Self-Cleaning Ion Generator Housing for In-Duct Brush Cleaning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing air treatment systems lack effective methods for cleaning the emission portions of ionization devices without requiring removal from the conduit or duct, necessitating improved self-cleaning mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A self-cleaning ion generator device with a housing, ion emitting devices, and a cleaning apparatus powered by a motor, featuring a grate that surrounds the ion emitting devices and includes removable cleaning heads for automated cleaning, allowing the device to be mounted within the conduit or duct without disassembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If ion emitting devices are mounted within conduit or duct for air treatment, then air treatment function is improved, but cleaning and maintenance becomes difficult requiring device removal
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-cleaning mechanism where a cleaning apparatus with rotating brushes automatically cleans the ion emitting devices while mounted within the conduit or duct. The cleaning apparatus is driven by a motor and the brushes contact the ion emitting devices to remove accumulated contaminants, enabling the system to maintain itself without requiring removal for cleaning.
2Duration of action of stationary object
If ion emitting devices are installed within conduit or duct, then continuous air treatment is achieved, but access for cleaning requires disassembly or removal
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the cleaning function into a separate cleaning apparatus that operates independently within the conduit or duct. The cleaning apparatus includes rotating brushes that can access the ion emitting devices through the existing mounting structure, eliminating the need to disassemble or remove the ion emitting devices for cleaning while maintaining continuous air treatment operation.
3Reliability
If cleaning apparatus is added to ion generator device, then self-cleaning capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the cleaning apparatus with the ion generator device housing, integrating the motor and rotating brushes into the existing structure. The cleaning apparatus is positioned to access the ion emitting devices through the housing without requiring separate external mechanisms, thereby improving self-cleaning capability while minimizing the increase in overall device complexity.
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
Enables continuous operation with automated cleaning, maintaining ion production efficiency and improving indoor air quality by reducing allergens, pathogens, and odors, while reducing the need for external maintenance.
Implementation Method 1
The at least one cleaning apparatus is powered by a motor housed within the cavity
Implementation Method 2
Self cleaning ion generator device includes at least one ion emitting device
Data Source
AI summary
A self-cleaning ion generator device includes a first portion with a base portion that extends to an outer edge and a first pair and a second pair of opposed sidewalls extending upwardly from the outer edge and intersect at corners, forming a cavity therein. A second portion includes a base portion that extends to an outer edge selectively secured to the first portion forming a housing. At least one ion emitting device extending from the housing, and at least one cleaning apparatus for cleaning the at least one ion emitting device.