HVAC Input Plenum With Electrostatic Grid for Fine Particle Capture

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional air purification systems are inadequate for residential applications, failing to effectively capture particles in the micron and sub-micron range, and are not easily retrofitted or user-friendly for existing HVAC systems.

Innovation Solution

An improved air purification system featuring a grid array formed from a single sheet of conductive material, integrated into an air conditioning/heating unit, which generates electric fields to agglomerate particles, and a simplified installation process for easy integration with existing HVAC systems.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If conventional air filtration systems are used, then the system structure is simple, but particles in the micron and sub-micron range cannot be captured effectively

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveparticle capture capabilityVSAvoidsystem structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a precharging electrode as an intermediary component between the air inlet and the collecting electrode. This precharging electrode imparts electrical charge to particles in the micron and sub-micron range, enabling them to be attracted to and captured by the collecting electrode. The intermediary precharging mechanism bridges the gap between simple filtration and complex electrostatic precipitation, achieving high-efficiency particle capture without excessive system complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Manufacturing precision

If air purification systems are designed for commercial buildings, then particle removal efficiency is enhanced, but the system is not suitable for residential applications

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveparticle removal efficiencyVSAvoidapplication range
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent designs a universal air purification system that can be effectively applied to both commercial and residential buildings. The system uses a modular electrostatic precipitation mechanism with adjustable parameters (such as voltage and flow rate) that can be optimized for different building types and occupancy levels. This multi-functional design allows the same core technology to serve diverse applications, from small residential units to large commercial spaces, thereby expanding adaptability while maintaining high particle removal efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Loss of energy

If air recirculation is implemented, then energy costs are reduced, but the system requires complex electrical fields for effective purification

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveenergy costVSAvoidelectrical field complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of energyVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent optimizes the electrical field parameters to achieve effective particle purification with reduced energy consumption. By carefully selecting and adjusting parameters such as voltage gradient, electrode spacing, and air flow velocity, the system achieves high particle capture efficiency without requiring excessively complex or high-energy electrical fields. The parameter optimization allows the system to operate efficiently in air recirculation mode, minimizing energy loss while maintaining effective purification performance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 system effectively captures particles in the micron and sub-micron range, enhancing air quality in residential environments while being easy to install and operate, reducing energy costs through efficient air recirculation.

Implementation Method 1

A grid array is secured to an inside surface of the replacement peripheral wall. An electronic generator is mounted to an outer surface of the replacement peripheral wall and connected to the grid array. The replacement peripheral wall replaces the selected peripheral wall and is secured to the frame with the replacement air filter aperture located adjacent to the air filter track and with the grid array located in the grid track for enabling the electronic generator and the grid array to generate electric fields for agglomerating particles within air passing from the air input to the air output.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectric Field: Electric Field

Implementation Method 2

the electronic generator and the grid array to generate electric fields for agglomerating particles within air passing from the air input to the air output

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrostatic Deposition: Electrostatic Deposition

Data Source

PatentUS10183299B1Air purification system
Publication Date: 2019.01.22 CRS IND
  • US10183299B1 patent drawing
  • US10183299B1 patent drawing
  • US10183299B1 patent drawing

AI summary

An input plenum is disclosed for mounting to an air conditioning/heating unit. The input plenum comprises an air filter track for introducing and removing the air filter. A grid array track is located within the input plenum. The grid array track enables a grid array and an electronic generator to be added to the plenum to upgrade the plenum into an air purification system. An improved one-piece grid may be incorporated into the grid array for generating an electric field in the air purification system.