frame.